CAS Rules on Malaysia Eligibility Controversy: Seven Players Banned from Matches

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has partially amended the sanctions imposed on seven footballers who were previously ruled ineligible to represent Malaysia, confirming a 12-month suspension from official matches but allowing the players to continue training and participating in other football-related activities.

In a media release issued on 5 March 2026 from Lausanne, Switzerland, CAS announced that it had partly upheld the appeals filed by the players against the decision by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). The case concerned allegations of falsified documents used during the naturalisation and eligibility process for the Malaysian national team.

Background of the Case

The case dates back to 2025 when the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) approached seven foreign players to potentially represent Malaysia at international level. The players involved were:

  • Facundo Tomás Garcés Rattaro
  • Rodrigo Julián Holgado
  • Imanol Javier Machuca
  • João Vitor Brandão Figueiredo
  • Gabriel Felipe Arrocha
  • Jon Irazabal Iraurgi
  • Hector Alejandro Hevel Serrano

Following the process, the players underwent naturalisation procedures and were issued Malaysian passports.

However, on 25 September 2025, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee ruled that FAM and the players had violated the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) after determining that falsified documents had been used in the naturalisation and eligibility process. FIFA concluded that the players had no legitimate connection to Malaysia that would justify their eligibility.

As a result, FIFA imposed a 12-month suspension from all football-related activities on the players, along with a fine of CHF 2,000 for each player. FAM was also fined CHF 350,000. The decision was later upheld by the FIFA Appeal Committee on 3 November 2025.

Appeals Taken to CAS

FAM and the players subsequently filed consolidated appeals with CAS on 5 December 2025.

In its appeal, FAM acknowledged the presence of what it described as “institutional shortcomings” and accepted that it may bear responsibility for breaching the FIFA Disciplinary Code. However, the association argued that the players had only provided documents requested by FAM and did not prepare or alter the documents themselves.

FAM requested that the FIFA decision be set aside and proposed that any sanction should not exceed a fine of CHF 50,000.

Meanwhile, the players appealed for the complete annulment of the FIFA Appeal Committee’s decision, arguing that they had not acted with intent or negligence. Alternatively, they requested that any sanctions imposed should be proportionate to their role in the case.

The appeals were heard by a CAS panel consisting of Lars Hilliger (Denmark) as President, alongside José Luis Andrade (Portugal) and Massimo Coccia (Italy). The hearing took place in person on 26 February 2026 at the CAS headquarters in Lausanne.

CAS Decision

After reviewing the evidence, the CAS Panel concluded that the use of falsified eligibility documents had indeed occurred. The panel ruled that a 12-month ban was a reasonable and proportionate sanction, given the players’ involvement in the process.

However, CAS determined that the suspension should apply only to official matches, rather than to all football-related activities.

This adjustment means the players are allowed to continue training and working with their respective clubs during the suspension period, but they remain barred from participating in official matches.

The ban officially begins on 5 March 2026, with credit given for the period already served between 25 September 2025 and 26 January 2026, when the original suspension had effectively been in force.

CAS also ruled that FAM’s fine of CHF 350,000 remains justified and proportionate, dismissing the association’s appeal on the matter.

Next Steps

CAS clarified that the announcement represents an operative decision without detailed grounds, meaning the full written award explaining the panel’s reasoning will be issued at a later date. For legal purposes, only the wording of the final written decision will be binding.

The ruling brings partial relief for the affected players, who can now continue training and maintaining their professional careers while serving their match suspensions. At the same time, the decision reinforces the strict regulatory framework governing player eligibility and international representation in football.

Understanding the AFC/FAM Coaching Diploma Pathway

The development of qualified football coaches is a crucial pillar in strengthening the overall football ecosystem. In Malaysia, the structured coaching pathway designed by the Football Association of Malaysia in collaboration with the Asian Football Confederation provides a progressive framework for coaches to advance their knowledge, technical competency, and leadership within the game.

This structured pathway ensures that coaches are equipped with the necessary education, experience, and certification required to train players across different age groups and levels, from grassroots football to professional teams.

A Structured Coaching Pathway

The coaching pathway implemented by FAM follows a step-by-step progression designed to guide aspiring coaches through increasingly advanced levels of training and responsibility.

The system begins with grassroots coaching certification and gradually progresses through multiple licensing levels including D Licence, C Licence, B Licence, A Licence, and eventually the Pro Diploma, which represents the highest level of coaching certification within the AFC framework.

Each stage of certification equips coaches with more sophisticated knowledge in areas such as tactical training, match preparation, player development, and team management.

Grassroots Coaching Course: The Foundation

The entry point into the coaching pathway is the FAM Grassroots Coaching Certificate, designed to introduce football coaching fundamentals to community coaches and youth instructors.

The primary focus of this course is to develop coaches capable of teaching young players aged 6 to 11 years old, particularly in non-elite environments.

Key technical areas emphasized include:

  • First Touch
  • Striking the Ball
  • Running with the Ball
  • 1v1 Situations

The course typically runs for two full days, combining approximately 70% practical field training and 30% classroom theory.

Graduates of the grassroots certification play a vital role in introducing football fundamentals to children, primarily through small-sided games such as 1v1, 3v3, and 5v5 formats.

AFC/FAM D Licence: Entry into Advanced Coaching

The AFC/FAM D Licence represents the first step toward more advanced coaching qualifications. This course prepares coaches to transition from basic instruction into structured training environments that simulate real match scenarios.

The course focuses on preparing coaches to manage training sessions for players aged 12 and above, particularly those competing in 11-a-side football formats.

Key training topics include:

  • Playing out from the back
  • Midfield combination play involving key central roles (No.6 and No.8)

Participants are required to demonstrate active involvement in coaching teams at schools, academies, or clubs, particularly those competing at youth or amateur levels.

AFC/FAM C Licence: Tactical and Game Training Development

The C Licence represents a significant milestone in the coaching journey, focusing on game training and performance phases for teams competing in 11-a-side football.

Coaches participating in this course must already hold a D Licence certification and be actively coaching players from under-13 level up to senior teams.

During the course, participants are required to complete practical assignments including:

  • Maintaining a training logbook
  • Preparing detailed session plans
  • Producing video analysis or half-time team briefings

Key tactical topics covered include:

  • Structured build-up play from the back
  • Defensive pressing from the front third
  • Central midfield attacking combinations
  • Attacking wing play and wide combinations

These assignments ensure that coaches gain hands-on experience implementing structured tactical training in real team environments.

AFC/FAM B Licence: Advanced Tactical Coaching

The B Licence further elevates a coach’s responsibilities by focusing on full-team tactical development and match preparation.

At this stage, coaches work closely with elite youth, amateur, and professional-level players, with an emphasis on performance training and team organization.

Key areas covered in the B Licence curriculum include:

  • Football vision and coaching philosophy
  • A structured six-point evaluation checklist for training sessions
  • Attacking and defending principles
  • Transition play models
  • Formation theory and tactical systems

Participants must also prepare detailed documentation, including training logs, session plans, and match analysis reports before, during, and after the course period.

AFC/FAM A Licence: Coaching at the Highest Level

The A Licence prepares coaches for leadership roles at the highest levels of football.

At this stage, coaches are expected to develop their own football philosophy and tactical identity, shaping how their teams play and perform on the field.

Key areas of focus include:

  • Player selection strategies
  • Tactical planning and game models
  • Advanced match analysis
  • Training design based on coaching philosophy
  • Media management and communication skills

This level of certification equips coaches with the competencies required to manage professional teams and elite players, including advanced tactical instruction and high-level match analysis.

The Coaching Model: Beyond Technical Skills

The FAM coaching framework also highlights a broader coaching model built around five key components:

  • Vision and Philosophy
  • Training
  • Match Management
  • Player Management
  • Football Knowledge

Together, these elements ensure that coaches develop not only technical expertise but also leadership, communication, and strategic thinking abilities essential for modern football coaching.

Building the Future of Malaysian Football

Through the AFC/FAM coaching pathway, Malaysia continues to strengthen the foundation of its football development system. By ensuring that coaches receive structured education and professional certification, the pathway helps produce knowledgeable and competent coaches capable of nurturing talent from grassroots to the professional level.

As more coaches progress through this pathway, the long-term impact will be reflected in the quality of training, tactical understanding, and player development across Malaysian football.

Ultimately, investing in coach education is a critical step toward building a sustainable and competitive football ecosystem for the future.

NSFC CEO Faliq Firdaus Outlines Vision for a Stronger Negeri Sembilan Football Ecosystem

Negeri Sembilan FC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus has shared a heartfelt reflection on the evolution of football development in Negeri Sembilan, highlighting both the challenges of the past and the promising pathway being built today for the next generation of players.

In a personal message, Faliq reflected on his own school days playing football, recalling how talented players from his generation often struggled to progress due to limited opportunities and a fragmented development structure.

“Back in school, I played football too, though I wasn’t as good as many of my friends. What was sad was that even the talented ones couldn’t go far because the opportunities simply weren’t there,” he said.

According to Faliq, the core issue during that era was not talent but the lack of a structured development system. Young players found it difficult to gain enough competitive exposure, often relying heavily on the Majlis Sukan Sekolah-Sekolah Daerah (MSSD) pathway, which offered limited continuity.

“To even get 30 competitive matches a year was difficult. Training would go on for months, then you would only play in a one-week tournament. There was no continuity,” he explained.

Progress in the Development Structure

Faliq noted that the football landscape has changed significantly over the years, with club-based development pathways now emerging alongside the national and school systems. However, he acknowledged that the ecosystem is still evolving and requires greater coordination among stakeholders.

“Today, the situation is different. Club pathways now exist, including elite club pathways linked to the Liga Super. But the system is still maturing, and many stakeholders are still working in silos,” he said.

He emphasised that improving the system will take time but remains essential if Malaysian football — and Negeri Sembilan in particular — is to produce more high-quality players.

Young Talents Representing Negeri Sembilan in Japan

Faliq also expressed pride in seeing three young players from Negeri Sembilan earn the opportunity to train and undergo trials in Japan, describing it as a moment that symbolises how far the development pathway has progressed.

The trio — a player from Rembau, another from Labu, and one from Kuantan — are currently spending a month in Japan, carrying the name of Negeri Sembilan while gaining valuable international exposure.

“For me personally, I’m proud because these younger players are getting opportunities that many of us never had before,” he said.

If they perform well and receive the right opportunities, the players could potentially continue their development in Japan — a prospect that once seemed like a distant dream for many young Malaysian footballers.

“They are living our dreams,” he added.

Strengthening the Negeri Sembilan Development Pipeline

To ensure long-term sustainability, Faliq emphasised that Negeri Sembilan must continue strengthening its own grassroots and development systems.

He hopes that in the future, players representing the club internationally will increasingly come from the Sekolah Sukan Negeri Sembilan (SSN) system, signalling that the state is producing talent through its own structured development pipeline.

To improve the quality of training at SSN, Negeri Sembilan FC will place an AFC A-Licence coach within the school programme, starting with the Under-17 squad, with another coach set to work with the Under-14 team by 2027.

The initiative is part of a collaborative effort between the club and the Negeri Sembilan State Education Department (JPNNS).

“I would like to thank the school principal and JPNNS for welcoming this idea. We are combining resources for the benefit of Negeri Sembilan,” he said.

Building a Complete Football Ecosystem

Beyond elite development, NSFC is also focusing on expanding grassroots opportunities and strengthening the football ecosystem across the state.

The club will soon participate in the FAM National Youth League, competing in the Under-12 and Under-15/16 categories, further providing competitive exposure for young players.

At the same time, Faliq emphasised the importance of community clubs in nurturing talent.

“Clubs like Bunga Raya FC and Teck Hin FC must continue to grow. This is an ecosystem, and everyone plays a role,” he said.

He also confirmed that the Negeri Sembilan Football Symposium will return this year as part of ongoing efforts to bring together stakeholders to discuss the future of football development in the state.

Expanding Grassroots Opportunities

As part of its grassroots commitment, NSFC has also launched the NSFC Football School in Seremban, targeting boys and girls aged 7 to 12 years old.

Parents are encouraged to enrol their children, with the club aiming to expand the programme to other districts across Negeri Sembilan after establishing a strong foundation in Seremban.

“Once Seremban is established, we will expand to other districts,” Faliq said.

A Collective Journey Forward

Faliq concluded by emphasising that football development in Negeri Sembilan requires collaboration between clubs, schools, associations, and community academies.

Only through a united ecosystem, he said, can the state continue producing players capable of competing at higher levels while proudly carrying the name of Negeri Sembilan.

“It’s an ecosystem. We must move forward together,” he said.

MSL 2025/26: Negeri Sembilan FC Versus Penang FC Ticket Sales Info

Tickets for the Malaysia Super League 2025/26 match between Negeri Sembilan FC and Penang FC on 7 March 2026 at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi will be on sale!

Click the link below to purchase:

https://tickethotline.com.my/events/NSEvsPEN

Choose Pintu A, Pintu B, or Pintu C sections only for home fans.

Tickets will be available at the following locations:

🏢 Wisma PBNS
📅 4–6 March 2026 (Wednesday – Friday)
🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Break: 1:00–2:00 PM | Friday: 12:00–2:45 PM

🏟️ STAR Paroi
📆 7 March 2026
🎫 Grandstand Ticket Counter (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
🎫 Ticket Counter 13 (5:00 PM – 9:45 PM)

ℹ️ Tickets for away supporters will be sold online only.

NSFC Strengthens Youth Pathway with Major Enhancements to NSFC III Programme at KYNS

Negeri Sembilan FC continues to reinforce its long-term commitment to youth development with a comprehensive upgrade to its B-18 programme in collaboration with Kolej Yayasan Negeri Sembilan (KYNS), Kuala Pilah.

Now entering its third year, the strategic partnership between NSFC and KYNS has undergone significant improvements following extensive feedback gathered from parents and coaches over the past two seasons. Club Chief Executive Officer, Faliq Firdaus, acknowledged that the club has carefully assessed previous shortcomings and has taken decisive steps to elevate the programme both on and off the pitch.

Rebranding and Competitive Platform

As part of the restructuring, the NSFC B-18 squad will officially be renamed NSFC III and will compete in the prestigious Piala Presiden (B-20) competition. This move is designed to expose players to a higher level of competitive football while aligning the development structure more clearly within the club’s broader pathway system.

“Student First, Footballer Second” Philosophy

Central to the initiative remains the club’s firm belief in holistic development. Players will continue to embrace the “student first, footballer second” principle, ensuring academic progress remains a priority alongside football training.

All players enrolled in the programme will undertake the TVET SKM Tahap 2 (Elektrik) certification at KYNS. This ensures that every player acquires a recognised vocational qualification, equipping them with practical skills and a viable career pathway beyond football.

Additional Value: Coaching Certification and Equipment Support

Beyond academic certification, players will also be given the opportunity to enroll in the Akar Umbi Coaching Certificate Course organised by PBNS-KYNS upon completion of their TVET syllabus. Indirectly, this initiative is expected to produce up to 25 grassroots-certified coaches, strengthening the football ecosystem within Negeri Sembilan.

In addition, each player will receive a pair of MILLS football boots as part of the club’s commitment to supporting their preparation and performance.

Monthly Allowance Increase Approved

In further positive news, YAB Pengerusi Tok Min has approved an increase in the monthly training allowance for players, demonstrating strong institutional backing for youth development efforts. The club also extended its appreciation to KYNS Chief Executive, Tuan Mohd Asyraf Amin, and the entire KYNS workforce for their unwavering support in making this collaboration a success.

Official Registration Ceremony at KYNS

Earlier today, the official registration ceremony for the NSFC III squad was held at Kolej Yayasan Negeri Sembilan, Kuala Pilah. The meaningful event was attended by Tuan Mohd Asyraf Bin Amin alongside NSFC Technical Director Efendi Abd Malek.

A total of 25 young players were formally registered into the squad. More impressively, the initiative ensures that these players are not only developed as footballers but are also enrolled in academic programmes leading to the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) Level 2 qualification.

As an added value proposition, all players will be encouraged to pursue grassroots coaching certification to strengthen their long-term career profile in football.

Diverse Talent Intake

Among the core intake of 18-year-old players, the breakdown includes:

  • 5 players from Akademi Mokhtar Dahari
  • 1 player from SSM Tunku Mahkota Ismail
  • 6 players from SSN Negeri Sembilan (SSN Za’ba)
  • 1 player from SMK Tunku Ampuan Durah, Seremban
  • 1 player from SMK Datuk Hj Abdul Samad, Port Dickson
  • 1 player from SMK Desa Cempaka, Nilai
  • 1 player from SMK Yam Tuan Radin, Port Dickson

This diversity highlights NSFC’s continued ability to attract and integrate promising talents from established development institutions and local schools alike.

A Realistic Yet Responsible Approach

The club has openly acknowledged a hard truth: not every player will progress to the next level, including NSFC II (Liga A1), and not all will secure professional contracts. However, through the integration of SKM certification and coaching qualifications, NSFC is ensuring that every player graduates from the programme with tangible skills and opportunities.

This initiative reflects the club’s long-term vision — building not only footballers, but responsible, employable and knowledgeable individuals who can contribute to the sport and society.

With strengthened structure, enhanced academic pathways and improved welfare support, NSFC III represents a significant step forward in the club’s youth development journey.

Rajan Praises Fighting Spirit Despite Frustrating Night in Likas

Liga Super 2025-26 | LS19
Sabah FC vs Negeri Sembilan FC
28 February | Stadium Likas

Negeri Sembilan FC Interim Head Coach K. Rajan lauded his players’ commitment and adherence to the tactical plan following the Liga Super 2025-26 Round 19 encounter against Sabah FC at Stadium Likas.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Rajan emphasised that his squad delivered a disciplined and spirited performance on the night, fully executing the strategies prepared in training.

“Today, our players followed our game plan. They played well and gave 100 percent on the field. I think we must give credit to our players,” Rajan stated, acknowledging the team’s collective effort and determination throughout the contest.

Respecting Match Officials

When asked about certain key decisions during the match, Rajan maintained a composed and professional stance. He declined to comment on refereeing matters, reiterating that such decisions fall solely within the authority of the match officials.

“This one I cannot comment, because this is the referee’s decision, not my decision. From outside, you all can predict what will happen, what the referee will do. But this one you need to ask the referee. We need to follow the referee’s decision,” he explained.

His response underscored the club’s respect for officiating processes while keeping the focus firmly on footballing matters.

Focus on Midfield Control and Clinical Edge

Looking ahead, Rajan was clear about the areas requiring improvement as the Hobin Jang Hobin prepare for their next assignment. While satisfied with the team’s structure and effort, he identified midfield sharpness and attacking efficiency as key priorities.

“For the next game, we need to improve our midfield side, then our attacking and finishing,” he noted.

Despite creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities, Negeri Sembilan were unable to convert their chances into goals — a factor Rajan believes must be addressed immediately in training.

“Today we created a lot of chances, but we did not convert them into goals. Before the next game, we need to train and improve our finishing,” he added.

Building Momentum in Transition

As Interim Head Coach guiding the team through this transitional phase, Rajan’s message was clear: the foundations are in place. The players demonstrated discipline, commitment, and tactical understanding. The next step is translating performance into points.

With focused improvements in midfield control and attacking sharpness, Negeri Sembilan FC will look to turn positive displays into tangible results as the Liga Super 2025-26 campaign intensifies.

Motika Strikes, But Late Drama Denies Hobin Jang Hobin Full Points in Likas

Sabah FC 1–1 Negeri Sembilan FC
Malaysia Super League | Stadium Likas

Negeri Sembilan FC were forced to settle for a point after a dramatic second-half equaliser saw Sabah rescue a 1–1 draw at Stadium Likas earlier tonight.

The result marked a shared outcome for both newly appointed Sabah head coach Juan Torres Garrido and NSFC Interim Head Coach K. Rajan, as each manager collected a point in their respective first matches in charge.

Early Pressure from the Hosts

Sabah began the match on the front foot, testing the resilience of the Hobin Jang Hobin backline. In the 17th minute, a dangerous free kick from Dane Ingham nearly caught goalkeeper Azri Ghani off guard, but the national custodian reacted sharply to preserve parity.

Azri was called into action again in the 30th minute, producing another important save to deny a long-range effort from Fergus Tierney as Sabah continued to probe for an opener.

Motika’s Moment of Magic

Despite the early pressure from the hosts, it was Negeri Sembilan who struck first in the 33rd minute. Jovan Motika showcased composure and skill inside the penalty area, cleverly evading his marker before unleashing a powerful strike past Sabah goalkeeper Damien Lim to give NSFC the lead.

The goal shifted momentum and injected confidence into the visitors as they held firm heading into the break.

Tactical Changes and Mounting Pressure

Sabah intensified their attack in the second half, with Garrido introducing substitute S. Kumaahran in the 56th minute — a move that proved decisive. The winger’s direct running and creative deliveries immediately lifted the home side’s tempo.

Sabah created several clear opportunities, including two close attempts from import striker Chris-Marlon Ondong-Mba. His 58th-minute effort narrowly sailed over the crossbar, while another attempt seven minutes later rattled the woodwork.

Controversy and the Equaliser

The breakthrough for Sabah came in the 69th minute under dramatic circumstances. Following a quickly taken free kick by Duje Ljubic, Kumaahran capitalised on an unguarded goalmouth to slot home the equaliser.

In the build-up, Azri Ghani had moved out of position, appearing to approach referee Muhamad Afiq Naim Ahmad Khilmi to protest the awarding of the free kick. The referee subsequently consulted the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system before confirming the goal.

A Point Each After Intense Finish

Both sides pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither could find the decisive touch. The contest ended 1–1, with each team earning a point in a fiercely contested encounter.

The result sees Sabah move to 10th place with 15 points, while Negeri Sembilan remain seventh with 18 points from 17 matches.

For K. Rajan and his squad, there were positives in resilience and defensive organisation — but the narrow escape serves as a reminder of the fine margins at this level. Hobin Jang Hobin will now turn their focus to the next fixture, determined to convert promising performances into maximum points.

Rajan to Lead Until Season’s End as NSFC Charts a Measured Path Forward

Negeri Sembilan FC is not expected to appoint a new head coach for its Super League squad following the resignation of Nidzam Jamil earlier this week.

Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan and Club Chairman, Aminuddin Harun, confirmed that current assistant head coach K Rajan — who has been named interim head coach — will continue to guide the Hobin Jang Hobin squad through to the end of the 2025/2026 Malaysia League (Liga-M) campaign in May.

“We have no immediate plans to appoint a new head coach. The current interim head coach (K Rajan) will continue to lead Negeri Sembilan until the end of the season in May,” he said after chairing the Weekly EXCO Meeting at Wisma Negeri.

Although several credible candidates — reportedly four to five names — have been identified, the club has chosen not to rush into a permanent appointment.

“We want to give ourselves some time to assess the team’s performances over the next two or three matches before making any decision. For now, the interim head coach will remain in charge until the end of the season,” he added.

A Period of Reflection and Reset

Aminuddin acknowledged that expectations among supporters had been high following the second player transfer window. However, the anticipated improvement in results did not materialise — a factor that may have contributed to Nidzam’s decision to step down.

The club expressed its sincere appreciation to Nidzam Jamil for his dedication and contributions during his tenure with NSFC.

“What has happened has opened our eyes. We believed the team could turn things around, but inconsistency and the inability to sustain performances became a concern among supporters.”

NSFC showed encouraging form in the early stages of the league campaign but struggled to maintain momentum. A string of defeats — including after the second transfer window — raised difficult questions among the fanbase.

“Supporters found it hard to accept the situation. As a club, we understand the need for change. NSFC is not a Class A or financially wealthy club, so we must be realistic — but we remain hopeful that there will be improvements in the team’s style of play and overall performance moving forward.”

Stability, Evaluation, and Long-Term Perspective

The decision reflects a commitment to stability while allowing space for honest evaluation. Rather than making a reactive appointment, the club will assess short-term performances before determining its next strategic step.

As the season enters its decisive phase, K Rajan now shoulders the responsibility of steering the squad with renewed focus and purpose.

The mission remains clear: restore belief, elevate performances, and honour the expectations of the Hobin Jang Hobin faithful.

Rajan Koran Targets Tactical Reset as NSFC Prepare for Crucial Likas Test

Negeri Sembilan FC Interim Head Coach Rajan Koran is set to roll out an enhanced tactical approach as the Jang travel to face Sabah FC at Stadium Likas tomorrow.

Entrusted with the responsibility following the resignation of Nidzam Jamil, Rajan expressed his gratitude to the club’s management for the confidence placed in him to guide the team through this transitional phase.

“I accept this challenge with full responsibility and determination to give my very best,” he said.

Tactical Refinement for a Fresh Start

Aware of the need to inject renewed momentum into the squad, Rajan revealed that his primary focus throughout the week has been to fine-tune the team’s playing structure. Targeted tactical adjustments have been introduced in training sessions to address shortcomings from the previous outing, with the effectiveness of the revamped system set to be tested in his first match in charge at Likas.

The encounter presents a stern challenge. Sabah are widely regarded as formidable on home soil, backed by passionate support that often transforms Likas into a fortress. Nevertheless, NSFC have crafted a refreshed game plan designed to absorb pressure intelligently while launching incisive attacks against the hosts.

No Complacency Despite Past Victory

Although NSFC recorded an impressive 3-0 victory over Sabah in Paroi earlier this season, Rajan dismissed any notion of complacency.

“Previous results will not be taken into account. That match is in the past, and we will focus on one game at a time. Sabah are now guided by a new coach, so we do not know exactly what tactical setup or formation they will employ. But as a coach, I have prepared NSFC mentally and physically to adapt to this new system,” he added.

Squad Update Ahead of Likas Clash

Overall, the NSFC camp remains in satisfactory physical condition, with only a handful of players nursing minor knocks.

However, the Jang will be without two key figures for this important away fixture. Yuichi Hirano serves a one-match suspension following a red card in the clash against Imigresen FC last week, while Joseph Esso is also unavailable after accumulating three yellow cards.

Despite these absences, the team heads to Likas with renewed belief, a refined tactical blueprint, and a collective determination to rise to the occasion.

Norhafiz Zamani and Three Young Talents Set for Gainare Tottori Stint

Negeri Sembilan FC is pleased to announce that Under-20 Head Coach Norhafiz Zamani Misbah and three promising young players — Airiel Zafran Mohd Azrul (20), Aqil Faris Shalahudin (19), and Adam Haris Hamizon (21) — will travel to Gainare Tottori of Japan’s J3 League for a one-month training and trial programme beginning at the end of February.

During their time in Japan, the three players will undergo a structured assessment under Gainare Tottori’s academy coaching staff. Should they meet the required standards and criteria, they will be afforded the opportunity to train with the club’s senior squad — a significant step in their professional development pathway.

At the same time, Norhafiz Zamani Misbah will be embedded within Gainare Tottori’s first-team coaching structure, where he will gain first-hand exposure to advanced training methodologies, team management systems, and tactical frameworks practised within Japan’s highly disciplined and high-intensity professional football environment.

According to NSFC Chairman, Aminuddin Harun, the initiative is designed to elevate the quality of local youth players as part of preparations for this year’s SUKMA Games, while also opening the door for potential professional contracts in the J-League should the players meet the required benchmarks.

“This training and trial programme reflects NSFC’s serious commitment to building a sustainable and competitive youth development foundation. We cannot rely solely on short-term success; we must establish a strong structure for the future.

Our positive relationship with Gainare Tottori creates valuable opportunities for our players and coaches to experience Japan’s professional football ecosystem, renowned for its discipline and intensity.

I hope this opportunity is fully embraced — not only for personal growth, but to bring back new knowledge and standards that can elevate the quality of football in Negeri Sembilan.”

This initiative forms part of NSFC’s long-term strategy to nurture emerging talents as future pillars of the club’s Super League squad. Rather than focusing narrowly on immediate results, the club continues to invest in structured exposure, international benchmarking, and sustainable player progression.

NSFC has also affirmed that programmes of this nature will be implemented annually, involving different groups of young players as part of the club’s continuous development blueprint.

Through consistent international exposure and strategic partnerships, NSFC remains confident that local talents can be empowered to compete at higher levels — strengthening the club’s Super League ambitions while proudly representing Negeri Sembilan on a broader stage.