To use this site, please disable the ad blocking feature and reload the page.
This website uses cookies to collect information about your visit for purposes such as showing you personalized ads and content, and analyzing our website traffic. By clicking “Accept all,” you will allow the use of these cookies.
Users accessing this site from EEA countries and UK are unable to view this site without your consent. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
REUTERS/Issei Kato Soccer Football – AFC Qualifiers – Group B – Japan v North Korea – Japan National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan – March 21, 2024 Japan and North Korea players shakes hands after the match
Jiji Press
17:19 JST, March 24, 2024
Tokyo (Jiji Press)—FIFA has announced that a planned World Cup qualifier between Japan and North Korea will not take place, after North Korea withdrew its intention to host the match in Pyongyang.
The fourth match in the second Asian qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup was scheduled for March 26. It will not be rescheduled, according to the international governing body for soccer.
The outcome of the cancellation will be discussed by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.
On Thursday, Japan beat North Korea 1-0 in a match in Tokyo to lead Group B in the qualifying round.
