North Korea abruptly cancels World Cup qualifier in Pyongyang, days before game | NK News
NK News Logo
December 22, 2024

NK News is hiring

News

North Korea abruptly cancels World Cup qualifier in Pyongyang, days before game

DPRK nixed scheduled match despite sending team to Tokyo for first leg, reportedly fearing disease outbreak in Japan

North Korea has abruptly canceled its plans to host a men’s World Cup qualifier against Japan in Pyongyang next week, despite already sending its national team to play the first leg in Tokyo, according to Japan’s soccer association.

Japan Football Association (JFA) President Kozo Tashima made the announcement after Japan defeated North Korea 1-0 at Tokyo’s National Stadium on Thursday in the first of their two Asian qualifying Group B encounters. 

Try unlimited access
Only $1 for four weeks

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • Year-one discount if you continue past $1 trial period
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.