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. 

“In any case, it has been determined that a game will not be played in Pyongyang,” the JFA chief said.

Tashima explained that North Korea sent a letter to