World Cup qualifiers

2024 - 3 - 21

North Korea Shuns World Cup Qualifier Against Japan: A Twist in the Soccer Rivalry

Asian Football Confederation - FIFA - Japan - North Korea - World Cup qualifiers

Find out the latest on the canceled North Korea v Japan World Cup qualifier game, and the buzz surrounding the fierce soccer rivalry.

In a surprising turn of events, North Korea has decided to cancel the World Cup qualifier match against Japan, creating a buzz in the soccer world. The cancellation came minutes after Japan claimed victory with a 1-0 win, leading to speculations and discussions among fans and officials. Following the cancellation, the Asian Football Confederation announced that the home leg for North Korea will be played at a neutral venue, not in Pyongyang as initially planned.

The decision to shift the venue came after talks with FIFA and amidst uncertainties surrounding North Korea's ability to host the game in the capital. AFC general secretary Windsor John refrained from providing specific reasons for the sudden change, leaving fans intrigued and eager for more updates. The fierce rivalry between Japan and North Korea adds an extra layer of excitement and tension to the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, fueling anticipation among soccer enthusiasts.

As tensions rise and speculations mount, the dynamics of the Japan-North Korea rivalry on and off the field come into focus. Both teams are fiercely competing to secure their spots in the 2026 World Cup, intensifying the drama surrounding the canceled match and the subsequent venue changes. The unexpected twist in the qualifiers has captured the attention of fans worldwide, making this matchup one to watch closely in the soccer world.

The complexities of the Japan-North Korea soccer rivalry go beyond the field, with geopolitical tensions and historical animosities shaping the intensity of their matches. Despite the canceled game, the anticipation for their next face-off remains high, highlighting the significance of this rivalry in the international sports arena. Soccer enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for further updates and developments in this captivating saga.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "The Guardian"

North Korea cancels World Cup qualifier against Japan (The Guardian)

Minutes after that game, which Japan won 1-0, Kozo Tashima, the president of the Japan Football Association, told reporters that the return match in the North ...

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Sportstar"

FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: North Korea to play home leg against ... (Sportstar)

North Korea's home World Cup qualifier against Japan on Tuesday will be held at a neutral venue and not in Pyongyang, the Asian Football Confederation said, ...

Post cover
Image courtesy of "South China Morning Post"

World Cup qualifiers: North Korea v Japan match in Pyongyang ... (South China Morning Post)

Decision came after talks with world football governing body Fifa and North Korea saying they would not be able to stage the March 26 game in the capital.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "The Straits Times"

North Korea v Japan World Cup qualifier called off: AFC (The Straits Times)

AFC general secretary Windsor John did not say why the March 26 match would not take place as originally planned in Pyongyang.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "TIME"

Soccer Match Between Japan and North Korea Complicated by Off ... (TIME)

Here's what to know about Japan and North Korea's fierce rivalry—on and off the field—as their men's teams compete to play in the 2026 World Cup.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "CNA"

North Korea won't host World Cup qualifier against Japan, Kyodo ... (CNA)

TOKYO :North Korea will not host a World Cup qualifier with Japan that was scheduled to be held in Pyongyang next week, Kyodo news agency reported late ...

Explore the last week