The days ahead look brighter for Japan as they approach the final stages of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup without kicking a ball. That’s after FIFA said their match with North Korea will not be scheduled. There were no clear reasons why FIFA reached this decision.
Japan and North Korea are in group B of the 2026 World Cup qualifying with other teams such as Syria and Myanmar. Japan and North Korea met in a previous clash where Japan thrashed North Korea 1-0.
What Happened Exactly?
North Korea was supposed to stage the qualifier on Tuesday in the capital, Pyongyang. However, officials called off the game five days before the matchday, citing no reason.
On Friday, the Asian Football Federation said that the match was off and that FIFA had said, “The match will neither be played nor rescheduled.” FIFA stated that there is a lack of space in the international football calendar.
“The matter and match outcome will be referred to the FIFA disciplinary committee.”The International football governing body added.
Would there Be an Impact on North Korea’s Side?
As a result, North Korea could suffer a 3-0 forfeit, sending Japan into the third stage of qualifying for the World Cup in Mexico, Canada, and the USA. Moreover, Japan’s football team coach, Hajime Moriyasu, was eyeing the game as an opportunity for improvement because the team displayed some weaknesses in the home leg.
He said on Friday, “It’s regrettable that we have lost an opportunity to correct some areas within the team. But, we will aim to improve as a team based on what we have built on up to this far.”Iran dumped Japan out of the Asian Quarterfinals last month. They entered the game as favorites, only for the game to end 2-1.
Also Read: Kyle Walker and Harry Maguire Leave England’s Squad Due to Injuries And Won’t Play Against Belgium
Any Previous History Regarding Pyongyang?
The last time North Korea hosted international men’s soccer in Pyongyang was in 2019, during the qualifying competition for the 2022 World Cup. Unfortunately, North Korea didn’t proceed with the competition due to Covid-19.
In February, an Olympic women’s qualifier for the two countries was set in Pyongyang. However, that did not occur, and the match was switched to Saudi Arabia at the last minute because of its neutrality.
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About the Author
Reagan is a soccer fanatic who has been following the game since childhood. He loves writing about soccer news, trends, and updates every day. He also enjoys watching soccer during his free time, hence the ease of writing up-to-date content.