North Korea abruptly cancels World Cup qualifier in Pyongyang, days before game | NK News
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December 05, 2024
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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. 

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