2026 World Cup qualifiers: North Korea cancels match with Japan

Second round looms for Concacaf's World Cup 26 aspirants

Costa Rica, Honduras, Jamaica and Panama are among the 30 sides battling for 12 tickets to the third round.

FIFA has confirmed that North Korea has abruptly canceled its 2026 World Cup qualifying match with Japan next month.

The match was due to be played in Pyongyang on June 14, but the North Korean Football Association (NKFA) has informed FIFA that it will not be able to host the game.

No reason has been given for the cancellation, but it comes just hours after North Korea lost 3-0 to Japan in Tokyo on Thursday.

The NKFA has not yet confirmed whether it will forfeit the match or if it will be rescheduled.

FIFA is expected to make a decision on the matter in the coming days.