![Japan and North Korea in action in Tokyo](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/624/cpsprodpb/FACD/production/_133050246_gettyimages-2104495926.jpg)
Japan’s Football Association claims that Japan won a 3-0 withhold victory after North Korea called off a 2026 World Cup qualifying match scheduled for Pyongyang earlier in March.
Due to concerns over viral illnesses in Japan, North Korea requested that the game been held at a neutral place.
The JFA claimed the disciplinary committee at Fifa had informed them that the fit had been forfeited.
With their victory, Japan will advance to the second square of World Cup qualifying.
” I see this as a positive move forward, although the people lost an important opportunity to play,” said Japan director Hajime Moriyasu.
” Normally, we will not be satisfied with this effect, but will continue to build up our power for the national team actions in June, the last qualifying round, and the World Cup”.
Fifa recently said the complement- which should have taken place on Tuesday, 26 March- could not be rescheduled.
Japan beat North Korea 1- 0 in Tokyo on 21 March.