Japan Wins World Cup Qualifier Against North Korea by Forfeit: A Look at Japan’s Ongoing Quest for Qualification in the 2022 World Cup

Japan has emerged victorious in their recently-canceled World Cup qualifier against North Korea by forfeit, as confirmed by FIFA to the Japan Football Association. The game was originally scheduled to take place in Pyongyang as part of the Asian second-round Group B tie. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the match was canceled following reports of a “malignant, infectious disease” in Japan.

The decision to cancel the match was made by the AFC and left FIFA to determine the outcome of the game. Although playing opportunities for players were lost, Japan’s manager Hajime Moriyasu embraced the situation as a step forward in World Cup qualifying. Despite the cancellation, Japan had already won four consecutive games, securing their place in the Asian final round of qualifying with two games left to play.

Amidst the cancelation of the game, the focus shifted to Japan’s progress in the World Cup qualifiers and their continued efforts to secure a spot in the final rounds. Prior to the cancellation, Japan had defeated North Korea 1-0 at Tokyo’s National Stadium on March 21. The victory added to their winning streak and positioned them favorably in the qualifying rounds. The team remains optimistic and focused on maintaining their momentum as they move forward in the competition.

Japan’s victory by forfeit over North Korea marked a significant milestone in their quest for qualification for the 2022 World Cup tournament held in Qatar. With only two matches remaining, they are now just one win away from securing their spot in Asia’s third group stage.

The decision not to play against North Korea caused controversy among fans and experts alike, but it also allowed Japan’s players to rest and recover ahead of crucial upcoming matches.

Japan’s manager Hajime Moriyasu expressed his satisfaction with how things have unfolded so far:

“We are pleased that we have won four games out of four so far,” he said. “This result means we have qualified for Asia’s third group stage with two matches remaining.”

“We will continue our preparation and focus on performing at our best,” added Moriyasu.

Despite facing challenges such as COVID-19 outbreaks and political tensions between nations, Japan is determined to make it through all stages of qualification and reach its goal of competing on home soil at Qatar 2022.