FIFA WC Qualifier: Japan earn narrow win over North Korea

Ao Tanaka's goal gave Japan a nervy 1-0 win over a spirited North Korea in a World Cup qualifier in Tokyo on Thursday.

Unmarked in the centre of the box, Tanaka beat exposed goalkeeper Kang Ju Hyok and put Japan a step closer to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Japan have three wins from three in their group and are firmly on course to reach the next stage of qualifying.

Japan and North Korea are scheduled to meet again on Tuesday in Pyongyang.

Thursday's victory was an unconvincing but welcome return to winning ways for Japan after a disappointing Asian Cup, where they went out 2-1 in the quarterfinals to Iran.