Following consultation with Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Member Associations, FIFA and AFC have decided to postpone the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022/AFC Asian Cup China 2023 Preliminary Joint Qualification Round 2 matches scheduled on the FIFA International Window of 23-31 March 2020 and 1-9 June 2020.
The postponement is brought about by concerns on COVID-19 which has struck several countries. Among the Philippines’ matches affected by the postponement are:
- 26 March 2020 – Philippines vs. Guam
- 04 June 2020 – China PR vs. Philippines
- 09 June 2020 – Philippines vs. Maldives
The above matches will be scheduled to a later date upon further discussions between FIFA and AFC.
Member associations however may, upon mutual agreement, still hold the matches during the FIFA International Match Window, subject to approval from both FIFA and AFC.
FIFA and the AFC will continue to assess the situation in relation to COVID-19 and will decide whether further changes to the schedule of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 / AFC Asian Cup China 2023 Preliminary Joint Qualification Round 2 qualifying matches are required, always with the aim of protecting the safety and health of all individuals involved.
PFF exhorts the general public, all football stakeholders and fans to remain vigilant and take all necessary safety precautions amidst the current COVID-19 situation.