China-Iran Soccer Is Postponed

The World Cup Group 5 qualifying soccer matches between China and Iran, originally scheduled for later this month, were postponed indefinitely Tuesday because of conditions in those countries, according to the sport’s world governing body.

An official said that “it is simply impossible to play soccer in China at the moment, and Iran has declared a state mourning period of 40 days.”

Martial law stemming from student unrest in Beijing has led to near civil war in China, and Iran is mourning the death of the Ayatollah Khomeini.

China had been scheduled to be the host team for a game against Iran June 11, with the return match scheduled for June 21 in Iran. China also was due to play Thailand June 28.