DUSHANBE, September 6, 2011, Asia-Plus -- Tajikistan has lost game against North Korea in the World Cup qualifier.

A first-half goal by midfielder Pak Nam Chol gave North Korea a 1-0 win over Tajikistan on Tuesday and its first points in third-round Asian qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.

Pak scored in the 14th minute and North Korea was then able to use its trademark strong defense to maintain the advantage.

The win gave North Korea three points from two games, having lost its group opener away to Japan after a stoppage time goal.

Tajikistan, which only advanced to this stage after Syria was disqualified for fielding an ineligible player in the previous round, has lost both its games.

Japan is visiting Uzbekistan today in the other Group C game.