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Japan vs. Chile cancelled after earthquake hits Sapporo

Japan's match with Chile has been cancelled after an earthquake struck the island of Hokkaido on Thursday.

Seven people are confirmed dead after the 6.7 magnitude quake caused landslides, with dozens hospitalised and millions of homes and businesses without power, according to local reports.

A statement from the Japanese FA said that they have cancelled the match in Sapporo as a result of the tremor, with its epicentre 60km southeast of the city.

"We send our deepest condolences and sincerest sympathies to those affected by the earthquake that struck the central-eastern part of Iburi region in Hokkaido," it said. "Due to the effects of the earthquake, Japan Football Association has decided to cancel the Kirin Challenge Cup 2018 match between Samurai Blue [Japan National Team] and Chile National Team, scheduled to be played at Sapporo Dome on 7 Sept. 2018.

"This decision was made upon careful evaluation of the magnitude of damages incurred, including damages to critical infrastructure such as power outages and significant transportation disruptions, as well as to ensure the security of all spectators, including the supporters of the visiting team."

The match would have been Hajime Moriyasu's first in charge of the team, and Japan are currently scheduled to play Costa Rica on Sept. 11 in Osaka.

Chile's national team posted a message on social media reassuring fans back home that everyone is safe following the earthquake.

The players and coaching staff arrived in Sapporo earlier this week to take on Japan before playing in South Korea next Tuesday.

"We inform that La Roja's delegation is in perfect condition following the strong earthquake that happened in Sapporo," the Chile Football Federation tweeted.

Chile have a training session scheduled for Thursday evening at the Sapporo Dome stadium.

Information from ESPN FC's Adriana Garcia and Reuters was used in this report.

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