Shaikh Salman lauds expanded #U20WAC format as Japan reclaim crown
.
—- Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has extended his warmest congratulations to Japan for being crowned champions of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ as the East Asians defeated DPR Korea 1-0 to clinch their seventh title after a thrilling Final at the Thammasat Stadium in Thailand on Saturday.

It was a familiar battle for the title: for the fifth time in a row, the two powerhouses faced off in the all-important decider. With nine Final appearances each, their recurring rivalry once again highlighted their undisputed dominance in Asian youth women’s football.

Shaikh Salman said: “On behalf of the Asian football community, I wish to extend my sincerest congratulations to our champions Japan on their distinguished achievement. This competition has once again illustrated that the trajectory of women’s football in Asia remains on an upward and formidable path.

“The successes of our finalists speak volumes about the dedication of both the DPR Korea Football Association and the Japan Football Association in fostering young talent and to consistently produce the next generation of world-class players and future leaders of the game.”

Both sides also confirmed their qualification for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026, where they will lead Asia’s title defence alongside semi-finalists China PR, and Korea Republic.

Shaikh Salman emphasised the high expectations for the Continent’s representatives, referencing Asia’s formidable history on the global stage. He added: “DPR Korea are the defending world champions, and with Asia having won the global title on four occasions, I have every confidence our teams will showcase their talent and competitive spirit with distinction in Poland.”

A defining milestone of this edition was the strategic transition to a 12-team format, a move the AFC President highlighted as a catalyst for development. This expansion provided a vital platform for emerging nations to test themselves against the Continent’s elite, most notably evidenced by the historic debut of Bangladesh.

Commenting on the impact of the expansion, Shaikh Salman noted: “We must acknowledge the collective contributions of all 12 Participating Member Associations, including the landmark debut of Bangladesh. The presence of a broader field of competitors not only enriches the diversity of the tournament but also accelerates the development of the game in every corner of the Continent, narrowing the gap in quality across our Member Associations.”

Shaikh Salman also commended the Football Association of Thailand for their exceptional hospitality and for the successful delivery of the expanded format.

He added: “The Football Association of Thailand and the Local Organising Committee were exceptional and warm hosts, and their sincere dedication to hosting this crown jewel of Asian youth football is deeply appreciated. FA Thailand continues to be a valued partner of the AFC, consistently bringing their capabilities and expertise to bear through the hosting of numerous marquee AFC competitions and events and we thank them for their steadfast support.”

Relive all the exciting action from the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ here.