Asia’s stellar standards in global women’s football recognised by Shaikh Salman

—- Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has commended Japan for securing the silver medal in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 after the Little Nadeshiko fell narrowly to Nigeria 2-1 in a closely fought finale at the Mohammed VI Football Complex – Pitch 3 on Saturday.

While they missed adding a second U-17 trophy to their name, it was their first Final since 2016 and their podium finish reinforces the elite pedigree of a nation that already boasts a treble of FIFA World Cups: the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2011, the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2018, and their maiden U-17 triumph from 2014.

The AFC President said: “On behalf of the Asian football family, I offer my commendations to Japan on reaching the Final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026. Competing at the absolute peak of a global tournament is an exceptional achievement that brings immense pride to our continent.

“Japan has long been a shining beacon of women’s football development, not just in Asia, but globally. Their progression to the final is a testament to the vision and structured youth programmes implemented by the Japan Football Association (JFA). It proves once again that Asia continues to nurture world-class talent capable of dominating the grandest stages.

“To the extraordinary players and the dedicated coaching staff, your hard work and unity have set a stellar benchmark. You have inspired a new generation of young girls across Asia to dream big. We salute your dedication and we are confident that you will emerge even stronger as you progress through the senior ranks.”

Broadening the perspective, the AFC President noted that the tournament further cements the supremacy of Asian nations in youth women’s football, highlighting that AFC Member Associations have claimed an incredible six out of the 10 titles in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup history.

The 2026 edition in Morocco also showcased the immense depth of Asian football as the expanded 24-team format saw AFC teams consistently outclass global heavyweights.

Reigning record four-time champions DPR Korea, who clinched the Bronze medal after sealing a dominant 6-0 victory over Brazil in the day’s earlier match, had bowed out to Japan on penalties in the Semi-finals, while China PR created history by reaching the Quarter-finals for the first time. Debutants Australia also marked a commendable breakthrough by securing their first-ever tournament goal and point in a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Group F opponents Chile.

Highlighting the collective rise, Shaikh Salman added: “The performance of all four Asian representatives reflects the massive strides we are making together. From DPR Korea’s relentless campaign to China PR’s gritty, historic knockout run and Australia’s proud debut, the future of Asian women’s football is indeed brighter than ever, and all the plaudits must go to our Member Associations.

“As outlined in the AFC’s Vision and Mission, we remain steadfast in providing specialised elite development assistance to all our members, ensuring that Asia retains its prominent, pioneering status at the summit of global women’s football.”

The tournament concluded with well-deserved recognition for the Continent’s standout performers as DPR Korea’s Yu Jong Hyang was awarded the prestigious Silver Ball as well as the Silver Boot, while Japan’s Fuki Ito claimed the Bronze Ball. Additionally, DPR Korea duo Ri Ui Gyong and Kim Son Gyong took home the Bronze Boot and Golden Glove accolades, respectively.

Relive all the action from the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 here.
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