Shaikh Salman commends DPR Korea on valiant FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign

—- The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President, Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, has praised DPR Korea for their exceptional performances and elite sportsmanship following a narrow 4-3 defeat on penalties to Spain after a 0-0 deadlock at full-time in the Final of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026 on Sunday.

While the reigning Asian youth champions narrowly missed out on defending their crown, it could not overshadow a historic milestone: DPR Korea captured the world’s attention by setting an all-time tournament record of 13 consecutive victories stretching back to their 2024 triumph in Colombia, eclipsing Germany’s long-standing mark of 12 straight wins.

DPR Korea’s stellar individual performances were also recognised at the post-tournament awards, where Ri Kuk-Hyang claimed the Silver Ball, while teammate Choe Yon-A earned the Bronze Boot.

Shaikh Salman expressed his pride in the team’s campaign, stating: “While the final scoreline may not be what they so deeply strived for, DPR Korea can hold their heads incredibly high. They came agonisingly close to achieving an unprecedented back-to-back defence of their global crown, while showcasing the absolute pinnacle of talent, determination, and spirit that embodies Asian football at its best.

“Reaching a global final immediately after their magnificent 2024 triumph in Colombia is a tremendous achievement that very few teams in the world can replicate. Despite defeat, they remain firmly tied at the peak of world football with three titles. I want to congratulate the players, the technical staff, and the DPR Korea Football Association for their incredible consistency, elite preparation, and footballing excellence.”

The expanded 24-team edition showcased the collective depth of Asia’s youth teams, as all four AFC representatives successfully advanced past the Group Stage for the first time in history.

Alongside the finalists, Korea Republic produced a commendable effort to reach the Quarter-finals for the first time since 2014 before bowing out to Italy, while China PR delivered a resilient display in their first Knockout Stage tie in 20 years before their campaign ended on penalties to the same European opponents. 2018 champions Japan also showcased their pedigree before being edged out by DPR Korea in a high-stakes all-Asian Round of 16 clash.

The AFC President added: “Furthermore, witnessing all four of our Member Associations reach the knockout rounds demonstrates that Asia is not merely competing, but actively dictating the evolution of women’s youth football on the global arena.

“This latest breakthrough exemplifies the exceptional strides we have made in bringing to life the AFC’s Vision and Mission of ensuring our teams succeed on the world’s biggest stages.”

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