Defending champions DPR Korea U20 women’s national team maintained their perfect run in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 after defeating Australia U20 women’s national team 3–0 in the quarter-finals at Pathum Thani Stadium, Pathum Thani.
DPR Korea wasted no time asserting their dominance, opening the scoring just three minutes into the match. A precise cross from Choe Rim Jong from the right flank sliced through the Australian defence and found Pak Ok I just outside the six-yard box.
The midfielder showed superb composure, controlling the ball before calmly slotting it past goalkeeper Ilona Melegh into the bottom-left corner.
Australia gradually settled after the early setback, with Melegh producing several impressive saves to deny efforts from Kang Ryu Mi and Ro Un Hyang.
The Young Matildas attempted to exploit counterattacking opportunities but struggled to break through DPR Korea’s disciplined defence.
Their best chance arrived in the 30th minute when Tiana Fuller played a through ball for Talia Younis, but defender Pak Il Sim reacted quickly to clear the danger before the forward could test DPR Korea goalkeeper Park Ju Gyong.
DPR Korea ended the first half on the front foot, forcing Australia captain Alexia Apostolakis to make crucial defensive blocks while Melegh denied Ho Kyong from close range moments before the break.
Australia had a golden opportunity to equalise in the 54th minute when Fuller intercepted a pass from Pak Il Sim. However, her shot was blocked instantly, and Younis sent the rebound wide of the post.
DPR Korea soon regained control and continued to threaten through long-range efforts, including a strike from Ri Kuk Hyang that narrowly missed the target.
The defending champions doubled their advantage in the 74th minute after sustained pressure forced a costly mistake. Australian defender Rubi Sullivan inadvertently turned the ball into her own net while attempting to clear a powerful shot from Ro Un Hyang.
DPR Korea completed the rout in the final minute of regulation time. Ro Un Hyang capitalised on Melegh straying off her line, calmly finishing into the centre of the net to secure a convincing 3–0 victory.
With another commanding performance, DPR Korea extended their unbeaten run in the tournament and underlined their status as one of the strongest contenders for the title.
Credit Photo : HongZheng Lim/SNE-Photo
