Defending champions DPR Korea U20 women’s national team moved one step closer to retaining their continental crown after a commanding 3-0 victory over Korea Republic U20 women’s national team in the semi-finals of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 at Pathum Thani Stadium, Pathum Thani.
Despite Korea Republic making several changes from the side that suffered a heavy group-stage defeat earlier in the tournament, DPR Korea quickly established control of the match.
The first real warning came in the 14th minute when Choe Rim-Jong attempted an audacious long-range lob from 35 yards, forcing Korean goalkeeper Kim Chae-been to track the ball nervously as it sailed over the bar.
Moments later, Kim was again called into action, reacting sharply to push away Jon Il-Chong’s powerful header following a dangerous delivery from Choe Rim Jong.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 24th minute when Pak Il-Sim produced a moment of brilliance. Spotting Kim slightly off her line, the DPR Korea midfielder unleashed a fierce strike from outside the penalty area that flew into the top-right corner.
The goal shifted momentum firmly in DPR Korea’s favour.
Ten minutes later, the defending champions doubled their lead. A slick combination between Pak Ok-I and So Ryu-Gyong carved open the Korean defence, allowing Kang Ryu Mi to calmly slot the ball past the stranded Kim to make it 2-0.
Korea Republic attempted to reshape their approach in the second half by introducing Park Ju-Ha and Seo Min-Jeong, but DPR Korea remained relentless.
Their attacking pressure nearly produced a third goal just after the hour mark when Ro Un-Hyang rattled the post with a powerful effort.
The final blow eventually came in the 84th minute. After clever build-up play from Ri Su-Jong, the ball fell kindly to Choe Yon-A, who calmly finished inside the crowded penalty area to seal the 3-0 victory.
The result sends DPR Korea into their ninth final in the competition’s history and keeps them firmly on course to defend their continental title.
They will now face either Japan or China in the championship match.
With another dominant display built on attacking precision and defensive discipline, DPR Korea once again demonstrated why they remain one of Asia’s most formidable forces in women’s youth football.
Credit Photo : HongZheng Lim/SNE-Photo
