Korea DPR wins U-17 Women’s World Cup, edge Spain on penalties

Korea DPR are champions of the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Dominican Republic, defeating Spain 4-3 on penalty shootout.

The North Koreans came from a second half deficit to defeat Spain and win a record third FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Asians converted four of five penalties, as goalkeeper Pak Ju-gyong made a crucial save in spot kicks to help her side.

The game started on an early bright note for the Spain but Celia Segura was denied by Ju-gyong. They were also unlucky not to score as Alba Cerrato and Pau Comendador had looks at goal in the first half.

Korea DPR head coach, Song Sung-gwon, did the usual as he substituted 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup adidas Golden Ball winner, Choe Il-son shortly before half-time with Ho Kyong.

However, Spain were the first to break the deadlock when Comendador whipped in a cross and rolled to Segura, who fired home.

The North Koreans responded back in just five minutes. Jon Il-chong received a pass and dribbled round goalkeeper Laia Lopez before scoring from a narrow angle to level for her side.

Both sides kept mounting pressure on each other as they were searching for a winner. Pak came to the rescue for the Koreans as she denied Cerrato with a top save.

The Korea DPR goalkeeper Pak Ju-gyong proved decisive in the decider as she made a crucial stop in the shootout.

The Asian heavyweights converted four of five, as Kang Ryu-mi calmly stroke home the winning penalty and hand Korea DPR their record third U-17 Women’s World Cup crown.