Japan have booked their place in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after producing a dramatic comeback to eliminate two-time defending champions DPR Korea on penalties in Wednesday’s semi-final in Morocco.
The Japanese secured a 4-1 shootout victory following a 1-1 draw at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, ending DPR Korea’s hopes of winning the competition for a third consecutive time.
DPR Korea looked set for another final appearance after Ri Ui-gyong broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute, finishing with an excellent half-volley to put the defending champions ahead.
Japan, however, refused to surrender and found a dramatic equaliser in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Won Sol-gyong inadvertently turned the ball into her own net under pressure from the Japanese attack.
The goal followed a lengthy VAR review for a possible handball in the build-up before the officials confirmed the equaliser, forcing the contest into a penalty shootout.
Japan proved more composed from the spot, converting all four attempts. Goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki also played a decisive role, saving Eh Chong-gum’s effort, while Kim Ju-gyong struck the post.
Asuka Tanaka subsequently converted Japan’s fourth penalty to complete the 4-1 victory and secure her country’s return to the U-17 Women’s World Cup final for the first time since 2016.
Mashiro Yamaji was named Player of the Match for her contribution to Japan’s impressive performance.
The victory also ended DPR Korea’s ambition of becoming the first nation to win three consecutive editions of the tournament.
Nigeria, Brazil Battle for Remaining Final Place
Japan will now await the outcome of Wednesday’s second semi-final between Nigeria’s Flamingos and Brazil to discover their opponents in Saturday’s final.
Nigeria, coached by Hakeem Busari, reached the last four after defeating Venezuela 1-0 in the quarter-finals, with Shakirat Moshood converting a late penalty to secure their progression.
The Flamingos are targeting a historic first appearance in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, but must overcome a Brazilian side equally determined to reach the tournament’s decisive fixture.
The second semi-final takes place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, with the winners earning the opportunity to challenge Japan for the world title on November 7..
