Defeating Brazil, North Korea advances to the World Cup final and sets a historic record

06/11/2025 10:08:00 ceshi

The North Korea U17 women's team maintained their impressive performance by overcoming the current champions Brazil with a 2-0 victory to qualify for the 2025 U17 World Cup final, while also setting a never-before-seen record in the competition's history.

In the semi-finals of the 2025 U17 World Cup, the North Korea U17 women's squad entered the match with a streak of five consecutive wins and high confidence. Despite facing Brazil — the world champions, considered superior in experience and physicality — the Asian representatives played with great discipline and sharpness.

After more than 40 minutes of a tight struggle, the turning point came in the 42nd minute when Brazil's defender Andreyna handled the ball right in front of the goal. Following a VAR review, the referee issued a direct red card and awarded a penalty to North Korea. Yu Jong Hyang calmly converted to open the scoring 1-0.

Yu Jong Hyang became the hero by scoring twice against Brazil, securing North Korea’s place in the final

In the second half, the red-clad team continued to apply pressure. Just 10 minutes later, Yu Jong Hyang once again made her mark by quickly capitalizing on a defensive error from Brazil to score the second goal, sealing the 2-0 victory. For the remainder of the match, North Korea managed the tempo, controlled the game, and preserved their lead until the final whistle.

With this victory, the North Korea U17 women's team not only earned a spot in the final but also officially set a new record — becoming the first team in the history of the U17 Women's World Cup to appear in five finals (2008, 2012, 2016, 2024, and 2025). Previously, they had won the championship three times and lost only once in 2012 to France in a penalty shootout.

North Korea sets a record with five final appearances in U17 Women's World Cup history

Currently, their opponent in the final will be the Netherlands U17 women's team — who recently eliminated Spain to advance. If North Korea wins against the European side, they will claim their fourth title, surpassing Spain to become the most successful team in U17 Women's World Cup history.

The victory over Brazil not only demonstrated the East Asian team’s resilience and tactical organization but also confirmed North Korea’s leading status in the global youth women's football development system.

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