*This content was translated by AI.
Defending champions North Korea have advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup.
On the 11th (Korean time), North Korea defeated Thailand 6-0 in the quarterfinals held at Taihu Football Sports Center in Suzhou, China. This victory sets up a semifinal clash against China on the 14th, with both teams vying for a spot in the final. China defeated India 3-0 in the quarterfinals.
North Korea is considered one of the strongest teams in the tournament, having won the title four times in total alongside Japan. Following their 2024 championship, North Korea has reached the semifinals again this year and is challenging for back-to-back titles.
Additionally, North Korea has qualified for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup finals, which will be held in Morocco this October. The four teams reaching the semifinals of this tournament earn qualification spots for the World Cup. North Korea is also a powerhouse in the U-17 World Cup, having won the title four times in total.
For reference, South Korea, coached by Lee Da-young, narrowly lost 0-1 to Japan in the quarterfinals and failed to qualify for the World Cup.
Earlier, North Korea defeated Taiwan 10-0 in the group stage and then beat the Philippines 8-0 in a head-to-head match. After defeating South Korea 3-0 in the third group stage match, North Korea finished with three consecutive wins and easily overcame Thailand in the quarterfinals.
North Korea has delivered remarkable results in this tournament: 4 matches played, 27 goals scored, and 0 conceded. The Japanese Football Channel previously noted that "Japan and North Korea are at the top level in the U-17 age group." Both teams have proven their status as title contenders by reaching the semifinals.
Japan will face Australia in the semifinals. Australia defeated Vietnam 2-0 in the quarterfinals. The Japan-Australia semifinal match is also scheduled for the 14th. If North Korea and Japan continue their upward momentum, they could meet in the final. The U-17 Asian Cup final is set to take place on the 17th at the Suzhou Sports Center Stadium in China.
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*This content was translated by AI.
