Japan Stages Dramatic Comeback, Downs DPR Korea in U-17 Women's World Cup Semi-Final
Japan secured their spot in the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026 final after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over defending champions DPR Korea.
The story
Japan pulled off a stunning upset in the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026 semi-finals yesterday, defeating two-time defending champions DPR Korea in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat. DPR Korea had taken a deserved lead in the 52nd minute through Ri Ui-gyong's half-volley.
However, Japan refused to give up, finding a late equalizer in the 90+5th minute via an own goal from Won Sol-gyong, forcing the match into penalties. In the shootout, Japan was perfect, while DPR Korea missed two of their attempts.
Asuka Tanaka coolly slotted the winning penalty, sealing Japan's return to the U-17 final for the first time since 2016. The victory sets up a final clash against the winner of the Brazil vs Nigeria semi-final.
Yesterday's results
| Match | Score | Key |
|---|---|---|
| Japan vs DPR Korea (FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Semi-final) | 1-1 (Japan won 4-1 on penalties) | Japan equalized in injury time before winning a dramatic penalty shootout. |
Where it stands
The FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2026 saw Japan advance to the final after their semi-final victory over DPR Korea. They now await the winner of the other semi-final between Brazil and Nigeria. It is important to note that the men's FIFA World Cup 2026 concluded on July 19, with Spain crowned champions.
What we'll be watching
- FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Semi-final: Brazil vs Nigeria (Mohammed VI Football Complex - Pitch 3, Rabat, today)
- FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Final: Japan vs [Winner of Brazil/Nigeria] (Morocco, date TBD)
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