Bogota, Colombia – North Korea celebrated a historic triumph on Sunday, clinching their third FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Japan in the Colombian capital, Bogota. The win equals the record for most tournament victories, marking a monumental achievement for the North Korean team, which had been absent from global sporting events for several years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This has been a dream of so many of us for so long,” said team captain Kim Kyong-yong, reflecting on the significance of the victory. The North Korean team powered through the tournament, displaying exceptional skill and determination as they took down some of the world’s top teams, including Argentina, the Netherlands, and Brazil, en route to the semi-finals.
The decisive moment in the final came from 17-year-old sensation Choe Il-son, who netted the only goal of the match, securing the championship for her country. Choe’s remarkable performance not only earned her the player of the match title, but also saw her claim both the Golden Boot, awarded to the tournament’s top scorer, and the prestigious Golden Ball, recognizing her as the best player overall.
Choe’s breakout performance has made her a rising star in international women’s football, with pundits and fans alike praising her composure and skill throughout the competition. “She’s been incredible, not just in the final, but throughout the entire tournament,” one commentator remarked. “Her talent is undeniable, and she has a bright future ahead.”
This victory is especially significant for North Korea, as it marks their return to the global sports stage after several years of absence due to pandemic-related withdrawals. The team’s ability to triumph despite the disruption is a testament to their resilience and commitment.
North Korea’s third title places them alongside the United States and Germany as the most successful teams in the history of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. The win is expected to boost the nation’s sporting reputation and inspire a new generation of female athletes within the country.
As the final whistle blew and the North Korean players celebrated on the field, it was clear that this victory was more than just a sporting achievement. It symbolized a powerful comeback for a team that had been out of the spotlight for years, but returned stronger than ever to make history once again.
