North Korea Loses to Spain on Penalties in U-20 Women's World Cup Final
In the U-20 Women's World Cup final played in Lodz, Poland, Spain defeated North Korea on penalty kicks to claim the championship.
In the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup final held in Lodz, Poland, North Korea and Spain faced each other, and following a goalless regulation and extra time, Spain reached a triumphant end through penalty kicks.
Regulation and Extra Time Ended Goalless
Throughout the regulation and extra time periods of the final match played in Lodz, Poland, neither team was able to score and change the deadlock.
Spain Gained the Advantage in Penalty Shootout
Following the match which ended in a goalless draw, Spain secured a 4-3 victory over their opponent in the penalty shootout to claim the trophy.
North Korea Finished the Tournament Without Conceding a Goal
North Korea did not allow their opponents to score a single goal throughout the tournament, thanks to the successful performance of goalkeeper Pak Ju Gyong and the efforts of the defense.
Spanish Goalkeeper Laia Lopez Made Her Mark on the Match
Playing a key role in her team's victory by making two saves in the penalty shootout, Spanish goalkeeper Laia Lopez was named the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
Other Standout Players in the Tournament
North Korean midfielder Ri Kuk Hyang received the Silver Ball award as the second-best player of the tournament, while forward Choe Yon A became the third-highest goalscorer.
Assessment from Head Coach Han Chol Hak
North Korean head coach Han Chol Hak expressed pride in the performance displayed throughout the tournament in Poland, despite missing out on the trophy.