North Korea’s women’s U-17 football team has once again proven its dominance on the global stage, securing their third World Cup title with a resounding 3-0 victory over the Netherlands in Morocco. This triumph marks their second consecutive win in the U-17 Women’s World Cup and their fourth overall, following their success in the same tournament just a year ago. The team’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, scoring a record-breaking 25 goals while conceding only three throughout the competition. Their flawless run included victories in all seven matches, showcasing their unparalleled skill and teamwork. The victory has been celebrated extensively by North Korea’s state media, with the Rodong Sinmun newspaper highlighting the players’ pride in representing their nation. The win is seen as a significant morale booster for the country, which often faces international scrutiny for its political actions. Analysts suggest that North Korea’s investment in youth sports, particularly football, is a strategic move to project a positive image globally. The country’s rigorous training programs for young athletes have been credited with producing world-class talent, as evidenced by their consistent success in international competitions. While the men’s team struggles to make an impact, the women’s team continues to shine, currently ranked 10th globally and poised as strong contenders for the upcoming Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. The Netherlands’ coach, Olivier Amelink, acknowledged the North Korean team’s superiority, stating that the skill gap was too vast to overcome. North Korea’s Yu Jong Hyang emerged as the tournament’s standout player, earning both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball awards for her exceptional performance. This victory not only cements North Korea’s status as a powerhouse in women’s youth football but also serves as a source of national pride and inspiration.
