Champions Again! Spain Defeat North Korea To Lift U-20 Women’s World Cup Trophy

Spain have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after defeating defending champions DPR Korea 4–3 on penalties following a goalless draw in Łódź, Poland.

The final remained deadlocked after 90 minutes and extra time, forcing both sides into a tense penalty shootout to determine the winner.

Spain goalkeeper Laia Lopez emerged as the decisive figure, producing two crucial saves to deny Choe Yon-A and Pak Il-Sim and help La Rojita secure their second U-20 Women’s World Cup title. Spain had previously won the competition in 2022.

DPR Korea came close to breaking the deadlock in the first half when Ho Kyong found space just outside the box following a mistake by the Spanish defence. However, Lopez reacted quickly to come off her line and block the attempt.

Spain increased the pressure after the interval and came close to taking the lead in the 78th minute when Pau Comendador forced DPR Korea goalkeeper Pak Ju-Gyong into an excellent diving save.

The contest remained tightly fought during extra time, with Spain’s Marisa Garcia creating further opportunities, but Pak produced two important saves to keep her team in contention.

The match ultimately went to penalties, where Lopez made the difference by stopping two attempts and helping Spain complete their journey to the world title. The victory also marked Spain’s second U-20 Women’s World Cup triumph.

Spain coach David Aznar described the triumph as the closing chapter of a “beautiful cycle” for a generation that has achieved considerable success at youth level.

Meanwhile, DPR Korea coach Han Chol-Hak praised his players despite the defeat, saying they had given their best throughout the final. DPR Korea had entered the tournament as defending champions and finished the competition without conceding a goal in open play.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the victory gives Spain another major success on the global youth football stage and adds the 2026 U-20 Women’s World Cup trophy to their previous triumph in Costa Rica in 2022.