DPR Korea Dispatch USA As Japan End Quarter-final Curse

DPR Korea continued their pursuit of a third successive title with by beating USA to reach the semi-finals. They were joined by Japan, who defeated Ghana to reach the final four for the first time since 2016.

Two-time reigning champions DPR Korea gave a timely remember of their title ambitions to book a semi-final battle with Japan.

Goalkeeper Avellina Saunders kept the States in it to begin with, repelling a point-blank Yu Jong-hyang header with a superb save, before foiling her again from the penalty spot soon after.

She was, though, powerless to stop a low Ri Ui-gyong drive, before Ri Ye-rim tiptoed her way inside the USA box and lashed home a second. Ri Ui-gyong then doubled her money just before the hour, turning home a terrific Kim Won-sim cross with a ferocious drive to net her fifth of this tournament and eighth overall.

Meanwhile, Japan have finally ended their quarter-final curse. After being knocked out of the previous four tournaments at the last-eight stage, the Asian heavyweights made their long-awaited return to the semi-finals with a close victory over Ghana.

After a tightly contested opening half, Japan broke the deadlock in the 54th minute, when Nanami Kurita found the net after a ricocheted attempt by Yuka Kishida fell into her path close to goal.

Japan, who won the U-17 showpiece in 2014 and reached the final two years later, continued to attack and held on for victory, with Ghana struggling to impose themselves. The Japanese will now face defending champions DPR Korea in an all-Asian semi-final.