FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Germany See Off Argentina, DPR Korea Thrash Puerto Rico 6-0

Germany came from behind to defeat Argentina 2-1, while defending champions DPR Korea began their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 campaign with a commanding 6-0 victory over Puerto Rico on the tournament’s opening day.

Germany secured all three points in their Group A encounter after overcoming an early setback and taking advantage of Argentina’s numerical disadvantage.

Argentina took the lead when Mercedes Diz capitalised on a misplaced back-pass from Clara Choisy before rounding goalkeeper Bianca Virga and scoring from a tight angle.

Diz had an opportunity to extend Argentina’s advantage shortly afterwards but fired over from close range after Josefina Galarza delivered a pass across the penalty area.

Germany responded with increased pressure and drew level when Marie Kleeman won possession inside Argentina’s box. Although Choisy failed to connect with her cut-back, the ball reached captain Johanna Hebben, who finished calmly to make it 1-1.

Argentina’s task became more difficult in the 42nd minute when Oriana Bralo received a straight red card following a VAR review for a high tackle on Choisy.

Germany capitalised on their numerical advantage after the break, with substitute Mia Kuhn scoring the winner. Kleeman provided the assist, releasing Kuhn to drive forward before slotting a low effort into the bottom corner.

The victory gave Germany a winning start to their Group A campaign, while Argentina were left to rue their missed opportunities and Bralo’s dismissal.

DPR Korea Make Champions’ Statement

In Group B, DPR Korea underlined their title credentials with a dominant 6-0 victory over Puerto Rico.

The defending champions made an immediate impact, taking the lead through Yu Jong-hyang’s header before overwhelming their opponents with four more goals in the first half.

Ri Ui-gyong, Kim Won-sim and Ri Ye-rim were among the scorers as the Koreans established complete control.

Yu produced the standout moment of the half with a spectacular long-range effort into the top corner, adding to her opening goal.

The forward, who won the adidas Golden Ball and Golden Boot at last year’s tournament, demonstrated her quality as DPR Korea strengthened their grip on the contest.

Kim completed her brace shortly after the interval, scoring the champions’ sixth goal to cap an impressive attacking display.

Despite the heavy deficit, Puerto Rico improved defensively as the match progressed, limiting further damage and preventing Ji Yun-nam’s side from extending their tally.

The result handed DPR Korea an emphatic opening victory as they began their title defence, while Germany also made a winning start with their hard-fought triumph over Argentina.