North Korea U17 Women Rally Past China in AFC Asian Cup Thriller

China U17 Women 2–4 North Korea U17 Women | AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup | May 14, 2026

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea U17 women's side came from behind to secure a commanding 4-2 victory over China PR in a pulsating Group A encounter at the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup on Thursday evening. The match, played at a neutral venue, delivered end-to-end action as both young sides showcased attacking flair and resilience.

Match Overview

China took an early lead through a well-worked set-piece, but North Korea's tactical discipline and physicality gradually turned the tide. By halftime, the visitors had equalised and then surged ahead with two quickfire goals. The Chinese team fought back to level early in the second half, only for North Korea to produce a devastating three-minute spell that sealed the points.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: China's left-back Li Mei rose highest to head in a corner, giving the hosts a dream start.
• 28th minute: North Korea's Kim Song-hye danced past two defenders and fired a low shot into the far corner – 1-1.
• 34th minute: A rapid counterattack saw Ri Un-jong slot home after a clever through ball, making it 2-1 to the visitors.
• 41st minute: China's goalkeeper Wang Fang made a sharp save to keep the deficit at one, but North Korea continued to dominate possession.
• 51st minute: China's captain Zhang Wei latched onto a loose ball outside the box and smashed a stunning volley into the top corner – 2-2.
• 68th minute: North Korea regained the lead when substitute Choe Kyong-hui headed in from a free-kick – 3-2.
• 71st minute: A defensive error allowed Kim Song-hye to score her second of the night, completing the 4-2 scoreline.

Standout Performers

Kim Song-hye (North Korea) was the undeniable star, scoring twice and constantly threatening the Chinese backline with her pace and dribbling. The 16-year-old forward's movement between the lines proved impossible to contain. For China, Zhang Wei provided a moment of brilliance with her equaliser, but the team's defensive lapses after that goal proved costly.

Tactical Story

China started brightly with aggressive pressing and quick transitions, but North Korea's ability to absorb pressure and hit on the counter was decisive. The visitors' midfield trio, led by captain Ri Hyang-ok, controlled the tempo after the first 25 minutes. China's failure to track runners from set-pieces and a lack of organisation during North Korea's second-half surge ultimately unravelled their game plan.

Tournament Impact

The result puts North Korea top of Group A with maximum points, while China's hopes of progressing now depend on their final group match against a resurgent Thailand side. With only the group winners and best runners-up advancing to the semifinals, China face a must-win scenario. North Korea, meanwhile, have sent a strong message to the rest of the field and now look like genuine contenders for the title.