Penalty shootout seals U20 duel between Spain and North Korea

While the young North Koreans, champions two years ago, reached the final of the U20 World Cup, Spain had to wait for the penalty shoot‑out to confirm its triumph, no goal having been scored during regular time nor extra time.

This setback means there will be no back‑to‑back for North Korea, which had nevertheless taken the lead in the previous edition. South Korea, on the other hand, saw their hopes vanish at the end of a goalless match.

The match ended on a blank scoreboard, pushing both teams into the most stressful exercise of the round ball. The young players had to face the maximum pressure of a penalty shoot‑out.

Laia López leads Spain to the world title after the penalty shootout

Laia López, hero of the penalty shoot‑out

Laia López, goalkeeper of Real Madrid, was decisive by saving the shots of Choe Yon‑A and Pak Il‑Sim. Her saves allowed Spain to send its team to the top of the world.

This is the second title for the Spanish in the competition, four years after the first. The Spanish have thus confirmed their place among the dominant nations of women's U20 football.

This victory highlights the rise of young talents and shows that North Korea will not be able to repeat its feat from two years ago. Both teams will leave the tournament with valuable lessons for the future.