Spain clinch U‑20 Women’s World Cup after tense penalty shoot‑out

España’s under‑20 women’s national team lifted the FIFA Mundial Sub 20 femenino in Poland, defeating Corea del Norte in a penalty shoot‑out after a goalless 120 minutes. The Spaniards prevailed 4‑3 from the spot, securing their second title in the age group in a dramatic finale.

Tournament backdrop

Both finalists entered the final unbeaten, each having recorded six victories. Spain had amassed 21 goals while conceding only one, whereas Corea del Norte had scored 16 and kept a clean sheet throughout the tournament.

The final also carried personal significance for La Rojita. It pitted them against the defending Asian champions, the same side that had edged Spain on penalties in the U‑17 World Cup final of 2024, giving Spain a chance at revenge.

Key moments and celebrations

Spain tried to seize the initiative early, with Alba Cerrato creating a clear chance after a pass from Noe Bejarano, only for Pak Ju Gyong to rush back and clear the danger. The North Korean goalkeeper proved a formidable presence, repeatedly denying long‑range attempts and even saving a close‑range effort from Ho Kyong before Laia López intervened to keep the score level.

In the shoot‑out, Laia López emerged as the heroine, stopping the kicks of Choe Yon A and Pak Ok I. The Spanish side saw Marisa García, Celia Segura, Carla Julià and Daniela Agote convert their penalties to clinch a 4‑3 victory.

The match was broadcast on the FIFA channel, and the Spanish sports daily Olé highlighted the triumph, describing it as a perfect tournament under the posts for the Selección.

Irune Dorado, spokesperson for the España under‑20 women’s Selección, said: “El fútbol lo debía”. The squad flew back to Madrid later that day to celebrate the historic win.

Elsewhere in the tournament, Argentina’s under‑20 women’s side also reached the round of 16, after a 3‑0 loss to Poland, an 8‑0 win over Benín and a 3‑2 victory over Mexico, before bowing out 1‑0 to South Korea.