Korea DPR will meet the United States in a semi-final showdown between Asia’s strongest side.
Also in the semi-finals, France who are 1 nil victors over Germany, will go head to head against a so far, impressive Japan.
Japan have by far been the most dominant of the final four in the semi-finals.
The match day one of the 6-0 thrashing of Peter Dedevbo’s struggling Nigeria, and another five goals against Canada, had the Young Nidashiko cruising.
A part from that, the 1-0 dismal performance against Spain’s gifted side, eight days ago, has somewhat been a tournament largely in favor of the Japanese.
A 3-1 rout of Brazil in their quarter final matchup, showcased Japan’s strength as a unit.
Physically less imposing, and utilising a hardworking defensive midfielding format, the Japanese bring to life the concept of working as a single unit.
Their opponents – the United States, have scored only six goals leading into these semis, with France on five and had to fight against a feisty Mexican side, with Kelcie Hedge, breaking Mexican hearts right at the death.
The United States statistically did not deserve to beat Mexico. After over 90 minutes of football played, the Americans had only four shots on goal, with two on target, albeit those two were the goals that got them through.
But they face a Japanese side that has also been rated the best attacking side, bar Korea DPR.
For the Koreans themselves, coach Hwang Yongbong has made his expectations quite clear. In a press conference prior to meeting Sweden, he was blunt in his remarks, stating his side would beat the European champions .
They did that in relentless fashion. Brushing aside the Swedes in a show of absolute supremacy.
Whilst Brazil were still on honeymoon after a nine goal, record-equaling rout of hosts PNG; the Koreans, brought the A’canarinha crashing back from the heavens. Humbling south Americas best, 4 goals to 2.
Their first real test, however coming against Spain. Although fatigue, it could be said, did play a part as they struggled under humid conditions.
101 Goals have been scored so far in the FIFA U20 women’s world cup. And the quality and standard of the competition has brought attention to some of the world’s future stars.
A sentiment shared by Football Commentator Steve Banyard.
The permutations for a grand-final spot have been largely in favour of the Asian sides, but the joy of football has always been about what happens on the pitch, rather than what is written on paper.
