FIFA U20 Women's: Spain Crowned FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026 Champions

Łódź, Poland. Spain have captured their second FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup™ championship after overcoming defending champions DPR Korea 4–3 in a tense penalty shootout at the Stadion Miejski ŁKS.

After 120 minutes of relentless, physical, and highly tactical football ended goalless, Spanish goalkeeper Laia López produced two magnificent saves in the shootout including the final decisive stop against Pak Il-Sim to avenge La Rojita's penalty heartbreak against DPR Korea at the 2024 U-17 World Cup final.

Midfielder Silvia Cristóbal was awarded the Visa Player of the Match for her dominant performance in controlling Spain's tempo throughout normal and extra time.

Despite falling short of defending their world crown, DPR Korea set a remarkable record by finishing the entire tournament without conceding a single goal in open play or extra time across all seven matches.

Key Match Timeline Highlights:
34' — Early Tactical Change: DPR Korea head coach Han Chol-hak makes a surprising early tactical substitution, withdrawing star player Pak Ok-I for Ho Kyong.

41' — Crucial Save: A defensive mix-up allows Ho Kyong a clear sight of goal, but Laia López rushes off her line to make an outstanding reflex save.

78' — Flying Stop: Spain’s Pau Comendador curls a top-corner effort, but DPR Korea keeper Pak Ju-Gyong produces a full-extension save to keep it 0–0.

98' — Extra Time Impact: Substitute Marisa García tests Pak Ju-Gyong with two sharp strikes in quick succession.

Penalty Shootout: Laia López saves from Choe Yon-A and Pak Il-Sim to seal the 4–3 penalty victory for Spain!

Spain’s penalty composure and goalkeeping heroics bring the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup trophy back to Madrid. While DPR Korea's defensive perfection stands as one of the most remarkable records in FIFA history, Spain prove their status as the preeminent power in modern women's football.