Japan’s depth fuels Shirai’s belief

Thu, 14 May, 2026

Japan’s depth fuels Shirai’s belief

Suzhou: Sadayoshi Shirai believes Japan’s depth gives them a great chance of emerging triumphant against DPR Korea in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™ final on Sunday.

The Japanese tactician made an eye-raising nine changes to his starting lineup from the quarter-final clash against Korea Republic but it was business as usual for the four-time champions as they strolled to a 4-0 win against Australia in their last four encounter on Thursday.

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Humble Yu eyes more for DPR Korea

Fri, 15 May, 2026

Humble Yu eyes more for DPR Korea

Suzhou: Yu Jong Hyang stepped up, yet again, as DPR Korea moved within a match of retaining their title at the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™ on Thursday.

A determined China PR battled their way back into the semi-final to draw level but Yu netted a hat-trick as the defending champions advanced with a 4-2 victory, with the forward increasing her personal tally to an impressive 11 goals.

Kurita determined to steer Japan to title

Thu, 14 May, 2026

Kurita determined to steer Japan to title

Suzhou: Nanami Kurita has been at her predatory best with four goals and the forward is determined to use her instincts to help power Japan to the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™ title.

The 16-year-old bagged a brace in the 4-0 win against Australia in the semi-finals on Thursday and her next target is for Japan to defeat DPR Korea in Sunday’s final and lift the trophy for a fifth time.

Ji proud as DPR Korea pass stiff test to stay on course

Fri, 15 May, 2026

Ji proud as DPR Korea pass stiff test to stay on course

Suzhou: Ji Yun Nam was glad to see DPR Korea pass the first test of their tournament after the defending champions defeated China PR 4-2 to advance to the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™ final on Thursday.

Yu Jong Hyang starred with a hat-trick but only after China PR fought back from 2-0 down to draw level, with head coach Ji thankful that Yu kept her impressive run going and steadying her teammates.

#U17WAC - S-final: Japan power past Australia

Thu, 14 May, 2026

#U17WAC - S-final: Japan power past Australia

Suzhou: Japan marched into the final of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™ with a 4-0 win against Australia in their semi-final on Thursday.

Three first half goals paved the way for Sadayoshi Shirai’s side, who controlled from start to finish as they stayed in the hunt for a fifth title.

#U17WAC - S-final: DPR Korea hold off China PR to advance

Thu, 14 May, 2026

#U17WAC - S-final: DPR Korea hold off China PR to advance

Suzhou: Defending champions DPR Korea overcame a valiant China PR 4-2 in their AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2026™ semi-final at Suzhou Sports Centre Stadium on Thursday.

Next up for DPR Korea on Sunday are Japan - who defeated Australia 4-0 in their last four tie - in a repeat of the 2024 final.