Higuchi ready to lead Japan’s charge

Fri, 17 Apr, 2026

Higuchi ready to lead Japan’s charge

Pathum Thani: When Japan take on DPR Korea in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ final on Saturday, much of their balance will rest on the shoulders of midfielder Rinka Higuchi.

Operating as a defensive midfielder, Higuchi has quietly played a role in Japan’s run to the final contributing two assists and creating eight chances in the four matches she has featured in, underlining her ability to influence the game.

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Preview - Final: Japan v DPR Korea

Fri, 17 Apr, 2026

Preview - Final: Japan v DPR Korea

Pathum Thani: Japan and DPR Korea are set for an epic encounter in the final of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ on Saturday.

The sides go into the continental decider with perfect records, brushing aside the competition to set up a repeat of the 2024 final in Uzbekistan, where DPR Korea dashed Japan’s hope of four consecutive titles with a 2-1 win.

Ri focused on steering DPR Korea to title

Fri, 17 Apr, 2026

Ri focused on steering DPR Korea to title

Pathum Thani: For Ri Ji Song, her mission in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ final against Japan on Saturday is clear - help DPR Korea defend their title.

A consistent presence throughout the campaign, Ri has featured in all five of DPR Korea’s matches, registering a goal and an assist.

Know Your Coach: Akira Ijiri (Japan)

Thu, 16 Apr, 2026

Know Your Coach: Akira Ijiri (Japan)

Pathum Thani: Akira Ijiri is one match away from steering Japan to a record-extending seventh AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup™ crown, with his charges to face defending champions DPR Korea in the Thailand 2026 final on Saturday.

The 56-year-old Ijiri has built his coaching career through a mix of grassroots development and international tournament experience and will be aiming to clinch his first continental title.

Know Your Coach: Han Chol Hak (DPR Korea)

Thu, 16 Apr, 2026

Know Your Coach: Han Chol Hak (DPR Korea)

Pathum Thani: Han Chol Hak is relishing the opportunity to become only the third head coach in DPR Korea’s history to lift the title ahead of their AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ final against Japan on Saturday.

Having emerged champions in 2007 and 2024, DPR Korea will be expecting to clinch their third crown under the guidance of the 44-year-old Han.

Road to Final: Japan

Fri, 17 Apr, 2026

Road to Final: Japan

Pathum Thani: Japan made it look easy in making their way into the final of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup Thailand 2026™ with a perfect five-match run.

The six-time champions, who have won three of four consecutive finals, face defending champions DPR Korea on Saturday as the-AFC.com takes a look at how their campaign unfolded.