Spain win U-20 Women's World Cup on penalties after goalless

Spain defeated DPR Korea 4-3 on penalties after a goalless 120-minute final in Lodz to win the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026. The victory on Sunday gave Spain their second FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title, adding to their 2022 triumph in Costa Rica.

Spain increased pressure and created more chances after the break. Both teams created opportunities but struggled to find the breakthrough in the final. The match ended goalless after 90 minutes and extra time, leading to a penalty shootout.

Key moments and performances

Laia Lopez made the decisive saves in the penalty shootout to secure victory for Spain. The goalkeeper denied Choe Yon-A and Pak Il-Sim from the spot. Laia Lopez said: "I made two crucial saves in the shootout to help Spain clinch the title."

In the opening half, Laia Lopez came off her line to block an effort from Ho Kyong with an outstretched hand. In the 78th minute, Pau Comendador came close to scoring but was denied by DPR Korea goalkeeper Pak Ju-Gyong with an excellent diving save.

Spain forward Marisa Garcia came on after the break and forced two excellent saves from Pak Ju-Gyong during extra time. Marisa Garcia said: "I made my presence felt shortly after coming into the field in extra time."

Tactical notes and team background

DPR Korea made a surprise tactical change late in the first half, introducing Ho Kyong for star player Pak Ok-I. Ho Kyong collected the ball just outside the penalty area following a mistake by the Spanish defense shortly after entering the match.

Many players in the match had previously played in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Dominican Republic 2024 final. DPR Korea defeated Spain 4-3 on penalties in that final two years prior.

DPR Korea finished the tournament without conceding a goal in open play. They became the first team to achieve a clean sheet in open play across an entire FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup tournament.

Broader significance

The win gives Spain two global titles in 2026. Spain’s senior men’s team won the FIFA World Cup in July, making this victory their second global title in succession across senior men’s and U-20 women’s competitions.

Spain’s victory adds another major age-grade title to their record. David Aznar is the Spain coach, while Han Chol-Hak coaches DPR Korea. Spain defender Silvia Cristobal was part of the winning squad.