The North Korea women’s national football team secured the silver medal at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games after losing a penalty shootout to Japan following a 2-2 draw on October 2, 2026, at Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa in Shizuoka, Japan, hani.co.kr reported.
Final Match Play and Penalty Shootout Defeat
Led by manager Pak Song-jin, the North Korean squad faced an early deficit when Japan’s Ueno Mami scored the opening goal in the 32nd minute of the first half. North Korea bounced back after halftime. Substitute player Jon Gum scored the equalizer just two minutes into the second half, and Jon Ryong-jong added another goal in the 24th minute to give North Korea a 2-1 lead.
North Korea maintained its advantage until late in regulation time. In the 41st minute of the second half, Japan’s Nishio Hanon scored an equalizing goal to bring the score to 2-2, forcing the match into extra time. Neither side scored during the extra period, sending the decision to a penalty shootout.
Japan took the first kick in the shootout. The turning point arrived when Japan’s goalkeeper blocked a shot from North Korea’s third kicker, Jon Gum. Japan ultimately won the shootout 3-5.
Tournament Context and Historical Results
The victory gave Japan its third title and its fourth overall championship at the Asian Games women’s football tournament, hani.co.kr reported. Spectators at Shizuoka Stadium packed the stands to support the North Korean team throughout the final match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who managed the North Korea women’s national football team during the 2026 Asian Games final?
Manager Pak Song-jin led the North Korean team through the tournament, including the final match against Japan on October 2, 2026.
Which players scored for North Korea during regulation time in the final?
Substitute player Jon Gum scored the equalizing goal in the 47th minute, and Jon Ryong-jong scored the team’s second goal in the 69th minute.
Where was the 2026 Asian Games women’s football final held?
The final match took place at Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa in Shizuoka, Japan.
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