Naegohyang Claims AWCL Title After Victory Over Tokyo Verdy Beleza
In a decisive conclusion to the 2025-26 AFC Women’s Champions League (AWCL), the North Korean club Naegohyang has emerged as the champion of Asia. The team secured the title after defeating Japan’s Tokyo Verdy Beleza in the final, which took place on May 23, 2026, at the Suwon Sports Complex.
A Commanding Performance on the Continental Stage
The final match marked the culmination of the second season of the AWCL, a tournament that has quickly established itself as the premier competition for women’s club football in Asia. For Naegohyang, the victory represents a significant turnaround. Earlier in the tournament, during the group stage, the team suffered a 0-4 defeat at the hands of Tokyo Verdy Beleza. By winning the final, Naegohyang successfully avenged that loss and solidified its position at the top of the regional hierarchy.
The road to the championship was challenging, including a notable victory over Suwon FC Women in the semifinal round. This triumph propelled Naegohyang into the final, where they ultimately overcame their Japanese opponents to claim the trophy.
Tournament Impact and Financial Stakes
The AFC Women’s Champions League has introduced substantial financial incentives to the sport, with the inaugural seasons highlighting the growing investment in women’s football across the continent. The winner of the tournament receives a prize of $1 million, while the runner-up secures $500,000. These figures underscore the increasing professionalization and economic scale of the AWCL.
Key Takeaways from the 2026 AWCL Final
- Champion Crowned: Naegohyang (North Korea) defeated Tokyo Verdy Beleza (Japan) to win the 2025-26 AWCL title.
- Tournament Venue: The final was hosted at the Suwon Sports Complex in South Korea on May 23, 2026.
- Redemption Arc: The victory served as a successful revenge match for Naegohyang following their group-stage loss to the same opponent.
- Investment in Growth: The tournament structure provides significant financial rewards for top-performing clubs, reflecting the expansion of Asian women’s club football.
Looking Ahead
The success of the 2025-26 season signals a bright future for the AWCL. As the tournament continues to gain prestige, the competitive landscape is expected to intensify. With Naegohyang’s victory, the club enters the history books as one of the early dominant forces in this evolving competition, setting a high standard for future editions of the tournament.
Reporting by Javier Moreno, Sports Editor.
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