Spain are the new U20 Women’s World Cup champions after beating defending champions, DPR Korea on penalties in a goalless final in Lodz, Poland, on Sunday.

Neither side could find a goal in 120 minutes, and Spain won the shootout 4 to 3. Goalkeeper Laia Lopez was the hero, saving spot kicks from Choe Yon-A and Pak Il-Sim. It is Spain’s second title at this level, after their triumph in Costa Rica in 2022.

Spain had the better of the chances and finished with 22 shots to DPR Korea’s nine. Alba Cerrato went close twice, while Rosalia Dominguez also tested the Korean goalkeeper. Pau Comendador forced a strong diving save from Pak Ju-Gyong in the 78th minute, and substitute Marisa Garcia was denied twice in extra time. Lopez also made a big first half stop, coming off her line to block an effort from Ho Kyong after a Spanish defensive mistake.

The result was sweet revenge for Spain, who lost the 2024 U17 final to DPR Korea on penalties, and a number of players from that game featured again in Lodz. Spanish defender Silvia Cristobal said it was “the happiest day of our lives.”

DPR Korea leave with silver but also with a record, becoming the first team to go through an entire U20 Women’s World Cup without conceding a goal. Spain reached the final by beating Portugal 2 to 0, Brazil 1 to 0 and Italy 2 to 0.

Spain also swept the individual honours. Dominguez was named Player of the Tournament, Lopez won the Golden Glove, and Comendador took the Golden Boot with six goals, becoming the first player to win the award at two different FIFA women’s youth tournaments. The triumph follows the Spanish senior men’s World Cup win in July.

Photo Credit:  Getty Images