They’re coming for you. North Korea’s women’s football age-group pathway teams are making waves, seemingly unstoppable after their recent performance. Amid the detailed analysis of elite club football’s events at the Etihad Stadium, something remarkable occurred in Bogotá. Three days after the FIFA women’s under-20 World Cup final, it’s worth revisiting North Korea’s journey to victory, which culminated on Sunday night, offering a fresh perspective on their exceptional performance.
The Chollima, named after an indestructible mythic winged horse, arrived in Colombia in August with a 21-woman squad from six domestic teams. Despite the league’s popularity in North Korea, these players remain largely unknown globally. They started strong with a 6-2 win against Argentina on September 2, followed by a 9-0 victory over Costa Rica, and a 2-0 win against the Netherlands, securing their group’s top spot.
The knockout phase saw them dominate Austria 5-2. Their endgame was flawless, defeating Brazil, the USA, and Japan without conceding a goal. The final score: seven games, seven wins, with an aggregate score of 25-4. Their performance was a blend of interplay and high-class finishing, exemplified by Choe Il-son’s stunning goal in the final.
Choe, a 17-year-old prodigy, plays for Pyongyang’s April 25 National Defence Sports Club. She is eligible for the upcoming under-17 World Cup in the Dominican Republic, where North Korea aims for a clean sweep of FIFA age groups. This success, however, is unsurprising to those familiar with North Korea’s long-standing prowess in women’s football.
For neutrals, this victory underscores sport’s ability to surprise and challenge preconceptions. The North Korean style was energetic, creative, and fun, showcasing engaging players. Despite the team’s isolation and the shadow of their nation’s politics, their performance in Colombia hints at a golden generation.
North Korea’s journey in women’s football is fascinating, marked by successes and setbacks. Their recent victory in Colombia offers a rare glimpse into a nation often shrouded in mystery, highlighting sport’s power to create human connections.
