With Asia on a quest to secure a fifth global crown in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has expressed his confidence in China PR, DPR Korea, Japan, and the Korea Republic to maintain the Continent’s world-class status at the upcoming 12th edition in Poland from September 5 to 27, 2026.

Asian football has historically dictated the narrative in the women’s youth game, with DPR Korea chasing a record-breaking fourth trophy. Alongside Japan’s 2018 triumph, the Continent’s dominance is further underscored by China PR claiming second place in 2004 and 2006 as well as Korea Republic’s third-place finish in 2010.

Shaikh Salman said: “On behalf of the Asian football family, I would like to send our encouragement and support to China PR, DPR Korea, Japan, and the Korea Republic as they embark on their journeys. Asia has set the benchmark in women’s youth football, exemplified by DPR Korea’s spectacular record-equalling third global triumph in the last edition and Japan’s historical consistency.

“Our women youth structures continue to innovate and nurture world-class talent, and I have full confidence that our four representatives will play with the determination, fair play, and technical excellence that define Asian football, inspiring the next generation while competing at the highest levels in Poland.”

The opening wave of matches features riveting clashes as Korea Republic, poised for their eighth appearance at the global showpiece, launch their Group C campaign on September 6 against European powerhouses France at Arena Sosnowiec. The young Taegeuk Ladies face a monumental test of defensive discipline before facing Ghana on September 9 and debutants Ecuador four days later.

On the same day, Japan, marking their ninth outing, bring their trademark fluid, possession-based style to Stadion Miejski ŁKS Łódź in a Group D opener against New Zealand. Fresh off winning their record-extending seventh continental title at the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ in Thailand, the young Nadeshiko will follow their clash with the Young Ferns by tackling highly anticipated matches against eight-time CONCACAF champions the United States on September 10 and Italy on September 12.

The momentum continues on September 7 as titleholders DPR Korea enter the fray. Geared up for their ninth appearance, the tournament’s joint-most successful side with three crowns will look to make an immediate statement of intent against newcomers Portugal at Stadion Miejski ŁKS Łódź. Boasting a free-scoring roster that dominated the Asian qualifiers, the two-time Asian champions aim to establish early dominance in Group E before locking horns with Costa Rica on September 10 and Colombia four days later.

Simultaneously, China PR, set for their seventh campaign on the world stage, will strive to replicate the historic form that previously saw them earn two runner-up finishes. The young Steel Roses possess a clear physical and tactical advantage in their Group F opener against debutants New Caledonia at Arena Sosnowiec, which serves as a vital springboard before crucial encounters against Nigeria on September 11 and reigning European champions Spain on September 13.

Stay up to date on the progress of Asia’s finest at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026 here.