North Korea celebrates victory at U-20 Women's World Cup with rare coverage

By Park Ung Posted : September 24, 2024, 14:23 Updated : September 24, 2024, 14:32
North Korean players lift the trophy at the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup at Nemesio Camacho El Campín Stadium in Bogota, Colombia on Sept. 22, 2024. AP-Yonhap
SEOUL, September 24 (AJP) - North Korea was quick to report its victory in the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup held in Colombia, with its state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun featuring the coverage prominently on the front page on Tuesday.

Under the headline, "The country's proud daughters who raised our great state's honor," the daily praised the women's football team's 1-0 victory over Japan in the final match held over the weekend.

It is rare for the isolated country to feature such stories on the front page, as it typically highlights news about the country's leader Kim Jong-un's major activities, state events, and propaganda that promote loyalty to the regime.

In the final of the biennial event held at Nemesio Camacho El Campín Stadium in the South American country, North Korean striker Choe Il-son scored the opening goal 15 minutes into the match. Japan attempted to equalize but was unable to turn the match around.

"I want to deliver this news to our great leader, who made this possible with deep affection for the players," said Choe, who won the "Golden Ball," awarded to the best player. She also earned the "Golden Boot" award, given to the tournament's top scorer, with an impressive six goals.

With Sunday's victory, North Korea claimed the U-20 Women's World Cup for the third time, following its previous wins in 2006 and 2016, making it the third-most winning country along with Germany and the U.S.

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