Japan tame North Korea to win Games gold after shootout drama

NAGOYA: Japan secured their third consecutive Asian Games women's football gold on Friday, prevailing over North Korea in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw. Yuzuho Shiokoshi sealed the win with a decisive penalty, as the hosts claimed the title for the fourth time. North Korea made a late substitution, changing their goalkeeper in the final minute of extra time, but it was insufficient to claim their first gold since 2014.

Japan took the lead in the 32nd minute through Mami Ueno, while Jong Kum equalized for North Korea two minutes later, followed by Jon Ryong Jong's goal in the 69th minute. Japan's Hanon Nishio equalized with four minutes remaining, leading to extra time. North Korea brought on substitute goalkeeper Chae Un Gyong, but it was Japan's Shu Ohba who shone, saving Jong's penalty, the only one missed in the shootout.

Both teams had previously scored 26 goals in the previous rounds, and they had shared six Asian Games titles, with three wins apiece. Japan's coach Michihisa Kano secured his first title since replacing Nils Nielsen, who led Japan to the Asian Cup victory in March but was dismissed 12 days later. North Korea aimed to extend their impressive recent success in women's football, having won three world titles at age-group level in the past two years.

North Korean club Naegohyang Women's FC also clinched the Asian champions title in May after a tournament held in South Korea. Women's football serves as a significant avenue for diplomatically isolated and impoverished North Korea, as their national teams frequently compete at the highest levels in Asia and globally.