North Korea’s head coach Ji Yun-nam has admitted Nigeria’s Flamingos were the superior side after his team’s 3-1 defeat in their final Group B clash at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The defending champions struggled to cope with the physicality and tactical discipline of Akeem Busari’s team, who delivered a thrilling performance to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
Nigeria’s goals came from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Olibube Umejiaku, and Kanyinsola Yusuf, while Jong Hyang converted a late penalty to give Korea their only goal of the contest.
Despite the loss, Korea DPR still topped Group B on goal difference, with both sides finishing on six points.
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Reflecting on the defeat, Ji Yun-nam was candid about the gulf in strength: “Playing against a strong team like Nigeria made me realise how challenging it is to compete at the world level.
Facing an African team also showed me that we need to prepare better in terms of strength. We will prepare well for the Round of 16 and aim to achieve a better result.”
The coach stressed that his players must learn from the experience and improve their preparation for future matches.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Flamingos will look to build on their impressive victory as they continue their quest for glory in the knockout rounds.
Crediblenewsng.com
