North Korea head coach Ji Yun-nam has acknowledged that his team struggled to cope with Nigeria’s physical strength following their 3-1 defeat to the Flamingos at the ongoing 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The defending champions suffered the loss in their final group-stage fixture on Friday, with Akeem Busari’s side delivering an impressive performance.

Nigeria Overpower North Korea

Nigeria took the lead in the 25th minute through Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, who latched onto a pass down the left flank, shrugged off a defender and calmly fired home with her right foot.

The Flamingos doubled their advantage shortly before half-time when Oluebube Umejiaku drove through the DPR Korea defence before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong.

North Korea returned for the second half with renewed urgency, putting Nigeria under pressure as they searched for a way back into the contest.

However, the Flamingos remained resilient and extended their lead through Kanyinsola Yusuf, who produced a superbly executed free-kick.

The Asian side managed to reduce the deficit late in the game, with Yu Jong-hyang converting a penalty, but Nigeria held on to secure a convincing 3-1 victory.

Yun-nam Admits Flamingos’ Superiority

Yun-nam admitted that facing Nigeria had exposed areas his team needed to improve, particularly in terms of physical strength.

“Playing against a strong team like Nigeria made me realise how challenging it is to compete at the world level,” Yun-nam told FIFA.

“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.”