Naegohyang seized control from the start and their constant pressure was rewarded with the opener in the 13th minute when Ri Myong Gum chipped to Pak Hyon Jong, whose cutback was side-footed perfectly by Kim Hye Yong, hitting the crossbar before landing in.

Intricate play around ISPE’s box in the 29th minute opened up space for Hye Yong to add to the score but the forward - under pressure from goalkeeper Myo Mya Mya Nyein, steered her shot wide.

The DPR Korea side went close again with three minutes left to play in the half when Chon Yon A beat Naw Htet Htet Wai to a loose ball and drove towards goal, only to see her venomous shot from distance go wide.

The pattern of play remained unchanged after the interval with Naegohyang keeping ISPE pinned in their own half.

A lapse in concentration from ISPE in the 57th minute which allowed Ri Su Jong’s corner delivery to bounce in the six yard box was punished by Ri Kum Hyang at the back post, the defender easily knocking home from close range.

Naegohyang extended their lead four minutes later when Myong Gum burst through on the right and crossed into the box and despite Hyon Jong’s heavy first touch, the ball fell kindly for Kim Kyong Yong to sweep past Myo to seal their progress.

Naeoghyang will discover their quarter-final opponents when the draw takes place on January 15.