“It wasn’t a turning point when Japan scored,” said Ji. “Our players were not too affected by the goal. The overall atmosphere was still in our favour because of the confidence the players have.

“I want to thank all the DPRK people who were watching in the stadium and on TV. I know how they feel with this victory. We were very pressured in the semi-final but today it was the opposite because we had more supporters (in the stadium) who gave us the energy to achieve victory.”

Kim Won Sim restored DPR Korea’s two-goal advantage just two minutes after Hayashi’s effort before the match became yet another spectacle for stalwart Yu.

Goals in the 81st and 89th minutes helped DPR Korea claim a record-setting fifth title and for Yu, her performance and the 15 goals scored throughout the tournament earned her the Most Valuable Player and Top Goalscorer awards.

“Of course I’m very happy,” said Yu. “These trophies are for everybody in the team. It’s because of them I can be happy and I dedicate this to my teammates and the coaching staff.

“I was very tired but to see the fans (in the stadium) from our country who are very enthusiastic about football, that gave us a lot of energy.

“They brought a breath of home with them which really reenergised me as I’ve been away from home for a month now and I really miss my family and friends.”