EN
Group C: Korea Republic 3-2 Ecuador
Lodz: Korea Republic sealed their spot into the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after edging 10-man Ecuador in their Group C fixture on Saturday.
The win saw Korea Republic finish second on four points behind group winners France, with Ecuador third on three points and facing an anxious wait to see if they will progress as one of the best third-placed teams.

image content
Korea Republic came into the tie needing a win after picking up just one point from their opening two matches, having drawn 1-1 with France before suffering a 3-1 defeat against Ghana. 

Ecuador, meanwhile, had three points following their opening 3-0 victory over Ghana, following their 3-2 defeat to France in their opener.

Lee Hae-un rifled Korea Republic in front in the 22nd minute, finishing clinically after being played in on goal by Han Min-seo.
image content
Ecuador fought their way back into the contest in the 57th minute when Dariana Moran chested the ball home from close range after goalkeeper Kim Chaebeen failed to hold a cross.

The momentum, however, swung firmly back Korea Republic’s way with two goals in quick succession as Park Ju-ha restored their advantage in the 72nd minute before Kim Min-seo struck two minutes later to give them a 3-1 cushion.
image content
Ecuador refused to give up and Evelyn Burgos reduced the deficit in the second minute of added time to set up a tense finale.

Their hopes of completing the comeback, however, suffered a further blow when Fiorella Pico was sent off three minutes later as Korea Republic held firm to secure the victory and their place in the Round of 16.

Photos: FIFA via Getty Images