It was a very cagey first 45 minutes from the two sides, with DPR Korea applying most of the pressure.

Their intensity increased as every minute passed in the second half and it finally led to a breakthrough in the 65th minute.

A curling right-footed shot from Choe Chong Gum struck the far post and deflected in off the back of Japan’s Asako Furuta.

The 2024 champions wanted more, and four minutes later exquisite combination play between Ho Kyong and Choe Rim Jong set up Choe Yon A’s excellent right-footed finish to settle the contest.