North Korea's Naegoghwaeng Aims for AFC Champions League Title

The Hankyoreh covers the anticipation surrounding North Korea's Naegoghwaeng women's football team as they prepare for the final of the AFC Women's Champions League (AWCL). Coach Ri Yu-il stated their ultimate goal is to win the championship, marking a significant achievement for North Korean club football, as this is the first time a North Korean club team has participated in South Korea. Naegoghwaeng secured their spot in the final by defeating Suwon FC Women 2-1 in the semifinals.

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We have reached the final. The ultimate goal is to win.

Coach Ri expressed confidence in his team's readiness, noting that while winning is the primary objective, the tournament itself serves as a crucial platform for the team's development into a more formidable unit. This perspective reflects a common approach in North Korean sports, where international exposure is often valued for its developmental benefits, alongside the pursuit of victory.

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Our team's preparation status is relatively good. Developing our team into a stronger one through this final is also an important goal, no less than winning.

The final pits Naegoghwaeng against Tokyo Verdy Beleza of Japan, a team that previously defeated them 4-0 in the group stage. When questioned about the possibility of a 'rough game,' particularly in a match involving Japanese opponents, Coach Ri appeared displeased. He defended his team's style, emphasizing adherence to the rules and the presence of referees to manage play. This response suggests a sensitivity to potential biases or preconceived notions about North Korean teams playing aggressively, particularly against Japanese counterparts.

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I don't know the meaning of 'rough game.' Are you referring to a suitably strong game, a game with high intensity? There are referees, and fouls are fouls, and warnings are warnings. I do not think that expression is correct.

Kim Kyung-yong, a player accompanying the coach, echoed the sentiment of determination, highlighting the team's strong mentality and collective spirit as key assets. She expressed confidence in executing the coach's tactics to achieve victory. The upcoming final is not just a battle for a trophy but also a significant moment for North Korean women's football on the international stage, showcasing their capabilities and aspirations.

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We will do our best within the scope permitted by the game rules in the final, just as we did in the semifinals.