Italy reaches U-20 Women's World Cup quarter-finals; Japan eliminated

The knockout stage of the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup has commenced with significant results in the round of 16.

Italy's U-20 women's team secured a historic advancement to the quarter-finals after defeating China. Following a 1-1 draw through regulation and extra time, Italy won the penalty shootout 5-4. This marks the first time the Italian side has reached the final eight of the tournament.

In contrast, Japan's U-20 women's team, known as the ‘Young Nadeshiko’, was eliminated from the competition. Japan lost 0-2 to North Korea, who had advanced to the round of 16 as group leaders with a perfect record. Japan struggled against North Korea's intensity, conceding an own goal in the 65th minute followed by a second goal from Choi Young-ah shortly after.