According to a report by FIFA.com on Friday, October 23, 2026, North Korea head coach Ji Yun-nam has admitted that he realized how challenging it is to compete at the world level after his team suffered a 3-1 defeat to the Flamingos at the ongoing 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Speaking to FIFA after Friday’s Group B encounter, Yun-nam acknowledged that facing Nigeria had highlighted areas his team needed to improve, particularly their physical preparation ahead of the knockout stage.

“Playing against a strong team like Nigeria made me realize how challenging it is to compete at the world level,” the North Korean coach said.

“Facing an African team also showed me that we need to prepare better in terms of strength. We will prepare well for the Round of 16 and aim to achieve a better result.”

The defeat came as a setback for the defending champions, who had won their opening two group matches against Puerto Rico and Poland before facing Nigeria in their final fixture.

Nigeria, coached by Akeem Busari, delivered an impressive performance to overcome the two-time defending champions and secure qualification for the Round of 16.

Oluwakemi Adegbuyi opened the scoring for the Flamingos in the 15th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled their advantage in the 38th minute.

Kanyinsola Yusuf extended Nigeria’s lead to 3-0 in the 56th minute with a well-taken free-kick, leaving North Korea with a difficult task in their attempt to recover from the deficit.

North Korea pulled a goal back in the 82nd minute through Yu Jong-hyang, who converted a penalty, but Nigeria held on to secure all three points.

The victory saw Nigeria finish second in Group B with six points, having lost 2-1 to Poland in their opening match before recording a 2-0 win over Puerto Rico.

Despite the defeat, North Korea also progressed to the Round of 16 after finishing level on six points with Nigeria and Poland.

The defending champions topped the group on goal difference.

Yun-nam will now turn his attention to preparing his players for the knockout stage.