In an entertaining encounter in Suzhou, defending champions the DPRK showcased their strength with a thrilling 4-2 victory over hosts China, helped by a stunning hat-trick from Yu Jong-Hyang. This win secures their place in the final of the U17 Women's Asian Cup.

China had reason to believe in their ambition, having clinched a spot in this year's U17 World Cup following a 3-0 triumph over India in the quarterfinals. However, they found themselves on the back foot early in the match. After 28 minutes, defender Liu Yuchen lost possession to Yu, who capitalized to break the deadlock.

Just five minutes later, the DPRK doubled their advantage. Ri Ui-Gyong provided a pinpoint assist to Ri Kyong-Im, who unleashed a stunning shot from the edge of the box that found the net.

China managed to pull one back just before halftime, with Wu Yichen feeding Liu Yuxi, who calmly slotted in her third goal of the tournament, offering a glimmer of hope going into the break.

The second half started brightly for China as well. Just five minutes after the restart, Liu was sent through by Zhao Siqing and deftly beat keeper Kim Son-Gyong to equalize, igniting excitement among the home crowd.

But the DPRK was quick to respond, regaining the lead in the 65th minute. Yu tapped in a well-placed cross from Kim Won-Sim for her second goal of the match. Ten minutes later, she completed her hat-trick, skillfully heading in a cross from Won Sol-Gyong, sealing a 4-2 victory for the title holders.

Next up, the DPRK face Japan, who comfortably dispatched Australia 4-0 in their semifinal clash. The upcoming final, a rematch of the 2024 showdown that the DPRK had previously won, promises to be an electrifying affair.