The president of the apex World football body Gianni Infantino hailed the North Korean side for their victory in the Under 17 Women’s World Cup.
The victory is the second title for the North Korean side in eight years. They defeated defending champions and favourites Japan 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. The tournament is the climax of international women’s tournament held in the Middle East, with Jordan hosting it.
The president of the apex World football body Gianni Infantino hailed the North Korean side for their victory in the Under 17 Women’s World Cup.
The victory is the second title for the North Korean side in eight years. They defeated defending champions and favourites Japan 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. The tournament is the climax of international women’s tournament held in the Middle East, with Jordan hosting it.
“That’s why it was important to have this U-17 World Cup here. The resounding success of this World Cup shows that women’s football is not only confined to some parts of the world, but it’s really worldwide,” Infantino said. The FIFA president called for more to be done to develop women’s football.
“More needs to be done. Girls have to come out, have to play, the parents have to bring them to play football, and I think the future will show that we were right in coming here,” he added.
The tournament Chief Executive Samar Nassar said she hoped that the event would lead to more local participation in regions women struggled to watch football, let alone play.
“We wanted to leave a legacy and I think we’ve taken a big step forward. It was essential that we built the pitches, in order to be up to international standards. We have also trained a large number of people, equipping them for the highest level. These efforts will, without a shadow of doubt, contribute towards the development of Jordanian football, while also benefiting the wider community,” Nassar said.
The organizers called on the government of various countries to do more to develop the sports, and allow women engage more in the game. Women football will certainly see an increase in participation with efforts such as these.