Group E Preview: Korea DPR Lead Strong Field at U-20 Women's World Cup

The FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Poland 2026 is set to kick off from 5 to 27 September, and Group E has already captured attention with defending champions Korea DPR drawn alongside Colombia, Costa Rica, and Portugal. The group features a mix of seasoned contenders and newcomers, setting the stage for compelling matchups.

Korea DPR: The Team to Beat

Korea DPR enter the tournament as the reigning champions, having lifted the trophy in 2024. Their pedigree is further bolstered by a squad that includes several players from the teams that won the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2024 and 2025. Under head coach Han Chol-hak, the Asian side has a formidable record in the competition: nine appearances, 43 matches played, 32 wins, one draw, and 10 defeats, with 115 goals scored and 51 conceded. Their best finishes include titles in 2006, 2016, and 2024.

The team qualified for Poland by reaching the final of the most recent AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup, where they narrowly lost 1-0 to Japan. Despite that setback, Korea DPR remain clear favourites in Group E, with a squad rich in youth tournament experience.

Portugal: Debutants with Momentum

Portugal make their first-ever appearance at a FIFA women's youth tournament, having secured qualification by reaching the semi-finals of the 2025 UEFA Women's U-19 Championship. In that competition, they finished second in their group behind Spain but ahead of England, demonstrating their competitive edge. Head coach Marisa Gomes leads a side that is eager to make an impact on the world stage, three years after Portugal's senior women's team made their first World Cup appearance.

Costa Rica: Seeking a First Win

Costa Rica, known as Las Ticas, are preparing for their fifth appearance at the U-20 Women's World Cup, having previously competed in 2010, 2014, 2022, and 2024. Their record in the tournament is challenging: 12 matches played, with no wins, no draws, and 12 defeats, scoring five goals and conceding 44. Head coach Patricia Aguilar guided the team to the semi-finals of the 2025 Concacaf Women's U-20 Championship, which they hosted, securing their spot in Poland. The team will be hoping to break their winless streak and advance beyond the group stage for the first time.

Colombia: Aiming to Improve on Fourth Place

Colombia, who hosted the tournament in 2024, return for their fourth appearance, having previously competed in 2010, 2022, and 2024. Their best finish came in 2010 when they reached fourth place. Overall, they have played 15 matches, winning seven, drawing four, and losing four, with 17 goals scored and 11 conceded. Head coach Carlos Paniagua led the team to qualification by securing the fourth and final spot at the 2026 South American Under-20 Women's Football Championship. With a balanced squad, Colombia will look to build on their past performances and progress further in the tournament.

Group Dynamics and Expectations

Group E presents a fascinating mix of experience and ambition. Korea DPR's dominance in youth football makes them the clear favourites, but Colombia's consistent performances and Portugal's recent form suggest they could challenge. Costa Rica, despite their historical struggles, will be determined to make their mark. The group stage promises high-stakes encounters as all four teams vie for a place in the knockout rounds.