What a day to be a fan of great soccer! If you weren’t biting your nails today, it’s because you weren’t watching the Round of 16 at the 2026 U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland. The day was packed with pure drama, penalty shootouts, and heartbreaking goodbyes.
Here’s a recap of all the excitement from the four thrilling matches that determined the first teams to advance to the Quarterfinals of the U-20 World Cup.
Penalty-Kick Luck Smiles on Brazil and Italy!
The drama reached its peak in two matches that went to penalty kicks to determine the winners after ending in 1-1 draws in regulation and extra time:
- Brazil 1-1 United States (Penalties: 5-4): The South Americans opened the scoring with a header by Sofia Couto, but Ainsley McCammon equalized almost immediately for the U.S. In the penalty shootout, Brazilian goalkeeper Thais Lima emerged as the hero by stopping the first attempt, and the Verdeamarela were perfect from the spot to eliminate the Americans.
- Italy 1-1 China PR (Penalties: 5-4): Karen Appiah put the Italians ahead, but a mistake by goalkeeper Elena Belli resulted in an own goal that gave China new life. However, soccer offers second chances: Italy converted all five of its penalty kicks with mastery, while China’s final shot sailed over the crossbar.
South Korea Upsets, and Spain Dominates the Iberian Derby!
- South Korea 1-0 Argentina: The big upset of the day! The Taegeuk Ladies spoiled the Albiceleste’s party thanks to a stunning left-footed goal by Beom Yeju in the 33rd minute. Although Argentina dominated possession in the second half, they were unable to break through the Asian defense.
- Spain 2-0 Portugal: La Rojita showed no mercy to the Portuguese debutants. Marisa García opened the scoring very early in the 9th minute. To make matters worse, Portugal was reduced to 10 players before halftime after Neide Guedes was sent off. A Portuguese own goal in the second half sealed Spain’s spot in the quarterfinals, where they’ll face none other than Brazil.
