Myong Yu Jong Nets First-Half Hat-Trick in North Korea's 3-0 Women's Asian Cup Win

Myong Yu Jong wheels away after scoring her hat-trick goal in North Korea's rout of Uzbekistan.

Myong Yu Jong scored three goals in the first half to hand North Korea a 3-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their Women's Asian Cup Group B opener at Western Sydney Stadium. The 22-year-old midfielder struck in the sixth minute, converted a penalty in the 24th, and added another from the spot in the 41st. Uzbekistan goalkeeper Maftuna Jonimqulova exited on a stretcher early after a heavy collision with a teammate.

North Korea returned to the tournament for the first time since 2010 following bans and pandemic absences. Coach Ri Song Ho fielded players from his Under-20 World Cup-winning squad of 2024. The three-time continental champions controlled possession and created chances through quick combinations on the right flank.

Myong opened the scoring after Kim Kong Yong passed wide to Chae Un Yong, whose cross deflected into her path for a finish over the keeper. Uzbekistan's defense handed two penalties for handball and foul in the box, both dispatched low to the left corner. The Uzbek backline held firm after halftime to prevent further damage.

Uzbekistan mounted few threats in attack and failed to test North Korea's defense. The win positions North Korea level atop Group B ahead of matches against Japan and Thailand. Uzbekistan drop to the bottom and face China next.

North Korea chased a strong start in Sydney after missing recent editions. Myong's clinical finishing marked her as a standout performer on debut