North Korea says no more protests after China stir in Women's Asian Cup

"If that kind of situation happens again in (Friday's) match, we will follow the referees, the match official's decision, and respect it, coach Ri Song Ho told reporters in Perth through an interpreter on Thursday. Ri was yellow-carded for his part in the fracas."

"We know Australia are a formidable team, so tomorrow we will give our best to support each other and perform at our highest level, she said. We have talent on our side, and we've been preparing carefully for the match. We're excited to show what our team can do on the pitch."

"An incensed North Korea refused to play for several minutes in their 2-1 loss to the Chinese during a group game on Monday. They were left fuming when former Tottenham attacker Wang Shuang scored in first-half stoppage time, demanding the referee look at the pitchside monitor."

North Korea faces Australia in the 2026 Women's Asian Cup quarterfinals on Friday in Perth. The team has committed to avoiding sideline protests after causing disruption during their 2-1 loss to China, when they refused to resume play for four minutes following a disputed goal by Wang Shuang. Coach Ri Song Ho promised the team will respect referee decisions and follow match officials' rulings. Australia defeated North Korea on penalties in the 2010 final. North Korea's squad features young talent including striker Choe Il Son, who won both the U17 World Cup and U20 World Cup titles. The match determines both semifinal qualification and 2027 World Cup berths, with the top six finishers advancing to Brazil.

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