Photos from @canwnt

The FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup came to a close in Poland with Spain snatching victory from title holders DPR Korea on penalties.

The tournament that saw some of the most promising women’s talents hit the global stage, and here’s a look back at Canada’s campaign that featured two Scrosoppi players from the 2026 Ontario Premier League season.

Group stage: a scare, a setback, a statement

Canada were drawn into a tough Group B alongside England, Brazil, and Tanzania. An Annabelle Chukwu goal opened the scoring against England in the opener, but a late Rachel Maltby penalty levelled it for a 1-1 tie. Brazil then punished a 10-player Canada – reduced by a 25th-minute red card to Stephanie Schoeley – with a 3-0 win.

Canada responded in style in their final group match, hammering Tanzania 6-0, with Annabelle Chukwu scoring twice and Olivia Chisholm, Kaylee Hunter, and Liana Tarasco all getting on the scoresheet. That left

the team third in Group B on four points – enough to go through on tiebreakers as one of the four best third-placed teams in the tournament.

Knockouts: an upset, then heartbreak

Canada delivered one of the standout results of their tournament in the Round of 16, beating group winners and potential gold-medal contenders France 3-1. Kaylee Hunter scored a hat-trick, sending Canada into the last eight.

The campaign ended against three-time and reigning champions DPR Korea. Canada held out for 90 scoreless minutes despite their four shots to DPR Korea’s 29, before conceding twice in stoppage time to lose 2-0.

Despite the eventual result, it was a top performance from goalkeeper Noelle Henning as she made a string of fine saves against a team who had a perfect record in the tournament.

DPR Korea the progressed all the way to the final where they met Spain who had topped Group F. Neither side could break the deadlock in the title decider, but Spain goalkeeper Laia Lopez made two saves in a penalty shootout to claim the crown from the defending champions.

SFC connections: Collin and Henning

Jadea Collin made one appearance for Canada in Poland, coming on as a substitute for Liana Tarasco in the 70th minute of the opening 1-1 draw with England.

Noelle Henning was Canada's number one shot-stopper, starting four of the team's five matches (England, Brazil, France, and the DPR Korea quarter-final) for a total of 360 minutes. Arguably Henning's best performances came in the knockouts, where her seven saves helped Canada beat France and keep DPR Korea at bay until deep into stoppage time.

Those who have followed the Pro-Am soccer scene in Canada over the past few years would have noticed several familiar names in the Canadian squad, with a handful of those now playing professionally. It’s another sign that the Ontario, BC, and Alberta Premier Leagues are helping talent reach the next level.