2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup semifinals

It was nil all in the 90 minutes of playing time as the two teams proceeded into extra time. This was when France scored their double in the first half to safeguard their victory.

Four minutes into the second half, France forward runner Marion Romanelli chipped a fine cross that found striker Clara Mateo's head for their first goal.

Right after the restart, France moved in again for their second goal through Juliane Gathrat, who scooped the ball in from a loose ball that came off Japan's clearance in the goalmouth.

Japan had countless opportunities in the first half but France stopper Marion Romanelli was too good in clearing the attacks from the back.

France had their first chance in the 8th minute when striker Marie-Charlotte Legerin pulled off a powerful left footy but flew inches over the crossbar.

Japan replied,  pulling in counter attacks with quick set plays and through balls but France backliners cleared every loose ball from the back.

Japan is looking to make it an all Asian final after Korea DPR booked the first berth to the grand final, while the European champs are battling for the time to make their debut.

The fate of both teams lies in tonight's game infront of more than 5,000 spectators.

Picture by Troy Taule 

They defeated the United States 2-1 in the first semifinal at the Sir John Guise Stadium after 30 minutes extended time.

The Koreans, in red, scored through defender Jon Son Yon and midfielder Ri Hyang-sim.

USA, in white and blue, scored through defender Natalie Jacobs before extra time in the second half.

It was an intense match as both teams put up a good fight in the first half.

The Koreans displayed good ball control and clever techniques.

First attempt of the match came from USA's captain Mallory Pugh,  striking an off target kick from the left.

Korea DPR's backline was too strong for USA as they attempted two more goals in the first 25 minutes.

Both teams had equal ball possesion in the close encounter.

Koreans beefed up attack as fowards Wi Jong Sim and Kim So-hyang attempted on target goals after the water break, but were deflected by the opponent's goal keeper Casey Murphy.

USA maintained pressure in the penalty box, preventing Korea DPR from scoring.

The European team will lock horns with the Asians at 7.30pm in the second semifinal match at the Sir John Guise Stadium.

France coach Gilles Eyquem highlighted that his team hasn’t scored many goals in the tournament so far and this is one of their weaknesses.

In the group round, France drew with USA nil all and Ghana 2-2, and defeated New Zealand 2-0.

In the quarterfinal, they beat reigning champions Germany in a close encounter 1-0.