Sydney, March 3 (NationPress) In a remarkable return to the AFC Women's Asian Cup, Myong Yu Jong netted a first-half hat-trick, leading the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to a dominant 3-0 victory over Uzbekistan in Sydney on Tuesday. The DPRK, seen as a title contender, showcased their prowess in their inaugural match since finishing as runners-up in the 2010 tournament held in China. Myong's two goals came from the penalty spot as Uzbekistan faced a challenging comeback after a 23-year hiatus.

The match kicked off with a bang as Myong struck a volley from the center of the box into the top left corner just six minutes in, according to reports from Xinhua.

The first half also saw a concerning moment for Uzbekistan, as their goalkeeper Maftuna Jonimqulova had to be stretchered off with a neck brace. Her replacement, Zarina Saidova, was quickly called into action when Chae Un Yong was fouled in the penalty area. She managed to touch Myong's penalty kick but could not prevent DPRK from extending their lead.

Before halftime, Uzbekistan was penalized again when Madina Khikmatova was called for a handball in the box, allowing Myong to complete her hat-trick from the spot before being substituted shortly after.

Looking ahead, DPRK is set to face Bangladesh in their next Group B match on Friday, while Uzbekistan will take on the defending champions, China.

China also made their mark, kicking off their 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup campaign with a comfortable 2-0 win against Bangladesh. The Steel Roses scored both goals just before halftime at Western Sydney Stadium, overcoming a resilient Bangladesh defense that had previously denied them.

Wang Shuang was particularly influential, netting the opener in the 44th minute with a long-range shot into the top left corner. Just two minutes later, Zhang Rui doubled the advantage with a deflected strike from the edge of the penalty area.

Despite several opportunities in the second half, China couldn't score a third, with Bangladesh's goalkeeper Mile Akter making crucial saves. Bangladesh, participating in the Women's Asian Cup for the first time, had a notable chance in the 14th minute when Ritu Porna Chakma forced Chinese goalkeeper Chen Chen into a one-handed save with a powerful long-range shot.

This victory keeps China's record intact, as they have never lost an opening match in the Women's Asian Cup, leaving them in second place in Group B behind DPRK, who triumphed over Uzbekistan earlier that day. China will meet Uzbekistan on Friday night, while Bangladesh is scheduled to play against DPRK on Friday afternoon.