Japan striker Rikako Kobayashi enjoyed a double celebration on Saturday as the Young Nadeshiko striker was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player as her side won a record-breaking fourth AFC U-19 Women’s Championship with a victory on penalties over DPR Korea.
The 18-year-old netted four goals in three appearances, including the winner in the 1-0 semi-final victory over Korea Republic, as Japan booked a final date with the 2007 winners.
But despite being able to add to her tally in the 0-0 stalemate with Hwang Yong-bong’s side, Kobayashi scored her team’s second spot kick in the penalty shootout as they ran out 4-2 winners.....