DPR Korea may have emerged as the "dark horse" of the 2026 Women's Asian Cup but their success on the pitch will not intimidate the Matildas, according to Clare Wheeler.
The resurgence of DPR Korea may come as a surprise to some in the football world, given it has been over 15 years since the nation has competed in a major tournament.
The Eastern Azaleas, as they are known in North Korea, were banned from the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2015 due to a doping scandal discovered in 2011.
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On return to the international scene, the nation failed to qualify for the 2018 Asian Cup and 2019 World Cup.
Then due to COVID-19, they did not play in the 2023 World Cup. However, they have won five major titles since 2023 in the under-20s and 17s events.
DPR Korea are known for their high-tempo, attacking football and have scored nine goals over three games in the tournament so far.
"They're a bit of a dark horse," Wheeler said of Australia's looming opponent.
"Not many of us have played against them in recent years.
"It is just about relying on footage and seeing them throughout this tournament. They are a physical team and we watched the game the other night. Over the next few days of training, we will put together how we will approach the game.
"We're not really sure what to expect, but we'll try our best."
Australia and DPR Korea have had to make the trip across the country to Perth for the quarter-final, a game that will secure the winner a ticket to the 2027 World Cup.
With that in mind, it is understandable that both nations players will be feeling pressure. But Wheeler is not too worried about the team's ability to handle such pressure.
"A lot of this group was at the World Cup, and we've felt that pressure before," she said.
"So I think it's just using that pressure as fuel and not letting it control us.
"I agree with Joe. There were moments where we had control and moments where we didn't. It just comes down to game management and controlling the flow and tempo.
"Going into the next game, it's about understanding when there are times to force it and go forward, and times when to control the tempo and slow it down.
"It's good to learn those lessons in the group stage because now every game counts and you don't get a second chance."
Australia will likely be without vice-captain Steph Catley for the quarter-final as she continues to recover from concussion symptoms suffered against South Korea. She did not join the team on their flight to Perth on Monday.
While Catley is likely out of the match, the Matildas will welcome back Hayley Raso, who missed the final game of the group stage due to concussion symptoms also.
"With every concussion, it's different from person to person," Wheeler added.
"There's protocols in place, (Hayley) is working with the medical team to try and get back, in line with her protocols.
"She travels with the team, she's around the team, I think day-by-day, she'll take it step by step."
The Matildas will face DPR Korea in Perth on Friday.
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