Spain ended the run of North Korea at the FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup in Uruguay ©FIFA

Defending champions North Korea were knocked out on penalties by Spain as the first two quarter-finals were played at the FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup in Uruguay.

Japan, the 2014 winners, also lost on spot kicks to New Zealand which guarantees a new name on the trophy.

Spain and North Korea played out a 1-1 draw in normal time at the Estadio Profesor Alberto Suppici in Colonia del Sacramento.

Claudia Pina put the European side in front after 72 minutes when she capitalised on a poor clearance and fired home from close range.

The lead only lasted two minutes, however, as Kim Kyong-Yong headed in from a corner to put the North Koreans level.

New Zealand knocked out 2014 winners Japan on penalties at the FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup ©FIFA
New Zealand knocked out 2014 winners Japan on penalties at the FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup ©FIFA

Spanish keeper Cataina Coll then produced heroics as her country won the shoot-out 3-1, saving both of North Korea's first two attempts from Kim Yun-ok and Ri Su-gyong.

Nerea Nevado converted the winning spot kick for Spain to send them through to face New Zealand.

The Kiwis also drew 1-1 in their quarter-final at the same venue, with Amelia Abbott giving them a 17th minute lead.

Hannah Mackay-Wright's own goal brought the Japanese level just after the half-hour mark and that was the way it stayed.

Japan failed with two of their first three attempts and Anna Leat sealed New Zealand's progression, 4-3.

The remaining two quarter-finals are due to be be played tomorrow with Ghana meeting Mexico and Germany facing Canada.