Women’s World Cup final: England lose to Spain in Sydney

The Women’s World Cup final in Sydney ended in heartbreak for England as they fell to Spain, who clinched their first-ever victory in the tournament.

Spain, displaying a combination of flair and creativity, dominated the game and outplayed England, who had been seeking to capture their first Women’s World Cup title. The hopes of matching the men’s team’s success of 1966 were dashed as the Lionesses struggled to match the Spanish side’s energy and skill.

As the final whistle blew after 14 tension-filled minutes of stoppage time, England’s players collapsed in tears, while Spain jubilantly celebrated their hard-fought victory. Spain’s captain, Olga Carmona, scored the decisive goal in the first half, capitalizing on a mistake from England’s Lucy Bronze.

Despite the efforts of England’s manager, Sarina Wiegman, who introduced Lauren James and Chloe Kelly at half-time, and goalkeeper Mary Earps, who made several brilliant saves, Spain maintained control of the game.

England’s disappointment was deepened by a missed penalty from Barcelona midfielder Keira Walsh, which was followed by a lengthy VAR review for a handball. The loss marks a rare defeat for the European champions under Wiegman’s leadership.

Spain’s victory comes despite pre-tournament controversies between the players and the Spanish football federation. Their triumph has potential implications for the growth of women’s football in Spain, especially after Barcelona’s recent domestic successes.

Both England and Spain entered the final with confidence, having steadily improved their performances throughout the competition. England had shown promise early in the match, but Spain soon found ways to exploit England’s attacking weaknesses.

Manchester City’s forward, Lauren Hemp, provided one of England’s best chances, but her shot struck the crossbar. Spain’s intelligent play and quality, featuring many Barcelona stars, eventually proved decisive.

Spain could have extended their lead, with multiple chances blocked by Earps and one shot brushing the post. The victory was well-deserved for Spain, but will be seen as a missed opportunity for the Lionesses, who often found ways to win under Wiegman but failed to do so in this critical match.

Spain’s win is remarkable considering they had only ever won one Women’s World Cup match before this tournament and the struggles with their players leading up to the competition.

The streets of Sydney were a sea of colors representing Spain and England, with fans from both sides bringing a festive atmosphere to the match. Although England’s fans were more numerous, it was Spain’s supporters who celebrated at the end.

Lucy Bronze, an accomplished player, was visibly distraught at missing out on the coveted trophy, while her Barcelona teammates rejoiced.

Spain’s victory could transform the landscape of women’s football in the country, bringing newfound attention and respect to the sport.

Match statistics reveal Spain’s dominance with 57% possession and 13 shots to England’s 8, with 5 on target compared to England’s 3. Corners were 7 to 3 in favor of Spain, and fouls were 9 to 16, with England committing more.

The player ratings reflected Spain’s superiority, with standout performances from Carmona and Bonmatí, both averaging a rating of 6.24. The final result was a monumental achievement for Spain and a crushing disappointment for England, whose wait for a Women’s World Cup title continues.

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More about Women’s World Cup

• FIFA Women’s World Cup Official Site
• Spain’s Women’s National Team Official Page
• England’s Women’s National Team Official Page
• UEFA Women’s EURO 2022
• Barcelona Women’s Team