Spain capture bittersweet World Cup title following year of controversy
The past year has seen plenty of controversy surrounding the Spain Women’s national team, but in the end leave Australia and New Zealand with their first World Cup title.
SportsPulse, USA TODAY
Olga Carmona learned after the World Cup final, in which she scored the goal that lifted Spain to the title, that her father had died.
The Spanish federation made the announcement Sunday afternoon, about eight hours after Spain clinched its first World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over England. The federation did not provide any other details, but a post by Carmona a few hours later indicated her father had died before the game.
“And without knowing it, I had my star before the match started,” Carmona wrote. “I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique. I know that you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace, papa.”
The 23-year-old added a star and a bandaged heart to the post, along with a photo of herself kissing her champions medal.
“We love you, Olga,” the federation wrote in its post. “You are the history of Spanish football.”
After scoring in the 29th minute, Carmona lifted up her jersey to reveal a red shirt on which she’d written, “Merchi.” The Spain captain said after the game the dedication was to a friend’s mother who died recently.
“I celebrated the goal with her shirt,” Carmona said, according to Fox Sports. “From here, I dedicate this to the whole family with all my love.”
Jordan Mendoza contributed to this report.
