August 21, (THEWILL) – Spain captain, Olga Carmona, found out after Sunday’s World Cup final that her father had passed away, the Spanish FA (RFEF) confirmed.
Carmona scored the only goal as Spain beat England 1-0 to claim their maiden Women’s World Cup title. The RFEF expressed their condolences in a statement, saying, “We send our most sincere embrace to Olga and her family in a moment of deep sorrow. We love you, Olga, you are Spanish soccer history.” An RFEF spokesperson told reporters that Carmona’s father had been battling illness and died on Friday.
According to Spanish outlet Relevo, Carmona’s family and friends had chosen not to inform her of the tragic news so she could remain focused on the biggest match of her career. Carmona’s mother and brothers travelled to New Zealand during the group stage but returned to Spain, before arriving in Australia on Saturday, to support the Real Madrid defender in the final.
Carmona’s 29th-minute goal was enough for Spain to edge past England and make history as first-time Women’s World Cup winners. The striker joins an elite club of players, who have scored in World Cup finals, etching her name into Spanish football folklore.
For Carmona, the ecstasy of footballing success will now be fused with the agony of personal loss. Spain’s new national hero will return home to collective celebration and private grief.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
