Spain deservedly emerged the winner of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand after beating England 1-0 in the final match at Stadium Australia on Sunday.

Real Madrid defender Olga Carmona was the unlikely hero as her 29th-minute strike was the only goal that separated the two sides for the entirety of the finale to help La Roja claim their first World Cup title.

It took Spain, who were brilliant throughout the tournament, only eight years after making their debut in the 2015 edition of the World Cup Canada.

England’s best scoring chance came from Manchester City forward Lauren Hemp, who was direct and aggressive, but her curling effort from 15 yards hit the crossbar.

Manchester United goalkeeper Mary Earps won the Golden Glove award, a deserving honour for the 30-year-old, who was fantastic throughout the tournament and made some great saves in the final, including a 70th-minute penalty kick by Jennifer Hermoso.

Spanish midfielder Aitana Bonmati won the Golden Ball for the best player of the tournament, while her compatriot striker Salma Paralluelo was named the young player of the tournament.

“I don’t have the words. I am so proud we had a great tournament,” Bonmati told the BBC.