For the first time in their history, Spain have claimed the FIFA Women’s World Cup title after a 1-0 win against England’s Lionesses in today’s final in Sydney. 

In front of more than 75 000 spectators, La Roja’s captain, Olga Carmona, led the Spanish to victory by scoring the only, and winning, goal of the World Cup final. 

Despite England taking the first shot at goal five minutes into the game by the boot of Lauren Hemp, Spain’s dominance was evident early on as goalkeeper Cata Coll made the save. They fought hard and overall, they made sure their win was well deserved.

Spain now sits in the company of only four other Women’s World Cup winners since the start of the tournament in 1991, becoming the fifth, alongside the USA, Germany, Norway and Japan.

CNN reports that after the win, some of Spain’s sporting icons congratulated the side for their historic success. One of them included Gerard Pique, a men's World Cup winner with Spain in 2010 in South Africa shared his sentiments saying, “Congratulations! You have made history! World Champions. What pride!"

Even though England succumbed to a loss in the Women's World Cup final, they were still celebrated for their part in history. They were the favourites to break the country’s 57-year-old World Cup title drought as they made it to their first ever final as well.

They were credited for popularising women's soccer in the country and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to social media to state, “For my daughters, and for every girl in this country, you have made football something for them; you have made them feel they belong on the pitch.” 

He went on to say, “It wasn't to be, but you've already secured your legacy as game changers. We are all incredibly proud of you."

Both sides brought their A game to claim their place in history but it was Spain who walked away victorious in the company of thousands. Congratulations are in order for La Roja as they have made their mark. 

Kayla Barker/OFM Sport