SPAIN’S World Cup matchwinner was given heartbreaking news after the final that her father had died.
Olga Carmona scored the only goal of the women’s final against England and was later pictured joyfully kissing the trophy.
But hours afterwards the left-back was told of the family tragedy.
There was extra poignancy as she had celebrated scoring by raising her jersey to reveal a tribute to a friend’s mother, who had died.
Carmona explained the meaning of the “Merchi” message after the game.
The Spanish FA issued a statement to share their sadness at the death of their goal hero’s dad.
It read: “The @RFEF deeply regrets to report the death of Olga Carmona’s father. The soccer player learned the sad news after the World Cup final.
“We send our most sincere hugs to Olga and her family in a moment of deep pain.
“We love you, Olga, you are the history of Spanish football.”
Real Madrid star Carmona, 23, has a 24-year-old brother, Fran, who plays as a centre-back for Sevilla C.
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Spanish outlet Relevo report that Carmona’s father passed away before the final but her family kept the news from her so she could focus on the match against the Lionesses.
After receiving the news, the left-back tweeted: “And without knowing it, I had my star before the game started.
“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, dad.”
Fans on social media were quick to send their sympathy.
One posted: “This is such a heartbreaking news. This was supposed to be the best day of her life. She made her father proud.”
Another wrote: “Can’t imagine how those feelings mix, awful to hear. RIP.”
A third said of her father: “At least he saw his daughter reach the World Cup final and score in the semis.”
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Carmona gave Spain their first ever Women’s World Cup crown by slotting home on 29 minutes.
Lionesses’ keeper Mary Earps saved a penalty from Jenni Hermoso as Jorge Vilda’s Spaniards deservedly triumphed.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
