England’s World Cup journey ended in heartbreak as they were beaten by Spain in the final.
Olga Carmona scored the only goal of the game, firing in from just inside the box after Spain had created an overload down the left.
Spain were worthy winners in the end, but England had their chances too and Lauren Hemp hit the crossbar.
Lionesses goalkeeper Mary Earps also made a big save from a penalty, keeping out Jennifer Hermoso’s spot-kick midway through the second-half.
Simon Collings was at Stadium Australia to see the Lionesses in action...
Mary Earps 8 | Star player
Made a couple of good saves and then produced another fine one to keep out Jennifer Hermoso’s penalty. England’s best player.
Jess Carter 6
Made a vital block on to stop Hermoso putting Spain 2-0. A solid performance overall from the Chelsea defender, who played left-back and in back-three.
Millie Bright 6
Had a difficult evening up against Salma Paralluelo, who caused her problems with her movement. Finished the game upfront as England searched for an equaliser.
Alex Greenwood 6
Has had an excellent World Cup and been arguably England’s best player. Battled incredibly well tonight, finishing the game wrapped up like Terry Butcher.
Lucy Bronze 5
Punished by Spain for their goal after she gave the ball away when driving forward. Heartbreak for the 31-year-old after waiting so long to play in a World Cup final.
Keira Walsh 5
Struggled to get hold of the ball as the Spain midfield dominated possession. Gave away a penalty for what felt like a harsh handball.
Georgia Stanway 5
Like Walsh next to her, Stanway was swamped by Spain’s midfield press. Looked a bit better after the break, but not at the level she can be.
Rachel Daly 6
One of two players taken off at the break as England changed formation. Struggled a bit with the pace of Spain out wide and Ona Batlle overlapping.
Ella Toone 5
One of England’s heroes in the semi-final, but she could not get into the game here. Spent most of the match chasing Spanish shadows.
Alessia Russo 6
Taken off at half-time as England changed formation. Led the line okay before that, holding up the ball and trying to get Hemp into the action.
Lauren Hemp 7
England’s best attacking player during a frustrating night. Drove well with the ball and was unlucky not to score in the first-half when she hit the bar.
Substitutions
Chloe Kelly (Daly 45’)6
Looked bright when she came on and caused problems getting down the right flank.
Lauren James (Russo 45’) 6
Had some nice moments where she carried the ball. Drew a good save with an effort late on.
Beth England (Toone 87’) N/A
