Spain’s Olga Carmona scored the team’s winning goal at the Women’s World Cup on Sunday against England without knowing that her father had died Friday after a long illness battle.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation announced the death of Carmona’s father after Spain won the title. It’s unclear exactly when Carmona learned the news, but it was after the team celebrated on the field in Sydney.
The 23-year-old Real Madrid player, who served as Spain’s captain, later posted a message about her late father on social media.
“And without knowing it, I had my Star before the game started,” Carmona said, via translation. “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.”
Y sin saberlo tenía mi Estrella antes de que empezase el partido. Sé que me has dado la fuerza para conseguir algo único. Sé que me has estado viendo esta noche y que estás orgulloso de mí. Descansa en paz, papá 🌟❤️🩹 pic.twitter.com/Uby0mteZQ3
— Olga Carmona (@7olgacarmona) August 20, 2023
Real Madrid also issued a statement and sent condolences to Carmona.
“Real Madrid, the president and the board of directors are deeply saddened by the passing of the father of our player Olga Carmona,” the statement read. “Real Madrid would like to extend our condolences and heartfelt sympathy to Olga, her family and all her loved ones. May he rest in peace.”
Carmona scored the only goal in Sunday’s final, finding the net during the 29th minute.
