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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Sarah Rendell (the match) and James Wallace (reaction)

Spain 1-0 England: Women’s World Cup 2023 final – as it happened

Spain England World Cup Salma Paralluelo Aitana Bonmati Alexia Putellas Jenni Hermoso Jorge Vilda

Match report, reaction and more

Congratulations Spain. Commiserations England.

Time to knock this World Cup Final liveblog humanely on the head. Thanks so much for following and for all your comments and emails.

Well done to Sarah and the rest of the Guardian WWC 2023 team for all their hard work over the past few weeks. It has been a really enjoyable tournament and Spain are worthy winners. Hard lines to England who were pipped at the last but Sarina Wiegman and her side will be back, be in no doubt about that.

Have a lovely Sunday evening, goodbye!

Updated

One thing to note amongst it all – how good was this finish from Olga Carmona? Rifled into the corner of the net, great composure and technique. A skimming scud of a strike that was more than worthy of deciding a World Cup Final.

Oh, and what were you doing aged 23? Thought so.

No regrets for Sarina Wiegman, she really is a class act. Eloquent in victory and defeat. She admits England weren’t quite on it in the first half and that led to her changing the formation at half time.

Interesting that she thought the lengthy injury delay after Alex Greenwood took a knock to the head robbed her side of the momentum they got after Mary Earps’ second half penalty save (which was subject to an extremely long delay too).

You have to feel for her too, four years ago she was in the same position after her Dutch side were beaten 2-0 by the USA at the 2019 World Cup Final in Lyon. That’s the cruelty of sport. She’ll be back, hopefully with England.

Updated

This is a nice email into the Guardian mailbag from Vicky Warren:

Lionesses. We all as a nation are extremely proud of you all, including your lovely manager. You’ve achieved beyond belief. Just remember second place in the world cup is nothing to look down on.

Be proud. Next time you are at home I want to come and see you play.”

Updated

In case you missed it earlier, here is Suzy Wrack’s report from the final:

The future is bright for England despite defeat. The absence of injured players prompted expectations to drop before the World Cup. A final was beyond many people’s wildest dreams. Terrifyingly, though, Spain will be back stronger too; their off-field woes will surely be resolved eventually despite the success under Vilda’s divisive leadership. Spain dominated despite him – imagine what they could look like unified.

Hmm - saying that, maybe this image will too:

This will become one of those indelible sporting images. Think Andrew Flintoff and Brett Lee after Edgbaston 2005 (couldn’t not bring cricket into this could I?)

Spare a thought for Lucy Bronze when she returns to Barcelona duty. I think eight of the Spanish team play for the club. By the looks of this touching moment it will most likely be fine, but I sometimes can’t look colleagues in the eye on a Monday morning after a particularly galling five-a-side defeat on a Friday night. They don’t necessarily have to have been on the opposing team either…

It goes without saying (but I’ll press on regardless) that this result will take some getting over from England’s players. Perhaps most of all because they didn’t put in the performance they are capable of when it really mattered most. They didn’t quite have the fizz or cohesion that they normally have in spades and once they went behind it felt like they were rattled and started to get a bit ragged. A glance over the stats on the left of the page tells you that they weren’t at their best and with reflection the players will probably come to that conclusion too.

One small consolation they might take some comfort in is that England are a young squad and so most of them will get at least another crack at a major tournament, perhaps even the big one. Laura Coombs is 32, Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly 31. They could all feasibly be involved in four years’ time.

Updated

Mary Earps has spoken to the BBC:

The effervescent Michael Hogan has got the moments of the tournament covered:

Love and affection for England from Joan Armatrading:

A reminder that Mary Earps takes the Golden Glove. She’s had quite the tournament. From replica kit controversy to crucial saves when it mattered most and now the top keeping gong.

She’s doing the rounds on social media for her steely performances (and her two worded Logan Roy/Brian Cox reaction in the immediate aftermath of the penalty save too)

If you haven’t yet seen this short speech from Earps, do yourself a favour:

Updated

I’m giving ‘absolutely nothing’ to this liveblog. Err hang on a minute…

“Hi James”

Hello to you Colum Fordham.

"Credit to both sides for an excellent final. Mightily impressed by Earp, who gave a stellar performance, as did her goalkeeping counterpart Coll.

Although I’m disappointed for England, I’m pleased for Spain because the women’s team have received much more criticism and misogynistic treatment from the Spanish media, compared to the whole-hearted support for the women’s team in England.

Also, to be fair, England were a tad lucky to beat Spain in the European Cup as the Spanish side were technically superior then. Could you say hi to my sister Medeni (big England fan) and my Spanish friend Miguel (Spain fan, surprisingly)?”

Cheers Colum, consider it done.

Louise Taylor’s player ratings from the final have landed. Have a peek and see whether you agree or not.

A snippet from Sarina:

What we have done, we have shown ourselves who we are and how we want to play as a team. Overcoming many challenges, I think we can be very proud of ourselves”

Updated

Martin Corey emails in with some balanced views. Balance Mart? Surely you know this isn’t how this works….

“Obviously, there was no point at all in Spain winning the World Cup and England would have been far better at winning, had they actually won. But, the thing I have always found hard about English football is that English journalists are such poor losers. The minute an England team doesn’t win the World Cup, all of the superlatives which were heaped upon them in the early stages of the competition are rescinded and they become virtual pariahs. Let’s make an exception this time.

I speak as one who has (late in life) been won over to the beautiful game by this splendid team of valiant women. This is because they play spectacular football. Also, thanks to excellent commentating by their former colleagues, I have gained an understanding of how the game is actually played - something male commentators have never even attempted to provide. In addition to a greater appreciation of tactics and strategies, I have come to realise something sports journalists deliberately obscue - if one team is to win, the other must lose.

Spain are an excellent team. They quite evidently remained an excellent team even after they had been defeated by Japan. England are also an excellent team. They did something no other England team has done since 1966. Both of these statements can be true at the same time, because, unlike football, life is not a zero sum game.”

Charles R – AKA The King, offers his commiserations:

This brings you, your manager and all your support team my heartfelt thoughts and commiserations on the result of the World Cup final. While I know how sore it must be, let none of you feel defeated, for to have reached the final at all is an immense tribute to your skill, determination and team spirit in the finest sporting tradition.

More than that, though, it will serve as an inspiration for generations to come – and, for that, your place in the history books is assured. With great admiration, congratulations to the Spanish team and with particular gratitude to the people of Australia and New Zealand for hosting such a wonderful tournament.”

ICYMI:

Updated

Some poignant imagery here:

I still keep thinking Lauren Hemp’s crossbar rattler is going to somehow drop in. That’ll be one that is replayed over and over. Time heals? Pah.

Updated

“Dancing on my own…”

Crikey – this is quite something… it looks like the video has been taken down for copyright reasons – it was an almost heartbreaking video of Spain’s head honcho Jorge Vilda being studiously ignored by the Spanish players during the raucous celebrations. I think the correct term is Buuurn.

Here’s the background from Jonny Liew - for those at the back:

Updated

Bonus points for the first person to get the other nation to do the double…

Good this from Emma Hayes. Very true too. England were flat and nervy in the first half, they put in a better performance in the second half but in truth the THIRTEEN minutes of injury time looked like yielding another goal for Spain rather than England grabbing an equaliser.

Thanks Sarah, top stuff as per, fantastic stint. Hello everyone. How are you feeling? Not quite the celebratory session of live-blogging I was hoping for from an England POV but nevertheless plenty to get stuck into. Congratulations to Spain, what a performance, what a story.

Updated

What a tournament it has been. I have written over 20 live blogs and three features, thank you for following me along the way! It has been such a privilege to call these games, all of your messages have been great to add into these blogs. James Wallace will take you through more reaction to Spain’s win now, catch you for more football soon!

Updated

Spain are now only the second team to win the World Cup after losing a group game. Japan did it in 2011, they won the title but lost to England in the group.

Aitana Bonmati has told the BBC: “I am on the air right now, I don’t have the words. I am so proud, we had a great tournament. Everyone knew the goal, everyone is competitive, everyone is strong mentally. We have been working a lot years for this moment.”

Spain’s keeper Cata Coll, who is just 22, made her debut in Spain’s last 16 match and she has kept the starting shirt since then. She made a great save with Lauren James’ chance in the second half and confidently took England’s corner in the final minute. Coll was called upon after Spain lost 4-0 and she has been impressive.

Want to have a look at the report to recall all the mad action? Here’s our snap report:

England manager Sarina Wiegman has told the BBC: “I thought we got momentum but then the penalty and injury with Greenwood [happened]. Overall I think Spain were a little better than us today. Congratulations to Spain. Of course it feels bad now, you are disappointed. You want to win, then you lose but what we have done and how we have shown ourselves, overcoming so many challenges, we can be so proud of ourselves though it doesn’t feel like that at the moment.”

The Golden Boot has been won by Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa. Other awards:

Alexia Putellas looks lovingly at the trophy and kisses it, the Greatest Show booms over the speakers. The England team are making their rounds to applaud the fans, Lucy Bronze is sobbing. Heartbreaking to see.

Infantino hands the World Cup and Andres kisses the trophy and they lift it. The team celebrates, jump, Vilda is right at the back, players aren’t really interacting with him.

Updated

The crowd boo as Vilda take to the stage, they have not forgotten about the dispute that rumbles in the background of this victory.

Francis has emailed and said: “I agree with you that England had a very good tournament. At the same time, Spain are technically superior and were the better team today - perhaps we can learn from Spain and get even better.” Yes Spain were the better team today, deserved winners.

Spain are receiving their winners medals now. So many players dominant at club level with Barcelona have now translated it on the world stage. A huge moment for these players.

Ivana Andres of Spain and teammates celebrate with the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy.
Ivana Andres of Spain and teammates celebrate with the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy. Photograph: Elsa/FIFA/Getty Images

Updated

Sarina Wiegman gets her medal, England take the stage in front of the crowd and the supporters give them a huge roar. A massive tournament from them.

Spain have given England a guard of honour as they go to collect the medals, the BBC have just showed Jill Scott who is in tears.

England are up now to receive their runners-up medals. Not the colour they would have wanted but they gave everything in this final. Their first World Cup final, the first final of many.

England's players receiving the runners up medals.
England's players receiving the runners up medals. Photograph: David Gray/AFP/Getty Images

Updated

Here come the officials receiving their medals now.

The Golden Ball, the Player of the Tournament, has been awarded to Bonmati. She has been unbelievable – huge.

Aitana Bonmati of Spain is awarded the FIFA Golden Ball Award.
Aitana Bonmati of Spain is awarded the FIFA Golden Ball Award. Photograph: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Updated

The Golden Glove has been awarded to England’s Earps. Hugely impressive tournament and had another amazing performance today.

England's goalkeeper Mary Earps receiving the 'Golden Glove' award.
England's goalkeeper Mary Earps receiving the 'Golden Glove' award. Photograph: Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images

Updated

Best Young Player has gone to Paralluelo, deserved. She was impressive.

Salma Paralluelo receives the 'Best Young Player' award.
Salma Paralluelo receives the 'Best Young Player' award. Photograph: Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images

Updated

The presentation will start shortly! The other awards like the Golden Boot will be handed out. Jill Ellis, who won the title in 2015 and 2019 with the USA, has presented the World Cup.

Millie Bright has told BBC: “It’s really hard to take. We gave everything, in the first half we weren’t at our best but in the second half we were back. There was a lot of belief, we have been 1-0 down, we never give in. We are absolutely heartbroken but unfortunately we weren’t there today. The girls are unbelievable.”

Gordon has got in touch and said: “I think we need to face up to the fact that England never really put any opposition to the sword - apart from China. Every other game was a win by one goal or penalties. Perhaps too much hype was dumped on the players.” I would disagree with this, England expertly undid Australia in the semi-final. China was a great match and the quarter against Colombia they came back to win a match that was a mountain to climb.

They are speaking a lot about how England will pick themselves up from this. But I think, while the emotional upheaval is hard, they are still basking in their Euros glory. They still have a relatively new manager. They are the second-best team in the world. Bounce back? More like take the final step for world glory.

I think whoever you are, whoever you support, Wiegman’s disappointed expression is heartbreaking. Iconic manager.

England players huddle after the team’s defeat.
England players huddle after the team’s defeat. Photograph: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

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Another note that this is only Wiegman’s second loss with England, this is her 39th game in charge I think. Incredible achievement.

Beau has got in touch and said: “There are two sad notes to this match. First, Spain may be the first side in history in which we say, ‘Congratulations, but please fire your coach.’ Second, England just dropped off a level or two after conceding. But what a performance by Spain. They’re clearly the best women’s soccer nation at the moment.”

A word on Sarina Wiegman too, this must be crushing. This was a back-to-back World Cup final, in 2019 she lost with the Netherlands against the USA. The manager is arguably the best in the world, she will get her World Cup flowers at some point just not today.

For players like Bonmati, Hermoso, Putellas this is special. Coll was an incredible keeper in only her fourth cap. But a reminder over the dispute going on in the background, so many players like Mapi Leon will not have a World Cup medal because of what is happening.

Updated

Spain are in tears of joy, the team are in a heap in celebration. England players in despair but they can hold their heads high. A great final worthy of a fantastic tournament.

Spain teammates celebrate their victory over England.
Spain teammates celebrate their victory over England. Photograph: Alessandra Tarantino/AP

Updated

Full time! Spain 1-0 England

SPAIN HAVE WON THE WORLD CUP! It is captain Carmona who came good with her first half strike to seal the victory. It’s the first time the country have won the title. Huge for Spanish football.

90 + 15 min: England win a corner and even Earps is up for this one! It’s in but Coll collects

90 + 14 min: England have a final chance.

90 + 12 min: Carter with a great challenge to take it away from Paralluelo. Spain have two players down now, the referee blows and Spain can clear.

90 + 12 min: Hermoso is being booed here as she goes down with injury.

90 + 11 min: England have a throw in and the crowd get behind the,, this is their last chance but instead Hernandez comes away with it. What a run! Greenwood makes a great tackle though, what a tournament she has had.

90 + 10 min: The corner is in again and Paralluelo almost scores! Wow, so close.

90 + 9 min: Huge block from Bronze, Paralluelo looked to strike to kill this. This does feel like Spain will be lifting the trophy, corner to come. It’s in but it’s headed out for another corner.

90 + 8 min: Also a word on Bronze, yes this hasn’t been her best match but she has had good moments in this final and has had an incredible tournament. England are trying to find an equaliser, it feels too late.

90 + 6 min: The free kick comes in but Bronze is first to it, England now counter.

90 + 6 min: Putellas is fouled by Stanway and Spain win a free kick.

90 + 5 min: A huge ball to Kelly, she passes it into the box but Spain clear. Bronze gives it away, she wins it back but she handballs. Not her best game today.

90 +4 min: Bronze does well to take the ball away from Paralluelo. It’s desperate play from England at the moment, they need to just create one chance.

90 + 3 min: Spain change their taker to wind down the clock, Bronze wins the header and clears.

90 + 3 min: EARPS!! She is unbelievable, she is keeping England in this. She makes another save as Batlle looks to kill this game off. She has done her job today, Spain corner to come.

90 + 2 min: Spain winding down the clock here, it’s good game management from the team. They have been really good today.

90 + 1 min: 13 minutes added, time for England.

90 + 1 min: Caldentey is off for Putellas – she gets a great reception from all in the stadium. The Spain corner to come.

90 min: Bright takes a punt but it’s blocked and picked up by Coll. Paralluelo comes forward and they get in a great position but Carter does well to block Hermoso.

89 min: England in possession once again, James with some great footwork to win a throw in. The Lionesses doing all they can to find an equaliser here but time is ticking.

88 min: Toone is off for England, she gets a great reception. So happy for her getting some time in the final.

87 min: Greenwood boots the free kick up, Bright is even in the box, but Spain deal with it well.

86 min: Hermoso okay to continue. Can England find an equaliser?

86 min: Oh my god this is getting touchy! James is tackled again, this time it does go England’s way. Bronze having some words with Vilda now. Hermoso is now down with injury. It’s chaotic – the referee needs to get a hold of this.

84 min: Bronze with a lovely cross in but it is repelled. It comes back to Bronze but no one is there to pick it up. James is then tackled on the edge of the area but no free kick. Referee should have given that.

Updated

83 min: Greenwood is changing her shirt but she will be back, England playing with 10 while she does so. England back to 11.

82 min: Greenwood is bandaged up and I think she is okay to continue here.

80 min: I think Greenwood will be okay to continue, she has some blood on her shirt so I think they will change that. The defender still down with treatment.

79 min: While we wait for Greenwood to have some treatment Bjorn has got in touch and said: “Earps clearly stepped out before Hermoso kick the ball and it was obvious even before the replay. England got away there.” I need to see more replays to have an opinion!

78 min: Greenwood is fouled by Paralluelo, she gets a yellow for the challenge. This is a head injury here.

Alex Greenwood receives medical attention after sustaining an injury.
Alex Greenwood receives medical attention after sustaining an injury. Photograph: Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/Reuters

Updated

77 min: Greenwood has a lovely ball in but Spain defend well and they come forward again.

76 min: A great bit of play from England but Carmona does really well to prevent a shot. Coll saves a good shot from James, England corner.

76 min: Bronze goes for a long range shot but it is miles over the bar, should have gone for a person in the box there. Gosh my emotions are fried, what an absolute cracker of a final!

74 min: Codina is off for Andres. Thomas has emailed and said: “SAVED. Is that enough for Nike to consider possibly selling Mary Earp’s shirt now pls?” Louder for those at the back!

73 min: Codina is down for a long time and it looks like she is going to subbed.

71 min: The crowd really behind England, Coll with an almost blunder! England need to capitalise.

71 min: Oh my god, Mary Earps. MARY EARPS. Fifa’s Best for a reason.

Mary Earps of England makes the save.
Mary Earps of England makes the save. Photograph: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Updated

PENALTY SAVE! Spain 1-0 England

WHAT A SAVE! Spain’s all-time leading scorer is saved! Justice?

68 min: Penalty awarded, handball from Walsh. England do not look happy.

Keira Walsh of England commits a handball in the box.
Keira Walsh of England commits a handball in the box. Photograph: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images

Updated

67 min: This is a long debate between the officials, I have no nails left!

66 min: The referee has been told to go to the screen, this isn’t looking good for England.

66 min: Bronze is having a word with the referee, I think Walsh’s hand isn’t in an unnatural position.

65 min: Oh. My. Word. Spain come and come again. Now we could have a penalty, does Walsh get a hand to it? VAR are checking.

64 min: Stanway barges Codina and the referee gives Spain another free kick. It’s deep in their half though so they will have to do a lot to get it up there, Carter does well to win it back.

62 min: WHAT A HIT! Bonmati is seeing her name in those Ballon d’Or lights, she makes a stunning strike but it’s just over the bar.

Updated

61 min: Kelly has a great opportunity to cross but it’s out of play. Redondo is off for Hernandez in Spain’s first change, another interesting call as I thought she was one of the best on the pitch. But that’s why I’m sat here and not in the manager seat.

60 min: The crowd are on England’s side I think, a huge cheer coming every time they go forward. James is being crowded whenever she is near the ball. Spain manage to defend for now and Hermoso wins a foul.

Spain’s Salma Paralluelo , left, runs with the ball past England’s Lauren James.
Spain’s Salma Paralluelo , left, runs with the ball past England’s Lauren James. Photograph: Abbie Parr/AP

Updated

58 min: The ball comes in but it is well cleared by Stanway. Walsh with a storming pass to Kelly, they take their time over the effort but Walsh eventually crosses it. Carter can’t quite get on the end of it.

56 min: Another poor throw in from England sees Spain on the attack. Bonmati gets a great run in and Greenwood chases her down but concedes a corner.

Aitana Bonmati of Spain controls the ball against Alex Greenwood of England.
Aitana Bonmati of Spain controls the ball against Alex Greenwood of England. Photograph: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

Updated

55 min: England with some beautiful build-up play, Kelly has a lovely cross and Hemp’s shot is wide. Batlle did so well to mark Hemp there – she is winning the battle there at the moment. Hemp gets a yellow card for a challenge on Codina – slight dive there.

53 min: A long range pass tries to find Paralluelo but Bright marshals it out of play. Dean has said: “England have played high intensity football all through the tournament, especially chasing down ‘lost’ causes. As a result I think they look a little tired.” They don’t look as clinical at the moment but all they need is a chance.

Lauren Hemp of England and Laia Codina of Spain as Alessia Russo makes a run.
Lauren Hemp of England and Laia Codina of Spain as Alessia Russo makes a run. Photograph: Morgan Hancock/Shutterstock

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51 min: Spain have the corner from the Earps save but Stanway boots it away – another corner to come. It’s thundered in but it’s a poor delivery from Abelleira and England clear.

50 min: Kelly does well to repel a chance but Spain just keep coming, Bonmati is found with a nutmeg on Bronze. It eventually comes to Caldentey on the edge of the area, it’s a storming hit and Earps makes a great save. SAVE!

49 min: Spain do really well to read England’s attack and they come forward. Carter does well to cut out a ball heading directly for Bonmati.

Salma Paralluelo of Spain is tackled by Jessica Carter of England.
Salma Paralluelo of Spain is tackled by Jessica Carter of England. Photograph: Dan Himbrechts/AAP

Updated

48 min: England’s free kick is easily dealt with by Spain and they have the ball once again. Kelly then fouls Carmona.

47 min: Spain have an early free kick but deep inside their own half, England pick it up and Kelly wins a free kick. I am stunned at the players who are out, I thought Daly was having a great game.

Back underway! Spain 1-0 England

45 minutes for England to find a goal or Spain will win the title. I was wrong, I think Wiegman has wielded the axe! Russo and Daly out for James and Kelly. Huge calls from the manager.

Rick has emailed and said: “James should be subbed in after halftime, need her creativity. Also, what’s up with these bad throw ins by England, taking possession and making it a fifty fifty ball, throw to an open person and keep possession!” I think Wiegman won’t wield the axe just yet, I think she will look to make changes around 60 minutes. The throws do need to be better.

So how do both teams react? Spain just need to keep their game play, they are executing it really well. But England need to provide some answers to the questions Spain are asking them. They need to be calmer on the ball, keep their heads and not to rush the final pass/shot.

James has got in touch and said: “On one hand I like the positivity in the commentary here and on the telly. But England are getting a lesson here. They have been dismal with the ball. The lack of movement in possession is frightening and was the cause of the goal. Players have zero passing options. If the hoofing was plan A, plan B can’t come quick enough.” I wouldn’t go as far on the criticism as you but yes England aren’t on top here. Bronze not having the best game, she needs to step it up.

Here is the goal that is the difference between the sides so far (the clip is from BBC and so some may not have access):

Half time! Spain 1-0 England

It was a beauty of a Carmona goal to see Spain take the lead! Spain have kept coming and look the deadlier, England have had their moments but Spain are most definitely the team with the upper hand.

Alba Redondo of Spain controls the ball against Rachel Daly of England.
Alba Redondo of Spain controls the ball against Rachel Daly of England. Photograph: Maddie Meyer/FIFA/Getty Images

Updated

45 + 1 min: There will be one minute added.

45 min: The ball is popped in and tries to find Paralluelo but it has too much on it. England get on the edge of the box but Stanway can’t get it in, she should have taken a shot there. Spain win it back and the chance is gone.

England’s Georgia Stanway on the ball.
England’s Georgia Stanway on the ball. Photograph: Morgan Hancock/Shutterstock

Updated

44 min: England piling on some pressure, they do need to be the next to score or this will be a long afternoon for them.

43 min: How, oh how has Toone not scored there?! Russo put in a great ball but she can’t get to it. She would have been offside anyway. How are the nerves everyone? Mine are shattered.

England's Ella Toone misses a shot on goal.
England's Ella Toone misses a shot on goal. Photograph: Zac Goodwin/PA

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42 min: England are having to do a lot of defence here, the latest from Carter wins the ball with a good tackle on Caldentey.

40 min: Spain are growing in this one, England’s bright start has started to fade. Redondo tries to cross it but Daly closes it down, Batlle comes but Daly again clears. The Aston Villa player having a good game so far.

38 min: It’s thumped in and Bright clears but it’s not great and it drops to Paredes, her shot is wide.

37 min: Beau has got in touch and said: “[Carmona] She lifted her shirt after scoring and had a message on her undershirt. I couldn’t tell what it was. What a finish. What a game so far. And kudos to Mary for being awake and watching this with a hurricane bearing down (and thanks for checking in with us commentators throughout this Cup!).” I also couldn’t see what it said, I’ll do my best to find out. Spain on a free kick now.

Olga Carmona of Spain Celebrates the goal.
Olga Carmona of Spain Celebrates the goal. Photograph: Will Murray/Getty Images

Updated

36 min: Bronze has a header but she gives it back to Spain, the pass comes to Paralluelo collects really well – what a touch! Spain retaining the ball now but Bright clears. Here come Spain again though.

34 min: Hemp wants a corner there but Carmona has won a goal kick. Some controlled possession from Spain as Hermoso is almost in the box but Earps collects.

32 min: The question will be how England react here. When they went behind against Colombia they were collected and it seems they have the same mentality here. Hemp gets a good run and it’s a great tackle from Batlle to thwart the chance.

England manager Sarina Wiegman gives instructions to Lauren Hemp.
England manager Sarina Wiegman gives instructions to Lauren Hemp. Photograph: Carl Recine/Reuters

Updated

30 min: Toone thought she was fouled on the build-up, Spain counter and the space opens up! Well worked from Spain, Carmona with a stonking strike. HUGE.

GOAL! Spain 1-0 England (Carmona, 29')

CARMONA! We have a break through, the celebrations are wild.

Mary Earps concedes a goal by Spain's defender #19 Olga Carmona.
Mary Earps concedes a goal by Spain's defender #19 Olga Carmona. Photograph: William West/AFP/Getty Images

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27 min: Andy has got in touch and said: “Petition to make Mary Earp’s nickname Ctrl-S (for saves).” That would be iconic! Spain are trying to get into the box but England clear, Stanway with an interesting pass forward to no one.

26 min: A good delivery again from Greenwood but Spain deal with it really well, England’s ball recovery is great and come again.

25 min: A protestor has entered the field and so there is a delay before we take the free kick.

24 min: Poor clearance from Earps there but England win it back, Hemp is away but Batlle pushes her to the floor – free kick.

23 min: Paralluelo again, the teenager is unbelievable! She crosses and Earps collects before she can find Redondo. England come forward now, Russo lays it into the box but it is just behind Hemp. There is so much action here I can hardly keep up.

21 min: Another England shot as Toone lays it off to Hemp but it is straight at the keeper. What a lively final so far!

20 min: Bonmati rifles it back into the box but Bronze clears, England now counter. It is passed to Russo but her touch is too heavy, Spain can clear. Ezra has got in touch and said: “A word on the stunning England blue kit. I just love the pattern on the shirt, a classy kit for a classy team.” It is a lovely kit!

18 min: WOAH! Spain hitting back immediately, that is what Paralluelo brings! Spain set up a beauty of a cross and it is just a monumental save from Earps to keep them out.

Alba Redondo of Spain crosses the ball while Rachel Daly of England attempts to block.
Alba Redondo of Spain crosses the ball while Rachel Daly of England attempts to block. Photograph: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

Updated

17 min: OH MY GOD! England get into the box, lovely build-up and Hemp thumps the ball but it rattles the woodwork. HUGE! England can’t pick up the rebound and Spain are on the counter. A great run but Carter closes it down for a throw.

Lauren Hemp of England (centre) attempts a shot on goal.
Lauren Hemp of England (centre) attempts a shot on goal. Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP

Updated

16 min: Spain come again with Batlle getting it in the box, the former Manchester United star in her peak form, she gets it to Paralluelo but Greenwood does really well to not concede a corner there. Walsh is fouled and England can clear their lines.

14 min: Greenwood pops in a great delivery but Coll reads it all the way, confident take there. Spain counter and Paralluelo is in acres of space, England manage to clear the cross. My colleague Mabel Banfield-Nwachi is at Box Park and has emailed: “At Wembley Boxpark, fans roar over announcements counting down the minutes until the Women’s World cup final begins. Maya, 15, who is watching the game with her brother and uncle, says she’s a mixture of excited and nervous, but is optimistic about the teams chances. “From where the team are now, to where they were before is a very big accomplishment. I’m very proud of how far they have come,” she says. “I’m very nervous…I just hope we do very good,” she adds.”

12 min: Bright is fouled by Paralluelo and England have a free kick. Earps takes it and England win a throw in. Spain almost get it clear but it’s suddenly in the box from Hemp, Russo slips but wins a corner.

10 min: This game has been very high tempo so far but it’s sting has been tempered slightly with England having some play at the back. Bronze with a huge pass but it only finds Paredes. Spain come forward now through Batlle but Daly does really well.

8 min: Bonmati with a storming run, doing what she does best, and they get the cross in. It doesn’t reach a player but it eventually falls to Redondo but the ball goes out of play. Mary has emailed and said: “This whole tournament has been a shock. And my shock isn’t my USWNT losing so early. Coming in they looked ripe for a upset and they never played up to their potential. My shock is the parity throughout the whole tournament. Only Vietnam looked incapable of winning and the rest of the field was so tough for the Big beast’s. Best WC ever.”

6 min: Hemp creates a great run and she wins a throw in. Bronze throws it in and it comes to Hemp, she gets a shot away but Coll collects. Worth remembering this is just the fourth cap for the Spanish keeper.

England’s Lauren Hemp in action with Spain’s Irene Paredes.
England’s Lauren Hemp in action with Spain’s Irene Paredes. Photograph: Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/Reuters

Updated

4 min: Bronze gets it into the box but Paredes clears. England pop the ball up again through Carter but Coll collects. Spain now have some possession and Paralluelo gets it in, It’s rifled off but Bright blocks Batlle’s shot.

2 min: England with some early possession but Hemp got flattened there. She is back to her feet, okay to continue.

Kick-off! Spain 0-0 England

HERE WE GO! Everything on the line, a new winner will be named today.

John has all the snacks ready for this one! He said: “Kick off is 4am in Calgary, Alberta. Yesterday I raided the ex-pat shops to secure supplies of Twiglets, Ginger Nuts and one precious bag of Flammin’ Hot Monster Munch if we need a little extra something. Come on you #lionesses!”

The atmosphere is electric, the players look bang up for this. The emotion is on an edge! A lot of English fans in with the anthem loud but Spain’s does not have any lyrics so hard to judge. Lucy Bronze beaming, the stage she has always wanted to play on is here.

The players are out at Stadium Australia, the anthems will shortly follow. This is the moment, who will make history? All to come.

Millie Bright has captained England in place of the injured Leah Williamson at this tournament. What’s her story I hear you ask, we’ve got you covered:

Whatever happens in today’s final it is safe to say that Mary Earps is one of, if not the best goalkeeper in the world. Her story is an interesting and inspirational one, you can read it:

Adam has emailed and said: “For -- sadly -- the final time of this tournament, a very good morning to you. No snacks this early in the USA, but we’re edging towards eggs on toast when the time becomes slightly more socially acceptable. What have you got on today? I feel deeply conflicted about this final. I desperately want England to win as an England fan, and I also desperately do not want Jorge Vilda to win. It’s nothing against the Spanish players; far from it. The current generation of Spanish footballers is incredibly talented, plays beautiful football, and I hope they do win major honours -- I just don’t want them to win whilst Vilda is manager. If they do, I worry the RFEF will double down and maybe offer him a new contract, whereas if Spain loses, the RFEF may be forced to sack him. I feel badly wishing ill on Vilda in that way, it’s just that the tension is palpable, it doesn’t appear that he’s helping the situation, and I feel for the Spanish players for having to put up with it. Do you (or indeed any other readers) feel the same/similar?” I think Vilda will stay in his role regardless of the result, getting to a World Cup final is impressive and so the federation may be reluctant to let him go.

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter on women’s football, Moving the Goalposts, by entering your email below. It’s that simple!

The closing ceremony are showing highlights from the tournament, yes it is making me emotional. What a World Cup we have been treated to. So many icons on the stage for the last time with Marta, Rapinoe and Sinclair likely to have bowed out.

Dancers perform during the closing ceremony.
Dancers perform during the closing ceremony. Photograph: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

Updated

The closing ceremony has begun, the stadium is bathed in colour! I shall update you with any highlights.

Thank you Alister for tweeting this:

I’ve also had some messages around who the referee is today, it is USA official Tori Penso. Her compatriots Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt are assistants.

So many things happen at a World Cup it’s hard to keep track. So I’ve written a piece on 10 things we’ve learned from the tournament:

The announcer at Stadium Australia have read the teams over the tannoy and the boos were loud when Jorge Vilda’s name boomed over the speakers.

Jonathan Liew has written about Spain’s unhappy camp, give it a read:

Spain manager Jorge Vilda was asked about the unrest in his squad ahead of the final but he refused to answer questions on it. “Next question please,” was the manager’s response when asked directly by the media, continuing his stance of avoidance this tournament and refusal to apologise. You can read the full piece:

Ravi has got in touch about our shocks of the tournament and has said: “Of all the ‘shocks’, nothing matches the look upon the face of the little girl handed Sam Kerr’s shirt after Australia’s epic quarter-final win against France. That, for me, was one of the moments of the tournament.” It was such a sweet moment!

Take a look at this, the history of women’s football:

A fun fact! If I have counted correctly, there have been 100 different scorers of the 163 goals which have been scored at this World Cup.

A lot of people getting in touch with me about Alexia Putellas being benched. In my opinion it is not as big as others suggest. She hasn’t started every game and she was subbed at around 60 minutes in the semi-final. Also not a bad player to be able to bring on either!

Alexia Putellas

England’s Lucy Bronze making history:

There have been so many shocks at this year’s tournament but I think the one that stunned me the most was Germany going out in the group stage. I was convinced the team were going to at least reach the final, their form was so good at the Euros last year and Alexandra Popp is in her normal scoring ways! Let me know what yours was via Twitter or email.

Here is a good scene setter from a Spanish perspective:

England team news

Sarina Wiegman has opted not to start Lauren James, she is on the bench as she is available after her red card, and so it is an unchanged starting team from the semi-final.

Starting XI: Earps, Bronze, Walsh, Greenwood, Bright, Stanway, Daly, Toone, Hemp, Carter, Russo

Want a little scene setter for this from an English perspective? Have a read of this:

For those of you who will be interested in the weather conditions, here’s what it looks like in Sydney:

Shupiwe is on her way to the final and has emailed: “We’re on the train to the game at the Olympic Park here in Sydney and the train is definitely dominated by.... Australian fans..... followed closely by English fans and a scattering of Spain fans. Hopefully the Aussies get behind England as we all know how loud they can be! Whatever happens, it feels so momentous to be on the train to watch England play in a World Cup final. Come on England!” Yes you are a part of history today, a new champion will be crowned no matter what happens.

Japan may have been knocked out in the quarter-finals by Sweden but their forward Hinata Miyazawa is still leading the Golden Boot race. She scored five goals and made an assist. There are some players in the final who could pip her to the award, check out the race:

Neal has got in touch and said: “No doubt Sarina Wiegman would have studied Spain’s heavy defeat by Japan in their last group game and it was noticeable how much Miyazawa troubled them with her speed, something Hemp can certainly emulate. Hoping for an England win, but I doubt if any team has suffered a four-nil loss on the way to winning a World Cup and if Spain should win, it would be an incredible achievement, especially given the trouble between players and management. However, do you think England have an advantage playing their third game in Sydney, whilst Spain have yet to play here?” I think the only advantage England may have is they have not had to travel as much but I wouldn’t say they have an advantage in terms of playing in the stadium before.

Salma Paralluelo is the break-out star of this Spanish side. Those who watch her at Barcelona would have already known of her star quality but this tournament has allowed her to shine. Have a read about her:

The big selection talk around England today is if Sarina Wiegman will start Lauren James. The Chelsea player was red carded in England’s last 16 match against Nigeria and was handed a two-match ban for standing on Michelle Alozie. She served the ban in the quarter and semi and so is available for the final. But in her place Ella Toone has done a good job, scoring a screamer in the semi-final, so it will be interesting to see which way the England manager sways.

Spain team news

Jorge Vilda has made one change to his starting XI with Alexia Putellas dropping out and Salma Paralluelo coming in.

Starting XI: Coll; Batlle, Paredes, Codina, Carmona; Abelleira, Bonmati, Hermoso; Redondo, Caldentey, Paralluelo.

I did have a post all around the discussion of who Spain would select for today’s final but the team have already released their team news! All the updates next.

Preamble

After 63 games, 163 goals, countless shocks and over 1.7m people in attendance, the Women’s World Cup comes down to Spain v England. The final many would not have predicted pre-tournament but one that has been carved out of a historic and ground-breaking World Cup.

Spain are a team who have been playing with their own unrest as a back drop. A multitude of stars made themselves unavailable for the tournament because of a dispute with head coach Jorge Vilda. It’s also been clear players who have previously not participated in matches for the same reason are not happy in camp, with viral moments on social media showing their frustration.

What Spain do have though is a squad with an abundance of talent and skill. Aitana Bonmati, Alexia Putellas, Jenni Hermoso and Salma Paralluelo are just a few of the stars that have produced performances to overcome the likes of Sweden and Switzerland.

For England, who arguably head into this final as favourites, they have been quietly producing results out of performances that have been criticised. They may not have been at their best at times but they have managed to fight and grind out close matches to reach the final. Their semi-final against co-hosts Australia was one of their best performances yet. Clinical, machinelike and slick – even after the stunning strike from Sam Kerr they remained unshaken.

But the beauty of the game is that while performances and wins can build momentum, one false move in winner-takes-all football and all is lost. So 90 minutes, with the potential for extra time and penalties, stand between these two teams and the trophy. Who will make history? Who will fall at the last hurdle? Kick-off coming in two-and-a-half hours time.

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