Spain beat England to win first Women's World Cup

Spain's defender #02 Ona Batlle (L) and England's forward #18 Chloe Kelly (R) fight for the ball during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women's World Cup final football match between Spain and England at Stadium Australia in Sydney on 20 August 2023. AFP - IZHAR KHAN

Spain won the Women's World Cup for the first time after beating England 1-0 in the final on Sunday.

Captain Olga Carmona scored in the 29th minute, drilling in from the left of the area after England lost possession in midfield and Spain countered quickly to take advantage in the clash at Stadium Australia.

Spain were awarded a penalty shortly after the hour mark for a handball by midfielder Keira Walsh. However, goalkeeper Mary Earps saved Jennifer Hermoso's spot kick by diving to her left.

Spain's forward #18 Salma Paralluelo (CL), England's defender #05 Alex Greenwood (R) and England's midfielder #04 Keira Walsh (CR) fight for the ball during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women's World Cup final football match between Spain and England at Stadium Australia in Sydney on 20 August 2023. AFP - SAEED KHAN

England coach Sarina Wiegman made a number of changes, including bringing on forward Lauren James, but they could not find an equaliser as Spain clung on to win their first major title.

(with Reuters)