20 August 2023 , 13:10
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England boss Sarina Wiegman showed her class by admitting the best team won following the Lionesses World Cup final defeat by Spain.
The Lionesses had already made history by becoming the first senior England side since 1966 to reach the last two, however, Olga Carmona's goal saw La Roja pip them to the trophy in the showpiece fixture at Stadium Australia. It was a subpar showing from England, with goalkeeper Mary Earps forced into several brilliant saves, including one from the penalty spot to deny Jenni Hermoso.
It was only England's second defeat in two years under Wiegman, but the Dutchwoman conceded Spain were the better team on the day in Sydney and offered her congratulations to Jorge Vilda's side.
"I think everyone has seen an incredible game, a very open game between two teams that wanted to play football," she told BBC Sport. "I think the first half we struggled but we changed to a 4-4-3 in the second. 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.
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"Of course it feels really bad now, very very disappointing. You go into the final and you want to give everything and then you lose it.
"That happens in sports too but what we have done, how we have shown ourselves, who we are, how we want to play as a team, overcoming so many challenges, I think we can be so proud of ourselves now although it doesn't feel like it at the moment."
England captain Millie Bright also had her say on Sunday's defeat. She told ITV Sport: “It’s hard, but it’s football. It can go either way. They're a fantastic team.
"First half wasn't our best, second half we had chances – we hit the bar. Congrats to them but this is the hard part of football. A lot of emotion (right now) but I’m really proud of the team. To come this far, to play in the World Cup final, not many get to do that. This is not it for us, we’ll bounce back."
King Charles sent a message to the Lionesses following their defeat. He said: "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. Charles R."