Just hours after a starring performance in the Women’s World Cup final, Spain captain Olga Carmona found out her father had died.

Carmona scored the goal that earned Spain a 1-0 win over England in the 29th minute as they secured their first Women’s World Cup title.

The Spanish FA (RFEF) confirmed the news while the team was travelling home after the final.

“The RFEF deeply regrets to announce the death of Olga Carmona’s father. The footballer learned the sad news after the World Cup final,” the Spanish FA said on social media.

“We send our most sincere embrace to Olga and her family in a moment of deep sorrow. We love you, Olga, you are Spanish soccer history.”

An RFEF spokesperson told Reuters that Carmona’s father had been fighting a long illness and passed away on Friday.

According to Spanish media outlet Relevo, Carmona’s family and friends decided not to tell her so that she could focus on the World Cup final.

Olga Carmona shouts after scoring Spain's goal against England at the Women's World Cup.

Olga Carmona scored the winner for Spain in the World Cup final.(Getty Images: Brendon Thorne)

Carmona’s club side Real Madrid released a statement offering condolences to her and her family.

The Spanish team had little time to enjoy their final success, as by the time the on-field presentations, celebrations and media commitments had ended it had just two hours to get to the airport for a flight home.

Carmona was named player of the match for her star turn in the final.

ABC/wires

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