Spain narrowly defeats England to win first-ever Women's World Cup

Spain began this tournament with two dominant, thumping victories against Costa Rica and Zambia, scoring eight goals in two games while conceding zero.

It lost to Japan after it had already qualified for the knockout rounds, and responded to that humiliation by hammering Switzerland and beating European powerhouses the Netherlands and Sweden.

While this World Cup Final appeared close on paper, Spain dominated the match across every statistic, from possession (58%) to shots (13 in total to England's eight.) Its superior passing ability — and moments of individual brilliance — lifted it above an England team that looked nervous and stodgy from the jump.

England's best player was goalkeeper Mary Earps, who went to heroic lengths to keep her team in the match as Spain grew more and more confident. She saved a penalty in the 70th minute and earned the tournament's Golden Glove award for her efforts.

"It's really hard to take," England defender Millie Bright said after the match. "We are absolutely heartbroken but unfortunately we weren't there today."

For Spain, this victory means everything — but it comes with plenty of controversy.

The team entered this World Cup on the back of a coaching scandal, with 15 different Spanish players refusing to play for coach Jorge Vildas amid accusations of disrespect and a lack of technical knowledge behind the scenes. 

While all but three of those 15 players came back in time for the World Cup, they never wavered on their core belief: that they were getting results in spite of their coach, not in partnership with him.

Before the final, Vildas was asked how he was working to repair relationships with his players.

"Next question, please," he responded.

For the players part, they all kept their heads down and played to the best of their ability, from the first kick of this World Cup to the last. They'll cherish this well-earned World Cup trophy, and they'll use it to fight for respect and equality within the Spanish soccer landscape.

"Clubs should support women's football to give us the same opportunities," Spanish defender Irene Paredes said. "We can do very beautiful and important things."