'They will roar again': Lionesses miss out on World Cup title after defeat to Spain

There was heartbreak in Sydney today after England's Lionesses missed out on the World Cup title following a 1-0 defeat to Spain.

A single goal from Spain's Olga Carmona saw La Roja make footballing history as they clinched their first ever World Cup title.

The England side have still made history after becoming the first Lionesses squad to reach the final stage of the World Cup. Sweden took the tournament's third place after beating hosts Australia in the third-place play-offs.

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A nervy first half saw Spain the dominant side as England struggled to fnd their rhythm. A promising shot from Lauren Hemp came inches too high and hit the crossbar, but England looked tense as Spain relaxed onto the game.

The reds took the lead with a 29th minute goal from Olga Carmona, the highlight of a first 45 minutes that were all La Roja.

Two half-time changes saw ex Manchester United star Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly replaced by Lauren James and Manchester City's Chloe Kelly.

Nerves reached breaking point as Spain were handed a penalty following Keira Walsh's handball in the area - but an exceptional save from Manchester United keeper Mary Earps kept the Lionesses in the game.

The Lionesses seemed buoyed by the save and found some momentum, with Chloe Kelly making excellent runs down the side and getting close to goal with several chances. But Spain were quick on the rebound, and forced Earps to make another crucial save.

In the closing stages after a long tournament the Lionesses looked tired, and it was Spain who were ultimately more clinical in one of the biggest games in football.

England have had a grinding but solid tournament,