Spain’s soccer captain Olga Carmona, who scored her country’s winning goal in the Women’s World Cup final, learned after the game that her father had died.
Carmona, 23, scored the only goal of the game and led her side to a 1-0 win over England.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced the death of Carmona’s father in a statement on Sunday.
“The RFEF deeply regrets to announce the death of Olga Carmona’s father. “The footballer learned the sad news after the World Cup final,” it said, according to a translation into Spanish.
“In a moment of deep pain, we send our sincerest hugs to Olga and her family. We love you Olga, you are the history of Spanish football,” the association continued.
A few hours later, Carmona paid tribute to her father on social media.
“And without knowing it, I had my star before the game even started” Carmona wrote, according to a translation. “I know you gave me the strength to achieve something unique. I know you’ve been watching me tonight and you’re proud of me. Rest in peace dad.”
A spokesman for the Royal Spanish Football Federation said Carmona’s father had been through a long illness and died on Friday. Reuters reported.
Carmona’s family and friends did not tell her about the death to protect her headspace before the finale. according to the Spanish media company Relevo. Her mother and brothers reportedly flew to Australia on Saturday to support her.