SPAIN'S World Cup matchwinner was given heartbreaking news after the final that her father had died.<br /><br />Olga Carmona scored the only goal of the women's final against England and was later pictured joyfully kissing the trophy.<br /><br />But hours afterwards the left-back was told of the family tragedy.<br /><br />There was extra poignancy as she had celebrated scoring by raising her jersey to reveal a tribute to a friend's mother, who had died.<br /><br />Carmona explained the meaning of the “Merchi” message after the game.<br /><br />The Spanish FA stated to share their sadness at the death of their goal hero's dad.<br /><br />It read: "The @RFEF deeply regrets to report the death of Olga Carmona's father. The soccer player learned the sad news after the World Cup final.<br /><br />"We send our most sincere hugs to Olga and her family in a moment of deep pain.<br /><br />"We love you, Olga, you are the history of Spanish football."<br /><br />Real Madrid star Carmona, 23, has a 24-year-old brother, Fran, who plays as a center-back for Sevilla C.<br /><br />Spanish outlet Relevo report that Carmona's father passed away before the final but her family kept the news from her so she could focus on the match against the Lionesses.<br /><br />After receiving the news, the left-back tweeted: "And without knowing it, I had my Star before the game started.<br /><br />"I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique.<br /><br />"I know that you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace, Dad."<br /><br />Fans on social media were quick to send their sympathy.<br /><br />One posted: "This is such heartbreaking news. This was supposed to be the best day of her life. She made her father proud."<br /><br />Another wrote: "Can't imagine how those feelings mix, awful to hear. RIP."<br /><br />A third said of her father: "At least he saw his daughter reach the World Cup final and score in the semis." <br /><br />Carmona gave Spain their first-ever Women's World Cup crown by slotting home on 29 minutes.<br /><br />Lionesses' keeper Mary Earps saved a penalty from Jenni Hermoso as Jorge Vilda's Spaniards deservedly triumphed.<br />
