Olga Carmona Told After Women's World Cup Final That Father Has Died

Carmona celebrated her goal by revealing a message on a t-shirt, reading “Merchi” – she said afterwards it was a tribute for a friend whose mother had died

The Real Madrid left-back’s father had been fighting a long illness and died on Friday, Reuters reported.

“I know you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace dad,” Carmona wrote on social media.

Carmona included a picture of her kissing her winners’ medal along with the message.

She added: “And without knowing it, I had my star before the game started. I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique.”

A gold star is added to the shirt of the winners of a World Cup, above the national team crest, every time they win the trophy.

“The RFEF deeply regrets to announce the death of Olga Carmona’s father,” the Spanish Football Association (RFEF) wrote on social media.

“The footballer learned the sad news after the World Cup final.

“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.”

Carmona started five of Spain’s seven games at the World Cup.

Spanish media outlet Relevo said her family and friends decided not to tell her so she could focus on the final, with her mother and brothers arriving in Australia on Saturday to support her.

Her club Real Madrid also expressed “condolences and affection for Olga, her relatives and all her loved ones”.