In the 29th minute of the Women’s World Cup Final, Olga Carmona scored the biggest goal of her life.
The Spanish left back Carmona celebrated what became the eventual game-winning goal by revealing the word “Merchi” on her undershirt in memory of a friend’s mother who had recently died.
After winning the World Cup against England, Carmona, 23, learned that her own father had passed away, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced.
“We deeply regret that we must announce the death of Olga Carmona’s father,” the RFEF wrote in a short statement, in which they posted on social media. “[Carmona] learned of the sad news after the World Cup final. We send our deepest condolences to Olga and her family at this time of deep sorrow.”
Carmona’s club, Real Madrid, also released a statement regarding the death of the World Cup hero’s father.
“Real Madrid, the president and the board of directors are deeply saddened by the passing of the father of our player Olga Carmona,” the statement read. “Real Madrid would like to extend our condolences and heartfelt sympathy to Olga, her family and all her loved ones. May he rest in peace.”
An RFEF spokesperson informed Reuters that Carmona’s father had been fighting a lengthy illness and passed away on Friday, two days before the World Cup Final.
According to Reuters, Carmona’s mother and brothers traveled to New Zealand during the group stage of the World Cup.
Carmona posted on social media hours after the news broke, addressing her father’s passing for the first time publicly.
“And without knowing it, I had my Star before the game started,” she wrote. “I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique. I know that you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace, dad.”
In the World Cup semifinal on Tuesday, Carmona also scored a goal in the match’s 89th minute to afford Spain a trip to the Final, giving them a 2-1 win over Sweden.
Real Deal Team