Lionesses 'heartbroken' by World Cup final defeat as King and Prince William send tributes

20 August 2023, 11:07 | Updated: 20 August 2023, 15:17

The King, Prince William and Rishi Sunak praised the Lionesses after their narrow defeat in the World Cup final.

Spain beat England 1-0 thanks to a goal from Olga Carmona in the 29th minute.

Captain Millie Bright said the players are "absolutely heartbroken" after the defeat, but added: "We gave it everything."

Prince William tweeted his admiration for the England women's side.

He wrote: "Although it’s the result none of us wanted, Lionesses, you have done yourselves and this nation proud.

"Your spirit & drive have inspired so many people and paved the way for generations to come. Thank you for the footballing memories. Congratulations to Spain."

Rishi Sunak also gave his praise, tweeting: "You left absolutely nothing out there Lionesses.

"It wasn't to be, but you've already secured your legacy as game changers.

"We are all incredibly proud of you."

Read more: 'Sorry we can't be there': Prince William apologises for missing World Cup final as Lionesses prepare to face Spain

Read more: 'Roar to victory': King Charles' message to Lionesses ahead of World Cup showdown

King Charles added to the tributes, writing: "While I know how sore today's result must be, let none of you feel defeated, for to have reached the finals at all is an immense tribute to your skill, determination and team spirit in the finest sporting tradition."

Coach Sarina Wiegman made two surprise substitutions at half-time, bringing on Lauren James and Chloe Kelly for Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly.

Both sides hit the woodwork in a dramatic first half of football, in which Spain largely dominated.

England found themselves more in the game during a largely uneventful second half, but couldn't gain a foothold.

Mary Earps let Kiera Walsh off the hook when she saved a penalty by Jennifer Hermoso mid-way through the second half, awarded after a clear handball by Walsh.

Spain secured their first Women' World Cup trophy at the expense of England, who also would have won their first.

It was the first football World Cup final played by an England team since 1966.

England forward Lauren James started on the bench, having returned from a two-game suspension after a red card against Nigeria in the round of 16.

Prince William and Rishi Sunak were among those who sent messages to the Lionesses ahead of the match, having been criticised for failing to attend the game at Stadium Australia.

Urging the squad to "roar to victory", the King also released a message next to a picture of a lion and the royal crest.

"Good luck today lionesses and may you roar to victory! Charles R" the message read.

The royal decree followed a video message from Prince William and daughter Princess Charlotte, wishing the squad good luck ahead of Sunday's final against European rivals Spain

The royal, who is the president of the Football Association (FA), will not attend the women's final in Australia due to the supposed 'large carbon footprint' a trans-Atlantic flight would create.

Andrew Castle is surprised that Prince William will not be at Lionesses' first World Cup final

It comes as Queen Letizia of Spain travelled to Stadium Australia in order to cheer on England's European rivals.

"Sorry we can't be there," said William taking to X - formerly Twitter, adding: “Lionesses, we want to send you a huge good luck for tomorrow.

“We’re sorry we can’t be there in person, but we’re so proud of everything you’ve achieved and the millions you’ve inspired here and around the world. So go out there tomorrow and really enjoy yourselves,” William said.

Another high profile Brit who didn't make the 10,000 mile journey is Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who blamed "unavoidable" diary commitments for his lack of attendance.

The PM instead sent Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer to Australia in his place to represent the UK Government.

Nick Ferrari responds to Prince William and others not going to the Lionesses' first World Cup final