For the first time in history, USA win back-to-back world titles. For the first time at France 2019, the Stars and Stripes were held goalless by half-time. But in the second half, a converted penalty by adidas Golden Ball and Boot winner Megan Rapinoe and a wonderful strike by breakout star Rose Lavelle made the difference in Lyon.
Netherlands, who played in their first final can hold their heads high despite the defeat to the USA as they had a wonderful run in the World Cup.
USA extend their record with four Women’s World Cup trophies as France 2019 comes to a close.
In their third play-off for third, Sweden took home bronze once more (after 1991 and 2011) thanks to an early pair of goals by Kosovare Asllani and Sofia Jakobsson which shell-shocked their English opponents.
The Lionesses looked to have leveled with a quick fire pair of goals of their own – but Ellen White’s effort was ruled out for handball, after a VAR review, following Fran Kirby’s fine solo effort which had reduced the deficit. Phil Neville’s side go home empty-handed, while the Swedish celebrations continue into the Nice night.
