Having won their first women’s major tournament 13 months earlier with victory over Germany at Euro 2022, England had high hopes of backing that up against Spain in Sydney.
It wasn’t to be.
The Lionesses, looking to become the first senior England side since the men’s team in 1966 to win a World Cup, were outplayed by a Spanish side full of flair and creativity.
Spain captain Olga Carmona slotted the winner past goalkeeper Mary Earps in the first half, capitalising after England’s Lucy Bronze lost possession in midfield.
Would a repeat be likely on Sunday? Not necessarily.
England beat the world champions at Wembley in February – the last team to do so – although Spain won their most recent meeting 2-1 on 3 June.
The Lionesses’ overall record in the fixture is also decent, losing just five of 19 competitive fixtures.
“I don’t think England will see themselves as underdogs – they’re European champions,” former England defender Fara Williams said on BBC One.
“Yes, Spain beat them in the World Cup final but this is their trophy. They’ve got to hand it over and they’re not going to want to do that. They’re not going to lie down and make it easy for Spain.
“I think they know they can beat Spain.”
Houghton agrees.
“I don’t think the [World Cup final] will be in the back of England’s minds,” she told BBC Radio 5 Live. “This is a fresh slate and there are a lot of new players.”
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