Sepp Blatter hails "inspiring" England Women

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has praised the performance of the England Women's side following their third-place finish at the 2015 Women's World Cup.

Fara Williams scored from the spot in extra time of last night's third-place playoff against Germany Women to ensure that the Lionesses finished the tournament as Europe's top team following their dramatic semi-final exit just days earlier.

Blatter, who was not in attendance at the match due to ongoing commitments in Zurich, took time out to praise Mark Sampson's side following their display.

"An inspiring performance by the Lionesses in Canada. Congratulations @england on making #FIFAWWC history," the outgoing FIFA chief wrote on Twitter.

The final of the Women's World Cup takes place tonight as USA face Japan.