Spain, who are ranked 11th, took an early two-goal lead via Mario Lopez and Berta Bonastre before Kathryn Slattery tapped in from close range in the 40th minute.

However, Alicia Magaz sealed the bronze medal for Spain 11 minutes later.

“It was extremely tough. We played a great match yesterday (against the Netherlands) and it was a shame we couldn’t replicate that match from yesterday," Australian defender Jodie Kenny said.

“We were up and about ready for it and we were just outplayed. It’s extremely disappointing to out fourth but in the overall scheme it’s a good effort from us,” she said.

It is the third time that Australia has finished fourth in World Cup, while it’s Spain’s best-ever placing, having come fourth in 2006.

“I think there’s a lot to be proud of in how we played. We matched up against some of the best teams in the world and played some really amazing hockey but we’re disappointed we couldn’t finish it at the business end,” Kenny said.

In the gold medal match, world number ones, the Netherlands, as they secured their eighth title in a 6-0 win over Ireland.