The Young Matildas' FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup campaign has ended at the pool stage following a 3-0 defeat by European champions Spain in Alajuela, Costa Rica.

Spain were too clinical in front of goal for the Australians, with Inma Gabarro's hat-trick enough to send Spain to the knockout phase and Australia back home.

The loss followed Australia's bright opening 3-1 win over Costa Rica and a rain-soaked 2-0 defeat by South American champions Brazil.

Coach Leah Blayney made changes to the starting XI with Abbey Lemon, Jessika Nash, and Charlie Rule earning starts while Sarah Hunter took over as captain.

The Young Matildas were able to press Spain's defence and cause turnovers and had their chances to score through Bryleeh Henry, Lemon and Daniela Galic.

But Spain made them pay in defence, with Gabarro scoring her goals in the 18th, 24th and 61st minutes.

The Spaniards enjoyed 59 per cent of possession and managed 13 shots at goal to Australia's nine.