Having created the best chances of their Semi-Final, a Laura Bassett own goal deep into stoppage time ensured an agonising 2-1 defeat against Japan.
“There’s no words to describe it really” the defender told BBC Sport.
England 1-2 Japan
FIFA Women's World Cup 2015
Semi-Final
Thursday 2 July
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
“The only thing I want to say is that I’m so proud of all the girls and staff and we’ve been on an amazing journey.
“There’s not been one player with any ounce of energy left out on that pitch, but that’s football and it can be cruel at times.”
Mark Sampson’s side will now face fellow losing semi-finalists Germany in the third-place play-off on Saturday evening.
Fara Williams converted a penalty to equalise before the break
Having enjoyed great support from those back at home, Houghton says that the pride in wearing the Three Lions will drive them on to try and finish their time in Canada in winning fashion.
“I think we can hold our heads high and we have to pick ourselves up to go and play against Germany,” she added.
“The squad has shown great character and a desire to win and a big passion to play for England.
“There’s a group of girls that give everything for the jersey and we have to take that into the game on Saturday. We want to finish third if we can.”
