Madrid [Spain], July 21: Captain Rodri carried the trophy down the gangway as the Spanish football team returned home on Monday after their second World Cup title won the previous day in the United States.
There was a brief photo stop in front of the plane before players and officials were to continue their celebrations with a reception by King Felipe VI at the royal palace and a welcome by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
The festivities were to culminate in an open top bus parade through the capital, ending in the evening in a ceremony at Cibales Square were Spanish teams traditionally celebrate titles.
Hundreds of thousands of fans were expected and defender Marc Cucurella was anticipating the frenzy.
"We are really looking forward to returning to Spain. many people couldn't be here and we want to celebrate with everyone. I think we deserve a good celebration," Cucurella said post-match.
Spain won a second men's World Cup title on Sunday in the United States from Ferran Torres' extra time goal against Argentina.
The royal family was present at the New Jersey stadium and Sanchez posted on X: "WE ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS. Our national team is tremendous. Thanks, Team."
The latest title - the women are also reigning world champions which makes Spain the first nation to hold both trophies - sparked huge celebrations across the country but also reportedly one tragic death.
Reports said that a 13-year-old boy died in the town of Rodrigo when he was hit by the stone pillar of a fountain which collapsed under the weight of several other people.
Two others were injured as the pillar fell onto those standing in the water of the fountain, local reports said. The town announced a three-day mourning period.
Source: Qatar Tribune
