Nearly two million fans line Madrid streets as Spain celebrate World Cup triumph

Nearly two million fans flooded the streets of Madrid on Monday as Spain’s national football team celebrated its World Cup triumph with an open-top bus parade, a day after defeating Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final in New Jersey.

Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute to seal Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title, ending Argentina’s reign as champions.

The squad returned to Madrid on Monday afternoon and began the celebrations with official receptions hosted by King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, both of whom had travelled to New Jersey to watch the final. The King hailed the team’s unity during the reception.

The players then boarded an open-top bus from Moncloa Palace, the Prime Minister’s official residence, for a victory parade through central Madrid. An estimated 1.8 million supporters lined the route, waving Spanish flags and chanting as the team made its way to the city’s iconic Plaza de Cibeles.

Around 120,000 more fans had gathered at the square, where they were entertained by live performances before the team arrived late in the evening. Players took turns lifting the World Cup trophy and joined supporters in songs and celebrations despite temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius. Defender Marc Cucurella drew loud cheers after taking to the drums during the festivities.

The celebrations, however, were marred by tragedy. A 13-year-old fan died in the town of Ciudad Rodrigo after being struck by part of a fountain where people had gathered to celebrate. Police also arrested three people, while around 30 others required medical treatment following violent incidents during celebrations in Barcelona.