Spain’s World Cup-winning squad received a rapturous welcome after returning home following their 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final.
Around two million supporters packed the streets of Madrid to celebrate La Roja’s latest global success as players paraded the trophy through the Spanish capital.
Captain Rodri proudly carried the World Cup trophy after the team’s arrival at Barajas Airport, while the jubilant squad acknowledged cheering fans from an open-top bus.
The celebrations reflected Spain’s dominant tournament campaign, which culminated in a hard-fought victory over Argentina.
Yamal’s Banner Sparks Laughter During Victory Parade
One of the most talked-about moments of the celebrations came from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who appeared to poke fun at Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes over the controversial scenes that unfolded after the final whistle.
Yamal displayed a sign reading, “Velada del Año VII: Paredes vs Gavi,” referencing Spain’s hugely popular celebrity boxing event.
The joke alluded to Paredes’ altercation with Spain substitute Gavi during the chaotic post-match confrontation, drawing laughter from supporters gathered along the parade route.
The Barcelona forward’s playful dig quickly spread across social media, becoming one of the defining images of Spain’s victory celebrations.
Violent Clashes Tarnish World Cup Final
While Spain lifted football’s biggest prize, the closing moments of the final descended into disorder.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes came under intense criticism after grabbing defender Eric Garcia by the throat before shoving Gavi to the ground, triggering a mass confrontation involving players from both teams.
The disciplinary problems extended beyond Paredes.
Midfielder Enzo Fernandez was dismissed after collecting a second yellow card following a heavy challenge on Pau Cubarsi, leaving Argentina to finish the contest with ten men.
Paredes also escaped an earlier dismissal after another controversial challenge late in normal time, with many observers believing he was fortunate to remain on the pitch.
Fernandez Defends Argentina’s Mentality
Despite widespread criticism of Argentina’s conduct, Fernandez insisted the squad had represented their country with honour throughout the tournament.
The midfielder said the team had always competed with pride, determination and commitment, arguing that wearing Argentina’s shirt remained the greatest honour of his career.
He also thanked supporters for their unwavering backing, promising to continue giving everything whenever selected to represent the national team.
His comments came despite criticism that Argentina’s aggressive behaviour had overshadowed their football during the tournament’s closing stages.
BBC Pundits Condemn Argentina’s Behaviour
Several former players working as BBC analysts strongly criticised Argentina’s conduct after the final.
Micah Richards described the scenes as embarrassing, saying the South American side repeatedly pushed the limits throughout the match and insisting Paredes should have known better.
Joe Hart labelled the incidents “disgusting behaviour,” adding that Lionel Messi was the only Argentine player who demonstrated genuine class during the confrontation.
Wayne Rooney echoed those views, arguing Argentina had failed to accept defeat with dignity.
He suggested the outbursts reflected frustration after being outplayed and said Fernandez’s sending-off was deserved.
Alan Shearer also criticised the losing finalists, saying there is a proper way to handle defeat and praising Spain as deserving champions because of the quality of their football.
Messi Also Faces Criticism During Heated Finale
Even Argentina captain Lionel Messi found himself under scrutiny late in the contest.
After Fernandez’s dismissal sparked another confrontation, Messi attempted to draw the referee’s attention to Marc Cucurella after the Spanish defender briefly covered his mouth while speaking.
Tournament regulations allow players to be sent off for covering their mouths in confrontational situations, but match officials and VAR judged that Cucurella’s actions did not warrant punishment.
The incident drew criticism from television pundits, with Hart admitting he was disappointed by Messi’s attempt to influence the referee.
Rooney described it as an act of desperation, while Richards argued no one wanted to see a World Cup final decided by such incidents.
Spain Keeps the Party Under Control
Although celebrations erupted among supporters in Madrid, Spain’s players opted for a relatively restrained evening before returning home.
Rodri led songs aboard the team bus as players travelled from the stadium to their hotel before departing for Newark Airport in the early hours.
At the hotel, Marcos Llorente reportedly shared a premium bottle of Château Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve 2014 with Ferran Torres and Marc Pubill before the squad boarded their Airbus flight.
Upon landing in Madrid, the players emerged carrying the World Cup trophy high above their heads, where hundreds of thousands of fans—and eventually millions lining the city’s streets—welcomed them home to celebrate Spain’s latest footballing achievement.
