Spain Welcomes World Cup Champions with 2 Million Fans; Argentina Offers Comfort to Runners-Up

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The Spanish and Argentine national football teams, who faced off in the North and Central American World Cup final, have returned home. The Spanish team, which reclaimed the throne after 16 years, enjoyed the joy of victory amidst the cheers of 2 million people, while the Argentine team, which finished as runners-up, also received warm consolation from their fans.

Reporter Hong Seok-jun has the story.

[Reporter]

The Spanish national football team, having finished a World Cup journey that was longer and more spectacular than ever, returned to the capital, Madrid, led by captain Rodri.

The squad, proudly hoisting the World Cup trophy, immediately visited the Royal Palace to receive praise from King Felipe VI.

[Felipe VI / King of Spain: Those two stars that shine brightly upon Spain, you will now carry them in your hearts forever.]

And then, they enjoyed the time of celebration.

Two million people gathered at the Plaza de Cibeles, a famous landmark in Madrid, to passionately welcome the heroes on their victory parade.

The heat of the festival did not cool down even after the sun went down.

[Rodri / Captain of the Spanish National Football Team: Long live the King! Long live Spain!]

Next-generation ace Lamine Yamal drew laughter with his playful expressions, while starting defender Marc Cucurella transformed into a drummer and forward Borja Iglesias into a rapper, fully unleashing their excitement and talent.

The Argentine national team, which finished as runners-up after failing to cross the final threshold, also returned to the capital, Buenos Aires.

The players' expressions were heavy, but as countless fans gathered despite the inclement weather to send their gratitude and comfort,

[Thank you! Thank you!]

The players' faces gradually brightened.

As the bus carrying the players entered the city, fans sent unsparing cheers just as they did when they won four years ago.

[Argentine Football Fan: Thank you, Messi. Thank you to the entire national team. The important thing is that you brought us joy.]

Messi, who did not return to Argentina and headed straight to Miami where his club is based, posted on social media, saying, "The pain is very great, and it seems it will take time for the wounds to heal," but added, "However, I will cherish all the good memories," reflecting on his 6th World Cup journey.

(Video Editing: Wi Won-yang, Graphics: Park Tae-young)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.