Spain’s men’s national team paraded the World Cup trophy through Madrid on Monday, a day after beating defending champion Argentina 1-0 in extra time in East Rutherford, New Jersey. An estimated crowd of almost two million greeted the 26-player squad and coaching staff.
The team first met King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, then traveled by open-top bus from near Moncloa Palace to Cibeles Square. In Gaza, Palestinians watched and celebrated Spain’s win at cafes and outdoor screenings, with support tied to Spain’s recognition of Palestinian statehood and criticism of Israel’s war. (If President Trump hears of this, tariffs may go up again on Spain.)
The Argentine squad returned to Buenos Aires without captain Lionel Messi. Argentine players, including Messi, showed unsportsmanlike conduct in their loss, and even refused to congratulate the winners. FIFA said its disciplinary committee appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of its code after post-match incidents between Spain and Argentina players.
[PICTURED: The celebration in Madrid.]
