Spain unites in joy at second World Cup crown

Thousands danced in the streets, set off fireworks, and launched red flares in Madrid as the party went on into the early hours of Monday after Spain beat Argentina 1-0 to win the World Cup. Waving red and gold flags, Spaniards and fans from around the world watched as La Roja realized the dream of winning the trophy for the second time following an extra-time goal by Ferran Torres in New Jersey.

As red flares pierced the night and revellers sang “A Viva España,” Mario, from Barcelona, said he had traveled from the Catalan capital to Madrid to watch the match. “I drove here from Barcelona to see the game with the fans here in Madrid because I am from Barcelona. And tomorrow we’ll wait for the players here to celebrate with them,” he told Reuters. Islem took a flight from Tunisia to Madrid to join the celebrations, saying: “I know it was worth it and I knew they would win, Viva España.”

Alvaro, who had come from Malaga to Madrid to watch the game on a giant screen, was overcome by Spain’s victory. “I’m so happy. It’s so beautiful!” he said early on Monday morning. After a tense match that went to extra time, fans exploded in joy in cities and towns across Spain as the final whistle blew in New York.

In Barcelona, where many of the Spanish team play for the national team, the celebration was particularly poignant in the neighborhood of Rocafonda, the hometown of teenage forward Lamine Yamal. On the community pitch where Lamine honed his skills as a boy, there is a mural featuring the player who has become a symbol of what is possible. Lamine, born in Spain to a Moroccan father and a mother from Equatorial Guinea, has never forgotten his roots. Throughout his career, he has honored Rocafonda with his trademark “304” hand gesture after scoring goals, a reference to the neighborhood’s postal code. During the World Cup, he sported a headband with “Rocafonda” on it, wore the flags of his parents’ countries of origin on his boots, and said football was an example of racial and social integration.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez posted on X “We are World Champions!! Our national team was great!” The victory marks Spain’s second World Cup crown, cementing the team’s place in football history. The celebrations across the country reflected the unity and pride of a nation that had come together to support its team. From Madrid to Barcelona, from Rocafonda to the rest of the world, the joy of victory was shared by millions. As the players returned home, they were greeted as heroes, with the nation’s gratitude and admiration following them wherever they went. Spain’s triumph is a testament to the talent, determination, and spirit of its players, and a moment that will be remembered for generations.