The French World Cup squad have been welcomed home by thousands of soccer fans following their dramatic defeat against Argentina.
Teammates including Kylian Mbappe, who scored a thrilling hat-trick on Sunday World cup finale – arrived at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle airport on Monday night, where staff applauded them as they departed the plane.
A coach then led the team into the heart of the capital, where thousands braved the dreary cold December conditions to welcome them.
Fans gathered in the Place de la Concorde square set off fireworks, waved French tricolors and chanted “Allez Les Bleus” and the French national anthem, cheering with delight as the team appeared on the balcony of the prestigious Hotel de Crillon.
France fans gather at the Place de la Concorde in Paris
Coach Didier Deschamps and team captain Hugo Lloris greeted the crowd, then joined by their teammates, including Mbappe, who caused a huge roar from the fans.
But the team could not hide their heartbreak at the loss, with Mbappe and Olivier Giroud struggling to smile as they touched down at the airport.
Kylian Mbappé arrives at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris
Olivier Giroud arrives at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
Frenchman Matteo Guendouzi and his teammates arrive at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris
France’s hopes of a second World Cup victory were dashed in the thrilling final that saw them beaten 4-2 on penalties by Argentina, who won their third title.
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Captain Lionel Messi scored twice in a 3-3 draw, as Mbappe rallied the champions 2-0 and 3-2 down.
