France’s World Cup squad was welcomed by thousands of football fans after their dramatic loss to Argentina.
His teammates, including Kylian Mbappe – who scored a thrilling hat-trick on Sunday world Cup final – arrived at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport on Monday evening, where staff applauded them as they departed the plane.
A coach then took the team to the heart of the capital, where thousands of people defied the drab, cold December conditions to welcome them.
Fans gathered in Place de la Concorde shot off fireworks, waved French tricolor flags and chanted “Allez Les Bleus” and the French national anthem, cheering happily as the team appeared on the balcony of the prestigious Hotel de Crillon.
Coach Didier Deschamps and team captain Hugo Lloris waved to the crowd, later joined by their team-mates including Mbappe – who drew a huge roar from the fans.
But the team couldn’t hide their grief at their defeat, with Mbappe and Olivier Giroud struggling to smile as they landed at the airport.
Kylian Mbappé arrives at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
Olivier Giroud arrives at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
Matteo Guendouzi and his French teammates arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
France’s hopes of a second World Cup victory were dashed in the bitter final which saw them beaten 4-2 on penalties by Argentina, who won their third title.
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Argentina celebrate as Messi joins Maradona in bringing home the World Cup
Captain Lionel Messi scored twice in the 3-3 draw, as Mbappe brought the holders 2-0 down and 3-2 down.
