WORLD CUP 2010: Champions Spain return to a hero's welcome in Madrid

By Sportsmail Reporter Updated: 10:24 EDT, 12 July 2010

World champions Spain received a hero's welcome as they touched down in Madrid today.

After winning the World Cup by beating Holland 1-0 in Johannesburg on Sunday night, the jubilant players arrived to a rapturous reception at Barajas airport.

On top of the world: Captain Iker Casillas holds up the World Cup beside the Spain manager Vicente del Bosque at Barajas Airport

A big crowd roared with delight as the players - led by skipper Iker Casillas holding the trophy - walked down the steps on to the tarmac.

The players headed off for a siesta before they are due to attend a reception hosted by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero in the Spanish capital.

Around a million fans are expected to line the streets of Madrid when the players take part in an open-top bus parade from 6pm UK time.

Heroes: Xavi (left) and Andres Iniesta enjoy the attention at Barajas airport

The plane carrying the squad and staff - complete with a Spanish flag flying from the front - landed just before 2pm local time.

The plane was emblazoned with the word 'Campeones', while two fire engines also made a guard of honour with their jet streams.

Emotional: Iker Casillas holds the trophy on the tarmac

Casillas, who cried after victory on Sunday, again appeared to be on the verge of tears as he led his team across the tarmac.

Spain won the World Cup for the first time ever after Andres Iniesta's extra-time goal at the Soccer City Stadium.

Main men: Spain's players pose with the World Cup trophy on their flight

Flying the flag: The colours of the national team are on show out of the pilot's window