MADRID - Spain’s World Cup winners were hailed by the country’s king on July 20 in Madrid after returning from the United States with the game’s most desired trophy in tow.

King Felipe VI and the royal family met the Spanish delegation, led by captain Rodri and coach Luis de la Fuente, at Zarzuela Palace before the players continue their journey into the city with a million fans expected to celebrate with them.

“You have shown your grit, your resilience and your courage, always backed by your technical skill, your control and command of the game, combining head and heart,” the king told La Roja’s stars, who were dressed in suits.

Spain beat Argentina on July 19 in extra-time thanks to Ferran Torres’s strike to clinch their second World Cup, following a first victory in 2010.

The king was joined by Queen Letizia, who wore a red dress to match the colour of the Spanish team’s jerseys, and their two daughters, Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia.

Felipe greeted and shook hands with each player, leaning in for a hug with Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

The king told the players they had been “united” on their “odyssey” to win the expanded 48-team tournament.