Real Madrid

Neither the rain, the Easter holiday nor the late hours prevented Real Madrid fans from turning out by the thousands to celebrate the Copa del Rey title won at Mestalla against Barcelona. More than 150,000 people gathered at the emblematic plaza in Madrid for the festivities.

Shortly after Undiano Mallenco blew the final whistle in Mestalla, 352 kilometers away the first Madridistas began arriving at Cibeles chanting "Campeones, campeones!" Fans continued pouring into the surrounding area throughout the night decked out in scarves, shirts and flags and filling the night air with plenty of song.

Madrid City Hall also contributed for the first time ever with its façade transformed into a screen displaying light effects including the Real Madrid crest. The Madridista anthem began playing at approximately 0:45 as the thousands already on hand awaited their heroes.

The wait finally ended at 4:15 when the convertible double decker bus appeared through the multitudes. Castellana Boulevard was packed to the brim and the noise was relentless. The unity between players and fans culminated with the champions one by one making their way along the walkway installed around the statue.

Captain Iker Casillas draped the Madridista Goddess with a flag and scarf as We are the Champions sounded over the loud speakers and fire works were set off. Marcelo got the crowd involved more than any other player, while Cristiano received the most applause on what was a magical night that will go down in Real Madrid lore.