Victorious Italy feted as heroes in Rome after England victory
Italy’s players celebrate in Rome during a victory parade in an open bus. Associated Press
Italy’s players returned to hero’s welcome on Monday after beating England in the final of the Euro Championship.
The players were felicitated as heroes by the raucous fans, who chanted songs and danced on the street of Rome during a victory parade in an open bus on Monday.
Italy defeated England on penalties 3-2 after the match ended in a 1-1 tie in the extra time.
The players were feted by both Italian prime minister and president at different ceremonies before the team went on the bus to share their joy of winning the fans.
The victory marked the end of the celebration which began soon after their victory and lasted for almost 24 hours.
Thousands of fans flocked the streets to have a glimpse of their national heroes, who brought the laurel to the country for the second time.
Meanwhile, there was commiseration in England camp and on its streets were shrouded with a gloom that descended with their loss.
England’s loss stirred a controversy as the trio of their black players Jadon Sancho, Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford became the victim of racial abuse soon after missing the penalties.
