Russia welcomes home hockey stars
Published 20 May, 2008, 18:27
Russia's national ice hockey team, crowned World Champions in Quebec, have returned home with the trophy. They shocked Canada 5-4 in overtime, denying Russia's fiercest rivals their bid to become the first hosts to capture the title since Soviet times.
The team arrived at Moscow’s Vnykovo airport and thousands of people were there to meet them. The fan were shouting slogans and waving Russian flags.
One of Russia’s biggest stars, Alexandr Ovechkin, arrived wearing Russia’s national team uniform and kissing the precious gold medal.
“It’s very difficult to convey my feelings. I feel proud and very excited because of the victory. Thanks to everyone who came here and gave us such a warm welcome,” Hockey World Champion, Ilya Nikulin, said.
To watch the team’s arrival in Moscow, please follow link.
After greeting their fans the players went straight to Kremlin to receive congratulations from Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev.
“You all did great. I’d like to thank you and I hope that in the future such meetings will take place quite often in this hall, whenever we'll have an occasion. Russia needs victories. Russia needs athletic glory. And you stand for this glory. Many thanks to you,” President Medvedev said.
discuss it
