A young Glasgow football team arrived back in Scotland this afternoon after being crowned victors of a top tournament in Spain.
The group were returning from a whirlwind trip to Barcelona which saw them triumph over teams from as far away as Dubai and America to lift The World Schools Football Cup on Saturday.
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The talented youngsters were the only Scottish team to enter the two-day tournament, representing the All Saints Secondary School in Barmulloch.
Stephen McQuade, a teacher who accompanied the boys, said: “We’re absolutely ecstatic.
“We made it to the semi-finals of the competition back in 2019 but this time we won the final match 2-0.
“It was great to see the boys play together.
“They all gelled together so well and managed to get the result that we were after.
“It was tough to play in a heat that they weren’t used to, but they managed to score many goals and dig deep for the victory.
“We’re super proud.”
A knockout performance saw the under-15s team tackle the competition with ease, winning all of their matches to reach the final at the Futbol Salou Sports Center.
The unforgettable trip was made possible by the support of the local community and teachers at the school who were determined to see the team succeed.
Mr McQuade added: “We had a lot of support from our headteacher in the six months leading up to this weekend.
“We also had bucket collections at Celtic Park to help pay for the travel and kit.
“All of the parents have been really involved as well.
“It was great to be able to take the cup on the plane home with us."
Arriving at Glasgow Airport today - weary but full of smiles with silverware in hand - the boys were welcomed home by family and friends who were eager to help celebrate the incredible win.
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Tina, mother to 13-year-old player Callum Hannah, said: “Every one of the boys has trained really hard for this.
“They won the big trophy and they’re bringing it home to Scotland.
“It’s immense and all of the parents are buzzing
“We’re so proud of all of the kids."
Anne McLaughlin, SNP MP for North East Glasgow, said: "I was so chuffed for All Saints when I heard the news, what an incredible achievement for a brilliant school.
"I will be visiting them shortly and can't wait to tell them, in person, how proud I am to be their MP."
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