Milan, May 30: European Champions, AC Milan, brought the European Cup back home to a tumultuous reception from thousands of supporters. The fans have been celebrating since Milan beat Juventus in the first all-Italian Champions League final at Old Trafford in Manchester, England. The European Champions League trophy was almost the first thing off the plane as AC Milan touched down at Malpensa airport on Thursday (May 29), carried down the steps by coach Carlo Ancelotti and Milan captain Paolo Maldini. Andriy Shevchenko struck the decisive penalty at Old Trafford to hand Milan their 3-2 penalty shoot-out victory over Serie A champions Juventus. Brazilian goalkeeper Dida played his part in the final victory by denying David Trezeguet and Clarence Seedorf of Juventus their penalty goals. "The important thing is we won the cup, it doesn't matter who was the best player' said Gennaro Gattuso, the midfielder who had an outstanding performance, was on one of the first players to be mobbed by the Italian press on arrival.


"I'm really happy' said striker Clarence Seedorf, despite missing his penalty kick.


AC Milan captain Paolo Maldini was also smiling. "It's beautiful, beautiful, a great emotion," he said. "Everyone who was on the pitch has won this cup," Brazilian goalkeeper Dida added.


Thousands of fans were waiting for the team outside the airport and a few moments of panic ensued as they mobbed the bus preparing to carry the team away.


A worried Schevchenko stared nervously from the window as the fans sought to show him their appreciation for winning penalty kick which handed Milan their six European Cup.


Bureau Report