Caps' Alex Ovechkin celebrates Stanley Cup with FIFA World Cup fans in Russia

MOSCOW - FIFA World Cup fans in Russia had a chance to celebrate the Stanley Cup, as Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin brings the trophy to the FIFA World Cup on his tour of his home country.

Ovi took the NHL trophy to a fan zone in Moscow where FIFA World Cup games are screened. With the Russian National Guard providing security, Ovechkin lifted the cup above his head in front of a crowd of fans, who were allowed to take photos with the trophy.

"The cup is with us. The cup is in Moscow, Russia," Ovechkin said. "I am very happy for the people that can see it and touch it. I am very, very happy."

Russia's World Cup team lost in its quarterfinal match against Croatia in Sochi. The team lost in penalty kicks after tying Croatia 2-2.

Ovechkin won his first Stanley Cup championship a month ago in his 13th season in Washington.

Other Russian NHL players are also interested in soccer. Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins posted a picture on Instagram showing himself on a luxury jet with Ilya Kovalchuk of the Los Angeles Kings and Alexander Radulov of the Dallas Stars.

"Flying to Sochi" was the caption.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.