Mardid, Spain celebrates their World Cup Win

. . . . "How A Goal Can Be The Most Efficient Fast-Track Branding Tool".

If I had asked you two months ago what comes to your mind when I say Spain, the list of answers could have been along these lines: greasy tapas, cruel bullfighting, on the fringe of bankruptcy, long siesta, fierce unemployment, enchanting flamenco etc…

Now, if I ask you today the same question, your answer might differ.

The reason? On July 11th, Spain underwent a massive fast track rebranding.

Long Live Football for that!

If you were in Madrid at 8.30pm on that day, while the sun was finally coming down, you could feel tension mixed with excitement in the streets of Madrid. People in red and yellow, bottle of beers under their arms, were rushing to get to a place to watch the match. Big screens and small TV sets were up at the terrace of bars. Chinese kids in small shops were cheering with the Spanish flag painted on their cheeks and their eyes glued on the small screen. Trumpets and vuvuzelas Spanish style were honking heralding a historic moment to come. 116 minutes later, after an emotional roller coaster of anxiety, high hopes and despair, Iniesta finally stroke… making history not just for the World Cup but for the Brand Spain.

In just one goal…

Spain suddenly came back on the global agenda in a positive and triumphant light after months of media’s heralding the economic decline of the country.

Spain instantly stood for “fair play”, determination and talent embodied by great athletes and gentlemen (“caballeros”) who won over sneaky tactics and cheats.

Spain became “One”, Catalonia and the rest of Spain cheering in unison for “La Roja”.

Spain gathered everyone under a proud rallying cry “Soy Español” (I am Spanish) and a colourful flag without any dark connotation of the past, the first time since the Civil War.

Since then, a contagious positive atmosphere have infused the streets of the country. This may not eradicate unemployment nor solve the banking situation of course. However, this event has re-energized everyone here to keep the rebranded country on the map. As Casillas, the goal keeper and captain of the Spanish team said: “the world is going to hear great things about Spain for the next 4 years to come!”

Viva rebranded España!