Spain celebrated a landmark victory early Monday as its men’s national soccer team won the World Cup, adding to the country’s recent cultural and economic resurgence. The win, following the success of Spain’s women’s team three years prior, has come to symbolize a broader sense of national optimism amid ongoing challenges.

In Madrid’s Plaza de Colón, thousands of fans donned in red and yellow gathered in jubilant celebration, singing and waving flags well into the night. Lucia Sánchez, 22, among the crowd, described the moment as a reflection of Spain’s “good moment,” with a sense that the country is experiencing a convergence of positive developments across society.

Spain’s economy has shown notable growth in recent years, outperforming many European counterparts. Last year, it generated over 40% of all new jobs within the European Union, buoyed by advancements in renewable energy and expanding technology sectors. The country’s relatively lower electricity costs have attracted multinational investments, including several data centers, underscoring its economic appeal despite domestic issues such as a housing crisis and ongoing political corruption scandals.

Parallel to its economic progress, Spain’s cultural scene is also flourishing. Spanish cinema has garnered international acclaim, exemplified by the success of directors Javier Ambrossi and Javier Calvo—known as Los Javis—who were honored at the Cannes Film Festival. Meanwhile, Barcelona singer Rosalía has contributed to shifting global music trends by popularizing Spanish-language songs on major streaming platforms.

Tourism is another growth area, with authorities projecting a record 100 million visitors this year, revitalizing cities like Madrid, which has seen growth in dining, exhibitions, and international residents. The country’s recent papal visit in June, the first in many years, also raised hopes for a renaissance within its Catholic community.

Spain’s political landscape remains complex. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces criticism at home amid graft allegations within his administration but has earned a reputation internationally as a progressive leader. His government’s stance on immigration and vocal support for Palestinian statehood contrast with the more conservative policies pursued by other European nations. Despite internal divisions, the World Cup win briefly unified political factions, with both Sánchez and opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo celebrating the team’s achievement publicly.

The national soccer team itself has become a symbol of diversity. Star player Lamine Yamal, a Muslim with roots in Morocco and Equatorial Guinea, performed an Islamic prostration after scoring, while Nico Williams, the match’s assist provider, dedicated his medal to his mother, an immigrant from Ghana. However, the rise of inclusivity is not without opposition. Some fans have expressed anti-Muslim sentiments, reflecting ongoing societal tensions.

Prime Minister Sánchez attended the final in New Jersey, where he briefly met former U.S. President Donald Trump, whose recent remarks on Spain shifted from harsh criticism to praise. Trump was met with boos by Spanish viewers watching the ceremony live, highlighting divisions in public opinion.

For many Spaniards, the victory offered a much-needed moment of joy. Yet, some expressed caution about reading too much into the triumph. María Griñón, an airline worker, pointed to persistent youth unemployment and housing difficulties, noting that “sports is the thing going well for us.” Still, across cities like Valencia and Madrid, celebrations were exuberant, with fireworks and chants declaring Spain “the best country in the world,” reflecting the pride and hope stirred by the team’s global achievement.