Prior to 2004, Greece was a relatively humble nation, particularly where football was concerned. Well known for its beautiful architecture, mythology, cheap holiday packages, terrible wine and tasty olives. By the end of Euro 2004 Greece stole the hearts of many football fans in tournament most will never forget.
The same can now be said about a nation that prior to 2011 wasn’t really taken much notice of by the financial world, barring its shipping industry. Now, they are at the forefront of most financial conversations.
Back to football, this year they somehow managed to get through the group stage, but were unfortunately knocked out by Germany on Saturday’s match. Did Greece let the Germans win? I do like the thought that such an event will help Germany to go easy on Greece after the two main pro bailout parties have won enough seats to form a coalition in the recent elections in Greece.
The New Democracy and Pasok parties along with the democratic left party are now in charge of renegotiating the terms of the bailout and deciding whether to exit the Euro. They have reportedly decided to stay in the Euro and honor the bailout agreement, although negotiations on the terms may occur, which seems to be a notion that has much rivalry from opposition leaders and much of the Greek public. If anything can be learned by the Greek national football team it is this, no matter what your history or your previous results it’s about moving forward, together as one to ensure that you succeed. This not only applies to the coalition government to work together but the country as a whole.
So the question is what’s next for Greece?
