As soccer fans streamed out of the stadium after Ukraine's victory over the Russian side there seemed more of a genuine sense of joy than at last month's Soviet-style independence day parade.
And the reasons for that are not difficult to identify. The independence day parade was redolent of the old, carefully choreographed shows of adulation for the ruling elite. 'The people' though never held any real affection for their leaders in the old days and millions of Ukrainians have little respect for their present rulers.
The politicians, more often than not, disappoint Ukrainians and make them feel ashamed. The Ukrainian football team did not fail its supporters and it made even the many people who have never seen a soccer game in their life proud.
The Ukrainian Parliament's Communist-souled speaker talked during indpendence day celebrations in reverent, Soviet-speak about Russia, as if Ukraine meant nothing without its northern neighbor. The Ukrainian football team demolished its Russian opponents.- the 'little brother' wasn't going to be kicked around anymore.
It was not just the Ukrainian side's victory that was appealing, it was the boost to Ukrainians' sense of dignity the players provided by doing something remarkably well and above board – in stark contrast to the performance of most of the country's top politicians.
The Ukraine-Russia match may prove to have an importance far greater than a stepping stone towards winning a championship. In soccer-mad Latin America, football games have led to wars between countries. This one may help to propel Ukrainians through the psychological barrier that has left many still with an inferiority complex with regard to Russia.
But a football game will not be enough, however magnificent. Everything hinges on repairing the economy.
Despite their poor track record, Ukrainian politicians have been given extra time to save the match – this time by an IMF loan – and to pull Ukraine out of economic misery by pushing ahead with real reforms. They must now put in the same amount of skill and honest effort as the Ukrainian soccer side to ensure that this chance is not squandered.
This would be a perfect time, as Russia sinks further into political and economic chaos, to show that Ukraine is not just better at soccer but that its politicians are better at looking after their people.
