Lowongan Kerja - The Spain-Portugal bid had been low-profile all along. Even on decision day it was not front-page news, and barely merited a mention on the morning TV bulletins. - Job Indonesia
Last week, Miguel Angel Lopez - the man heading the bid team - explained that the focus was on securing the support of Fifa's 22 executive members, not "handing out glasses of Spanish wine at events."
Some suggest Spaniards are still smarting after giving heart and soul to their bid to host the 2016 Olympics, and losing.
Spaniards Little Upset
So there were no expectant crowds out on the chilly streets today.
But plenty of people had been quietly confident about their chances.
What the Iberian bid offered was a safe bet for Fifa: a sure-fire footballing fiesta, held in two countries that are passionate about the game.
Much of the infrastructure was already in place. Spain has Europe's biggest and best high-speed rail network, and several refurbished airports; together, Spain and Portugal offered seven elite stadiums already built, and in use - and no trouble at all in filling them.
Presenting the Iberian bid in Zurich, Prime Minister Zapatero also highlighted the peninsula's enticing scenery and culture - and the climate.
Fifa, though, went for something completely different.
'Real shame' "Iberian Disappointment," was the reaction on Marca.com, a sports website, as news of Russia's victory emerged. "Spain and Portugal's dream is over."
That regret was reflected on the streets of Madrid.
"All us football fans would have loved to have the World Cup here, so close, so we could go," Ricardo said. "It's a real shame we lost."
"It's regrettable, because I think Spain has the best league in the world," said Pedro. "People would have been very excited, especially after just winning the World Cup."
Some people think the fact that Spain had already hosted a World Cup - in 1982 - counted against it. Others blame global politics.
Spanish newspapers suggest the Iberian bid's final presentation did not help: "flat and unimaginative," according to El Pais.
Winning the contest to host the World Cup could have lifted the mood in two countries in the deep gloom of recession. But some people are relieved it went to Russia.
"I'm happy we didn't win," says Juanjo Bombillas. "I don't think the economic circumstances here are right now to make the kind of investment we'd have needed."
At least Spain has its success on the pitch as consolation.
"Losing this doesn't bother me," Javier said. "We're already world champions, so let Russia have this one - I don't mind."
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