Nike’s new adrenalin-charged World Cup TV commercial is a masterful example of storytelling. Called “Write The Future” and directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, (Amores Perros, Babel, 21 Grams) it’s a skillful realization encompassing the global passion for arguably the world’s favorite sport. Backed by a thumping prog track by Focus, the lavishly detailed 3 minute film — how could we call it a mere “advert”? — is as much a tribute to some of the best in the profession as it is to the devotion of the fans.

Containing some surprise cameoes from Kobe Bryant, Roger Federer, Homer Simpson and Gael Garcia Bernal aswell as footballers Cristiano Ronaldo, Didier Drogba, Wayne Rooney, Fabio Cannavaro and Landon Donovan to name but a few, the intense jump cuts manage to capture the unpredictability of the game and, incorporating a nod or two to our electronic connectivity, several flashforwards to a possible but not unrealistic future. Skillfully weaving several storylines including a Rooney-obssessed nation, a jaunty Spanish musical homage and a Ronaldo statue/stadium, it’s one impressive journey.

In a statement which is as relevant to everyday life as it is to football, Ronaldo says, “One touch of the ball can be an opportunity to leave your mark on the game and write your own future, or equally a moment missed, that creates a legacy for your opponent with their fans.”

Davide Grasso, vice president of global football marketing at Nike, summed it up by adding: “This epic campaign really captures the scale, emotion and impact that one single moment in a football game can have on a player, fan or nation.”

Which ever way you look at it, the ad’s a winner! See for yourself.