The World Cup: a South African perspective

by Jayga Rayn

As the referee blows his whistle to begin their game against Mexico on June 11, South Africa will become the first nation on their continent to host the FIFA World Cup.

 This is radical progression when you consider that the South African team was only allowed back into FIFA in 1992 following apartheid. As a prelude to the World Cup, South Africa hosted, and finished fourth, in the 2009 Confederations Cup.

 Although the stadiums weren’t sold-out, the South African fans were praised for their support and the amazing volume produced by a relatively small number of people. The toot of the local vuvuzela horn was a symbolic feature of their support.

 Head coach, Carlos Alberto Pereira, is determined his players will up their game on home soil. “We are playing in front of our own fans and the players will be motivated by their pride and determination to do well,” he said. However, South Africa have hardly set the world alight in their only two World Cup Final appearances, winning just one game, but the team will undoubtedly be spurred on by the knowledge that the host nation has never been eliminated at the first knockout stage.

 Much of South Africa’s pitch to host the games was based upon there being a distinct African flavour. The national footballing identity, Bafana Bafana, is one of enthusiasm, dedication and vibrance.

“The ‘beautiful’ game gives hope to many on the continent, and it is a unifying sport, which helps to create friendships and camaraderie.

 Africa loves football, and the World Cup in Africa means a great deal to the continent,” said Peter Pedroncelli, a football reporter for goal.com, based in Johannesburg. “This World Cup will certainly be different to those in the past as it is being played in Africa for the first time, and this means that the world will be particularly critical of the event, as one of this magnitude has never taken place on the continent,” said Pedroncelli.

 There is an obvious realisation within the people and the media that even though Bafana are not favourites to win the tournament there is no reason they shouldn’t be proud on, and off, the field.

The Voice of Bafana Bafana, an editorial campaign by Avusa, one of South Africa’s largest media corporations, to get the country behind the national team, is aiming to break the world record for support messages.

FIFA would be hard-pushed to find a more beautiful setting for their showpiece event. There are not many landscapes as majestic and enchanting as South Africa’s. Despite an infamous reputation as a haven for crime, the vast majority of the people will be friendly and welcoming. They are always smiling and joking, finding solace in their adversity through companionship and a shared desire to see their country succeed.

The last time South Africa took centre stage, in a sporting context, was the 1995 Rugby World Cup. The host nation’s path to victory was the subject of the recent Clint Eastwood film, Invictus.

It was played in the same year as Mandela’s election and was lauded as an opportunity for race to be forgotten under the banner of supporting the Springboks – traditionally a symbol for white South Africa only. When recalling the Springbok mania sweeping Johannesburg; the streets were markedly more green and gold and the celebrations after the final lasted for what seemed like an eternity.

The shame of the dark days of apartheid still linger on for many South Africans and a successful World Cup is seen as an ideal way to show that the nation has become a tolerent, multi-cultural society. When you consider the strain on infrastructure that the arrival of approximately 10 million tourists bring, there have, unsurprisingly, been suggestions that the preparations will be too much for the underdeveloped nation to handle.

Jacob Zuma, South Africa’s president, said: “The World Cup has not only revitalised our economy, but also given impetus to infrastructural development and job creation.”

Criticism reached such strong levels, partciularly in the media, that there were persistent rumours that FIFA may change the host nation due to the alleged lack of progress. FIFA’s President, Sepp Blatter, quelled these rumours about South Africa’s readiness by proclaiming that ‘Plan A, plan B and plan C are all South Africa hosting the World Cup.’

Investment has topped £4.3 billion, including £800 million from FIFA. Worryingly, this included a 25 per cent increase in March to ensure the preparations were complete. England’s head coach, Fabio Capello, had previously complained about the training grounds but has now confirmed that he is content with the facilities.

The progress the country has made is clear for all to see. Five stadiums have been built from scratch and five have undergone extensive renovation and upgrades. South Africa’s crown jewel, Soccer City in Johannesburg, houses just under 100,000 spectators.

Thre are three other stadiums that have capacities over 60,000. There have been massive improvements in the travel network including new train lines, bus services and the modernisation of airports.

It is great to think that these investments will outlast 2010 in enhancing public life for all citizens for years to come. It is also likely that the competition will prompt a real surge in the interest in football that can only help in such a torrid environment.

The World Cup will be of huge importance to the people of South Africa, with new rules being implemented to ensure local players are fielded in the South African Division One. The immediate future for Bafana Bafana is looking promising and this improved infrastructure can only aid that progression.

 Zuma continued: “It is estimated that over 3.6 million additional job opportunities will be created during the tournament. This is a welcome boost for industry and for many South Africans. “Of particular importance to millions of South Africans, and also to visitors to our country, is the England expects: A preview of Group C revitalisation of our public transport network.”

 Goal.com’s Pedroncelli said: “I can confidently say that South Africa is the right country to pull it off and it will provide a wonderful and memorable World Cup with a distinct African flavour and the passion for football will be visible to all those who come to South Africa in a month’s time.”

South Africans can’t help but feel pride at their nation being chosen to host the biggest competition in world football. Some are worried, however, as they know the dangers and corruption that are so rife in the country wil have a negative impact. High-profile incidents of crime or disorganisation could tarnish the nation’s reputation fo generations to come.

Not only is South Africa representing itself, it will be illustrating that Africa, as a continent, is ready to shine on the world stage. Other African leaders will cast envious glances at their southern neighbours but, at the same time, they will realise that in the modern world their countries have a chance to represent themselves properly. “It is in our hands to unite our country, our continent and the world in a footballing feast.

It is in our hands to recast our country as a nation of peace, a place of prosperity and a mainstay of progress on the African continent.” This is Jacob Zuma’s rallying cry for our country – one can only hope that it is followed and listened to.