Diego Maradona’s Argentina are laden with a host of young hot shot starlets, but it was the two oldest members of the team who combined to secure a narrow 1-0 win over ‘Super Eagles’ Nigeria in their

South Africa 1 Mexico 1

For 80 minutes the vuvuzelas never went quiet, and then in an instant, absolute silence. The trumpets would blow again, but, the disappointment was writ large on the faces of the expectant fans.

It was supposed to be a celebration of life and the human spirit. Sadly, though, the untimely death of a teenager robbed the opening ceremony of its biggest draw.
Former president and the universal ambassador of the nation, Nelson Mandela decided against appearing at South Africa’s World Cup opener against Mexico after his g

David Beckham, Michael Ballack and possibly Didier Drogba and Arjen Robben. These are just a few the big names who will not be seen in action as the World Cup enters African shores for the first time.

Football great Pele has singled out Brazil and Spain as the strongest teams at the World Cup, but wants to see an African side take on his country in the final.
“At the moment, we have Spain in Europe and Brazil in South America. They are the two best teams — no doubt,” he said in an interview on Thursday on the eve of the opener. “I am very proud to see the World Cup in Africa — Fifa worked hard for it, and many people like me worked hard for it,” he said.

The D-day has arrived for World Cup hosts South Africa, who hope months of intense preparation can be translated into victory over Mexico on Friday in the opening 2010 World Cup match.

Experienced midfielder Gilberto Silva said on Wednesday that Brazil were “not here to have a good time” but win a sixth title as they prepared to start on their World Cup campaign in South AFrica.

From Dunga to the downright eccentric Diego Maradona, the leading coaches at the World Cup are plotting different ways to win the title.
Brazil coach Dunga has upset millions of his countrymen by leaving out big stars such as Ronaldinho, Alexandre Pato and Adriano out of a squad he believes needs stability to win a sixth World Cup.

Reigning champions Italy arrived in South Africa on Wednesday to defend their crown after tournament favourites Spain showed off their firepower as they scored six times in their final warm-up game.

Portugal winger Nani was ruled out of the World Cup on Tuesday with a left shoulder injury, the Portugal Football Federation said in a statement.
“After tests we conclude he is unfit to participate in the World Cup,” it said. Nani picked up the injury in training on Friday in Lisbon before flying to South Africa.