South Africa – World Cup Preview

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If you are unaware, South Africa are hosting the World Cup this year. It would be one heck of a feat for them to win it as well wouldn’t it?

Things do look a little unlikely on that score though. South Africa had no qualification process to go through being the host nation, and so have lost out on vital competitive action for their players. Add to that an intimidating group place facing the likes of France, Uruguay and Mexico and the tournament doesn’t look like it’s going to last long for Bafana Bafana.

In terms of friendlies however South Africa are unbeaten in 13 games and have yielded exciting recent wins against Denmark (1-0), Guatamala (5-0) and Thailand (4-0).

South Africa do have talent in their team as well as a manager with that most necessary of qualifications. Carlos Alberto Parreira won the World Cup with Brazil back in 1994, an achievement that must surely add weight to South Africa’s challenge.

On the pitch hopes are pinned firmly on Steven Pienaar lighting up the stage. He’s a more than capable midfielder and currently making waves at Everton in the English Premier league. His slick, creative style may provide the flair needed to open up opposition and if he can link up with the forward line the goals may come.

Aaron Mokoena has had a bit of a poor time at Portsmouth recently but the defender is a tough, physical player and is the backbone and captain of the national team, recently attaining his 100th cap.

It’s hoped that the carnival atmosphere that will no doubt surround South Africa’s fixtures will bolster the team and give them the buzz they need to avoid becoming the whipping boys of the tournament. The advantage of home soil is one not to be underestimated, just look at that friendly record.