The World Cup - A Time of Hope

After four years of waiting, the most eagerly anticipated sporting event on the planet is underway. The Fifa World Cup, this year hosted for the first time on the African continent, in South Africa, promises to be a marvelous spectacle and as Nelson Mandela said in a special message in the opening ceremony, it brings hope to the nation with it's painful history.

Since his release from prison in 1990, Nelson Mandela has inspired a change in South African society, encouraging racial integration, labeling his country as the Rainbow Nation, and the World Cup will help to bring the country together and also improve the lives of many South Africans.

South Africa has met the deadlines and demands of the World Cup by building brand new stadiums and improving infrastructure in healthcare, security and transport and the preparation has provided jobs to many. The World Cup will be a positive boost for the economy of South Africa and will provide a lasting legacy for all of Africa. 

Africa seems like the perfect place to host a World Cup. The passion, colours, sounds and excitement are portrayed on such a large scale and it is clear to see the unity and happiness created through the love and excitement of football. Although the much talked about crime rate in South Africa, the locals have overshadowed that gloomy reputation by welcoming fans from across the world with a warm heart, and the friendly, excitable true spirit of Africa. For South Africa, the World Cup is not just about the football, it's about moving forward as a country, from their troubled past.


For a total of 64 football matches, and a whole month, the global spotlight is very much on South Africa and the continent will be hoping that this is the first of many tournaments to be held in Africa.