South Africa Goal Keeper Sustained Injury

Emile Baron dreamed to be a contestant at the 2010 Fifa WorldCup but this South Africa goalkeeper Emile Baron looks set to miss the World Cup after surgery on his shoulder.

Baron sustained the injury in mid-March while he was away with Bafana Bafana at a national training camp in Brazil.

The SuperSport United player was initially told the injury may heal in time, but his club have now confirmed it is unlikely he will be fit before the June 11 kick-off after he went under the knife last Wednesday.

"I don't know how to explain this man; I'm disappointed because it looks like I will sit out for four months in order to make a full recovery," Baron said. "I underwent surgery on Wednesday and it was successful but there is nothing I can do at this stage, just to rest and wait to make a full recovery and any thing can happen."

Baron, 30 yo, who has also played for Norwegian club Lillestrom and Kaizer Chiefs, has six caps for South Africa, but was only expected to be a back-up to Carlos Alberto Parreira first-choice goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune at the finals.

Complete TV Listing World Cup 2010

According to ITV.com...
"During the knockout stage of the tournament the split of games between the two broadcasters will depend on England’s progression through the tournament. In all scenarios, the BBC will take first pick of the ‘round of 16’ and ‘quarter final’ matches.
"If England reach the semi final, the game will be shown live by both ITV and the BBC. Both ITV and the BBC will show the World Cup final live. "
World Cup 2010, TV listings for group stages


Friday, June 11
3pm - South Africa v Mexico - ITV 
7.30pm - Uruguay v France - BBC
Saturday, June 12
12.30pm - South Korea v Greece - ITV 
3pm - Argentina v Nigeria - BBC 
7.30pm - England v USA - ITV
Sunday, June 13
12.30pm - Algeria v Slovenia - BBC 
3pm - Serbia v Ghana - ITV ~
7.30pm - Germany v Australia - ITV
Monday June, 14
12.30pm - Holland v Denmark - ITV 
3pm - Japan v Cameroon - BBC 
7.30pm - Italy v Paraguay - BBC
Tuesday, June 15
12.30pm - New Zealand v Slovakia - BBC 
3pm - Ivory Coast v Portugal - ITV 
7.30pm - Brazil v North Korea - ITV
Wednesday, June 16
12.30pm - Honduras v Chile - ITV 
3pm - Spain v Switzerland - BBC 
7.30pm - South Africa v Uruguay - BBC
Thursday, June 17
12.30pm - Argentina v South Korea - ITV 
3pm - Greece v Nigeria - BBC 
7.30pm - France v Mexico - BBC
Friday, June 18
12.30pm - Germany v Serbia - BBC 
3pm - Slovenia v USA - BBC 
7.30pm - England v Algeria - ITV
Saturday, June 19
12.30pm - Netherlands v Japan - ITV 
3pm - Ghana v Australia - BBC 
7.30pm - Cameroon v Denmark - ITV
Sunday, June 20
12.30pm - Slovakia v Paraguay - BBC 
3pm - Italy v New Zealand - ITV 
7.30pm - Brazil v Ivory Coast - BBC
Monday, June 21
12.30pm - Portugal v North Korea - BBC 
3pm - Chile v Switzerland - BBC 
7.30pm - Spain v Honduras - ITV
Tuesday, June 22
3pm - Mexico v Uruguay - ITV 
3pm - France v South Africa - ITV 
7.30pm - Nigeria v South Korea - BBC 
7.30pm - Greece v Argentina - BBC
Wednesday, June 23
3pm - Slovenia v England - BBC 
3pm - USA v Algeria - BBC 
7.30pm - Australia v Serbia - ITV 
7.30pm - Ghana v Germany - ITV
Thursday, June 24
3pm - Slovakia v Italy - ITV 
3pm - Paraguay v New Zealand - ITV 
7.30pm - Denmark v Japan - BBC 
7.30pm - Cameroon v Holland - BBC
Friday, June 25
3pm - Portugal v Brazil - BBC 
3pm - North Korea v Ivory Coast - BBC 
7.30pm - Chile v Spain - ITV 
7.30pm - Switzerland v Honduras - ITV

Spain Represented by Real Madrid and Barcelona

Few footballing rivalries are able to capture the imagination of the wider world quite as much as that of Real Madrid and Barcelona. Meetings between these two star-studded outfits make for compulsory viewing, even if the games themselves do not always live up to the pre-match billing.

Their next coming-together, which takes place at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday night, promises to be quite a spectacle however. Aside from the incentive of getting one over their biggest rivals, both sides know that the three points at stake are of vital importance in their private battle for the Spanish league title. Tied on 77 points with the Catalans, the hosts go into the game as leaders on goal difference. And with only seven games remaining after this one, a three-point advantage at this late stage could well prove decisive.

Saturday’s duel also has a number of interesting sub-plots, not least the continuing battle for the coveted title of pichichi (top scorer) between current leader Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain. And, as FIFA.com explains, the form of the many players on both sides who will be gracing the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ will also be closely assessed by a select band of national coaches.

Spain boss Vicente del Bosque will need to keep his wits about him as he attempts to monitor the ten players who habitually form part of his line-ups, not to mention four others who could yet squeeze into his 23-man squad for the world finals. Two of the most eagerly anticipated match-ups pit goalkeepers Iker Casillas and Victor Valdes against each other and midfield schemer Xavi against Xabi Alonso.

Known for their attacking prowess, Barça can also pride themselves on having the tightest defence in La Liga, having shipped only 19 goals in 30 games. One of the biggest reasons for that impressive record is the form of Valdes, who is on course for his third Zamora trophy, awarded to the goalkeeper conceding the fewest goals during the league season. Surprisingly, however, the Barcelona custodian has never been called up for international duty, with Casillas maintaining an iron grip on the No1 jersey.

“We’ve never had any reason to discard Casillas and (Pepe) Reina,” Del Bosque said recently, before giving the Barça shot-stopper a glimmer of hope. “Valdes is in with a chance of going to the World Cup as the third-choice keeper.”

Saturday’s clásico will also give the Spain coach an excellent opportunity to appraise his options in defence. Lining up for Barça will be their first-choice centre-half pairing of Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique, while Raul Albiol will be slotting into central defence for Los Merengues, alongside full-backs Sergio Ramos and Alvaro Arbeloa.

Setting the tempo on both sides will be two mainstays of the national side in Xavi and Xabi Alonso. While the Barcelona linchpin is the more creative and attack-minded of the two and a deadly threat at set-pieces, his Blanco counterpart is a formidable defensive bulwark and distributor of the ball, with the ability to score spectacular goals from distance. (fifa)

Walcott Leads ArsenalTo Defeat Barca

Theo Walcott has vowed to give Barcelona a run for their money again when Arsenal head to the Nou Camp tomorrow.

The Gunners looked all but out of the UEFA Champions League following a brilliant opening by the Spaniards to the quarter-final first leg at Emirates Stadium last week, where they dominated the opening stages and went on to take what looked a commanding 2-0 lead.

However, the introduction of the England winger helped turn the match, as Walcott ripped full-back Maxwell to shreds and slotted in an impressive individual goal before a late penalty from captain Cesc Fabregas levelled a dramatic tie at 2-2.

If I can create space for some of the others, then that is all part of my job. It is a nice thing to have people talking good things - I just have to do it on the pitch.

Theo Walcott ahead of the Barcelona clash

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola was full of praise for the impact of the 21-year-old, who produced an efficient display when restored to the starting XI in the English Premier League against Wolves on Saturday.

Walcott would like nothing more than to be given another chance to impress against the European champions. "As a winger, an attacking player, you always have to be on the front foot. Hopefully I can get at them and will give them a problem," Walcott said. "If I can create space for some of the others, then that is all part of my job. It is a nice thing to have people talking good things - I just have to do it on the pitch."

Walcott - who netted a famous hat-trick for England in the FIFA World Cup™ qualifying win away to Croatia last season - is relishing the chance to play at one of the world's most renowned footballing venues. "I have been to some fantastic stadiums in my short career so far, and this could potentially top that, especially with the result," he said. "The main thing, though, is getting the win and to be part of that would be something."

Keeping faith

Despite Arsenal's injury problems - with Alex Song today joining captain Cesc Fabregas, Andrey Arshavin, William Gallas and Robin van Persie on the sidelines - Walcott insists Arsene Wenger's men must keep the faith. "We have got to believe we can come here and get a result, there is no point playing within ourselves, we have all got to be at it," he said. "There are some big players missing, but players will come in and do a job. We just have to work 100%, that is all we can do."

Walcott added: "Barcelona played some fantastic football at times in the first half last week, and was some of the best I have even seen a team play. However, they seemed to die off a bit in the last 20 minutes and if we can keep it 0-0, or sneak an early goal hopefully we can upset the fans, keep them all quiet.

"We have scored a lot of late goals this season, especially in the Premier League, so hopefully we can believe and can do it again."

source : fifa.com

Stay out of Trouble

Crime cause you a problem. Know where you going is the first best way to reduce crime victim. These are some tips for you to pay attention :

Carjackings

Those who choose to drive private cars, either borrowed or hired, should be aware that car hijackings do occur, although precautions can be taken to avoid this.

Drivers should always be on the alert when they come to a halt at traffic lights or stop streets, as well as when they are arriving at or leaving premises. Doors should be locked at all times, and while the temptation is to keep windows open in sunny weather, they should be kept closed. Plan your travel route beforehand. Make sure that you do not leave valuables in clear view of people on the side of the road.

Articles such as cellular phones and handbags left on seats are favoured targets of smash'n'grab thieves.

When parking at night choose well-lit or security-patrolled parking areas. Street security guards will usually ask whether they can watch over your car and in return should be paid a small fee – anything from two rand upwards.

ATMs and con artists

Watch out for con artists. A favoured target is the automated teller machine (ATM).

Under no circumstances allow a stranger to assist you in your transactions. Should your card become stuck in the ATM, enter your PIN three times whereupon the machine will retain your card. You can then approach the bank to release it, or call the helpline number that can usually be found at ATMs for assistance.

Beware, too, of confidence tricksters who try and persuade you to invest in their schemes, requiring you to disclose confidential banking details.

Lost passports

Should you lose your passport, report the loss as soon as possible to your country's embassy or consulate, and to the local police.

source : southafricainfo

UEFA Champion League Info

FC Barcelona central forward Zlatan Ibrahimović will undergo tests on Sunday to determine the extent of the right calf problem he suffered during the warm-up for his side's Liga encounter with Athletic Club. The Swedish international – who scored twice for Barça in the 2-2 UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg draw away to Arsenal FC in midweek – was replaced by Bojan Krkić in the starting lineup. The Azulgrana host Arsenal in the return leg on Tuesday.

Hopeful of filling in for the injured Zlatan Ibrahimović, FC Barcelona forward Bojan Krkić has warned Arsenal FC to expect another attacking display in Tuesday's quarter-final decider.

Homeless Have To Move Out

Over 1,000 homeless South Africans have been moved out of Johannesburg and Cape Town to hide the scale of poverty from World Cup fans travelling to South Africa ahead of the World Cup, it is claims.

More than 800 tramps, beggars and street children have already been removed from Johannesburg and sent to remote settlements hundreds of miles away and in Cape Town, up to 300 have been moved to Symphony Way Temporary Relocation Area where 1,450 families are crammed into a camp designed for just 650 people.

The moves have happened in Cape Town and Johannesburg but it is believed that other host cities are also drawing up plans to tidy the streets. Johannesburg councillor Sipho Masigo confirmed it was a big problem but likened the actions to cleaning your house before you have guests.

Campaigners however are not happy and have slammed the policy as a sham and a temporary solution.

Warren Whitfield, Addiction Action

It's a cosmetic fix to create an impression of South Africa for football fans which is not real. We have huge problems with homelessness and that is what the world should see.

Homelessness is an issue faced by South Africa and while this might just be the first move to try and help and the streets of South Africa might be free of this terrible reality when the World Cup is on, the fear is it wont be long until it returns.

source : worldcup2010

Health Tips and Insurance Travel in SOuth Africa fot You

Some good tips from SelfTour :

HEALTH

* It is always a good idea to take out medical insurance with your travel agent when you buy your tickets.

* Vaccinations and other medical precautions are needed for travel to some countries, and advise is easily obtained through your doctor or chemist. Have them well before your departure, to allow time for recovery from any side effects.

* If you are on a prescription or if you take a specific medicine, take enough away with you, as you may not be able to get replacements.  Carry your medical prescription clearly stating what medication you are taking just in case you have to purchase more during your summer holiday vacation.  In this day of illegal drugs it is wise to carry them in the manufactures box/container so if stopped by a customs official he can clearly see the name and know that these are not illegal drugs.

* Always carry a doctor’s certificate for any prescribed drugs so you don't have any problems at customs.

* If you have prescription spectacles, carry a copy of the prescription for easy replacement should you lose or break them.

* Kruger Park and Namibia are Malaria areas - ask your family chemist for the right anti malaria pills for your country of destination. Remember to start 2 weeks before you depart and continue 2 weeks after returning home. We do not recommend ‘Larium’ as there have been many reports of adverse side effect.  Small babies must not be taken into Malaria areas.

*Always carry a few basic items from Elastoplasts, head ache pills, & something for upset tummies.

* A word of caution on drinking water – The tap water all over South Africa is normally perfectly safe but if you are not acclimatised to it or have a sensitive tummy you could spend a great deal of your holiday in various bathrooms. This warning also covers ice in your drinks and rinsing ones mouth after brushing your teeth. All the international canned drinks are available as well as various bottled spring waters. What has become very popular are the flavoured spring waters and they have the added advantage of a screw-on cap so they can be saved for later without leaking – very refreshing

INSURANCE

As you are probably aware, health insurance is an integral part of your travel package, and should be purchased at the same time as you purchase your travel tickets. 

Your existing house hold insurance policy may well have All Risks cover which is international cover and where you can specify various important & expensive items – jewellery, cameras etc. Strongly recommend you phone your insurance agent beforehand and ask him how much cover you have under the All Risks section for overseas travel.

World CUp Tickets in Low Demand

South Africa 2010 may be about to make more history. But not in a fashion that will please FIFA which has been forced to admit that, with just 11 weeks to go before the big kick-off on June 11, this is the first modern World Cup that has not completely sold out.
World Cup ticket

Of the 2.95 million tickets on offer, 650,000 still remain unspoken for, with 330,000 unsold among the 570,000 allocated to competing nations - worrying at 58%. Germany 2006, in contrast, received 15 million applications for just 3.4 million seats.

According to the Daily Mirror, England, expected to be among the best supported teams at the finals, have sent back 1,000 of the 29,000 allocated to the Football Association, who needed a three-month extension to sell that many. The heavy costs of flights and accomodation, security fears and the logistical problems of getting around a vast country with a limited infrastructure with competing teams not based in individual cities have been used as reasons for the mass stay-away.

FIFA, mounting a big push of sales until hosts South Africa play Mexico on the opening day, has released a statement: "Ticketing centres in host cities will now be open for sales until July 11, the day of the final, plus the call centre. There will be also mobile sales units." -- espn.com

Home Advantage Will Boost African

Home advantage will give an added boost to the six African teams who qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup - the first to be held on African soil, writes Nthambeleni Gabara.

South African fans are eagerly awaiting the referee's first whistle to signal the official kick-off of the highly anticipated match between Bafana Bafana and Mexico on June 11.

But going into the battlefield, at Soccer City, Bafana will be comforted by the sounds of the blaring vuvuzelas and the display of the national colours and flag.

While European based players like Didier Drogba (Chelsea), Steven Pienaar (Everton) and Samuel Eto'o (Inter Milan) are fan favourites, supporters will be looking at local stars like Siphiwe Tshabalala and Teko Modise to dazzle the crowd and show off their fancy footwork.

All these five African teams will not be appearing on the international soccer stage for the first time.

South Africa, who have come a long way since being banned by FIFA in 1962 as part of international sanctions against apartheid South Africa to being the host of a World Cup, made their World Cup debut in France in 1998. They also qualified in 2002, but failed to get past the group stages.

While their soccer prowess has been lacklustre in recent years, a home advantage may prove a winner for the 1996 African Cup of Nations champions.

During last year's Confederations Cup, Bafana finished in fourth place, coming through the group stages with a win over New Zealand and a draw with Iraq.

They then lost in the semi-finals to Brazil, conceding a late free-kick after holding the South Americans at bay for most of the match. In the 3rd-place play-off, they lost to Spain after extra time, despite leading 1-0 at one stage. But despite their loss, even the sceptics were impressed by their great display of football.

World Cup winning coach, Carlos Alberto Parreira, is already shaping and preparing the team in his native Brazil.

Recently, the Super Eagles (Nigeria) showed off their readiness for the showpiece when they appointed former Sweden coach Lars Lagerback as their new coach to lead them to the World Cup.

The Super Eagles, who reached the World Cup for the first time in the 1994 were within one minute of qualifying for the Quarter finals against Italy, but Roberto Baggio scored to take the game to extra time before eventually scoring the winning goal.

They returned to the World Cup in 1998 alongside Cameroon, Morocco, Tunisia, and South Africa. Their hopes of surpassing their 1994 performance were shattered after a 4-1 loss to Denmark.

The 2002 FIFA World Cup in Korea/Japan saw Nigeria again qualify with optimism. Nigeria's second game against Sweden saw them take the lead but, they lost 2-1 and there was little consolation when they drew 0-0 with England and bowed out in the first round.

The Nigerians, who missed out on qualifying for the 2006 World Cup, finished third in the recent African Nations Cup in Angola.

Cameroon or The Indomitable Lions is Africa's most successful side. They have qualified for the FIFA World Cup more than any other African nation; in 1982, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2010.

They were the first African team to reach the quarterfinals of the World Cup in 1990 losing to England in extra time.

A nine man Cameroon shocked the world by defeating reigning champions Argentina 1-0 with a goal scored by Omam Biyick.

They later defeated Romania 2-1 and lost to the Soviet Union 4-0, becoming the first African side to finish top of their group..

In the second round Cameroon defeated Colombia 2-1 with Roger Milla scoring two goals in the extra time.

The 1994 World Cup in the USA, after a convincing 2-2 draw with Sweden, the Indomitable Lions were determined to make an impact. However a 3-0 loss to Brazil and a 6-1 loss to Russia effectively ended their hopes of glory.

Despite drawing with Chile and Austria during the 1998 World Cup, a 3-0 defeat to Italy saw Cameroon finish bottom of the group, and they were eliminated as a result.

Another African powerhouse, Ivory Coast, will be appearing for the second time at the FIFA World Cup, following their first appearance in the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

They lost 2-1 to both Argentina and Netherlands; and were thus eliminated from the tournament. The Elephants are currently the only team without a head coach.

Ghana were the only African side to advance to Round 2 of the 2006 FIFA World Cup after Ivory Coast, Togo, Angola, and Tunisia were all eliminated.

Because of Ghana's performances in the tournament, there has been continuous praise for their fearless attitude towards the world's soccer giants.

Of the 32 countries that participated in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Ghana was ranked 13th by FIFA.

Algeria managed to qualify to two consecutive World Cups in 1982 and 1986. Algeria beat North African rivals Egypt in a World Cup qualification tiebreaker to secure a place at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

But whether the teams lose in front of their home crowd they would have wanted to leave an indelible mark on the minds of their supporters. -BuaNews

Final Stadium Inspection Tour

The stadiums are in place, the seats in many have already been filled in a number of test events and now the final piece of the puzzle has begun. As the World Cup countdown clock ticks past 86 days to go, the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC) and FIFA today embarked on the final stadium inspection tour.

The delegation kicked off the tour with a visit to Soccer City stadium this morning, as each department walked through the areas of the stadium that will affect their work during the tournament.

From media operations who need to ensure that the media facilities such as press conference rooms and media centres will be in place for the thousands of journalists expected at the stadium during the tournament, to marketing who need to ensure that there is sufficient signage to direct the hundreds-and-thousands of fans expected in Soccer City, it was a tough day of scrutinising the progress.

“The final stadium inspection is a significant event as we head toward the beginning of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. With all the stadiums now largely complete we must ensure that the finer details are considered. We have come a long way since the first inspection tour and now we are ending that process – we have proved that we can get the infrastructure ready in time. Now it’s really the final check up to see that everything is going as it should,” said the Chief Executive Officer of the OC, Dr Danny Jordaan.

For Johannesburg’s 2010 Host City Coordinator, Sibongile Mazibuko – who oversees two World Cup stadiums in Soccer City and Ellis Park – the first day of the inspection was a success.

“We are moving closer to finalising all the outstanding issues. Overlay work has started and it is really starting to take shape,” said Mazibuko, referring to the process whereby a stadium is made World Cup compliant through the installation of temporary overlay infrastructure such as media and accreditation centres, hospitality areas, tournament specific signage and media tribunes to name just a few.

The stadium tour will continue on to the other nine stadiums over the next week, ending on 26 March when the delegation will return to the OC headquarters at SAFA House in Johannesburg.

source : www.fifa.com

Big Names on World Cup 2010 Gala

The Black Eyed Peas, Amadou & Mariam, Alicia Keys, John Legend and Shakira are big singers among the performers announced for the opening gala for this year's World Cup. The concert will take place on 10 June, at Orlando Stadium, in Johannesburg's Soweto district. More than 30,000 people are expected to pack into the arena, with millions more tuning in at home. From South Africa, Vusi Mahlasela will share African folk music with the world. Also flying the flag for the Rainbow Nation will be the Parlotones, who are sure to increase their international following with their energetic indie rock and alternative music.

Colombian artist Juanes, the winner of 17 Latin Grammy Awards as well as one Grammy, will show why he has sold over 10-million albums in the Spanish-speaking world with his mix of Latin rock and pop.

"Music and sports are the lifeblood of African culture, so to combine those in this historic event will be a true celebration of African culture," explained Lucas Radebe, an eloquent member of the South African team.

"We are thrilled to have a concert of such magnitude and performing talent raise the curtain on the first Fifa World Cup in Africa," Fifa secretary-general Jerome Valcke told Fifa.com this week.

Theo Walcott Booked A Bench for South Africa

All the focus this week has been on the injury to David Beckham which has ruled him out of the World Cup. He may be a popular player but  this time David will be not playing football for about 6 month.

The Achilles tendon injury clearly isn’t expected to hamper England’s chances at the World Cup as the England World Cup Odds remain unchanged and England are still one of the favourites to win the World Cup. What is much more worrying than the Beckham injury is Aaron Lennon’s groin injury that has kept him out all year. He has looked the complete right winger this season, skinning opponents, setting up goals with great crosses and also chipping in with goals now.

The next players on the list appear to be Capello favourite James Milner, the inconsistent Theo Walcott and also Shaun Wright Phillips, who appears to have booked a spot on Capello’s plans from a decent twenty minutes off the bench against Egypt.

Whatever happens it seems England are not short of options on the right wing but they could end up short of top quality options and that can sometimes make the difference between winning and losing.

With just a few month’s to go until the World Cup it is a great opportunity to get some early value bets in for the biggest football tournament in the world. 

source : www.worldcup2010southafrica.com

Durban Sky Car

With their World Cup stadium now complete and already hosting football matches, Durban residents cannot seem to get enough of the one-of-a-kind SkyCar that travels up and down the now famous arch of the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The SkyCar leaves every five minutes to ferry up to 20 visitors at a time to the highest point of the arch, providing its passengers with a panoramic 360-degree view of Durban and the Indian Ocean coastline.

For those after more of an adventure, and a fair bit of exercise, there is the option of walking up the arch's steps to get to the top.

According to Lara Mcleod, the stadium's public relations officer, the stadium is proving to be a nucleus of activity as visitors flock to experience the adventure walk, stadium tour, or to ride the most popular attraction – the SkyCar.
Public response

"More than 60 000 people have taken part in at least one of the facilities at the stadium in just 12 weeks, and we are extremely pleased with how the public has responded," she said.

Mcleod said the SkyCar itself has attracted around 44 000 guests since it opened on 30 November, making it a key tourist attraction in the city.

Mounted on an undercarriage, the SkyCar is a single cabin that runs up steel tracks on the northern arch of the stadium. The design is impeccable, with the SkyCar built to descend under its own gravity, enabling it to return to the lower station even in the event of a power failure.

Mcleod says that the view at the top is unparalleled.
'One gets to see the entire city'

"One gets to see the entire city from the top. To the east there is the Indian Ocean, to the west the city suburbs, the north the Umgeni River, and one can even see the Bluff to the south. There is nothing quite like it."

Kameel Kalyan, who went up the SkyCar, said the view made him feel proud to live in Durban.

"The view from above puts together the pieces that make up the puzzle that is Durban," Kalyan said. "It makes you feel proud to live in Durban, and definitely shifted my idea of Durban."
The beauty of Durban

"If you want to truly understand the beauty that is Durban and admire the amazing view, then this is a must-see attraction for all, both locals and tourists."

Mcleod says that there has been a healthy mix of local and tourist patrons to the SkyCar.

"It is the only stadium in the world that has a sky-car or an adventure walk. Of course, stadiums have tours, but there is nothing in the world that compares to these activities."

Zahira Kharsany, a keen football fan from Durban who completed the adventure walk, couldn't agree more.

"The view is beautiful, with the ocean on one side and the city skyline on the other," Kharsany said. "Perhaps umbrellas are needed on the top when it is blistering hot, like the day we went up. My favourite view has to be the Golden Mile from a different vantage point," she added.
Operating hours

The SkyCar operates daily, running from 09:00 to 18:00 from Monday to Friday, and on Sunday.

On Saturday, visitors have the opportunity the chance to view Durban at night, with operating hours running from 07:00 to 22:00.

The cost is R50 for adults and R25 for children under the age of 12.

Source: 2010 Fifa World Cup South Africa Organising Committee

Didier Drogba Win African Footballer of The Year 2009

Didier Drogba has been named African Footballer of the Year 2009 by the Confederation of African Football. The award was voted on by all CAF member associations, who each picked their top three players (three points for first choice, two for second, one for third). Ivorian Drogba was the runaway winner with 92 points, Samuel Eto’o came second with 69 points and Michael Essien third with 42 points. Given Drogba’s form for Chelsea this season, it’s tough to argue with the votes.

This is Drogba’s second African Footballer of the Year win, after he collected the award in 2006. You could even argue it’s his third if you count 2007, where Drogba won but couldn’t attend the ceremony and so they gave it to Fredi Kanoute instead. Double D had pledged to “withdraw from all voting for CAF awards” at the time, but appears to have mellowed. Good news is that though Drogba couldn’t attend the Awards Gala in Accra, Ghana, CAF were still happy to let a representative from the Ivorian Football Federation receive the award on his behalf.

source : www.worldcupblog.com

Fabio Capello : England vs Italy in the final

ABU DHABI - England manager Fabio Capello has set his team a minimum target of reaching the World Cup semi-finals in South Africa this year.

Capello said England were one of the leading sides at the tournament.

"I hope the semi-finals is a minimum. We have good players, we think we can beat all teams because we play at the same level of all the best teams in the world," the Italian told reporters at the Laureus World Sports Awards on Wednesday March 10th.

Capello, whose team cruised through qualifying after missing out on Euro 2008 under previous coach Steve McClaren, said England striker Wayne Rooney was one of the world's top players.

"(Lionel) Messi, (Cristiano) Ronaldo and Rooney are the three best players in the world. Rooney has scored a lot of goals," he said.

Rooney has netted 28 goals for Manchester United this term after being switched to a more attacking role following the transfer of Ronaldo to Real Madrid in the close season.

Capello also said sides from Africa, which is staging its first World Cup, could provide some shocks.

"I think the surprise will be one of the African teams - Ghana, Ivory Coast and Nigeria are all good. One of these three will be really dangerous."

England began their build-up to the tournament by beating Egypt 3-1 in a friendly at Wembley this month as preparation for the group match against fellow north Africans Algeria.

"It will be a tough game for us," said Capello. "I respect this team. They played against Egypt and beat them (in the World Cup qualifiers) so Algeria are probably stronger than Egypt."

The Italian, however, is looking beyond the early stages to a possible dream final with his native country.

"I hope to play against Italy in the final but my shirt at that moment will be an England shirt."


source : www.fourfourtwo.com

World Cup Team's Nickname

Below are nicknames for the FIFA 2010 World Cup Team

Transportation for World Cup 2010 Fans

Johannesburg - Park and ride, park and walk, public transport and taxis will all be used to get soccer fans to the game on time during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The City's Transport Department is ironing out various transport plans to get spectators to and from stadiums, public viewing sites and fan fests, reports Joburg.org.

"Part of the physical infrastructure is Joburg's flagship initiative, the Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system," said Yolisa Mashilwane, the director of management support for transport in the City.

Rehana Moosajee, the member of the mayoral committee for transport, explains that Rea Vaya is expected to carry an estimated 20.000 spectators to Soccer City and Ellis Park, the two host stadiums.

Rea Vaya includes over 25 kilometres of dedicated lanes and more than 26 stations. Moosajee adds that phase 1A has been strategically implemented to meet the timeframes of the World Cup.

The full phase 1A runs from the south and west - Protea Glen, Mofolo Park, Naledi, Eldorado Park and Dobsonville - and from Ellis Park in the east. There is also an inner city circular route.

Mashilwane said there will be a special service during the tournament, which will mean a reduction in ordinary commuter services, especially on match days. The service will focus on spectators travelling to and from the stadiums.

There will be three park and ride spots, where spectators can park their cars and take a shuttle service to and from the games. Their cars will be guarded and parking will carry a fee. Accredited buses and taxis will provide the shuttle service.

Park and rides will be set up a the University of the Witwatersrand West Campus, on Enoch Sontonga Avenue in Braamfontein, Bezuidenhout Valley Park, on Marcia Street in Observatory and Gold Reef City, on Data Crescent in Ormonde.

Park and walks have also been arranged for spectators to park their vehicles and walk on a designated route to the stadiums. One venue has been allocated for each stadium; spectators will have to pay to use them.

For Ellis Park, the park and walk is at Athlone Boys School on Third Street in Bezuidenhout Valley. The walk is 2.21 kilometres.

For Soccer City, the park and walk is at Aeroton Park, off Randshow Road in Aeroton. The walk is 2.42 kilometres.

Mashilwane said transport options during the tournament will include Metrobus, mini-bus taxis and metered taxis which will extend their operating hours and may adjust their routes to ensure that fan parks and fan villages are serviced.

In addition, inter city and inter provincial services will be provided from the beginning of June until a few days after the final in July. There will be extra buses operating on match days and others connecting Gauteng with Polokwane, Mbombela, Rustenburg and Bloemfontein.

Buses will also be used to connect OR International and Lanseria airports to Sandton and the Joburg inner city.

Metrorail and Shosholoza Meyl will also run additional services from all parts of the country, and it is likely that Gautrain will be operational from OR International Airport to Sandton Station. There will be Gautrain feeder and distribution buses servicing Rivonia, Rosebank, Sandton and the inner city.

With FIFA's headquarters in Sandton, the International Broadcasting Centre at Nasrec next to Soccer City in the south, and a Football for Hope Tournament scheduled for No 3 Square in Alexandra, Joburg will be a hub of activities.

The City has also allocated certain areas for public viewing. These include Township TV sites, public viewing areas and Fan Festivals.

These areas include Innes Free Park - Fan Festival in Sandton, Elkah Stadium - Fan Festival in Soweto, Mary Fitzgerald Square - Public viewing area in Newtown, Ivory Park - Township TV.

Other areas that will have Township TV include Diepsloot Park, Orange Farm Regional Park, Kremetart Eldorado Park, Diepkloof Extreme Park, Orlando West, Thokoza Park, Joubert Park and Rose Avenue Park in Lenasia. 

 

source : BuaNews

Bonus for Brazil, england and Spain

Every member of the Spanish World Cup squad travelling to South Africa later this year will pick up a cool €550,000 if they win the World Cup.

This is the largest known bonus figure for any squad and more than double what the Spanish squad won when winning the Euro 2008.

Other teams to announce tournament win bonuses include Brazil National Team, who will pay out €300,000 a man and The Three Lions who will pay out €450,000 a man - but are these players really incentivised by money?

Maybe Sapin and England will be the finalist at the end of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.


source : worldcup2010southafrica.com

Most World Cup 2010 Tickets sold in USA

As of the third ticketing phase, managed by FIFA, 2.1 million tickets had been sold for the event and of that number 107,576 had gone to America and England were second highest with 63,835 tickets sold.

Coming in third was Germany with 29,733, closely followed by Australia with 26,488 tickets sold.

The fourth phase of the ticketing process began on February 9th and ends on April 7th and prior to this phase opening, 311,271 tickets were still available for sale to the general public. If you haven't yet got one, but in tend on travelling, you should order quickly.

At the moment, 194,349 tickets have been confirmed which leaves 116,922 available. You do not want to be buying tickets from a tout at hugely high prices, just because you left it too late.

More tickets will become available for previously sold out matches as and when FIFA get back allocations set aside for specific organisations, but there are no guarantees you will get one of these if you haven't entered the 'random selection draw sales phase' which closes on on 31st March 2010.

A Huge Lost For Portugal Team

Jose Bosingwa, one of the best full-back of Portugal teams will be not playing in 2010 FIFA World Cup. He require surgery on his knee injury.


Bosingwa had been back in light training after knee surgery but has now been ruled out for the season because another operation is required.


Chelsea assistant boss Ray Wilkins confirmed Bosingwa, who has played 57 games for Chelsea since signing from Porto in May 2008, needed a second operation. So he will miss the whole season in EPL and World Cup.

National Team Base Camp

JOHANNESBURG
South Africa : Southern Sun Grayston Hotel, train at Sandown High School in Johanesburg
Honduras : Indaba Hotel
Mexico : Thaba ya Batswana
Netherlands : Hilton Sandton
North Korea : Protea Hotel Midrand
Serbia : Sunnyside Park Hotel
Slovenia : Hyde Park Southern Sun


PRETORIA
Argentina : High Performance Centre
Germany : Velmore Hotel in Centurion
Italy : Leriba Lodge
Slovakia : Villas Luxury Suite Hotel
USA : Irene Country Lodge
Australia : Kloofzicht Lodge near Muldersdrift on West Rand
New Zealand : Serengeti Estate near OR Tambo International Airport
Switzerland : Emerald Resort and Casino


KWAZULU-NATAL
Algeria : Zimbali Lodge near Ballito
Cameroon : Oyster Box in Umhlanga
Greece : Beverly Hills Hotel at Umhlanga Rocks
Ivory Coast : Riverside Hotel and Spa in Durban
Nigeria : Hampshire in DUrban
Paraguay : Woodridge COuntry Estate in the Midlands
Portugal : Valley Lodge in Hillcrest


CAPE TOWN
Brazil : Fairway in Cape Town
Denmark : Simola Hotel Country Club in Knysna
France : Pezula Resort Hotel and Spa in Knysna
Japan : Fancourt Hotel and Country Club outside George


NORTH WEST
England : Bafokeng Sports Campus in Rustenburg
Spain : North West University campus in Potchefstroom
South Korea : Hunters Rest Hotel in Rustenburg


MPUMALANGA
Chile : Ingwenyama Conference Centre
Eastern Cape
Ghana : Rhode Valley
The Northern Cape
Uruguay : Protea Hotel Kimberley

Cheap World Cup Tickets For South African People

World Cup organizers on Thursday agreed to increase the number of cheaper seats offered to South Africans to 29 percent of total tickets for this year’s tournament. Local Organizing Committee CEO Danny Jordaan told reporters the LOC board of directors had decided to raise the allocation from 11 percent to give poorer South Africans more chance of seeing tournament.

The decision should help sell tickets amid sluggish sales to foreigners but may also knock expected revenue from the month-long tournament, starting in South Africa on June 11.

Jordaan said the decision followed appeals from fans, trade unions and politicians to accommodate poor South Africans, but stressed that the loss of income would not harm the running of the tournament.

“We have made this commitment that we want the tournament to be affordable, that those football fans who have been supporting football for all of these years must now not be excluded,” he said.

“Therefore we should then move the percentage of tickets available in category 4 to 29 percent and therefore accommodate all of those who made the ticketing request in category 4.”

Category 4 tickets are specially-priced for South African residents at 140 rand ($17.95) for group matches, a quarter of the price of the cheapest tickets in other categories. They are still more than six times the cost of seats for local premier league matches.

Critics have long argued that the price of tickets were too expensive for most soccer fans in South Africa, where tens of millions of people live in poverty.

“At the beginning we argued … that you have to take into account that football fans in South Africa are working class people of low income, and therefore we created a special category 4 ticket,” Jordaan said. “What we saw from the ticket requests from South Africans is much more than 11 percent.”

So far 2.24 million tickets have been sold, leaving 660,000 still available just over 100 days before the start of the World Cup.

FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke told reporters earlier this week that organizers would not cut ticket prices to ensure capacity stadiums, although FIFA could look to increase the category 4 tickets to 20 percent.