Should South Africa be concerned that we've gotten a
'nightmare draw' to kick off the FIFA World Cup?
Naaaah, I don't think so. Let's face it, the World Cup is
supposed to be a showcase of all the very best football talent on the planet.
So we got an entry into the tournament for the first time ever as the hosts, no
matter. Apply the 'we'll take what we can get' approach, and also let's bear in
mind the Saffer propensity to perform when it is least expected, and there is a
chance that we will see the sort of fireworks that will build some national
pride.
The draw in Cape Town went down a treat; it was heartening
to see the pictures of the estimated 50 000 revellers packing Long Street
for a good and proper jol. More heartening, perhaps, was the fact that very
little in the way of 'incidents' was recorded. No major crimes, in fact, very
few crimes at all. That bodes exceptionally well for the capability of the
police to maintain law and order when the tournament kicks off with Mexico
against our own in Soccer City in under 200 days. And, of course, throughout
the rest of the tournament.
We've already had a taste of the star power which comes with
the World Cup, courtesy of the draw. Among the top celebs seen around the
country were the asthmatic David Beckham, doing his bit and voicing his support
for the Good Ship South Africa (thanks Becks, we're breathing easy, don't
worry) and of course one of our top exports, Charlise Theron. It's going to get
a lot more starry out these parts very soon!
Speaking of stars and what they can tell us. Given that the
gods of sport rarely smile down on all (South Africa's at least) teams at the
same time, could there be something in it, star cross'd if you will (like those
lovers in Romeo and Juliet) that our rugger and cricket teams are sucking? So
recently on top of the world, they are battling magnificently to achieve any
results. Maybe the pendulum is swinging to favour the struggling Bafana? The
timing would be rather nice, now wouldn't it.
On that note: a quick search on the Interpipes reveals that
there are many, many gods of sport. The
Greek one of victory is probably the most well known. Even if you don't know
who it is, you do.
It's Nike.
See here
for a fuller list of deities to which you can appeal for a great Bafana
performance....