South Africa was given a massive endorsement of the country's ability to host a successful Confederations Cup and 2010 World Cup by the president of world controlling body Fifa, Sepp Blatter.

Blatter stated he had full confidence that the Local Organising Committee would succeed with what is considered a dress rehearsal for the big showpiece in 2010.

Blatter at the same time fired a broadside at the media doubters in Europe who he said had been pessimistic about South Africa's ability to succeed with the Confederations Cup. The tournament features world champions Italy, the top ranked country and European champions Spain, African champions Egypt, north American champions the United States, south American champions Brazil and New Zealand.

"I have no doubt South Africa will host a great Confederations Cup. We must trust them," Blatter said.

"Even now there are media in Europe who ask me about South Africa. I tell them it will work and I have no reason to doubt that I am right in my judgement. It is now time to enjoy the soccer."

Blatter said he was more than satisfied with the progress and readiness of the LOC to host the Confederations Cup and the World Cup.

"I have seen the four stadiums to be used for the Confederations Cup — Ellis Park, the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, the Free State Stadium and Loftus — and I have no problems," he said.

"I am also happy with the fact that the new Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium (in Port Elizabeth) is already completed ahead of schedule for the World Cup.

"The stadiums built and those being renovated will be ready in time, and here we need to compliment the LOC."

But Blatter said that nothing is perfect and any problems that surfaced during the next two weeks would be ironed out before June 14, 2010 when the World Cup kicks for the first time on African soil.

When asked for the millionth time about security, chairman of the LOC Irvin Khoza said to the media: "Why does the security issue not come up when the IPL (Indian Premier League) and the British and Irish Lions are coming here?

"We have hosted 146 major international events and not had a major worry. Why is it only soccer that is asked these questions on security?

"We are confident that our security will be top notch and fans or teams do not have to worry about the safety. There is no need to fear."

Blatter agreed and said: "We have full confidence in the security. But maybe it is jealously that South Africa won the bid to host the 2010 World Cup.

"I do not know the reason for the doubters. I do not doubt for one minute."

The world soccer chief added: "Soccer is about entertaining the masses. By hosting it in Africa it will not be my legacy but a legacy about social and cultural movement and trying the make the world a better place in bad economic times."

About 470 000 of the 640 000 tickets for the Confederations Cup had been sold.

"It is important to host a top class event both on and off the pitch," LOC chief executive Danny Jordaan said on Bafana.

Sapa

RSS
Digg
de.li.cious
facebook