The 2010 World Cup Local Organising Committee (LOC) has congratulated the eight teams that qualified over the weekend to play in next year's World Cup.

In a dramatic weekend of football, the USA, Ivory Coast, Germany, Denmark, Serbia, Mexico, Italy and Chile all successfully booked their spots for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"Not only are we excited about the number of teams that have qualified for 2010 over the last weekend but we are equally impressed with the calibre of teams that have now secured their place among the 32 competing in next year's World Cup," said LOC Chief Executive Danny Jordaan.

The eight qualified teams joined Brazil, Ghana, Netherlands, Paraguay, Spain, England, North Korea, South Korea, Australia and Japan — to make up the 19 qualified teams to date, including hosts South Africa who qualify automatically.

This leaves 13 available positions to make up the 32 teams that will play in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"We welcome these teams to South Africa next year. There might only be one winner at the end of the tournament but all 32 teams can be guaranteed that they will be part of the greatest World Cup ever. The stadiums are almost complete and we are applying the finishing touches. We will be ready to welcome the world in 2010," added Jordaan.

Following Ghana and hosts South Africa as the third team from the African continent to secure one of the 32 spots for the 2010 football spectacular, Cote d’Ivoire drew with Malawi to gain their qualification on Saturday.

"It is an honour to welcome a team such as Cote d’Ivoire to South Africa next year. They have proved themselves to be a strong football team and are one of the giants of African football. Their inclusion in the 2010 FIFA World Cup is a great benefit to the tournament and to African football," commented said Jordaan.

A number of European teams also managed to qualify over the weekend, with previous hosts Germany defeating Russia 1-0 to secure their 2010 spot.

"Having participated in almost every World Cup and being the host of the last tournament, it is a great honour to be able to host Germany next year in our country. They are strong contenders for the title and will be a great addition to the world class line-up of teams coming over for 2010," stated Jordaan.

With Americans having purchased the highest number of 2010 FIFA World Cup tickets outside of South Africa so far (82 603), the qualification of FIFA Confederations Cup finalists, USA, is significant for Jordaan.

"The USA has already enjoyed success playing in some of the stadiums that will host the World Cup next year. Now that their team has confirmed their place in the tournament I am sure we can expect a spike in the number of people from the USA coming over to South Africa.

"We have always had a close football relationship and this will be continued at the World Cup. We as the organising committee wish them well next year," concluded Jordaan.


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