The line between success and failure is never so blurred as it is during a World Cup. As we approach the final of this summer’s tournament, this writer takes a look at the aspects of the world cup that have failed to live up to the pre-tournament hype, whether they be players, coaches or behind-the-scenes issues. 10. Fabio Capello Just a month ago, the Italian tactician was being lauded as Sir Alf Ramsey’s natural successor. His unf...More

Group A had it all - flamboyance, noise, tears, tantrums, history and, above all, drama. When the smoke had cleared it was jeers for the French, tears for the hosts, and joy for the representatives of the American sub-continent. The opening ceremony introduced us to the world’s largest dung beetle, while the opening game that followed it was a feast for the senses as the passionate home fans got into party mode and the now-familiar bl...More

Day 12 saw the first qualifiers for the last 16 decided as Uruguay, Mexico, Argentina and South Korea all successfully reached the second round. Some perhaps more convincingly than others - Uruguay were comfortable throughout their final game defeat of Mexico, who were made to sweat as hosts South Africa looked on their way to a comprehensive victory over France. Argentina had secured their progress after just two games (but for an unli...More

Many can be forgiven for not tuning in to watch South Africa’s final group match against France, but the loyal were rewarded with an unfolding sporting miracle that was so nearly to be. Uruguay of course did not help anything, but the French fans had to bear in mind that they were not an unbeatable force. The supposed spat involving Les Bleus Coach Raymond Domenech and winger Florent Malouda started the downward spiral, and Nicolas A...More

South Africa could not prevent their premature exit yesterday from this, their very own historic World Cup, despite defeating a disenchanted and dishevelled France. Bowing out with a victory was so important for the people of South Africa, as was what the players have given the tournament on the pitch and the fans off it. The win was crucial to the supporters of Bafana Bafana so they could brim with pride and experience a unique delight...More

FRANCE 1Malouda 70 SOUTH AFRICA 2Khumalo 20, Mphela 37 ‘If only’ is the phrase that best sums up the hosts’ World Cup campaign, as the post denied them twice in crucial moments in this tournament that left them devastatingly close to qualifying from a group they were expected to struggle in. How ironic then, the two chances missed fell to the same player, Katlego Mphela. The South Africa striker should have sealed a 2-1 victory in t...More