Friday evening, the first-ever World Cup to be held on African soil will kick off in the Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg. Nelson Mandela, the South African anti-apartheid hero, will be on hand to witness history in the making. Ever since winning the bid to host the global sporting extravaganza, South Africa has beaten the odds, silencing critics and getting everything-stadiums, roads, railway- ready. Now, however, the spotlight turns to the pitch where the real action takes place.

That is where the world’s best players will display their talents and fight for the prestigious World Cup trophy. Some of the shine has fallen off this year’s event due to the high number of injuries that have prevented some of the game’s superstars such as David Beckham, Michael Ballack, Rio Ferdinand and Nani from playing for their countries. However, fans all over the planet are still upbeat in their hope for a wonderful World Cup, as there are still numerous other players, who can light up the matches with their skill.



So, what about the predictions? I, like many others, believe that Spain-Brazil is the best possible bet for the final. Spain has been very impressive in carrying over their form from Euro 2008. Their fast-attacking play is illuminated by beautiful through passes, perfect crosses and amazing finishing. Pundits and experts believe that, this team is arguably the most complete team in the world now. The Villa-Torres partnership is the most dangerous for defenders; the midfield, led by the excellent Xavi, is the most creative and their defence marshalled by Puyol and Ramos is dependable and efficient. This team has only just woken up and realised its potential. Always dangerous, the Spanish challenge is the scariest for the teams coming to the World Cup.

Posing the biggest threat to the Spaniards is Brazil. They, while not appreciated by their home media for their style, have been consistent and tough in playing out wins against difficult opposition. Their coach Dunga has successfully created a winning unit out of the players, removing so-called egoistic superstars, while selecting not-so-famous but hardworking and skilful players. The team’s talisman is no doubt, Kakà - the Real Madrid player has been so for some time now in the absence of Ronaldinho and Adriano. He has been able to score consistently, also inspiring the team to success. He is not short of support – there is the artistic Robinho, the rock-soild Lucio, the ever-energetic Dani Alves and last but not least Luis Fabiano, who might just become the top scorer in South Africa.

The other major powers this time are Holland, England, Germany and Argentina. The Flying Dutchman Arjen Robben and the masterful Wesley Sneijder lead Holland, with their talented and super-creative team. In my opinion, they can be the dark horses of the tournament. England is going into this World Cup with a lot of hope and euphoria behind the team. Many think that this English team has the chance to erase the painful memories of the last decade. Wayne Rooney, of course, is the star of the team after a superb season with Manchester United. Germany, though hit by the injury to captain Ballack, is ready for the African challenge.

They can still put up a decent challenge to any team. As always, the Germans are unpredictable – so don’t write them off before a ball is even kicked. This World Cup will also be Diego Maradona’s return to the world stage, albeit as a coach. He has, however, been ridiculed for his style and team selection. In Lionel Messi, Argentina has the world’s best player but sadly, he has also not been to reproduce his Barcelona form for his country. Many fans have attributed this to Maradona for not playing Messi in his best position. Whatever the reason, I hope he puts up a brilliant show this time because a star like him is essential for the World Cup to be enjoyable.

Teams like France and Italy have been under-performing in the qualifiers and friendlier. Even though they have history behind them, their chances this time around, are considered very little. However, in football, one can never rule out surprises. So who knows?

Overall, this World Cup promises to be an African thriller. The most awaited question on everyone’s lips will be, ‘Who will win?’ That question will be answered on July 11 when the final will be played, closely watched by billions.