World Cup Day One

The opening game might not have been a classic, but it was a great start to the 2010 World Cup finals.

John and i might have now relocated to the Blue Mountain Backpackers on Long Street, but we return to the Capetown Backpackers for the opening match between Bafana Bafana and Mexico with the promise of a barbeque (braai) and a free shot for each goal the hosts score.

The crowd is certainly up for it with alcohol and dance of equal importance to the soccer. A few tears of pride as they watch the opening ceremony, and every time South Africa make three or more successful passes.

Mexico dominate throughout much of the first half. And the biggest cheer is when Mexico have a goal disallowed for off-side. Mexico look fast and dangerous on the attack and there are clearly a few nervous Bafana players on the pitch. Towards the end of the half however, and South Africa ply a bit of pressure and win a succession of corners.

Most of the South Africans are dancing at the start of the second half, but after a few minutes the bar settles down again. The second half starts on a more of an even match. However, in the 55th minute South Africa have a great break forward with one touch football and Tshabalala volleys a great shot into the net. The bar erupts as do the streets outside.

Despite a few chances for Mexico, Bafana Bafana look more confident at the back. But with just 12 minutes left on the clock Rafael Marquez somewhat ruins the party with a late equalizer.

A draw is a decent result for the hosts – and indeed the pressure has been on as no host nation has ever lost a World Cup opener, however there is a sense of disappointment that South Africa couldn’t hold on for an opening victory.

Nonetheless returning back to Long Street the vevuzelas are screeching out constantly and there is a huge street party right outside our guest house.

We watch the second math, France versus Uruguay at Blue Mountain. The room is packed but everyone is more interested in developing alcohol poisoning. Despite having much of the possession, France are unable to convert their chances, relying on some half baked long distance shots predominantly by Ribery. With 10 minutes to go Uruguay have their substitute sent off, but even with intense pressure, France fail to convert.

Whilst no-one takes three points in the first two matches it would be fair to say the real winners were South Africa and Uruguay.

I’m holing up for all three matches tomorrow, including The Big One – England versus United States.