A nation's euphoria

July 7, 2010 | Article Posted By - John Jones, London

Just got back from a visit to South Africa, not as a disgruntled England supporter, but returning from an extended business trip.
 

 

Even though I have little interest in Football, the World Cup was impossible to escape from, and after a while, even an old grump like me was caught up in the nation's euphoria.

I had very low hopes for the African World Cup, I assumed crime and violence would be a real issue, and that the facilities would be poor. I was proved utterly incorrect, the South Africans were great hosts and the visiting fans were all very friendly and demonstrated a great camaraderie.

The performance of Team England was dismal, not just when measured against the over hyped expectations but against any reasonable performance expected of a European national side, what was more depressing was that the fabulous support given to the team was completely unappreciated by the team.

South Africa, may have lost the Football, but they certainly gain huge respect for the wonderful hospitality. 

Tags : 2010 FIFA World Cup | Africa | South Africa | World Cup

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