The first day of the soccer carnival in South Africa failed to produce a winner, though as the title of this post suggests, Vuvuzela had its sound echoing across Soccer city. This horn which is a part of South African football culture was subject to much debate prior to the tournament, as many experts and players wanted FIFA to impose a ban on its usage during the matches. However, FIFA decided only to limit the length of this trumpet to a meter and not ban it. In the words of Sepp Blatter, “We do not want to Europeanize the African Fifa World Cup". Fair enough, but yesterday Soccer City after the first match started, gave an impression of being a bee hive with 90,000 angry bees buzzing!! The sound from the Vuvuzela although seems triumphant initially, tends to become irritating with its relentless stampede. Communication between the players, manager and referee is surely going to be a challenge in this environment. Not to mention, the players already have to deal with the high altitude factor and of course their world class opponents.
The Bafana Bafana kicked off the opening match against Mexico, who are 66 places above them in the FIFA rankings. The difference in ranking showed in the first 10 mins as South Africa struggled to even get decent possession. However, gradually, Bafana came into the game, Mexico started losing possession cheaply and they were punished in the 66th min with a superb counter attack that was finished exquisitely by man of the match Tshabalala. The celebration dance that followed the goal was a sight to behold, a dance that Africa will savor. Inexperience showed, as South Africa left Mexican Captain Rafael Marquez unmarked to score an easy equalizer. The match ended in a 1-1 draw with South Africa making a strong statement and the tournament getting a superb opening match.
If one thought that this was sign of things to come, then they were mistaken. The next match between two World Cup winners looked promising, but failed to deliver. Marred by too many yellow cards, a sending off, no goals, rusty football…this was just the kind of game you don't want to see in the opening day of the World Cup. France, who has made it to South Africa at the expense of Ireland amidst controversy, did not help their cause with a pathetic display for 90 mins. Names like Thierry Henry, Florent Malouda were relegated to the bench by the eccentric Raymond Domenech. Uruguay had the best chance in this lackluster match with Diego Forlan volleying wide a shot that he should have definitely done better with. I daresay that a certain "Samir Nasri" is being missed sorely.
In less than a couple of hours a triple header begins with Asia making its first appearance in this edition and two teams who are expected by many to win the tournament will also begin their campaign. However, the highlight today for football enthusiasts and experts will be the unveiling of two players who have the ability to define this World Cup. Lionel Messi & Wayne Rooney shall play their first games today against Nigeria and USA respectively. Messi has been unfairly accused of underperforming for Argentina and Rooney has had his recent temper problems with referees. It’s time for them to answer the critics in the best way they can. I say this not as an England or Argentina supporter but as a football lover- The beautiful game stands a lot to gain, if these lads can have their say. My only prayer is that they stay away from injuries.
Its time for Fabiooney & Messidona!!!!
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