South Africa marks 15-year anniversary of 2010 World Cup
The enduring moment of the opening day of the World Cup was Simphiwe Tshabalala’s spectacular strike in the 55th minute, when a whole nation erupted collectively with joy.
FIFA World Cup 2010 quarterfinal between Uruguay and Ghana at FNB Stadium. Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Steve Evans
JOHANNESBURG - Wednesday marks exactly 15 years since the start of the biggest sporting event ever hosted in South Africa.
The 2010 FIFA World Cup kicked off on 11 June 2010, with a match between Bafana Bafana and Mexico that ended in a 1-all draw.
The enduring moment of the opening day of the World Cup was Simphiwe Tshabalala’s spectacular strike in the 55th minute, when a whole nation erupted collectively with joy.
“It’s a good ball, it’s Tshabalala… goal Bafana Bafana! Goal for South Africa! Goal for all of Africa!” remarked the commentator.
A young Sechaba Ramahlaha was also watching that day and still speaks fondly about an inspiring and timeless day that encouraged him to dream bigger.
“The best moment for me… Tshabalala versus Mexico, the corner of the net. What a special, special moment for a 15-year-old boy from Bloemfontein. That goal gave me hope. That goal made me see the future. That goal made me believe that even I can do it. I hope all South Africans felt the same.”
The promise that the World Cup on home soil had for Bafana Bafana didn’t materialise, but after some disappointing lows, the team is on an upward trajectory under coach Hugo Broos and remains on course to qualify for next year’s World Cup in North America.
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