All Square in Opening Game

Bafana Bafana drew their first game 1-1 with Mexico today. The host nation sent their fans into raptures when Siphiwe Tshabalala's ferocious strike arrowed in to the top corner on 55 minutes. It was a goal worthy to win any World Cup match. Mexico were superb in the first half and deserved to be leading at half time. They started the second half slowly and lacked the fluidity they had in the first half.

After conceding they respond well, the introductions of the experienced Cuahtemoc Blanco and the lively Andres Guardado, sparked more creativity. In the 79th minute it was Guardado's cross that found Rafael Marquez who stuck the ball past Khune in goal. The vuvuzelas were distinctly silenced when the Mexicans equalised. It was a great curtain raiser, colour and pride streamed through Soccer City, a great day for Africa and the world.

Star man: Giovani Dos Santos. His direct running and pace caused South Africa problems all game.



Ant Myers