Spare a though for the brave hosts

I don't know about you, but I did feel sorry for South Africa after seeing them fall out of the World Cup on Tuesday.

Bafana Bafana showed plenty of guts and determination and their singing on arrival to the stadiums and in the tunnel put a smile on my face. But unfortunately that couldn't make up for their lack of quality and they became the first ever host nation to be eliminated at the group stage and fail to be involved in the world cup round of 16 betting.

It was an outcome I fully expected, having tipped Mexico at even money to advance through to the round of 16 and eventually on to the world cup quarter finals betting, but in the end I found myself cheering on the hosts. Their efforts in the opening draw against Mexico made people, including myself take note, but they couldn't continue that against Uruguay, who I can see reaching the semi-finals. I'd also fancy Diego Forlan at Spurs. In my opinion, he is the complete striker. The guy brings others into play, scores and is a winner.

Forlan and his crew beat the South African's 3-0 and that left them in an unenviable position in their last game. Still, they dug in against the 1998 World Cup winners France and triumphed 2-1 in Bloemfontein after giving everything against a shambolic French Pub side.

Unfortunately it wasn't enough for Bafana Bafana, who were eliminated on goal difference with Mexico grabbing the second qualifying berth behind group winners Uruguay.

It was a sad end for the brave hosts, who didn't know whether to conduct a lap of honour after the ref blew the final whistle or drop to their knees in despair.

Memorable World Cups down the years have usually involved the host nation in the latter stages of the tournament. And the only plus point of the hosts' early exit will hopefully be the end of their enthusiastic Vuvuzela blowing, although I kind of doubt it.

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