This time for Africa

So the World Cup kicked off to music and partying ala African style.

The opening match between South Africa and Mexico was entertaining, with chances on both sides and for a moment, everyone thought the land that is representative of freedom from years of racism has achieved yet another memorable evening with a stunning goal. Too bad the Mexicans came storming back to force a draw.

I love the color of this World Cup. It is fun, it is representative and it is different from the rest we have had so far. More importantly, it is in the land of Nelson Mandela, the man I think has single handedly taught the world that the ideals of peace, love and the undying human spirit can change your circumstances no matter how drab it may be.

Many ask me the question "Who will win the World Cup?" While it makes for interesting debate and beer talk, the World Cup is always quite predictable, yet it manages to spring surprises from time to time. The usual suspects Brazil and Germany will be there. The usual under-performers Holland, England and Spain will be there. And even if Spain and England are tipped for glory yet again, I doubt the gods of football like to change scripts too much. The prized trophy at the World Cup has been shared mostly by the same few teams; Brazil, Germany, Italy and Argentina. It says plenty, they know how to win at the world stage. It is in the culture, it is in the blood.

But in a land whereby the impossible has been achieved, could it be the year of an African nation?

I have a sneaky feeling that one of the African nations will progress far enough to surprise a few pundits and I just think that Argentina despite all its problems is going to be a serious challenger (Messi could be the catalyst that Maradona was.) Capello's England will depart in sorrow again. Brazil and Spain got to pace themselves. It is a MARATHON. Nobody wins the World Cup by stepping all over the weaker teams at the start. They tend to lose momentum eventually, crumbling under early pressure from home and the world media. So write off France at your own peril. The French are more than capable of springing a surprise.

Who will win the World Cup? Who cares? Enjoy the ride.