Fifa World Cup

For a group of youngsters, the international flavour of the Fifa World Cup came to South Africa a few weeks early as they took to the field for the 2010 National Schools Football Final, with each team "adopting" a World Cup participating nation.

Johannesburg residents have been invited to join Brand South Africa's 2010 Fifa World Cup 30-day countdown celebration on Tuesday, with The People's Bus set to lead a procession of Diski Dancers, Harley Davidson Bikers and celebrities from Newtown to Soweto.

South Africa has launched a new system, capable of scanning 65 security features in a passport in less than 15 seconds, to facilitate quicker, safer passage of tourists in and out of the country.

"What is happening in the country at the moment is a marvel to watch," President Jacob Zuma said as South Africa celebrated the 50-day countdown to the 2010 Fifa World Cup. "This harmony should define us, and resonate in a wide range of spheres, even outside sport."

When the final match of the 2010 Fifa World Cup takes place at Soccer City in Johannesburg on 11 July, the coveted Fifa World Cup trophy will not be the only glittering golden object on show.

South African football fans will soon be able to buy tickets for 2010 Fifa World Cup matches over the counter, and collect them immediately.
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