Host nations have traditionally fared well at this competition. Mexico won it in 1999, France in 2003 and Japan missing in the 2001 final. The Bafana Bafana were worn out in the easiest of the two groups -- and coupled with the shelter verify -- can potentially run to the semifinals. After blemish to be eligible for the 2006 World Cup and the 2010 African Nations Cup, South Africa hopes to buck the commentary by turning in a unalloyed exhibition over the next few weeks.
Under bus Joel Santana, the body has undergone some vigorous changes. Gone is 31-year-old Benni McCarthy (he often skipped practice) and in his digs is 23-year-old Bernard Parker. Santana, who took over in year following the walk of geezer Brazilian Carlos Alberto Parreira, must get results if he wants to hang on to his job.
For South Africa, arrogance will be on the postal card at this tournament. Whether it can collect some games on poorhouse spot and become a Cinderella group remains to be seen.
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