How Africa Won the Right
The road to 2010 stretched back decades — through apartheid, global scepticism, and a single famous vote. Here's how it happened.
South Africa Re-enters the World
Post-apartheid South Africa hosts its first democratic elections. The country begins reintegration into international sport, and football dreams grow. Morocco narrowly loses the 1994 hosting bid to the USA (7 votes to 10).
South Africa Loses by One Vote
South Africa's bid for the 2006 World Cup is sensationally beaten by Germany — by a single vote. The disappointment galvanises the African football community to fight harder for 2010.
Zürich, 15 May — Africa Gets the Cup
FIFA president Sepp Blatter announces South Africa as the 2010 host at a ceremony in Zürich. Nelson Mandela, representing the delegation, raises the World Cup trophy in an image seen around the world. South Africa beat Morocco 14 votes to 10.
Stadiums, Doubts, and Determination
Five new stadiums are built; five more are renovated. Despite international scepticism and construction delays, South Africa delivers. The Confederations Cup in 2009 serves as a dry run — and introduces the world to the vuvuzela.
Siphiwe Tshabalala Scores the First Goal
South Africa's Bafana Bafana open the tournament against Mexico at Soccer City. Tshabalala's iconic long-range strike in the 55th minute becomes the defining image of the tournament — a moment of pure African joy.
Ghana's Agonising Quarter-Final Exit
Ghana become the last African team standing and reach the quarter-finals. In a dramatic match against Uruguay, Luis Suárez handles on the line in extra time; Asamoah Gyan misses the resulting penalty. Africa's dream of a semi-final ends.
Iniesta Wins it for Spain in Extra Time
In a tense final at Soccer City, Andrés Iniesta scores in the 116th minute to give Spain a 1–0 win over the Netherlands. Spain become the first European nation to win a World Cup outside their own continent. The tournament is declared a triumph.
Where Were You in 2010?
Share your memories, stories, and thoughts from the tournament.