The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

Although we were booted out and accordingly we became the first country not to qualify for the next round, South Africans should hold their heads high. The fact is that whatever criticism we may have against coach, players and officials, the reality is that Bafana-Bafana has tremendously improved compared to where they were only 4 months ago. The fact that we held Mexico and beat France in the process scoring 3 beautiful goals is a testimony to our improvement. Our pride has been restored despite missing out qualifying for the next round.

Let us not forget that South Africa came to this World Cup ranked 83, pitted against the best in the world, two of which were former world champions. In this context we surprised even ourselves by an excellent performance of our boys in the field of play.

Secondly South Africa has silenced all sceptics and prophets of doom by hosting one of the best FIFA World Cups. This also a cause for celebrations. Let the early exit of Bafana Bafana not make not see the bigger picture. This means we must still attend all matches and fill the fan parks proudly waving our flags at the remaining matches, fan parks, cars and our homes.

Going forward we hope that SAFA will draw lessons from our 2010 endeavour. We need a coach that will not drop the standards set in the preparations for the 2010 world cup. We need someone with international experience who will take us to the next level. The emotions shown before for us to hire a local coach do not relate to the reality that South African, and for that matter African, standards remain low in comparison to South America and most of Europe. We need international experience. We require higher standards of knowledge at the tactical level. We need to keep the momentum to qualify for African Nations and the Brazil 2014 World Cup.

COSATU is going to insist that SAFA must ensure development of soccer. Let the life-time opportunity of hosting world cup inspire everyone from the primary schools, umvela league, PSL and SAFA to ensure we realise our country's potential. The 2010 generation proved that we do have talent but lack other aspects of the game.

We take the opportunity to congratulate Bafana for taking us to a new level which itself is a new record. We congratulate the coach Alberto Carlos Parreira and all technical staff. We also salute all South African who strongly backed out team and country. Indeed SA will never be the same after the 2010 World Cup