The closing ceremony: Pictures
It was a night like no other – a cold, winter’s night when Africa would shine on the world’s stage like never before.
Soccer City hosted 84 490 fans to see Spain take on the Netherlands at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ final, but as many as half a billion people saw it on television.
On popular social networking site Twitter, thousands shared the ups and downs of a clash that went to extra time, with Spain finally walking away the winners, 1-0 to the Netherlands.
But the real winners on this night were South Africa and Africa. The crowning match, preceded by a spectacular closing ceremony that was hi-tech and distinctly African, will hopefully live on in the memories of millions, a symbol of South Africa’s success in hosting the world with warmth, gees (spirit) and an enduring sense of ubuntu.
Former South African President Nelson Mandela came onto the pitch after the ceremony. Photo courtesy FIFA.com
Life-size elephant puppets that made their way around a virtual waterhole. Photo courtesy FIFA.com
Grammy Award-winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Photo courtesy FIFA.com
It all ended at Soccer City in Johannesburg. Photo courtesy FIFA.com
South Africa deserves a big thank you for hosting a spectacular World Cup. Photo courtesy FIFA.com
See also:
- The curtain goes down on Africa’s first-ever World Cup: Pictures
- 2010 World Cup™ closing ceremony with a touch of Madiba magic
- Spain fans in Cape Town celebrate World Cup win
- World Cup final festivities at Cape Town FIFA Fan Fest™
- World Cup winners’ road to finals went via Cape Town
- Fans keep warm at V&A Waterfront for 2010 FIFA World Cup™ final 1
- Fans descend on V&A Waterfront for 2010 FIFA World Cup™ final – Photos
