World Cup 2010: Africa

With the World Cup coming to Africa for the first time, it's going to be a greater occasion than usual.

Africa loves football.

That is the cry from the dark continent. If the recent African Cup of Nations was any sort of foreshadowing, then 2010 will be an African explosion.

We already know that Africa is rich with talent when we see top clubs around the world who spend large amounts of money on these naturally gifted superstars.

Preparations are underway and South Africa is greatly anticipating the opportunity to host the world's biggest showcase. Nations from all parts of the globe will come  together to speak the language of football and the thought of who will take the title of the greatest football team will be crossing the minds of many.

The Italians, who outdid a lethal French side on German soil will be trying to defend their title.

Of course the Brazilians will be a threat as usual, but I would really love to see an England-Spain final. Both footballing giants have always gone into this competition as top contenders, but have failed to claim the title of World Champions apart from the English triumph in 1966.

Spain, however are known for under performing at the World Cup. Both countries have arguably the best leagues in the world and their national sides contain the most valuable players in the world. 

It is a strange and amazing fact that Spain have never won a World Cup, but I guess that is football. You can never predict a result and that is the reason we love this game. It has made grown men cry, been a great source of income to many and most of all, it has brought nations together. Don't you just love football?

My dream is to know what it feels like to lift up the World Cup. What went through the minds of Cannavaro and all the other great captains who have lifted up the greatest football honor in the world as the rest of the world watched?

It is a feeling that many will never know but the few who do, will undoubtedly treasure that experience for the rest of their lives. So while Gerrard, Rooney, Lampard, Fabregas, Ronaldo and Kaka battle in South Africa, I will be on my PlayStation trying to lift that glorious cup as well. May the best team win!