Out but not down

Ghana will carry the flag for Africa in the knockout stages of Africa's first World Cup after Nigeria, Algeria and hosts South Africa joined Cameroon in failing to qualify from the group stages. Ivory Coast can still qualify mathematically, but it would take an unlikely 10-goal swing for them with Sven's side needing to match or better Portugal's 7-0 thrashing of North Korea with already qualified Brazil beating Portugal by 3 or more goals.

South Africa's elimination was of course the most disappointing, 2-0 up against 10-man France by half-time, and with Uruguay leading against Mexico, we looked well on course for a fairytale. France were long dead and buried, having had Yoann Gourcuff sent off for a flailing elbow their chances of qualification were long gone, but that wouldn't stop them from giving South Africa one last kick in the balls.

With Bafana Bafana committing more and more players forward in search of a 3rd and 4th goal that would bring them level with Mexico, Franck Ribery - one of the few French players who looked as if he was trying - was able to exploit the spaces in the South African defence allowing Malouda a simple finish. It was 5:30 pm and the sun had just set over Johannesburg, and over the hosts chances of progression. Like the uninvited party guest who makes a fuss, embarrasses themself before taking a dump in the linen closet and smashing a vase, France go home with their tails between their legs - and good riddance.

But hope springs eternal and out of the ashes of the Bafana fans grows new life, enthusiasm reborn for Ghana, Brazil, Portugal and England. The rainbow nation will still be continuing with their colourful and vibrant support of this tournament, while their players, team and fans have found several new admirers.