Confeds Cup is officially open

“I declare the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup officially open,” said President Zuma just before the 4pm kick-off.

The President said it was a great day for Africa and South Africa.

He further welcomed the eight nations participating in the tournament to South Africa.

“Today we are making history. The time has come. Today is the day Ke Nako (the time has come), let us show the world,” the President said.

Also speaking at the official opening, FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who thanked the people of South Africa, which he referred to as “brothers and sisters”, for hosting the Festival of Champions.

“The world of football trusts you (South Africa) as you are hosting this event,” Blatter said.

Yvonne Chaka Chaka kicked-off the event by singing and welcoming the fans to the stadium shortly after 2.30pm.

Youngsters, dressed in black and white formed words Ke Nako, meaning it is time, on the pitch before painting their t-shirts in different colours to form the national flag.

A massive banner was held up with the FIFA logo which was circled by the flags of the various nations which are participating in the tournament.

Dancers, dressed in traditional outfits of Iraq, Brazil, the United States, Italy, Egypt, New Zealand, South Africa and Spain also formed the outline of the African continent.

Article published courtesy of BuaNews