Chairperson, one of the greatest achievements in postapartheid South Africa is our success in getting the World Cup. Furthermore, we have proved to the world that South Africa has outstanding organisational ability, and the very fact that our facilities have been hailed as world-class by Fifa president Sepp Blatter is a clear indication of the fact that our country will stage the greatest Soccer World Cup in history.
In 1994 Madiba wrote a message on how sport could lead to reconciliation and unity in our country, and it is clearly evident that right across the country all South Africans are united behind our country, our flag and our team.
The MF is very encouraged by the words of our coach, Carlos Parreira, in saying that Bafana Bafana is ready to take on any team. We also want to congratulate all the cities and everyone who has played a role in bringing this great spectacle to South Africa. Let us march forward all the way, with courage, conviction and determination. Let us never stop, until we have delivered a winning nation.
When it comes to a team, you need players to play with their hearts if you want to succeed, and Bafana Bafana is one such side. To Bafana Bafana: As you kick off after years of hard training, you have been chosen as the best team. Aaron Mokoena, you will master your game plan and go forward in the field of life. Always strike like Teko Modise, defend like Booth, score like Maradona and Tshabalala, and never, ever fall like Zidane.
May you always tackle your problems, dribble your opponents, and achieve more through team effort. When the vuvuzela sounds, make sure that you're on the right side and, finally, you must never get red-carded.
One nation, one vision, raising the level of expectation and the spirit of winning, - together with Bafana Bafana, we can score the winning goal and make South Africa a winning nation. Halala, Bafana Bafana! Halala! I would like all hon members to give Bafana Bafana a huge round of applause in advance. I thank you. [Applause.]