Cameroon legend Roger Milla has expressed his excitement as the first World Cup on African soil draws closer.
The forward, who was voted the continent's best player of the century in 2006, admitted he is still in awe that the global showpiece will take place in South Africa this June.
"In Africa, we are so happy to have received this World Cup - we could not believe we would get it. Every time I come to Zurich, I thank President Blatter for that," he told FIFA.com.
Milla was not the only legend who supported the decision to finally award an African country host status for the World Cup.
"It was the right decision to finally have an African country hosting this tournament," said Sir Bobby Charlton, who played a key role in England's winning campaign at the tournament in 1966.
" I'm sure that this FIFA World Cup will be a major success. I've been to South Africa a lot of times and people will enjoy it down there. I'm extremely happy that I will go to this year's World Cup. As always, I hope that England will do well."
One of Mexico's greatest ever stars, Hugo Sanchez also revealed his delight for the continent. "I'm very happy for Africa. The continent had to wait so many years for this occasion. To have South Africa hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup is not only very good for football, but also for the whole African continent."
Finally, Brazil icon Pele weighed in with his thoughts. "Everybody knows that I'm very confident and happy because I was the one who was fighting for the World Cup to be in Africa," he said. "They deserve it."
Post A Comment!
Be the first to post a comment on this story