Benayoun stuns the Bernabeu

(AFP) Wednesday 25 February 2009
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enjoyed an unforgettable Madrid homecoming as a late Yossi Benayoun header helped Liverpool defeat Real Madrid 1-0 in the first leg of their last-16 UEFA Champions League duel at the Santiago Bernabeu. Benayoun headed in a Fabio Aurelio cross in the 82nd minute for a vital away goal and Liverpool now hold the advantage ahead of the return leg at Anfield on 10 March.

"We worked very hard and we scored a very good goal," said Benitez who added that he took off star striker Fernando Torres as a precaution. "He hurt his ankle in the first minute so he wasn't fully fit. I took him off because he could be at risk for the next few games."

Deprived of their inspirational captain Steven Gerrard - scorer of five goals in this season's - Liverpool lacked punch with former Atletico Madrid star Torres starved of service but a set-piece undid Real in the closing stages. The build-up to the match had surrounded Benitez's return to Real Madrid where he coached the youth team and the former Valencia coach, who continues to stall on a new contract, has consistently been linked with the Real job.

But for now his loyalty lies firmly with Liverpool and Real will have to pull out all the stops to eliminate the 2005 champions. "We wanted to try and score a few goals for the second leg but Liverpool played their game and were very good in defence," said Real coach Juande Ramos. "They scored from a set-piece but it was meant to be a 0-0 as there were hardly any chances from either side. We were unlucky to concede and now we need to win in Anfield. We are behind in the tie but it is far from over as we are capable of winning anywhere."

Gerrard, out since the beginning of February with a torn hamstring, lost his fitness battle and started on the substitutes bench with Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano forming the midfield axis. Torres started as a lone striker and Liverpool's Spanish influence was evident as they fielded five Spanish internationals in Pepe Reina, Albert Riera, Alonso, Torres and Alvaro Arbeloa, who came through the youth system at Real. Real had just three Spaniards in their starting XI with UEFA EURO 2008 victors Sergio Ramos and Iker Casillas along with captain Raul.

Dutch winger Arjen Robben, twice beaten by Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in Chelsea colours, shrugged off a slight hip injury to start on the right wing. Real were full of confidence after nine straight league victories and a 6-1 drubbing of Real Betis at the weekend, while Liverpool were low on confidence with rumours of Benitez ready to jump ship and poor domestic results seeing them fall behind Manchester United in the title race.

Torres jeered
In the early minutes Torres was penalised for a foul on Pepe drawing a chorus of jeers from the Real fans who showed their dislike for the former Atletico Madrid striker despite his heroics in Spain's EURO 2008 success. Real had the first opening after five minutes when Robben, constantly cutting inside on his left foot, fed Raul but his weak shot was saved by Reina. Nine-time champions Real were making the early running with Liverpool happy to soak up pressure and use the pace of Torres on the counter attack.

In the 20th minute Liverpool had the first clear-cut chance with Torres clean through after a defensive lapse, but international team-mate Casillas parried his shot with a fine reflex save. It would have been Torres's first ever goal at the Bernabeu. Casillas was again called into action a minute later to deny Benayoun. Liverpool gradually asserted their authority on the match as the half progressed and Benitez's name was chanted by the travelling fans showing their support for their popular manager.

Robben was Real's main threat and he fizzed a great cross in that took a deflection into Reina's grateful arms. The highlight of the first half was a spectacular shot from Alonso from close to the halfway line that was tipped over by Casillas.

Benayoun was an increasing menace for Liverpool but Torres was looking off the pace and Benitez took him off on the hour mark for Ryan Babel. Robben had Real's two best efforts in the second half with Reina tipping over his fierce 71st minute drive following a mazy run. But Liverpool hit the Spanish champions with the sucker punch eight minutes from time with Benayoun's header to gain the upper hand in the tie.

score madrid : liverpool 0 : 1

Mourinho going on the attack

Mourinho going on the attack
(AFP) Monday 23 February 2009
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Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho confirmed his team would go on the attack against Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League at the San Siro on Tuesday.

United may be the holders and favourites for the tournament and last week Mourinho described them as the best counter-attacking team in the world, but the Portuguese boss said he still won't change from his attacking philosophy.

"We won't change our style of play, it will be 4-4-2 with a diamond formation in midfield and (Zlatan) Ibrahimovic and Adriano in attack," he said.

"I've told the players not to think about the possibility that in two weeks they'll be out of the Champions League but that in two weeks they could have beaten the champions of Europe.

"We shouldn't be afraid, we have to keep our our way of playing and I'm sure that nothing will be decided tomorrow but rather in two weeks time in the return leg at Old Trafford. We're playing a great team but so are they."

Mourinho revealed that the only part of his team he is undecided on is his central defensive pairing and he said that the rest of the team will be as expected.

Behind the front pair Serbia's Dejan Stankovic will play at the head of the diamond with Argentina's Esteban Cambiasso at the base, Ghana's Muntari Sulley on the left and Inter captain Javier Zanetti on the right.

Brazilian Maicon and Italian teenager Davide Santon will continue as full-backs and Julio Cesar will start in goal but Mourinho is yet to decide on how best to nullify United's attacking threat of Dimitar Berbatov, Wayne Rooney and world player of the year Cristiano Ronaldo.

Even so he is convinced his team will continue their progress in Europe this season, despite a tough group qualifying in which they lost their last two matches and finished second to Panathinaikos.

And Mourinho dismissed United's defensive crisis, that has deprived them of Nemanja Vidic, Gary Neville, Wes Brown and possibly also Jonny Evans and John O'Shea, as an advantage for his team.

"The first reason is that they are strong defensively and also teams are afraid when they go to Manchester," said Mourinho, who believes United will apply a damage limitation exercise at the San Siro.

"I don't think Manchester will come to the San Siro to try to win, they'll play very defensively," he said. "Beating Manchester wouldn't be anything special, the important thing is qualifying for the next round. But we're not afraid, I believe that in two months we'll be in the final."

Woodgate dents Hull hopes

Woodgate dents Hull hopes
(AFP) Monday 23 February 2009
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A late goal from England defender Jonathan Woodgate gave Spurs what could be a crucial three points in the fight against relegation as they beat fellow Premier League strugglers Hull City 2-1. The defender's header - in what was his 50th appearance for the London club - four minutes from time gave Spurs only their second win in their last ten league matches and first away win since beating West Ham on 8 December last year.

For Hull relegation appears to be a real possibility as they have registered just one victory in their last 17 Premier League Games and are now just six points above the drop and one above Spurs. The home side had gone close to taking the lead a quarter of an hour in but it was not of their making - as Woodgate's header back to Spurs keeper Carlo Cudicini went past the Italian but he recovered to avoid conceding an embarrassing own goal.

However, Spurs were ahead two minutes later as Hull inexcusably left Aaron Lennon unmarked at a corner and Croat Luka Modric, seeing his team-mate unattended, passed to him and he made no mistake with an impressive shot. The hosts recovered their composure after that blow - which had come against the run of play - and ten minutes later they were deservedly level as Michael Turner turned the ball into the net after a corner kick had been missed by Cudicini and the ball had cannoned off Spurs midfielder Wilson Palacios.

The second-half started in lively fashion with Spurs forcing two early corners with Darren Bent going closest as his shot was saved by Matt Duke, though, the Spurs striker should have done better. Hull went down the other end and Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane had a shot from a corner blocked by two Spurs players after another piece of nervy goalkeeping by Cudicini.

Spurs Croatian international fullback Vedran Corluka was just the woodwork away from restoring his side's lead when his header from Modric's free-kick beat Duke but came back off the crossbar. Hull hit back, though, as Kamil Zayatte put in a good header with just under a quarter-of-an-hour reminaing, only for it to come off the far post as both sides pressed for what would probably be the winner.

That eventually came four minutes from the end and to the disappointment of the home fans it was Spurs who grabbed it as Woodgate rose to meet Benoit Assou-Ekotto's cross and beat Duke - though the central defender had to leave the pitch a couple of minutes later with a head wound.

Vidic: We're one big family

Vidic: We're one big family
(FIFA.com) Monday 23 February 2009
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Manchester United and Serbia's Nemanja Vidic has emerged as one of the game's most impressive defenders since moving to England in 2005. In an exclusive interview with FIFA.com, the big centre-half explains how he acclimatised to life at Old Trafford to become a key component in, arguably, the most formidable defence in world football.

The former Red Star Belgrade and Spartak Moscow man also discusses his hopes of qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa™ and what it means to him to play in a United side that is on the verge of creating history.

FIFA.com When you first began to play football with your brother Dusan as a child, did you always play as a defender?
Nemanja Vidic: No. I liked to play in many different positions, like every youngster. But, I always liked to play on the right side. I played as a striker until I was 13, then I was deployed as a right-back and almost immediately after that I became a central defender.

How excited were you when Red Star Belgrade wanted to sign you?
I was absolutely delighted. I was a Red Star supporter as a kid growing up. In those days, Red Star were European and world champions, so to wear the shirt was the dream of most kids in Belgrade.

What were the most important lessons you learned there?
I gained a winning mentality. Before that, I had been playing for smaller clubs and the expectations were far less. But, at Red Star everything was different, there was pressure on us to win every game we played. I accepted that challenge and I still keep this mentality, that detail is very important, especially at Manchester United.

You went on loan to FK Spartak Subotica in 2000. How important was that spell in terms of your career?
It was a new challenge. To play for a smaller club made me more professional and made me realise how important it was to do well so I could play more games for Red Star. I had new lessons to learn which, looking back has helped me develop as a player and as a person.

Was it hard to leave Serbia for Moscow?
Not really. There were quite a few Serbians in the Spartak squad when I arrived, so they helped me acclimatise. I have great memories of my days in Moscow and they mean so much to me.
I am very proud to be part of such a great team. We're winning trophies and we're one big happy family at United at the moment.
Nemanja Vidic on Manchester United.

What qualities do you think alerted Manchester United to become interested in you?
I was a good defender. I played well for Spartak over a number of years and especially for the national team, especially when we conceded only one goal in ten qualifying matches for EURO 2004. They had been monitoring my progress for a long period of time and must have been impressed enough to sign me. You will have to ask their staff the exact qualities they saw in me, I'm just so pleased that I had the chance to play for such a great club.

Did you feel nervous when you first signed for Manchester United?
I must admit I was surprised when they signed me, but I was also extremely happy. I knew how big a club United were before I arrived and knew they had lots of great players. I just put my head down and worked hard. I wasn't nervous, but anyone can feel nervous sometimes.

How helpful were the other players in making you settle in to life in England?
My team-mates were fantastic, they really helped me a lot. It was hard for me at first to settle in England, but everyone at the club made me feel extremely welcome. I worked on my English from day one, so now I can say a big thank you to everyone at Manchester United!

You have a fantastic on-pitch relationship with Rio Ferdinand, do share a good friendship off the pitch too?
Yes. We spend a lot of time together during matches, training, travelling, meals, or other activities, so of course we have a great relationship off the pitch just as we do on it.

Manchester United's players seem to be very close. Does that help on the pitch?
You cannot have good results without a great atmosphere in the camp. That is a reality, every club needs that. But, the most important thing is that the atmosphere is not fake, it must be genuine and good-natured. We have a great team spirit. After that, when you have quality players like we have at United, good results are normal.

What is the secret behind the fantastic defensive record this season?
We have no secret, that is true. During the last few weeks, some players who were not playing earlier on in the season have came in to the team and been brilliant, showing what a strong squad we have. They've done really well. The most important thing is that we are strong collectively, as a team.

As a defender, are you more pleased with a 1-0 win than a 3-1 victory?
Not really. Each victory is the same, three points are three points at the end of the day. Of course, not conceding a goal is always a nice bonus for defenders and goalkeepers. As long as we keep winning then I am happy.

How does it feel to be part of a club that is the champions of England, Europe and the world?
It is fantastic and I am very proud to be part of such a great team. We're winning trophies and we're one big happy family at United at the moment. But we never have enough time to think about celebrating, we always pick up from were we left off. We have new targets, and the fans demand that we hit those targets.
This generation can play together for at least the next five years and that will be very important. I deeply believe that we have the quality and desire to succeed,
Nemanja Vidic on Serbia.

Turning to Serbia, how excited were you when you made your debut against Italy?
I have fantastic memories from the match. That was one of the greatest landmarks in my career. That was the moment my career took off, people started to recognise who I was and it put me on the map. I remember Predrag Mijatovic's goal and the fact we got a 1-1 draw, which was fantastic for us at that time.

What does it mean for you to represent your country?
I have a lot of responsibility, but it means everything to me. In the past our country has had a bad image and, as sportsmen, we have really tried to change it. We are doing charity work off the pitch and during games, we‘re keeping that focus. I believe that we are changing people's perceptions of Serbia and that is something I take very seriously.

How disappointed were you to miss out at Germany 2006? Has that made you even more determined to qualify for South Africa?
Everything turned bad during the last qualifying match against Bosnia and Herzegovina when I was sent-off. After that, I had a bad injury and I had to miss the World Cup. Now we have a better team and a better chance of qualifying, and I shall do everything to be in South Africa. This is my dream.

You were drawn in a very difficult group with the likes of France, Austria and Romania - have you been pleased with the start you've made?
You said start and I agree with you. We have had a promising start, but nothing more than that. It is important that we keep our feet on the ground and take each game as it comes. On 28 March in Constanta we have a crucial match against Romania and it is one that we must win to maintain our ambitions of qualifying. I am optimistic about the future and I believe that Serbia can qualify.

What is the greatest strength of the Serbian side?
Youth. This generation can play together for at least the next five years and that will be very important. I deeply believe that we have the quality and desire to succeed, but we can still improve and we will have to play better if we are to qualify. But I believe in our squad.

Do you see any similarities between Serbia and Manchester United?
It is hard to compare. For me, you can not compare two teams or clubs, it is almost impossible. We in the Serbian national team want to build a special and unique style of playing. We have the qualities to play nice, attractive, offensive football and I hope that the public will see that in South Africa.

Slip-ups and giant strides

Slip-ups and giant strides
(FIFA.com) Monday 23 February 2009
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The weekend brought a mixed bag of results for the leaders around Europe's biggest leagues. Inter Milan, Lyon and Manchester United all maintained or extended their advantage at the top, but Spanish front-runners Barcelona and Bundesliga leaders Hertha Berlin both fell to defeats. In the case of the men from the German capital, the result cost them their lofty perch after just a week at the top. FIFA.com reviews the weekend action in Europe’s biggest leagues.

Premier League: United stride clear
Guus Hiddink's first match in charge at Chelsea ended with the hoped-for return to winning ways, as Nicolas Anelka's 15th goal of the season proved enough to see off high-flying Aston Villa. Manchester United completed an ultimately routine victory over 18th-placed Blackburn, Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo hitting the target in a 3-1 success. Roque Santa Cruz scored for Rovers on the half-hour, bringing an end to the Red Devils' run of 1,334 league minutes without conceding a goal.

There were setbacks in the title race for Liverpool and Arsenal who both dropped points at home. The Reds were held 1-1 by Manchester City, while the Gunners and Sunderland played out a scoreless draw.

Top three: Manchester United (62), Liverpool (55), Chelsea (52)
Bottom three: Blackburn Rovers, Middlesbrough (both 23), West Bromwich Albion (22)
Leading scorers: Nicolas Anelka (15 goals), Cristiano Ronaldo (12), Robinho (11)
Weekend stat: 14 – the goal conceded by Manchester United against Blackburn was their first in 14 matches

La Liga: Real make inroads
Rarely have the odds before the derby between Barcelona and Espanyol been so heavily stacked in one team's favour. The leaders went into the match undefeated in 22 games, whereas bottom club Espanyol were on a miserable 14-game winless streak. Incredibly, both runs came to an end in a shock 2-1 victory for Espanyol. Former Barca playmaker Ivan de la Pena struck a brace shortly after the restart to seal the points. Yaya Toure pulled one back for the leaders, who were reduced to ten men on 38 minutes after Seydou Keita's dismissal.

Real Madrid gleefully seized the opportunity to claw back lost ground, thrashing Betis 6-1 at the Bernabeu. All the goals came before half-time: Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Raul netted two apiece, with Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Ramos rounding off the half-dozen. Ricardo Oliveira struck a consolation for Betis as Real powered to a ninth win in a row. It was a good day for the pursuing pack too, as Sevilla beat Atletico 1-0, Villarreal defeated Gijon 2-1, and promoted Malaga notched up a 3-1 success in Valladolid.

Top three: Barcelona (60 points), Real Madrid (53), Sevilla (44)
Bottom three: Mallorca (24), Espanyol (21), Numancia (20)
Leading scorers: Samuel Eto'o (23 goals), David Villa (18), Lionel Messi (16)
Weekend stat: 9 – Espanyol's victory at the Camp Nou was only their ninth at the 75th time of asking

Frenzy worldwide for 2010 tickets

Frenzy worldwide for 2010 tickets
(FIFA.com) Saturday 21 February 2009
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There was a global scramble for 2010 FIFA World Cup tickets as soon as the online ticket portal on www.FIFA.com got underway on 20 February at 12h00 CET/13h00 South African time. Twenty-four hours after the online tickets went on sale, applications from 128 countries for 216,975 tickets had been received via the website, excluding the hard paper applications handed in by South African residents at FNB branches in the host country. The biggest number of orders came from South Africans, followed by applicants from Great Britain, the USA, Germany, Brazil, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Canada, Switzerland, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and Argentina.

"These are fantastic numbers, underlining yet again the fervour taking hold around the world for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the first on the African continent. It is very exciting and further evidence that the global football family want to be part of this unique event on this very special continent," says David Will, FIFA Honorary Vice-President and Chairman of the FIFA Ticketing Sub-Committee.

Fans have until midnight on 31 March 2009 to make ticket applications on the www.FIFA.com website. In addition, South African residents have the opportunity to file a hard paper application in one of the 700 FNB branches across the country. This ticketing purchase solution has been developed with FIFA Partner Visa.

"We are absolutely ecstatic with the phenomenal response of football fans around the world to the start of ticket sales for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. It reinforces the faith of the global football fraternity in South Africa. We stand ready as a country and a continent to warmly welcome the world in 2010, "says Danny Jordaan, CEO of the Organising Committee.

Irrespective of the date of their order, all applicants have the same chance of success. In case of over-subscribed matches a random selection draw will be organised on 15 April to allocate tickets for over-subscribed matches. All applicants will know by the end of April 2009 whether they have been successful or not.

The world is waiting

The world is waiting
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 17 February 2009
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When FIFA.com revealed last Tuesday that people could apply for tickets for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ from Friday 20 February, fans from all four corners of the globe could not hide their excitement about their desire to travel to South Africa.

Shortly after the announcement was posted on FIFA's Official Website, NevilleN from South Africa got the ball rolling. "I am desperate to get tickets and have waited my whole life of 69 years for the World Cup to come to South Africa," he opined. "Four years waiting - one more week to start dreaming about the games of the best World Cup ever," wrote danielondon, a user from Colombia.

The memories of Germany 2006 have given some visitors to FIFA.com some food for thought with regard to getting tickets for South Africa. "I missed the last World Cup and there is no way I will miss this one. Forza Azzurri," said Italy fan Galloots13. Rich3003 hopes to be there for another reason. "I was in Germany to see my team Trinidad and Tobago create history! All I need now are some tickets to see the Soca Warriors again!" And, having missed out on the ‘Time to Make Friends', bitethelime, a user from USA is eager to watch the action unfold before his eyes in 2010. "I have been looking forward to this since 2002 because I knew I couldn't go to Germany," he wrote. "Only 482 days to go!"
Four years waiting - one more week to start dreaming about the games of the best World Cup ever
daniellondon on his excitement of applying for tickets.

From Friday until Tuesday 31 March 2009, the first ticketing sales phase for South Africa 2010 takes place. Tickets will be allocated by a random selection draw for over-subscribed matches and ticket categories. All orders will be entered into a random selection draw on 15 April 2009 at the same time regardless of whether they were submitted on the first or the last day of the first sales phase. If demand exceeds availability for a certain category or match then available tickets will be awarded randomly.

There are two ways for fans to order tickets. You can either log on to FIFA.com or those living in South Africa can also order tickets via the "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" available at First National Bank (FNB), by filling in an official application form and handing it in at one of the participating FNB branches around the country. The "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" will be the unique Ticket payment card for the fans who are successfully awarded tickets through the official paper application forms handed in at FNB branches in South Africa.

As well as individual tickets for the 64 matches, team-specific ticket series are also available for the country of your choice. These are valid for anything from three to seven games.

"Incredible. I have been waiting since 2006 for this and I don't see anything short of a life-altering tragedy that's going to stop me from going to South Africa," said djcandle. "I hope I can get tickets - my fiancée and I have been planning to take our honeymoon in South Africa to coincide with the World Cup since 2004," wrote walsall1976 from England.

But the final word must go to viltukas from Lithuania. "It's a fantasy that might come true. One of the greatest events in the world in a wonderful country. I just can't wait!"

Tickets: The countdown begins

Tickets: The countdown begins
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 10 February 2009
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Every four years, the world's top 32 teams come together to contest the FIFA World Cup™ finals. The tournament's big kick-off on 11 June 2010 in Johannesburg, South Africa is still quite a few months away, but for fans of the world's biggest single sporting event there is another important date on the horizon: the start of the first ticket sales phase on 20 February 2009.

Anyone who wants to attend the first-ever final phase on African soil would do well to put this date in their diaries. The first of a total of five sales phases will run from 20 February to 31 March 2009, with tickets being allocated by a random selection draw for over-subscribed matches and ticket categories. All orders will be entered into a random selection draw on 15 April 2009 at the same time regardless of whether they were submitted on the first or the last day of the first sales phase. Should demand exceed availability for a certain category or match then available tickets will be awarded by ballot (i.e. through an electronic random selection draw).

There are two ways for fans to order tickets: firstly, you can log on to FIFA.com, the official website of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa where fans can sign up for the FIFA.com Club for free. Those living in South Africa can also order tickets via the "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" available at First National Bank (FNB), by filling in an official application form and handing it in at one of the participating FNB branches around the country. The "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" will be the unique Ticket payment card for the fans who are successfully awarded tickets through the official paper application forms handed in at FNB branches in South Africa.

As well as individual tickets for the 64 matches, team-specific ticket series are also available for the country of your choice. These are valid for anything from three to seven games.

Tickets are available in three categories with category 4 reserved exclusively for South African residents. The least expensive ticket in category 3 costs $80 USD.

There will be four further sales periods for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, with the second running from 4 May to 16 November 2009. During this period, tickets will be attributed based on the order in which the application is received and, of course, subject to availability.

All information on ticket sales is available on FIFA.com. Sign up for the FIFA.com Club for free and take part in competitions, meet new online friends, set up your own personalised version of FIFA.com and get all the latest news from around the world of football in a weekly newsletter.

2010 ticket sales launched

2010 ticket sales launched
(FIFA.com) Thursday 19 February 2009
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FIFA today (Friday 20 February) kicked off the ticket sales process for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ with the launch of the first sales phase, which will last from 20 February to 31 March 2009. Tickets for the biggest single-sport event in the world can be requested online via FIFA.com.

South African residents also have the opportunity to register through ticket application forms available at FNB National Bank branches in South Africa, where they will receive a FNB Visa Official Mascot Prepaid Card in exchange for an amount equal to that of the tickets that they apply for.

"The fervour is already palpable within South Africa and all around the world: everyone wants to take part in this extraordinary event. Our ticketing policy has been drawn up to reflect our determination to ensure that FIFA's flagship competition is accessible to all football fans. We hope that you will come and enjoy the game!" said FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke.
Our ticketing policy has been drawn up to reflect our determination to ensure that FIFA's flagship competition is accessible to all football fans,
FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke.

"The start of the ticket sales kicks off the chance for fans from all over the world to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a FIFA World Cup match in South Africa. We have strived to give everyone a fair and equal chance to access a ticket, so that that all people around the world have a possibility to enjoy the wonderful celebration that we will have next year," added Danny Jordaan, CEO of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa.

All applicants who register correctly by the end of the first sales period will have an equal opportunity to obtain tickets, as this sales phase is not on a first come, first served basis. A random draw will be conducted on 15 April to determine which applicants receive tickets for oversubscribed matches.

For more information about the ticket sales process, please click on the links on the right-hand panel of this story.

The world is waiting

The world is waiting
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 17 February 2009
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When FIFA.com revealed last Tuesday that people could apply for tickets for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ from Friday 20 February, fans from all four corners of the globe could not hide their excitement about their desire to travel to South Africa.

Shortly after the announcement was posted on FIFA's Official Website, NevilleN from South Africa got the ball rolling. "I am desperate to get tickets and have waited my whole life of 69 years for the World Cup to come to South Africa," he opined. "Four years waiting - one more week to start dreaming about the games of the best World Cup ever," wrote danielondon, a user from Colombia.

The memories of Germany 2006 have given some visitors to FIFA.com some food for thought with regard to getting tickets for South Africa. "I missed the last World Cup and there is no way I will miss this one. Forza Azzurri," said Italy fan Galloots13. Rich3003 hopes to be there for another reason. "I was in Germany to see my team Trinidad and Tobago create history! All I need now are some tickets to see the Soca Warriors again!" And, having missed out on the ‘Time to Make Friends', bitethelime, a user from USA is eager to watch the action unfold before his eyes in 2010. "I have been looking forward to this since 2002 because I knew I couldn't go to Germany," he wrote. "Only 482 days to go!"
Four years waiting - one more week to start dreaming about the games of the best World Cup ever
daniellondon on his excitement of applying for tickets.

From Friday until Tuesday 31 March 2009, the first ticketing sales phase for South Africa 2010 takes place. Tickets will be allocated by a random selection draw for over-subscribed matches and ticket categories. All orders will be entered into a random selection draw on 15 April 2009 at the same time regardless of whether they were submitted on the first or the last day of the first sales phase. If demand exceeds availability for a certain category or match then available tickets will be awarded randomly.

There are two ways for fans to order tickets. You can either log on to FIFA.com or those living in South Africa can also order tickets via the "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" available at First National Bank (FNB), by filling in an official application form and handing it in at one of the participating FNB branches around the country. The "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" will be the unique Ticket payment card for the fans who are successfully awarded tickets through the official paper application forms handed in at FNB branches in South Africa.

As well as individual tickets for the 64 matches, team-specific ticket series are also available for the country of your choice. These are valid for anything from three to seven games.

"Incredible. I have been waiting since 2006 for this and I don't see anything short of a life-altering tragedy that's going to stop me from going to South Africa," said djcandle. "I hope I can get tickets - my fiancée and I have been planning to take our honeymoon in South Africa to coincide with the World Cup since 2004," wrote walsall1976 from England.

But the final word must go to viltukas from Lithuania. "It's a fantasy that might come true. One of the greatest events in the world in a wonderful country. I just can't wait!"

Mathijsen: We have what it takes

Mathijsen: We have what it takes
(FIFA.com) Thursday 19 February 2009
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Things could hardly get any better for Joris Mathijsen. His Hamburg team currently sit third in the Bundesliga, one point behind leaders Hertha Berlin and are still involved in the UEFA Cup, while he is also a member of the Oranje squad well placed to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

The 28-year-old cut his footballing teeth at Willem II Tilburg, graduating from the youth set-up to the first team in 1999, when he made his Eredivisie debut. It was not until he moved to Alkmaar however that he tasted success, finishing third in the league in 2005 and runner-up in 2006.

Another transfer came, and for the princely sum of six million euros Mathijsen moved to Germany, where his Bundesliga exploits have helped make him one of the lynchpins of the Dutch national team. Indeed, he played three times at Germany 2006 and another three times at UEFA EURO 2008.

On 20 October 2007, he even wrote his name in the Bundesliga history books when scoring his first league goal for Hamburg and the club's 2500th of all time in a match against Stuttgart. FIFA.com caught up with the central defender for an exclusive interview.

FIFA.com: After Rafael van der Vaart moved on in the summer, Nigel de Jong became the second Dutchman to leave Hamburg a few weeks ago. Do you miss your fellow countrymen?
Joris Mathijsen: I'm not the only Dutchman still left here [as coach Martin Jol, Khalid Sinouh and Romeo Castelen are still at the club]. Rafael and Nigel played really well for Hamburg and it was fun for us all to play together, but I'm sure that we'll still continue to play good football in the future, even without those two.

You have been at Hamburg since 2006. How long do you see yourself staying in the Bundesliga?
I haven't really got an answer to that question. I have a long-term contract here and I really feel at home in the city and with the club, so I can't really imagine playing anywhere else at the moment. That doesn't necessarily mean that I'll spend my entire life with HSV though.

Which team would you really like to play for then?
There are obviously some clubs in England and Spain that are very interesting.
We just need to have that bit of luck on our side and then we'll win another title. We definitely have what it takes to win one.
Mathijsen on the Netherlands' quest for a major trophy.

You have yet to win a title in your career to date, but you are still in the running for three competitions this season - the Bundesliga, the German Cup and the UEFA Cup. How desperate are you to finally hold a trophy aloft?
I'm a professional footballer so obviously I want to win titles. And believe me, Hamburg want to win some silverware - it would be a dream come true for us.

What can HSV realistically achieve this season?
Our main aim is to qualify for Europe again directly. And if anything else is on offer, we obviously won't say no!

Moving on to the Dutch national team. You made your debut in 2004 - do you remember much of the match?
Of course I do. I came on as a late substitute away to Andorra (17 November 2004 in a qualifier for Germany 2006). We were already 3-0 up so I couldn't really do much wrong.

In FIFA World Cup qualifying, the Netherlands have three wins in as many matches and are top of their group, four points ahead of the competition. What could possibly go wrong on the road to South Africa?
Yes, we are in a good position but that means absolutely nothing. We know that we have to be on our guard every match. But if we put in the kind of performances that we are capable of, we will qualify for the World Cup.

The Netherlands are always among the favourites for every big tournament but have not won a major trophy in over 20 years. Why is there such a gap between expectation and reality?
You shouldn't forget that when you get to the final phase of a tournament, matches are usually won and lost on little details. We just need to have that bit of luck on our side and then we'll win another title. We definitely have what it takes to win one.

Are the Netherlands among the top teams in the world - and if not, what is keeping you from being one of them?
I think we are one of the best, but recent tournaments have shown that it's no longer an elite group up there any more, so you need to keep proving that you belong among the best.

How far do you think the Oranje can go at South Africa 2010?
We want to go as far as possible, which obviously means the Final. To do that, we'll have to play well, be consistent and of course have that little bit of luck that you need. We'll just have to see what's possible, but obviously qualifying is our first priority.

The Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk has Bundesliga experience and the likes of Martin Jol, Fred Rutten and Huub Stevens are some of the other big names who have crossed the border and enjoyed a great deal of success in Germany. What have Dutch coaches got that others do not?
You need to ask the directors of football at the various clubs about that. I do think that the standard of coaching in the Netherlands is very high though, and that Dutch coaches have proved their worth.

Could you imagine yourself being a coach one day?
That's still a long way off for me. I hope that I'll find an interesting challenge to occupy my time once I've hung up my boots - and maybe that will involve coaching.
Add your comment
12345
Rating: 4.3

* User comments »

Gliwice
22/02/2009 at 23:09
Gliwice (Canada)
What they always lack is what teams like Portugal or Italy or Germany have... a bit of football "trickery" on the pitch, as well as a strong mentality in important moments. They have the best players, better than Brazil even, but something is missing from their national psychology.... they are simply put it "too nice" to win the World Cup. Yet, I hope they do.
Raffael29
22/02/2009 at 19:54
Raffael29 (Peru)
I have been a great fan of dutch teams since Euro 88(Gullit,Van Basten, Rijkard, Koeman brothers, ect), and i think that for the time being they have the best offensive and gifted players. Check this list: Robben, Van Persie, Van de Vaart, Sneijder,etc. They have all to win this next WC.
SmiLeZ
20/02/2009 at 21:58
SmiLeZ (USA)
The Dutch ave a competitive team. They will go far.
Oranjealtijd
20/02/2009 at 14:24
Oranjealtijd (Aruba)
Will see what happens in the world cup , I'm sure the Dutch will be one of the strongest team
futbol98
20/02/2009 at 08:31
futbol98 (Australia)
So close yet so far that is the main story of dutch football. Again I think it will be them and Spain in the finals, whereby spain wins it all.
futbol98
20/02/2009 at 08:31
futbol98 (Australia)
So close yet so far that is the main story of dutch football. Again I think it will be them and Spain in the finals, whereby spain wins it all.
LOROUSA
20/02/2009 at 08:27
LOROUSA (USA)
To arasan: Holland showed in Euro2008 that they have the best team in the world????? Don't get me wrong: I have been a longtime dutch soccer admirer since Johan Cruyff's mechanical orange of the 1970's, but in Euro2008 they played just one very good match and it wasn't enough to even make the quarterfinals..... I think Spain clearly showed everyone which is the best team in the world right now !!!! :0)
deeabe
20/02/2009 at 04:45
deeabe (Canada)
The Dutch obviously deserve to win many titles in the near future. Now the only issue they have right now is a rock solid keeper, and it's not going to be easy; as this keeper will always be compared with Edwin Van Der Sar. This team is equipped with mean defense and creative offense. I would say this team is ready.
rubenvdzon
19/02/2009 at 23:10
rubenvdzon (Canada)
Oranje has a very strong offensive side, the probably have more offensive talent than anyone else in the world, and the country only has about 16 million people, It's something i take great pride in as a Dutchmen. Mathijsen is Oranje's best defender as well.

Smith: Rangers must match Celtic consistency

Smith: Rangers must match Celtic consistency
(AFP) Sunday 22 February 2009
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Walter Smith believes Rangers most show the consistency of Celtic if they are to be crowned champions this season, following their 3-1 win over Kilmarnock at Ibrox this weekend. The Glasgow giants banished the memory of last weekend's goalless Old Firm derby by brushing aside Killie in an impressive performance which sent Rangers top of the table for the first time since November.

Smith believes his side, who face Hamilton and Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the next ten days, must match the winning runs the Parkhead club have gone on in previous years, if they are to capture the title for themselves.

"The main thing in any given weekend is to win the game. Rangers have to find a consistency in terms of winning, if we are holding out any hopes of becoming champions," Smith said. "Celtic have shown over the last few seasons that they have been able to gain that consistency.

"We have to show that we can gain it, if we hope to win the league this season. So that's the challenge for us. It's an ongoing challenge and, in this part of the season, we have been as consistent - in terms of our overall play - as we have been at any other time in the season."

Rangers' win over Kilmarnock at Ibrox yesterday was thanks to a Kenny Miller double that gave the Gers a one-point gap at the top of the table. Celtic's 1-1 draw with Motherwell today kept the Hoops in second place behind their Glasgow rivals on goal difference.



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Rangers' Kris Boyd laughs while sitting on the pitch
(Reuters)
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* Sporting Lisbon's Portugese forward Liédson (C) miskicks the ball while under pressure from Rangers'
* Sporting Lisbon's Montenegrin midfielder Simon Vukcevic controls the ball against Rangers during the
* Sporting Lisbon's Montenegrin midfielder Simon Vukcevic (R) wins the ball from Rangers' Scottish mid
* Sporting Lisbon's Leandro Grimi (18) tackles Rangers' Barry Ferguson during their UEFA Cup quarter f
* Sporting Lisbon's Portugese forward Liédson (R) is challenged by Rangers' Spanish defender Carlos Cu
* Rangers' Steven Davis (L) shoots at goal as Sporting Lisbon's Joao Moutinho challenges during their
* Sporting Lisbon's Portuguese forward Liedson (L) wins the ball from Rangers' Spanish defender Carlos
* Sporting Lisbon's Marat Izmailov (L) challenges Rangers' Barry Ferguson in the air during their UEFA
* Rangers' Jean-Claude Darcheville (L) reacts as Sporting Lisbon's Tonel challenges him during their U

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Injuries worry Ferguson ahead of Inter match

Injuries worry Ferguson ahead of Inter match
(AFP) Sunday 22 February 2009
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Manchester United are facing mounting defensive concerns ahead of their last 16 UEFA Champions League match against Inter Milan. United were already without Serbian defender Nemanja Vidic due to suspension for Tuesday's first leg at the San Siro and they lost Jonny Evans to an ankle injury in the 2-1 Premier League win over Blackburn Rovers at Old Trafford yesterday. And with Gary Neville and Wes Brown struggling with injury, manager Sir Alex Ferguson is now hoping John O'Shea can overcome an ankle problem in order to partner Rio Ferdinand at centre-back against Jose Mourinho's team.

"We've got some injury issues, of course, and I just hope we can get two centre-backs out there on Tuesday," Ferguson said. "At this moment in time, it's very doubtful. Jonny Evans is unlikely to be playing. He's looking very doubtful and I'm just hoping to have John O'Shea available, because we don't have Gary Neville and we don't have Wes Brown.

"We're having a nightmare with defenders this season. Hopefully we can patch it up with Tuesday because this does leave us very, very short," he added. Despite United picking up a tenth straight Premier League victory and moving well clear at the top, Ferguson believes they way they were made to work by Blackburn shows they cannot grow over-confident about their chances of securing an 18th league title.

"Sometimes when you don't play your very best and get a result, that goes a long way towards winning the title," he said. Ferguson, whose side were recently labelled "untouchable" by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, added: "I've said all along that we can't forecast that we're going to win the league. A team like Blackburn will come to Old Trafford and fight for their lives.

"That's what you can expect from every team in the bottom 11. It's a difficult league so when people are talking about us going to win the league, we're going to dismiss it. We've got to focus every game and fight for our lives, just like the teams at the bottom of the league are fighting for their lives."

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce acknowledged Rovers needed wins to back up their improved performances. Rovers are still two points from safety and Allardyce said: "I'm anxious about where we are and anxious about the fact that we're in the mire. The only thing that will get you out of the mire is wins now, points on the board.

"Performances help you get points on the board, but we've had consistent performances and we haven't got a consistent level of points to go with that. That's a big worry at the minute. Converting good performances into wins is now imperative.

"We've got to try to make sure we got to Hull City now and do what we haven't done since I've been here, which is win away from home. Clubs above us are now pulling away and there are fewer and fewer clubs involved now so we've got to make sure we're not stuck the bottom."




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Manchester United's Portuguese midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo (R) poses with his FIFA world player of the year trophy with Manager Alex Ferguson
(AFP)
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* Inter Milan's Brazilian defender Maicon (C) fights for the ball with Bologna's midfielder Francesco Valiani (L) and Bologna's midfielder Christian Amoroso
* AC Milan's Pato (R) vies for the ball with Inter Milan's Marco Materazzi
* Inter Milan's Brazilian defender Maxwell (R) fights for the ball with Catania's defender Lorenzo Sto
* Inter Milan's Portuguese midfielder Ricardo Quaresma controls the ball
* Inter Milan's midfielder Patrick Vieira of France celebrates
* AS Roma's forward Francesco Totti fights for the ball against Inter Milan's Argentinian midfielder Esteban Matias Cambiasso
* Inter Milan's Swedish forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic kicks the ball against Genoa
* Inter Milan's Serbian midfielder Dejan Stankovic (L) celebrates after scoring
* Inter Milan's Brazilian striker Amantino Mancini (Front) vies with FC Torino's defender Paolo Zanetti
* Manchester United's Irish defender John O'Shea (2R) challenges Celtic's Italian midfielder Massimo Donati
* Celtic's Irish forward Cilian Sheridan chases the ball
* Manchester United's Argentinian forward Carlos Tevez (L) is chased by Celtic's Australian forward Scott McDonald
* Celtic's German defender Andreas Hinkel (L) plays the ball past Manchester United's Portugese midfielder Nani
* Manchester United's Serbian defender Nemanja Vidic (R) reacts after a near miss
* Celtic's Scottish midfielder Scott Brown (R) pulls away from Manchester United's Brazilian defender Rafael Da Silva
* Manchester United's Serbian defender Nemanja Vidic reacts to a decision by the referee during the Ue
* Celtic's Scottish defender Gary Caldwell (L) clears from Manchester United's Welsh midfielder Ryan G
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Winner: Italy

o Winner: Italy
o Runners-Up: France
o Third: Germany
o Fourth: Portugal

o adidas Golden Ball: Zinedine ZIDANE (FRA)
# adidas Golden Shoe: Miroslav KLOSE (GER)
o Yashin Award for the Best Goalkeeper: Gianluigi BUFFON (ITA)
o Best Young Player Award: Lukas PODOLSKI (GER)
o FIFA Fair Play award: Spain,
o Brazil
o FIFA Award for the Most Entertaining Team: Portugal

Technical Report

Italy won their fourth world crown in Germany, beating France on penalties in Berlin. If Zinedine Zidane's red card was the Final's defining image, Italy's triumph would be remembered as a team effort with ten different Azzurri players finding the net. It was also a special month for Germany, the goals of Miroslav Klose helping secure third place in a tournament memorable for the festival mood across the host country.
Korea/Japan 2002

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Redemption for Ronaldo as world's eyes turn east

o Winner: Brazil
o Runners-Up: Germany
o Third: Turkey
o Fourth: Korea Republic

o adidas Golden Ball: Oliver KAHN (GER)
# adidas Golden Shoe: RONALDO (BRA)
* Yashin Award for the Best Goalkeeper: Oliver KAHN (GER)
* FIFA Fair Play award: Belgium
* FIFA Award for the Most Entertaining Team: Korea Republic

Technical Report

Brazil became champions for the fifth time as top scorer Ronaldo exorcised the ghosts of 1998, scoring both goals in the Final against Germany. This was Asia's first FIFA World Cup™ and both host nations made history by reaching the knockout rounds – Korea Republic going as far as the last four. A tournament of surprises, it opened with France losing to Senegal and closed with Turkey third in the world.
France 1998

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Zidane lights the blue-touch paper for France

o Winner: France
o Runners-Up: Brazil
o Third: Croatia
o Fourth: Netherlands

o adidas Golden Ball: RONALDO (BRA)
# adidas Golden Shoe: Davor SUKER (CRO)
* Yashin Award for the Best Goalkeeper: Fabien BARTHEZ (FRA)
* FIFA Fair Play award: England,
* France
* FIFA Award for the Most Entertaining Team: France

Technical Report

The home of tournament founder Jules Rimet, France enjoyed an unforgettable summer as its footballers finally tasted FIFA World Cup glory, Zinedine Zidane leading Les Bleus to victory over Brazil in the Final. France 98 was the first finals with an enlarged cast of 32 teams and among the newcomers were a Croatia side who, fired by the goals of top scorer Davor Suker, confounded expectations by finishing third.
USA 1994

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To see the current Laws of your favourite game, click on the link in the "Read more" section below.

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FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking

FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking
FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking
Since its introduction in August 1993, the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking has become a regular part of international sports reports and an important indicator for FIFA's member associations to find out where their respective teams stand in world football's pecking order and how they are progressing.
Last Updated 11 Feb 2009
Next Release 11 Mar 2009
Ranking Team Pts +/- Pos Feb 2009
1 Spain Spain 1693 0 Equal
2 Germany Germany 1403 0 Equal
3 Netherlands Netherlands 1357 0 Equal
4 Italy Italy 1318 0 Equal
5 Brazil Brazil 1248 0 Equal
6 Argentina Argentina 1181 0 Equal
7 Croatia Croatia 1175 0 Equal
8 England England 1136 0 Equal
9 Russia Russia 1119 0 Equal
10 Turkey Turkey 1040 0 Equal
11 France France 1026 0 Equal
12 Portugal Portugal 1020 -1 Down
12 Czech Republic Czech Republic 1020 -1 Down
14 Ukraine Ukraine 932 2 Up
15 Paraguay Paraguay 923 3 Up
Best movers
Best
1 Nicaragua NCA
from 182 to 132
( +50 pos, +176 pts )
2 Panama PAN
from 83 to 50
( +33 pos, +169 pts )
3 Benin BEN
from 99 to 81
( +18 pos, +61 pts )
Worst movers
Worst
1 Zambia ZAM
from 76 to 92
( -16 pos, -49 pts )
2 Cuba CUB
from 77 to 93
( -16 pos, -45 pts )
3 Egypt EGY
from 15 to 30
( -15 pos, -230 pts )

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FIFA/Coca-Cola Women's World Ranking
The FIFA/Coca-Cola Women's World Ranking

The FIFA/Coca-Cola Women's World Ranking is designed to give a comprehensive insight into the current strength of the national teams that represent their countries in women's football.
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Ranking Team Pts +/- Pos Sep 2008
1 USA USA 2211 0 Equal
2 Germany Germany 2152 0 Equal
3 Brazil Brazil 2131 1 Up
4 Sweden Sweden 2063 -1 Down
5 Korea DPR Korea DPR 2026 1 Up

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New heights for UNCAF minnows
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Thursday 12 February 2009
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Wednesday 11 February 2009
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Beckham: This week will be crucial

Beckham: This week will be crucial
(AFP) Sunday 22 February 2009
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David Beckham revealed that something could happen this week with his proposed transfer from Los Angeles Galaxy to AC Milan. Beckham's on-off transfer saga has been dominating the news over the past few weeks, with both the former England captain and the Italian giants making clear they want to make his loan deal permanent. But Galaxy are holding out for four-times the reported $3 million Milan have offered for the 33-year-old.

"I honestly don't know, but I know that next week will be important," said Beckham, when asked about his transfer following Milan's 1-0 victory over Cagliari. "I want to stay at Milan, I've not heard anything from Galaxy, but when it's like that you could say it could be good news."

Transfer talks seem to have hit a stalemate with Milan vice president Adriano Galliani insisting the club won't increase the offer which Galaxy described as "ridiculous".

"Absolutely not. I have a lot of experience with regard to the price of players," said Galliani, when asked if Milan would increase their bid. "And from a point of view regarding the European parameters, there's no sense in spending any more. In the States they look at the commercial aspect. But in Europe, transfers are done for technical reasons. I'm already at the limit of the budget at my disposal."

However Galaxy chief Tim Leiweke has been holding his ground as well and claiming that the Americans will not be bullied into accepting less than their own valuation. "Two weeks ago, Milan made a ridiculous offer that took me just a few seconds to reject," he said. "With this figure, Galaxy wouldn't even be able to cover the loss in revenue from shirt sales. If Milan are so determined to buy him, why are they dragging this out for so long? If they think they'll get him on the cheap that way, they're wrong," he said.

Beckham is still determined to be a part of the England squad at next year's 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, provided Fabio Capello's men qualify, and he feels that his best chance of achieving that goal is to be playing for Milan rather than Galaxy.

"Of course, people have said that, it's been in the news that people have said that," Beckham replied when asked whether he risks losing his place in Capello's squad if he returns to Mayor League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. "But I've been at the Galaxy for a year and a half now and I've managed to stay in the England team. We'll see.

"It's obvious that it could play a part in Capello's thoughts," he added. "I love playing football and so I want to stay here."

Beckham equalled Bobby Moore's record of 108 caps for an outfield England player in a 2-0 defeat by Spain earlier this month.

Beckham: This week will be crucial

Beckham: This week will be crucial
(AFP) Sunday 22 February 2009
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David Beckham revealed that something could happen this week with his proposed transfer from Los Angeles Galaxy to AC Milan. Beckham's on-off transfer saga has been dominating the news over the past few weeks, with both the former England captain and the Italian giants making clear they want to make his loan deal permanent. But Galaxy are holding out for four-times the reported $3 million Milan have offered for the 33-year-old.

"I honestly don't know, but I know that next week will be important," said Beckham, when asked about his transfer following Milan's 1-0 victory over Cagliari. "I want to stay at Milan, I've not heard anything from Galaxy, but when it's like that you could say it could be good news."

Transfer talks seem to have hit a stalemate with Milan vice president Adriano Galliani insisting the club won't increase the offer which Galaxy described as "ridiculous".

"Absolutely not. I have a lot of experience with regard to the price of players," said Galliani, when asked if Milan would increase their bid. "And from a point of view regarding the European parameters, there's no sense in spending any more. In the States they look at the commercial aspect. But in Europe, transfers are done for technical reasons. I'm already at the limit of the budget at my disposal."

However Galaxy chief Tim Leiweke has been holding his ground as well and claiming that the Americans will not be bullied into accepting less than their own valuation. "Two weeks ago, Milan made a ridiculous offer that took me just a few seconds to reject," he said. "With this figure, Galaxy wouldn't even be able to cover the loss in revenue from shirt sales. If Milan are so determined to buy him, why are they dragging this out for so long? If they think they'll get him on the cheap that way, they're wrong," he said.

Beckham is still determined to be a part of the England squad at next year's 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, provided Fabio Capello's men qualify, and he feels that his best chance of achieving that goal is to be playing for Milan rather than Galaxy.

"Of course, people have said that, it's been in the news that people have said that," Beckham replied when asked whether he risks losing his place in Capello's squad if he returns to Mayor League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. "But I've been at the Galaxy for a year and a half now and I've managed to stay in the England team. We'll see.

"It's obvious that it could play a part in Capello's thoughts," he added. "I love playing football and so I want to stay here."

Beckham equalled Bobby Moore's record of 108 caps for an outfield England player in a 2-0 defeat by Spain earlier this month.

The world is waiting

The world is waiting
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 17 February 2009
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When FIFA.com revealed last Tuesday that people could apply for tickets for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ from Friday 20 February, fans from all four corners of the globe could not hide their excitement about their desire to travel to South Africa.

Shortly after the announcement was posted on FIFA's Official Website, NevilleN from South Africa got the ball rolling. "I am desperate to get tickets and have waited my whole life of 69 years for the World Cup to come to South Africa," he opined. "Four years waiting - one more week to start dreaming about the games of the best World Cup ever," wrote danielondon, a user from Colombia.

The memories of Germany 2006 have given some visitors to FIFA.com some food for thought with regard to getting tickets for South Africa. "I missed the last World Cup and there is no way I will miss this one. Forza Azzurri," said Italy fan Galloots13. Rich3003 hopes to be there for another reason. "I was in Germany to see my team Trinidad and Tobago create history! All I need now are some tickets to see the Soca Warriors again!" And, having missed out on the ‘Time to Make Friends', bitethelime, a user from USA is eager to watch the action unfold before his eyes in 2010. "I have been looking forward to this since 2002 because I knew I couldn't go to Germany," he wrote. "Only 482 days to go!"
Four years waiting - one more week to start dreaming about the games of the best World Cup ever
daniellondon on his excitement of applying for tickets.

From Friday until Tuesday 31 March 2009, the first ticketing sales phase for South Africa 2010 takes place. Tickets will be allocated by a random selection draw for over-subscribed matches and ticket categories. All orders will be entered into a random selection draw on 15 April 2009 at the same time regardless of whether they were submitted on the first or the last day of the first sales phase. If demand exceeds availability for a certain category or match then available tickets will be awarded randomly.

There are two ways for fans to order tickets. You can either log on to FIFA.com or those living in South Africa can also order tickets via the "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" available at First National Bank (FNB), by filling in an official application form and handing it in at one of the participating FNB branches around the country. The "FNB Visa Official Mascot Pre-paid card" will be the unique Ticket payment card for the fans who are successfully awarded tickets through the official paper application forms handed in at FNB branches in South Africa.

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How can I apply for Tickets?

Ticket sales for the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009 will take place during two sales phases.

- Initial Sales Phase: 23rd November 2008 to 31st March 2009
Ticket applications submitted during this stage will be processed, subject to availability, on a first come first served basis - in the order of receipt.

- Last Minute Sales Phase: 1st April 2009 to 28th June 2009
Applications for tickets will again be processed on a first come first served basis, however Ticket transactions will be conducted immediately at the point of sale.


Is your team participating in the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009?
If the answer is yes then it is possible to request Tickets from the 23 November 2008 until the 22 January 2009 to follow your team through the competition.

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Who is in charge of ticket sales?

FIFA, through its 100% subsidiary 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Ticketing (Pty) Limited, (South African Registration Number: 2008/024962/07) is the principal of all ticket sales. The ticketing operation is conducted by FIFA Ticketing through its service company MATCH, on behalf of FIFA, and at the direction of both FIFA and the LOC.
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Prices and Matches

There are two types of ticket products available for the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009:

- Tickets: these are Tickets to an individual match.

- Venue Specific Tickets" or VSTs: these are tickets based on matches to be played in a specific FIFA Confederations Cup Venue.

There are 4 categories of general public ticket available. The most expensive category is category 1 and the least expensive is category 4. Category 4 is exclusively available to SA Residents.

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How to Contact Us

Our FAQ's provide answers to the most common Customer Service enquiries. If your question(s) remain unanswered please contact the FIFA World Cup™ Ticketing Centre (FWCTC) by email.

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Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Royal Bafokeng Stadium

The Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace is one of the stadiums for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. The stadium is named after the Bafokeng people who live in the area.

In 1999, the Bafokeng won a legal battle, which entitled them to 20% on the platinum which is mined on their historical land. Hence, they have shares in platinum mining in the area. Upon completion, the stadium will seat 42,000.

The South African national team played a FIFA World Cup qualifying game against Bakino Faso in 2001, and won 2-1. It has been host to many Premier Soccer League games despite Rustenburg not having its own team.

The stadium is only a 25 minute drive to Sun City and 30 minutes to the Pilansberg. It is 12 kilometers from the Rustenburg city centre.
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Peter Mokaba

Peter Mokaba

Polokwane will be building a new stadium for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ that will be situated in the Peter Mokaba Sports Complex. The stadium will be approximately 5km from the city centre, with a gross seating capacity of 45,000.

It will be a welcome addition to the Limpopo Province. They have the largest number of registered football players in South Africa.

The sporting complex was named after the late Peter Mokaba, who was a political activist during apartheid. He was born and bred in Polokwane and was renowned for his fighting spirit and for being an inspiring leader.

Mbombela

Mbombela

Mbombela Stadium will be a new stadium constructed for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. It will become a much welcomed addition to the football life in Nelspruit, and will leave a legacy of the beautiful game for the people of Mpumalanga. Currently, there is not a football stadium of international standards in the Mpumalanga Province.

Mbombela takes its name from the name local municipality, which incorporates the city of Nelspruit. Mbombela is siSwati and literally means 'many people together in a small space'.

The stadium will have a rounded rectangular shape which will ensure that all seats have a good view of the action on the field.

The stadium will be approximately seven kilometers from the city centre and 12 kilometers from the nearby Kruger-Mpumalanga Airport. It is also in close proximity to game parks, giving spectators the opportunity of seeing wildlife during rest days.

Upon completion, the newly built Mbombela stadium will have a gross seating capacity of 46,000. It is due for completion by October 2009.
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Loftus Versfeld

Loftus Versfeld

Loftus Versfeld in the heart of Tshwane/Pretoria, currently has a seating capacity of 45,000. Very little upgrade is needed for the stadium to be ready for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. It is also a venue for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.

The site on which Loftus Versfeld is located was first used for sport in 1903. It was named after Mr Robert Owen Loftus Versfeld, who is attributed with establishing organised sport in Pretoria. It has been used for numerous sports events including the 1995 Rugby World Cup and 1996 CAF Africa Cup of Nations. It is now used by Mamelodi Sundowns as their home ground.

Often simply referred to as Loftus, it has served as a venue for many international matches. South Africa achieved their first victory over a European opposition at Loftus Versfeld, beating Sweden 1-0.


SOURCE : fifa.com

Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth

The city does not currently have a dedicated football stadium. All international matches were played at the Eastern Province rugby team's ground, including the 2005 Nelson Mandela Challenge between South Africa and Senegal at the rugby union stadium.

Despite not having a team in the Premier Soccer League, the city is exceptionally passionate about football. Whenever football games are staged, it is always to a capacity crowd.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ affords the host city an opportunity to build a dedicated football stadium -and capitalise on the football mania of its citizens. The stadium will be built on the North End Lake, which will make an idyllic setting for match days. The features will include a three-tier design with two rings of skyboxes.

Soccer City

Soccer City

Soccer City can quite rightfully call itself the home of football in South Africa. In the mid 1980s, football officials came together to build the first international football stadium in the country and the construction was funded from the football fraternity's coffers.

Soccer City hosted the first mass rally of Nelson Mandela after his release in 1990. Thousands of mourners lamented Chris Hani's assassination at the stadium in 1993. It was also the venue for the 1996 CAF Africa Cup of Nations finals, with South Africa eventually triumphing.

It is also a neighbour to the home of the South African Football Association and its new headquarters, the SAFA House. The Local Organising Committee for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, as well as the FIFA offices, are currently being housed in SAFA House.

Soccer City will be the flagship stadium for the first FIFA World Cup™ in Africa. The design is unique and unusual as the outer part of the stadium is designed to resemble an African pot. About 40 percent of Joburg's population live in Soweto, in close proximity to Soccer City. This will make the stadium a hub of activity during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

It currently seats 80,000 people, but after its planned upgrade should seat 94,700.

Free State

Free State

Mangaung/Bloemfontein will be hosting teams at the Free State Stadium, which currently seats approximately 38,000 people. The stadium derives its name from the province in which it is located.

The stadium played host to group and quarter-final matches at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations in 1996 and the IRB Rugby World Cup in 1995. It is also the alternate home ground of Premier Soccer League team, Bloemfontein Celtics.

The stadium will be undergoing a costly upgrade and once completed, will have a gross seating capacity of 48,000. The stadium will be used as a venue for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.

A second tier is being added to the western pavilion, which will increase the stadium's gross capacity from approximately 38,000 to 45,000.

Ellis Park

Ellis Park

Ellis Park was first built in 1928 as a rugby union stadium. It was demolished and rebuilt in 1982, again exclusively for rugby. It was named after JD Ellis, a Johannesburg city councillor who approved the use of the land for a stadium, setting aside 13 acres.

The stadium was used for the finals of the 1995 IRB Rugby World Cup. Ellis Park has also been the stage for many unforgettable football matches. Bafana Bafana held Argentina to a 1-1 draw in 1995, and then drew 0-0 with then FIFA World Cup holders France in 2000 in international friendlies.

Currently, it is the home ground of Orlando Pirates FC, a club in the Premier Soccer League. In 1995, they were the first South African team to win the CAF African Club Championship.

The Nelson Mandela African XI played the World All Stars XI in a farewell match for the outgoing president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela. Kalusha Bwalya, Mark Fish, Lucas Radebe and Tijani Babangida joined 'World All Stars' such as Rigoberto Song, Dunga, Luis Hernandez and Claudio Suarez in saluting a great state leader.

Ellis Park is to undergo a minor upgrade and will be ready in time for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.

Durban Stadium

Durban Stadium

Durban has had a long footballing history. The first league was started in the KwaZulu-Natal Province.

The biggest match the city has hosted was when South Africa played a full strength England national team in 2002. Durban was also the venue for South Africa's first post-apartheid game when they played Cameroon, winning1-0 at King's Park. The city also hosted group, quarter and semi-final matches during the 1996 CAF Africa Cup of Nations. Tunisia secured their place in the final when they beat Zambia 4-2.

The new Durban stadium will pick up where King's Park left off and provide a world-class venue for football games. It will be have a gross seating capacity of 70,000, and the design of the stadium will be characterized by two large archways which arc 100 meters above the stadium roof.

The new three-tiered stadium will be part of the Durban's King Park sporting precinct. The sporting precinct will also include a variety of different sporting disciplines including athletics, rugby, golf and swimming.

Green Point

Green Point

Cape Town is building a new stadium for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. The stadium will be in the suburb of Green Point, which the stadium is also named after. Fans will be a stone's throw from the ocean and the mountains of Cape Town will be the backdrop for matches. The location is ideal as it is a short walk from the transportation hub of the city. The new stadium precinct will be built on part of the land currently occupied by a golf course.

Upon completion, Green Point stadium will have a gross seating capacity of 70,000 and it is scheduled for completion by 2009.

Cape Town has another world-standard stadium, Newlands, but is primarily used as a rugby union stadium. The stadium has, however, hosted Tottenham Hotspur in 2003, as part of their South African tour.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa has offered the city the opportunity to build a multi-purpose international stadium that will be used for a variety of events after the tournament has left Cape Town's shores.

Green Point

Green Point

Cape Town is building a new stadium for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. The stadium will be in the suburb of Green Point, which the stadium is also named after. Fans will be a stone's throw from the ocean and the mountains of Cape Town will be the backdrop for matches. The location is ideal as it is a short walk from the transportation hub of the city. The new stadium precinct will be built on part of the land currently occupied by a golf course.

Upon completion, Green Point stadium will have a gross seating capacity of 70,000 and it is scheduled for completion by 2009.

Cape Town has another world-standard stadium, Newlands, but is primarily used as a rugby union stadium. The stadium has, however, hosted Tottenham Hotspur in 2003, as part of their South African tour.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa has offered the city the opportunity to build a multi-purpose international stadium that will be used for a variety of events after the tournament has left Cape Town's shores.

Tennis Travel and Tours

rofessional Tennis Travel and Tours

2009/2010

The personalities and places of tennis make this great game one of the world's truly global sports, and immensely popular in person. With stars and venues from the four corners of the globe, tennis offers some of the most varied and interesting of sports travel experiences. See the finest athletes competing in the World’s most exciting cities at the World’s major tennis tournaments. From the rich history and grass of Wimbledon to the passion and clay of Roland Garros, from Arthur Ashe Stadium in the Big Apple Melbourne in the Land Down under. International tennis at it’s best is just a phone call away!
Professional Tennis Trip of a Lifetime

Whether you customize your own package to the Wimbledon Championships or US Open Tennis Championship we'll take care of all the arrangements to provide you with a first class tennis experience that you will never forget.
Customize Your Professional Tennis Tour From Start to Finish

Let Roadtrips take you on the tennis trip of a lifetime! You'll be in the middle of the action - with guaranteed tickets, staying in First Class Accommodations, and experiencing the Excitement, Value and Convenience that have made us famous. Simply pick your event(s), make your reservation and we'll take care of everything!

Auto Racing Tours & Travel Packages 2009/2010

Auto Racing Tours & Travel Packages

2009/2010

grand-prixAre you one of the millions of people worldwide that love auto racing? Satisfy your need for speed at an exciting NASCAR, IRL or Formula 1 event with one of our popular Auto Racing travel packages. One of the fastest growing and most exciting sports events in the world, auto racing is one of the most sought after experiences in the World.
Auto Racing Trip of a Lifetime

Want to get behind the wheel yourself? Try one of our Porsche or Ferrari Driving Experiences, and get ready to experience a thrilling and beautiful European driving experience in your very own Porsche or Ferrari. For a custom package call one of our sports travel experts at 1-800-465-1765.
Customize Your Auto Racing Tour From Start to Finish

Experience the Daytona 500, Indy 500, Monaco Grand Prix, or even a Porsche or Ferrari Driving Experience, we’ll take care of all the arrangements to provide you with an experience that you will never forget.
Your Ultimate Auto Racing Experience is Only a Click Away

Let Roadtrips take you on the auto racing trip of a lifetime! You'll be in the middle of the action - sitting in great seats, staying in first class hotels, and experiencing the excitement, value and convenience that have made us famous. Simply pick your racing ticket package for the event(s) you want, make your reservation and we'll take care of everything!
Feature Auto Racing T

Basketball Tours and Travel Packages 2009 / 2010

Basketball Tours and Travel Packages

2009 / 2010

grand-prixWe love this game! Few sports create such unbelievable highlights and down to the buzzer excitement like basketball. And you can be front and center to witness all of the high flying, rim-rocking, full court action. Experience the thrill of live basketball featuring the game's greatest stars and most famous venues.
An Unforgettable Basketball Travel Experience

From Madison Square Garden in New York, to the celebrity-filled Staples Center in LA, or any other NBA game, anytime, anywhere. Roadtrips is your source for packages to premiere events such as the NBA All Star Weekend and Men's US College Basketball Finals.
Customize Your Own Basketball Tour Package Today

Whether you customize your own Basketball Getaway to any game in all 30 cities, enjoy the Men's US College Basketball Finals, or experience the NBA All Star Weekend, we'll take care of all the arrangements to provide you with a first class basketball experience that you will never forget.
Your Ultimate Baseball Travel Experience is Only a Click Away

Let Roadtrips take you on the basketball trip of a lifetime! You'll be in the middle of the action - sitting in Great Seats, staying in First Class Hotels, and experiencing the Excitement, Value and Convenience that have made us famous. Simply pick your game(s) or event(s), make your reservation and we'll take care of everything!
Feature Basketball Travel Packages

2010 World Cup of Football Travel Packages

2010 World Cup of Football Travel Packages

June 10 - July 12South Africa

World Cup of Football Programs

Round Robin - Opening Matches
June 10 for 5 nights

Round Robin - Two Matches
June 15 for 3 nights

Round Robin - Two Matches
June 18 for 3 nights

Round Robin - Two Matches
June 21 for 3 nights

Round Robin - Two Matches
June 24 for 2 nights

Round of 16 - Two Matches
June 26 for 5 nights

Quarterfinals - Two Matches
July 1 for 4 nights

Semifinal Cape Town
July 4 for 4 nights

Semifinal Durban
July 5 for 3 nights

Semifinal Durban & Final
July 5 for 7 nights

Championship Final Match
July 8 for 4 nights

For a custom trip quote call 1-800-465-7165.


World Cup Add Ons

what-to-do-in-south-africa
The Ultimate World Cup Host City

The 2010 World Cup will not only be the largest sporting event in the world, but a showcase of the modern, rugged beauty of South Africa. Whether you want to be on hand to witness the opening of the 2010 World Cup and attend the monumental Opening Match or to cheer on your team as they advance through the tournament, we have hotel and ticket packages available for games throughout the tournament. South Africa will be abuzz with action as football fans from all corners of the world converge to celebrate and witness this historic event. Early tournament matches offer a great opportunity to get to know the personalities of the individual cities and stadiums, and as the playoffs and finals approach, the excitement builds.
Johannesburg - The Roadtrips World Cup Headquarters

Our World Cup program will be based in the world-class city of Johannesburg. Johannesburg is not only home to two World Cup stadiums, but also offers convenient access to nearby Rustenberg and Pretoria venues. With four host stadiums within easy reach, the Johannesburg area will host at least one match on almost every day of the first three weeks of the tournament. As well, Johannesburg is home to a major international airport for most flights into South Africa and can provide convenient connections to safari camps, Victoria Falls, and all of the wild beauty southern Africa has to offer.
Worry-Free Travel Experiences

It’s one of the reasons why we’re so successful and why our clients return to us again and again. With an event like the World Cup, we know the importance of helping our valued guests and their VIP business partners, families, and friends feel completely taken care of prior to and during their travel experience.
Roadtrips On-Site Host Team

Throughout your World Cup experience in South Africa, rest assured in the knowledge that Roadtrips has a highly qualified team of experienced Event Hosts on-site. Our Host Team is comprised of our most highly experienced travel hosts from our office and professional guides from our local partners to provide expert information on your destination. The combined strengths of our Host Team, our local partners, and your hotel’s professional concierge result in the ultimate traveler resource at your disposal.
Roadtrips Hospitality Center In Johannesburg

The Roadtrips Hospitality Center in Johannesburg will be the perfect place to take a break from all the action and access our on-the-ground staff. Enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks while watching television broadcasts of the action. Meet fellow travelers, visitors, as well as Roadtrips hospitality at our Johannesburg Hospitality Center.
Ticket Concierge

While we encourage people to choose their ticket packages well in advance to maximize choice, Roadtrips has access to additional tickets, available to you both prior to your departure and through our Roadtrips Ticket Concierge. Take advantage of this unique and special service during your travel as we may have access to high demand and formerly unavailable matches on a late and last-minute basis.

*Roadtrips is in no way associated with FIFA, the Organizing Committee for the FIFA 2010 World Cup, South Africa 2010, MATCH Services or MATCH Hospitality.

Football Tours and Travel Packages

Football Tours and Travel Packages

2009 / 2010

No other sport in America evokes the passion of its fans like football. Sunday afternoon with your buddies, an ticket to famous Lambeau Field, Monday Night Football, tailgating, beating the spread, Thanksgiving match-ups... football is deeply woven into the fabric of our culture. When every game really counts, the hits get harder, the intensity heightens, and the drama can’t be matched.
Football Trip of a Lifetime

Nothing compares to the live action, excitement and spectacle of the College Bowl season, the Super Bowl, the Pro Bowl and each of the two hundred and fifty plus games that make up the regular season. When you are ready for a dream football trip experience that you’ll never forget, hand the ball to Roadtrips.
Customize Your Football Tour From Start to Finish

Whether you customize your own Football Tour including preferred football tickets to any game in all 32 cities, or experience a College Bowl Game, the Pro Bowl or the Super Bowl, we'll take care of all the arrangements to provide you with a first class football experience that you will never forget.
Your Ultimate Football Travel Experience is Only a Click Away

Let Roadtrips take you on the football trip of a lifetime! We will put you in the middle of the action - sitting in great seats, staying in first class hotels, and experiencing the excitement, value and convenience that have made us famous. Simply pick your game(s) or event(s), make your reservation and we'll take care of everything!

The Pinnacle of the Champions League Season

The Pinnacle of the Champions League Season

The 54th UEFA Champions League Final will be played at Stadio Olimpico in Rome, the home of A.S. Roma and S.S. Lazio, and you can be there to see who comes out on top of the Champions League with Roadtrips!

Seventy six teams fight through this tournament to earn a spot competing for the most prestigous club trophy in the sport. The title has been held by 21 different clubs, 12 of which have won the title more than once. The all-time record-holder is Real Madrid with their nine wins. Manchester United will try to defend their title in Rome in 2009.

Your 2009 Champions League Final Travel Package includes:

* Tickets to The Champions League Final in your choice of seating category
* 4 Days/3 nights accommodations as selected in Rome
* Breakfast Daily
* FedEx Ticket Delivery Service
* Expert Travel & Concierge Services of the Roadtrips At-Your-Service Desk
* All Taxes & Service Charges

Complete 2009 Champions L

Tour Operator Programme the 2010 FIFA World Cup

Tour Operator Programme

For the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, FIFA has decided to allocate a number of match tickets for use in a Tour Operator Programme. The programme will allow qualified and experienced tour operators to provide accommodation, transportation and other related travel services in travel packages of their own creation, to be sold under their own terms of business, together with tickets sold on behalf of FIFA. The goals of the programme are to facilitate safe and effective travel to the matches for the largest possible number of fans, and make the best possible use of available accommodation, ground and air transportation facilities.

FIFA has appointed MATCH Event Services Pty to manage the 2010 FIFA World Cup Tour Operator Programme on its behalf. Interested Tour Operators will find additional details and may register their interest in the programme by visiting the 2010 FIFA World Cup Tour Operator Programme website and completing the registration form (link available in the right column).

Registered Tour Operators will be given access to the official programme application form. The Application Phase for selection to the 2010 FIFA World Cup Tour Operator Programme commences 15 July, 2008.
Tour Operators are encouraged to apply for the programme as soon as possible once the Application Phase begins in order to have the best possible chance of being selected to participate in the programme.

LOC Team the 2010 FIFA World Cup

LOC Team

* Welcome
* Organisation

Welcome by Irvin Khoza (chairman of the 2010 FIFA World CupTM Local Organising Committee)

South Africans all over the country are extremely motivated and excited by the prospect of staging the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Open any newspaper and you read articles about plans for the finals in 2010. Tune into any radio station and you hear the tournament being discussed.

Watch any television station and 2010 is constantly on the agenda.South Africans are inspired and united by the challenge and the prospect of playing host to the world.

What is the impact of this profound national commitment for the partners of the tournament, for the fans, the management and players of 32 competing teams - the media, the commercial partners and the FIFA representatives? It means that wherever you are, whatever you want to
do, whenever you want to do it, you will find South Africans eager to help, determined to play their part, desperate to ensure the World Cup unfolds as an efficient, joyful success.

Perhaps it is this shared responsibility that will set the 2010 tournament apart from the rest.

The overwhelming majority of South Africans, from the CEO of multi-million rand organisations to those people who sweep the streets in the early hours of the morning, seem to have a personal stake in the hosting of this global event.

South Africa is a young democracy that faces many major challenges. As South Africans, we share the challenge and we share the excitement. As Chairman of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee, I very much hope this will be the experience of everybody who visits our country between now and the Final game in 2010.

My conviction is that this will be a tournament wreathed in South African smiles, hosted by 44 million excited individuals eager to make this event extraordinary and unforgettable.

It is also a country that has over the past 12 years built an impressive, enviable record of hosting major international events that have been incident-free and joyful.

Africa is the home of limitless potential. Feel free to dream and, together, we will make it happen.

Organising Committee for the FIFA World Cup™

Organising Committee for the FIFA World Cup™

The FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa is an international event with great historic importance to the African continent. It will be the first FIFA World Cup ever to be hosted in Africa since the competition began in 1934, and I am convinced that Africa is ready to welcome this momentous FIFA World Cup with open arms.
I am also convinced that the host nation, South Africa, will be up to the task, not least because it has abundant potential and resources. The experiences acquired during the hosting of the 1995 Rugby World Cup and the United Nations summit in Johannesburg in 2002 will stand the country in good stead. The speech given by His Excellency President Thabo Mbeki to 53 African heads of states in January 2007 at the African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, also provided clear evidence of South Africa's commitment to hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

This World Cup will inspire hope and aspiration throughout Africa. It shall contribute to the change in the global image of Africa by showing our continent as more positive, dynamic and open. On the this issue of image, it is interesting to say again that our continent is blessed with enormous economic potential and that, with the successful organisation of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the African economy in general will surely change in a more positive direction. It will also display the continent's positive values, and the world media will relay these values to the entire world in a way that is sure to attract foreign investors to our continent.

When I look at great footballers from Africa, such as Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto'o, Benni McCarthy and Michael Essien, I feel a certain pride to see them play an ambassadorial role on the field of play. They not only bring joy to the spectators at the stadium, but also to those sitting at home across the world. These great players contribute immensely to the positive image of African football.

We have the potential today, and the state of African football has developed considerably with a general improvement in the game in our continent. All of this is thanks to the greater number of competitions and the development plans we at the CAF, with the support of FIFA, have put in place.

My greatest dream would be to see an African team reach the Final of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Issa Hayatou