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Spectacular And Surprise Start To 2010 World Cup: SA 1-1 MEX

By David Jester

The 2010 World Cup in South Africa kicked off today in a buzzing Soccer City as the host nation came close to an upset against Mexico. The predictions for this game were a Mexico Lay and a 1-1 Draw, two bets that both came in during this wonderful spectacle.

The first real chance fell to Mexico after the half hour mark. Vela chipped a through ball for franco who managed to get his shot on target, but a flailing hand from the South African 'keeper Khune kept it out. Soon after that Vela and Dos Santos came close before Carlos Vela had a goal ruled out for offside.

South Africa looked for an opener themselves with just seconds of the half left to play, but their efforts to please the roaring crowd were in vain.

The home nation took the confidence from the end of the first half into the second and within ten minutes we had the first goal. A slick pass broke the Mexico defense and fell to Tshabalala who smashed his shot passed the 'keeper and into the top corner, giving South Africa the lead and lifting the roof this stadium.

Modise came close to extending the African lead as Mexico piled on the substitutes to try to get themselves back into this game. As we headed towards the last ten minutes Mexico finally got the equalizing goal, the ball was swung into a penalty area devoid of defenders and Marquez was there to slip the ball in and end the jubilant cheers of an excited country.

South Africa had a great chance to start the festivities again when Mphela chased a long ball over the top and flicked his touch past the 'keeper, but his shot hit the post as the nation held its breath. The game ended 1-1 with a vital point for the hosts and the outsiders of this group.

If you want to have a look at the other predictions for the opening days check out the article here, and keep your eyes open for more predictions and results. If you're looking for some Free Bets to get you started, check out these links:

Betfair - £25 Free Bet.
Victor Chandler - £125 Free Bet
Bet365 - £200 Free Bets.
Sky Bet £10 Free Bet + Free Super 6 (possible £100k win) entry.
Ladbrokes £25 Free Bet from £5 Stake

David Jester is the Newsblaze Soccer expert. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/DavidJester