Berlin - President Thabo Mbeki has staked the African continent's reputation on South Africa running a smooth World Cup in 2010.
He said: "As Africans, we know that we dare not fail. I can understand that some people may have some skepticism, but I have absolutely no worries that the World Cup will be a success."
The main concerns are whether key infrastructure can be ready on time. Some local media have reported that Fifa has a contingency plan to move the World Cup if preparations fall too far behind.
Mbeki said: "What we have to do is make sure we have a very successful World Cup with proper stadia, transport, communications systems and a festival spirit. We need to make clear that the African continent is as capable as any other continent of discharging its responsibilities."
Mbeki was in Berlin both to watch the World Cup final and to witness the signing of a document between Fifa and the European Commission to use the 2010 World Cup as a vehicle to promote African development.
Fifa president Sepp Blatter said he expected a "wonderful World Cup" in 2010.
Blatter said: "Not only does Fifa trust African organisers - more than that - the market trusts Africa." - AP
