Africa: Europeans Battle South Americans in Freezing African Rain

15 June 2010

Cape Town — Tens of thousands of fans gathered in cold and unfriendly Cape Town winter weather on Monday to witness the defending World Cup champions, Italy, play against the South American team, Paraguay, at the Green Point stadium.

Despite the freezing rain, fans created a lively, celebratory atmosphere and colourful scenes in their impressive Italian and Paraguayan jerseys. Some had national flags draped across their backs and their faces painted in their national colours. The blaring sounds of the infamous vuvuzelas filled the stadium with excitement.

Italian fans were crushed when their opponents took the lead, 1-0, in the first half with a goal by Antolin Alcaraz in the 39th minute. This was a major upset – and thus a wake-up call – for the holders of the 2006 FIFA World Cup title.

There was a spectacular turnaround in the second half, when the Italians came back smoking and broke the deadlock with an equaliser, scored by Daniele De Rossi off a corner kick by Simone Pepe in the 63rd minute. Their fans leaped to their feet, roaring and cheering with joy.

It was not surprising that the title-holders fought back hard to avoid defeat, but many expectant Italian fans were disappointed by the score. If they had come to South Africa expecting both decisive wins for their team and hot, sunny African weather, their hopes were dashed.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.