Pretoria - The 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee (LOC) has described Ghana's historic win against Brazil in the under-20 World Cup as a shining example for African football.
Ghana's Black Satellites beat Brazil in a thrilling final of the tournament in Egypt on Friday night.
They clinched the title of world champions after a nail-biting penalty shootout victory against the Brazilians, despite being reduced to ten men in the 37th minute of the game.
"What a great moment for African football and we want to congratulate Ghana's Black Satellites on an exciting, historic victory that has warmed the hearts of all African football fans," the LOC Chief Executive Officer Danny Jordaan said.
Jordaan said Africa was experiencing the golden age of football as the continent hosted the Under-20 FIFA World Cup, the Under-17 FIFA World Cup in Nigeria and the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa in quick succession.
He was quick to point out, however, that it was not enough for Africa to simply host these tournaments but teams should seize the moment and also reach the final stages on home soil.
"With a fairytale victory against Brazil in the final, Ghana's Black Satellites have shown the way and proudly put African football on the world map.
"We're delighted for them and hope it's a taste of what's to come at the Under-17 FIFA World Cup and the 2010 FIFA World Cup next year," added Jordaan.
The LOC chief was in the stands in Cairo as Ghana made history on Saturday night by becoming the first African team to clinch the Under 20 FIFA World Cup title.
The focus now shifts to the Under-17 FIFA World Cup in Nigeria, which kicks off next weekend.
