Pretoria- South African Football Association (Safa) President, Kirsten Nematandani, said despite Bafana Bafana's early exit from the World Cup, their preparations for the showpiece have been a resounding success.
"Our Rainbow Nation has become a colourful blend of yellow and green as the team went for 12 games without loss. It was this great performance that set the tone for the euphoric atmosphere that is presently gripping this great nation.
"All our visitors, be they fans or players, have found a football loving nation that is feeling the spirit of the tournament," he said.
He said the national team played a major role in making South Africa the envy of the world.
President Jacob Zuma also congratulated Bafana Bafana for their historic 2-1 victory over France.
"You have made our country proud and the nation is proud of your achievement. The existing carnival atmosphere in the country is because you have represented all of us with pride, winning against France in an official competition is an achievement you should be proud off.
"In tournaments like this, sometimes you win and sometimes you loose. You gave it your best; and now it's time to enjoy the World Cup. We have built a solid foundation for future tournaments, and you can count on the country's support all the way," he said.
Safa chief executive officer, Leslie Sedibe said the players are disappointed, but for millions of patriotic South Africans a chapter has been written in the country's football history.
"Today we have a team that competes and beats countries that are ranked much higher than them.
"The stadiums have become a breath of fresh air as fans snap up tickets minutes after going on sale. For that, we cannot thank the people of South Africa enough," he said.
Both Sedibe and Nematandani said Safa invested heavily in this World Cup and it was an investment well spent considering the positive outcomes that have already started pouring into the country and continent.
They said the magnificent football facilities, state-of-the-art transport networks, security, and tourism opportunities will be a lasting legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup for generations to come.
"The humanity of Africa has already touched the whole world. It is imperative that we continue to be great hosts and rally behind the remaining teams.
"There is still so much more to enjoy of this tournament as we watch the exciting drama unfold that will culminate in the best team winning the first FIFA World Cup on African soil," said Nematandani.
