Nelspruit- Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, has been given a resounding thumbs-up by FIFA President Sepp Blatter.
During his first-ever visit to the stadium recently, Blatter said the people of Switzerland, his home country, could learn from Mpumalanga on how to build a "truly African masterpiece".
"Congratulations to the people of Mpumalanga for this great masterpiece. Some people around the world had doubts that South African would be ready to host the World Cup, but I am more than convinced that this country is ready.
"As a matter of fact, I think Mbombela is 200% ready to host the four games that are scheduled to play here. I am glad with the decision that we took to bring the games to this country ... all the host cities are marvellous and I give them all five stars," said Blatter.
He added that he would be delighted if the province invited him to watch one of the matches to be played in the stadium.
Blatter was accompanied by LOC chairperson Irvin Khoza, Premier David Mabuza, Mbombela mayor Lassy Chiwayo, stadium manager Veli Mahlangu and Safa's technical committee chairperson, Mwelo Nonkonyana.
Chiwayo said the Mbombela municipality was in talks with various parties to ensure the stadium did not become a white elephant.
"This stadium is the best gift the province has ever received, so we will make sure it does not go to waste after the World Cup," he said.
Mabuza said Nelspruit would make Mpumalanga and FIFA proud by successfully hosting the games scheduled in Nelspruit.
"We are ready to see the first game here and also welcome our visitors," he added.
