Zuma puts aside Cup upset to boost 2020 Olympic bid

President Jacob Zuma seized on South Africa's glorious exit from the World Cup yesterday - when the host nation actually defeated a shambolic French side 2-1 but still went out on goal difference - to claim his country is ready for an Olympic bid.

"We have got the facilities. Those who take decisions have seen how South Africa is. I'm sure we could do it," he said, adding that he personally would back any future bid by a South African city to host what would be the first ever African Olympics.

"It is now known Africa is capable of hosting any serious tournament," he said. "That fact cannot be argued again. I think Africa will now have a much better image."

Before the France game, Zuma declared the tournament had so far gone "exceptionally well" and lauded the way it had united the country's different races.

"We are truly excited by the success and the spirit engulfing the country," he said. "For the first time ever in the 16 years of freedom and democracy, we see black and white South Africans celebrating together in the stadiums and fan parks."

"While supporting our national squad, we must also remember that we have a much bigger responsibility. We are hosting this tournament on behalf of the African continent. We must succeed and we are doing exceptionally well so far."

But Zuma's declarations of success are seen in some quarters as premature. While the home team's roller-coaster ride through the qualifying stages may have united South Africans of different colours, the fact the team is now out of the competition has sent a shiver down the spines of African immigrants to the 'Rainbow Nation'.

They fear a wave of xenophobic violence from disgruntled South Africans - a local issue that has been successfully brushed under the carpet until now.

However, if the remainder of South Africa's World Cup passes off smoothly, the country can count on the support of at least one influential member of the Olympic movement. With London preparing for the 2012 Games, and Rio de Janeiro chosen for 2016, Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee, said last week he would "love to have a credible African candidate" to host the 2020 Games. ·