World Cup 2010

Hosting 2010 World Cup Could Mean A Lot For African Football - Portugal Coach Carlos Queiroz

The Portugal coach has made it clear that hosting the World Cup could be very important for African football...

Nov 26, 2009 2:17:25 PM

National team coaches Dunga (Brazil) and Carlos Queiroz (Portugal) exchange pleasantries

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National team coaches Dunga (Brazil) and Carlos Queiroz (Portugal) exchange pleasantries

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Carlos Queiroz

Portuguese national team coach Carlos Queiroz has made it clear that Africa need to grab a hold of the opportunity presented by the 2010 World Cup and make sure they use it to develop the game or it will be a wasted opportunity.

“It can mean everything because this is the first World Cup in Africa and you can call attention to what the real meaning of football is in Africa," Queiroz was quoted as saying at a press conference.

"But it can mean nothing if you are not able to use this opportunity to make football grow in Africa. Because if you don’t use this, you lose a great opportunity to develop the youth, coaching education, football facilities and I think this World Cup deserves to be an opportunity for football in Africa.

"I have seen the new stadium [Soccer City] and the facilities here at SAFA House and I remember the good old days of FNB Stadium, which is a beautiful memory but this is the sign of modern times, this is the future.

"I believe playing in South Africa will be like playing at home because the support of our community will be huge. I believe the Portuguese in South Africa will support our team as our fans support the team when we are playing at home."

Stefan Coerts, Goal.com

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