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In terms of the actual soccer matches the game between South Korea and Greece was undoubtedly a highlight, with the two impressive goals by Lee Jung Soo and Park Ji Sung giving the Reds a 2-0 victory over the Greek team. Yet the same day people on the other side of the planet also couldn’t take their eyes off the screen due to the England vs. USA match, which ended in a 1-1 draw after the English keeper let in a shot he easily could have saved.

Already this is turning out to be an exciting tournament with many unexpected turns and of course it has providing a major boost to South Africa. Before the tournament had even started $ 3 billion was invested. Yet all the while mistakes and accidents have been surrounding the tournament and spoiling the nation’s image.

Even before the first game had taken place visitors from China, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Japan, Colombia and Korea had become the victims of street crime. Meanwhile before their match against Korea the Greek team had a large amount of money stolen from their hotel room. Then there was the problem of stadium workers protesting over their low pay. Finally while millions have been watching at home the amount of empty seats at the matches has left a bad impression, with many wondering why ticket prices weren’t lowered for poorer African soccer fans.

South Africa’s government has accused the foreign press of over criticizing the World Cup and trying to make their nation’s big moment fail, yet on the other hand this World Cup has undeniably had many negatives along with its positives. What remains to be seen is if the gamble will pay off and whether this will be remembered as one of the best World Cups or as one of the worst.