With less than 48 hours to go before the final kick -off of the FIFA World Cup, South Africans say they will be hoisting their flags even higher after the tournament.

This year' s World Cup success has instilled a majestic sense of pride as it at the same time proved an acid test seemingly passed with flying colours by South Africans. In a few days' time, the country will be bidding farewell to the last four of the 31 nations that graced these shores. Experts, like Proudly South African Chief Executive Officer Herbert Mkhize, believe that South Africa has many reasons to be proud.

The country that has risen from turmoil experienced less than 20 years ago. And despite doomsayers predicting failure, it is also a country on the verge of declaring a successful World Cup with soaring patriotism. The World Cup tournament has created space for South Africa to connect with the World while showing-off its 49 million citizens who hosted the tournament with pride and dignity.

It is believed that South Africa will emerge stronger, wiser and more united as we move beyond 2010. Many believe that come Sunday the curtain will come down on what is being dubbed as the best FIFA World Cup ever yet. 

Soweto carnival bids farewell to World Cup

Meanwhile, the Soweto Carnival, themed Mzansi's Legacy, today celebrated the triumph of South Africa hosting the first African World Cup. The parade bid a township-style farewell to the tournament and passed the baton to the next host nation, Brazil. 

The vibrant street carnival transformed the streets of South Africa's largest township into a kaleidoscope of colour, music and dance. The carnival told the story of Soweto' s past, present and future and also celebrated the legacy left by Africa's first World Cup.

The participants derived mainly from Soweto's youth, empowered through workshops, performances and the construction of floats, costumes and props.  A troupe of artists from Brazil was also on hand to promote the spirit of the Samba Kings. The three kilometre procession ended in Kliptown where the Freedom Charter was adopted. 

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