Soccer: Win or lose, South Africa will booze

By ZANELE MNGADI

JOHANNESBURG - Parties have been planned throughout South Africa to coincide with Fifa's decision on the host for the 2006 soccer World Cup.

President Thabo Mbeki is expected to address the nation in a live television broadcast immediately after the decision is announced at midnight.

Thousands of people are expected to gather at Pretoria's Church Square, where a party organised by the Greater Pretoria Metropolitan Council and the Pretoria Inner-City Partnership promises to be the biggest celebration in Gauteng.

Metrorail, Putco and Northwest Bus Services have offered free transport for locals attending the event. Miss Universe - Mpule Kwelagobe from Botswana - Orlando Pirates midfielder Steve Lekoelea and Kaizer Chiefs' Banda Lebese are expected to attend.

Cultural groups will be on hand to entertain guests, who will include former Miss South Africa Basetsana Makgalemele and United Cricket Board boss Ali Bacher.

- THE STAR

World Cup decision countdown - Independent Online (South Africa)