ACTUALITE |
23.08.2002
Zim still hopeful for 2010 World Cup
The Zimbabwe Football Association is maintaining its hope of submitting a joint bid with South Africa for the 2010 World Cup.
Zifa chairman Leo Mugabe has held talks with South Africa`s FA about co-hosting.
But while South Africa`s bid chief Danny Jordaan has dismissed the idea, Zifa feels it is still in with a chance.
"They were keen and their reaction was that if they have to co-host, their partner would be Zimbabwe," said Zifa chief executive Edgar Rogers.
"Crowds in South Africa were not good for the 1996 Nations Cup, and fans are more enthusiastic here. We could guarantee Safa that there would be good attendances for matches played in Zimbabwe," he added.
"Co-hosting would also mean that there would be fewer stadiums for South Africa to construct."
Money worry
But Rogers admitted that Zifa does not yet have the necessary finances to enter a joint bid.
"The money`s not there but we still have a lot of time to go, and if government backs our bid the money can be found."
Fifa will meet on 24 September to review the co-hosting arrangement used at this year`s World Cup and decide if it should be an option for 2010.
Zifa has also decided to submit a bid for the 2006 Nations Cup, although the deadline was in March.
Caf is due to decide the winner in October.
"It`s in the bag, and Safa said they will back us up provided we get full government support," said Rogers.
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Hits: 1 | Source:BBC | |
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