World Cup 2018: 4 host nations that pulled off upsets

#3 South Africa – World Cup 2010

France v South Africa: Group A - 2010 FIFA World Cup — South Africa upset former winners France in the 2010 edition of the World Cup

By hosting the first ever African World Cup, South Africa – better known by their nickname Bafana Bafana – were always under a lot of pressure to succeed.

Unfortunately, they were drawn into an incredibly tough group against 2006 finalists France, former winners Uruguay and the always-tough Mexico, meaning passage to the knockout stages was always unlikely.

South Africa got the tournament off with a bang against Mexico thanks to Siphiwe Tshabalala’s thumping goal, but a late equaliser left them with just a point and a 3-0 loss to Uruguay meant that they needed to somehow beat France – and hope Uruguay could thump Mexico - in order to make it into the round of 16.

Incredibly, Bafana Bafana actually pulled it off. Despite France being able to call upon the talents of the likes of Thierry Henry, Franck Ribery and Djibril Cisse, South Africa went 2-0 up inside the first half and played the more established nation off the park.

A late goal from Florent Malouda meant the game ended 2-1 – and Uruguay’s narrow win over Mexico meant that Bafana Bafana missed the round of 16 on goal difference – but South Africa’s victory over France remains their greatest on the world stage and meant that they were still able to pull off a memorable upset on home soil.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Alan John