The BIDVest Goodwill Cup: Portugal too powerful a match for Mozambique in warm-up friendly
It came as a surprise to many a football fan to hear that BIDVest Wanderers Stadium would be the venue for the friendly match between Portugal and Mozambique. However the surprise resulted in even greater interest in the match, with over 8000 tickets being sold in the first two hours of being made available on Computicket. Only a few days later, the event was sold out - a total of 26 000 tickets were snapped up at R50 each.
The friendly international kicked off at 16h30 to a Portuguese-loving public. The first half was largely dominated by Mozambique, with several opportunities going a begging from team Portugal. Elias Pelembe, the Mamelodi Sundown's star, was the most exciting Mozambique as the team managed to hold powerful Portugal to a draw right up until the 52nd minute.
It was the number 10, Danny who out did the keeper, kept his cool and hit the back of the net much to the delight of the passionate supporters. Ronaldo came on shortly afterwards, sending the sound levels of the crowd ever higher. Hugo Almeida scored in the 74th minute, and the deal was finally sealed with a goal from Almeida in the 83rd minute.
CEO of The BIDVest Group Mr Brian Joffe was delighted with the turnout. "What a spectacular event - one that has done our country proud! The level of football on display was world class, the event organisation seamless and the fans in great spirits. It is important to The BIDVest Group that we thank our Portuguese community, and ensure that we all fully embrace the tournament that is just two days away. I can assure you that should today be anything to go by, we will all be bursting with pride in our country in 30 days time when we are wrapping this tournament up."
Ronaldo commented that he found the vuvuzela "a bit too loud and difficult to play with", but that it is a great sound and truly a part of South Africa. Both Ronaldo and Coach Carlos acknowledged that they have received an incredibly warm welcome from all those in South Africa to date, and that they truly do feel very well prepared for the upcoming tournament.
The match went smoothly from start to finish, and was something that South Africa 's fans as well as their administrators can be very proud of.
Mscsports was established as a sports memorabilia business in 2000. From humble beginnings with ambitions of shaping the local sports & entertainment industry, Mscsports has evolved into the award-winning full-service sponsorship agency of choice to leading South Africa brands and rights holders.
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