The games begin at Football for Hope Festival

The crowd gathered early at the site of the festival in Alexandra in anticipation of an incredible start to a week of football, culture and entertainment. The ceremony opened with performances by JR, a rising star of South African music, who performed alongside the hip-hop act Skwatta Camp. Danny K and Kabelo Mabalane from the kwaito outfit then performed a song together, joined by three local dance groups.

Next it was the turn of FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter and South Africa President Jacob Zuma to take the stage.
"It is a great day, with the Football for Hope Festival in connection with the FIFA World Cup here in South Africa," said President Blatter. "The Festival embraces not only those from the host nation, African continent, but people from the whole world."

An education for life
He went on to say:
"Football is based on discipline and respect, a game played in good spirit. Being a school of life, football is also an education which is not only seen in school but throughout life."

President Zuma said the young people taking part would gain precious lessons from the week ahead. "Football is more than just football, it is something beyond. The Football for Hope Festival provides the participants with a chance to experience and learn–to learn to be a happy winner and to accept defeat graciously."

The two presidents then jointly declared the festival open.

Game on!
The first match concluded with a victory for Uruguay over host delegation Team Alexandra. Leonardo Correa headed the Uruguayans' first goal before Pamela Lemos added the second.

A delighted Leonardo said after the 12 minute-long contest:
"A couple of days ago I watched from the stands when my team won the penalty shoot-out over Ghana. I am happy we are following in their steps."

For the 16-year-old from a one-parent family, the Football For Hope project had provided him with the chance to enjoy this special adventure.

"I was enrolled into this team two years ago and I am so happy to have this chance to play with young people of my age from across the world, making new friends everyday and enjoy the game itself," he said.

Despite losing the opening game, Team Alexandra player Victoria Masonga was in no way dismayed.
"We lost the game but we still came away with something," said the 17-year-old from Alexandra High School. "We learned how to solve disagreements on the pitch through communication. This is an important skill I can pass on to the younger kids from our community."