/ 31 May 2004

SA won’t bid for Nations Cup finals

The South African Football Association (Safa) on Sunday confirmed that the federation has withdrawn from bidding to host the 2008 African Nations Cup finals.

According to Safa president Molefi Oliphant, it will not be a good idea for South Africa to go ahead with its plans of hosting the continental showpiece.

”It won’t be possible for us to host three major tournaments within a short space of time,” said Oliphant, referring to the 2008 Afcon, the 2009 Confederations Cup and the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

”This follows a decision by Fifa to award us the hosting of the 2010 World Cup finals,” said Oliphant, who is also vice-president of the Confederation of African Football. — Sapa