Thanks to South Africa for hosting a great tournament! I am a sports fan who doesn't go over the top when my team loses. However, in the most recent World Cup days, I have learned of traits that I did not know I possessed - (Heartbreak mixed with anger, sadness, disappointment, disgust, pride, joy, patriotism and love). 

I have been following the 2010 World Cup keenly. Thus, I was pretty ecstatic when the Ghana Black Stars made it to the round of 16. However, there was a downside to my enthusiasm. A part of me desperately wanted Ghana to advance to the Quarters, but then another part of me was so proud of Team USA's soccer strides and wished that our team would advance further. Therefore, when my Meineke person asked me which team I would support during the Ghana - USA game, I answered truthfully. I really wanted Ghana to win, but I didn't mind Team USA advancing because making it to the round of 16 was a great achievement in itself.

Well, that was what I thought then... I had no idea the sense of pride I will feel when I saw the Ghana Boys play. I thought about the exposure, economic benefit and positive impact that the boys were having on the Nation. I thought about the joy that their team spirit was delivering into all households in Ghana. Would you know it, the majority and minority of the Ghanaian parliament were united because of soccer. It was interesting to see the members of the opposition (NPP) cheering when the TV camera focused on President Mills at the Ghana - USA game. The pre- elimination of Ghana stages had every Ghanaian household, hamlet and town glued to a television set. As I sat in my living room watching the Black Stars play, I could visualize how some of our village heroes would be adjusting their TV antennas in order to get a better picture of the match. My heart swelled with pride for the Red, Gold and Green. The Black Stars had their shining moment.  

Then, came the Quarters with Uruguay and Suarez' hand of God. I thought to myself, what a blasphemy... I don't even understand soccer that much... Yet, I thought that the 120th minute move by Ghana was a clear goal! How dare these Uruguayans? But then, I guess, that was Uruguay’s moment of glee... to showcase their country to the world.

In my books, when Uruguay qualified for the Semis, South America became the enemy. I had been supporting Argentina from the beginning of the tourney, but I wanted them to go home because of what Uruguay had done to the Black Stars. And then came Paraguay, the country that sounded like Uruguay (in my ears)... I wanted them to go home too. It didn't matter to me that I was calling for an all European Final. All I cared about was the fact that South America need not make it to the Final. When Germany beat Uruguay (during the Semis), my emotions were at its peak.

But you know what, I'm no longer mad at Uruguay. They played good and they played smart. These Uruguay players brought happiness to their fellow citizens while making some good money for their country. 

Was this World Cup the time for Africa to shine? Yes, indeed. Despite our early eliminations, I believe that the stars of Africa showed bright. We felt the pressure, but we stood up to the test. Out of 32 countries, one of Africa’s own ranked as the 7^th best team at the World Cup.

Now, we live to see who will take that coveted trophy home. A part of me wants to give Spain a chance... just to prove that Germany was that good. But then, another part of me feels for my Dutch neighbor. She will probably be in the best mood for the next four years if Netherlands wins this world cup. I don't know what's going to happen between Uruguay and Germany when they play for third and fourth place. However, I no longer have any hard feelings against Uruguay.

It's been a great tournament. Without doubt, this Cup has had its share of upsets. England must have been thrilled when Germany lost to Spain. France and Italy will probably take a while to recover from their losses. While all of Europe will be ready to display its talent in four years, Asia is probably planning its strategy for Brazil 2014. I'm pretty sure Australia will stage a comeback at the next cup. However, don’t discount Africa, who is licking its wounds and wondering what lies in store for the future. While North America continues to search for ways to make its teams more competitive in the sport of soccer, I bet you South America will be more than ready for the world in four years. My friends, this was the time for Africa! South Africa has put up a great show. Before we know it, 2014 will be here. Be ready for an exciting competition in Brazil! Until then, let's stay tuned for the Finals!