South Africa go out in the first round in agonising circumstances, losing out to Paraguay on goals scored.What do you think of South Africa's performances?
This debate is now closed. A selection of your e-mails appear below.
Bravo Bafana Bafana! South Africa, hold your head up. This team did you proud. The Spain/RSA match was the best game of the first round by a long shot - two different styles, but each beautifully executed. The South African performance throughout shows that Pele may be right: the future of soccer belongs to Africa.
Joshua, USA
South Africa did the whole of Africa proud! They played the best football of all the African teams, but fell at the last hurdle. Great performances by Radebe, Carnell, Mokoena, Fortune and Arendse. Having Jomo Sono as a coach shows that only Africans should coach African teams. They know the mentality, strengths and weaknesses of the players.
James Dzvova,California (Ex-Zimbabwe)
I'm very proud of what Bafana Bafana accomplished in this World Cup. They won their first World Cup game and ended up drawing with Paraguay, which is much better than their performance in France 98. I picked them to be one of my surprise teams since they had the talent, experience and organization that could have taken them at to the second round.
It's just a shame they couldn't get past Spain, who didn't really need this victory. With some more international experience over the next four years, Bafana Bafana will show the world how beautiful South African soccer is in 2006.
Terrien,United States
When the World Cup began, I was completely unaware of the talent and heart of this South African squad. I was very impressed by their play and wish them the best of luck in 2006. I see bright skies on the horizon for this team. Vas-y Fortune!!
James, Canada
Well, it was heartbreaking! But I am satisfied. Well done, boys! Keep ya heads up!
Bonile, South Africa
After being robbed of the opportunity to host the next World Cup, this exit seems to be especially cruel. Still, South Africa showed a lot of courage and have every reason to hold their heads up high. Well done, SA.
Andrew Murphy,UK/South Africa
I love the way South Africa plays soccer. It is with excitement and passion. They have nothing to be ashamed about. They played brilliantly.
Keith Clarke,USA
I was delighted to see in Bafana the type of team spirit and never say die that has sadly been lacking from more talented and stronger African sides. It's unfortunate they went out like that ....don't worry boys, you will get through next time.
Odi Die-Day, Nigeria
Although we are a nation in pain, our hearts are still with our beloved team - BAFANA BAFANA. We are very proud of your showing at the World Cup.
Layton Leseane, South Africa
South Africa showed a lot of fighting spirit to come within a point of qualifying for the next phase. Unfortunately, the team showed naivity at crucial times during the tournament and were made to pay for it. Let's hope that the team does not break apart because this team has the potential to do well in the next Africa Nations Cup in 2004.
Thami, South Africa
How cruel. South Africa deserved a place in the second round. It's little consolation to them, I'm sure, to say that they can truely hold their heads up high.
Tom, UK
I am really sad that SA have gone out in such a way. They have played some great football and showed alot of heart and desire - I wish the counrty of my birth well in the future and I am sure that they will continue to grow stronger together.
Darren, England
When the final whistle blew to smother our dreams, I felt like I was at a mass funeral. A few hours later, though, I realise our boys really did us proud. They left every drop of sweat on the field in every match they played. Bafana haven't played like this in a long time. Bravo bravo Bafana! And Jomo Sono should stay on as coach.
Mvu Ngcoya, South Africa
As South Africans we are very proud of Bafana Bafana. The boys played with heart, conviction and passion. The team has made us proud. It's great to see the team take on the worlds best without fear and deliver their best. Keep the fire burning.
2006 is just around the corner. 2010 could mark Africa's first as host! Well done and lets continue to build for the future. Woza iAfrica !
Victor, South Africa
South Africa played very well. The Spaniards are professional football experts but South Africa made it difficult for them to control the game. This was the best test that our team has had in many years. We are proud of our Bafana Bafana - Jomo you did your level best.
Ntuthu Fuzile,South Africa
After a disasterous African Nations Cup, the team came together. They showed great character and determination. Bafana Bafana, you made us proud! Personally though, I am gutted...but that is sport!
Clayton Cook, South Africa
A very big THANK YOU to each and every South African footballer that has represented our country so exceptionally well at the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan. You have truly shown great sportsmanship. Know that the nation is extremely proud of you, our team.
Myliesha Alkana, SA
Yesterday was a day that I felt incredibly proud to be South African. Although we are out of the World Cup it was one of the most exciting football games I have ever watched. I think the world will now have a higher regard for South African Football. Proud of you Bafana Bafana!!!
Tania, London
I'm sorry to see South Africa go. One of the my favorite images of the whole World Cup has been Jomo Sono's fist-pumping celebrations on the sideline. I hope to see more of this exciting team in Germany!
Rob, Yonkers, NY
How refreshing to see a team that play so positively. It was beautiful football against Slovenia.
Wayne, Russia
