Inside Laser - Autumn 2010 - The Laser Group

A WHOLE
NEW BALL
GAME
The greatest of all World Cup match balls, “Jabulani” is all set to cut
a striking appearance at the 2010 World Cup. The name is derived
from the Zulu word meaning “celebrate” or “rejoice” and it pays
tribute to the passionate celebration that will be experienced in the
country during the World Cup.
When the ball was introduced on the day of the 2010 World Cup
draw in Cape Town, some of the world’s best players gave Jabulani
the royal stamp of approval.
Germany captain Michael Ballack said: “Fantastic, the ball does exactly
what I want it to.”
Said English midfielder Frank Lampard:”A very strong ball, true to
hit.”
Brazil’s world famous striker Kaka said the ball was great. “For me,
contact with the ball is all-important, and that’s just great with this
ball.”
Jabulani ball facts:
• 8 thermally bonded 3-D panels
• Spherically moulded\
• Grip’n'Groove technology
• 11 colours, although the white, yellow and black are dominant,
the design capturing the colourfulness of South Africa.
Events & Media
Exciting information about Africa’s preparation for 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.
SA SOCCER HISTORY
One of the first gifts that democracy brought South Africa was its
first truly representative national soccer team – Bafana Bafana.
In 1992, the united South African team came into being, playing
Cameroon in its first match in Durban on 9 July. It was one triumphant
occasion for the side that came to be known as Bafana Bafana as they
edged the West African powerhouse by one goal to nil win.
Kaizer Chiefs, “The Amakhozi” was founded in 1970 by Kaizer
Motaung, Kaizer Chiefs has become one of South Africa’s most
successful teams.
Formed in 1937, Orlando Pirates is one of South Africa’s oldest
teams and two-time winners of SA’s Premier Soccer League since it’s
launch in 1997.
While Chiefs and Pirates have long battled for the title of South Africa’s
most popular club, a third outfit has emerged as a challenger for the
position: Mamelodi Sundowns. Backed by mining magnate Patrice
Motsepi, “The Brazilians” have the finances to ensure a squad with
depth and quality.
with Jabulani, “the celebration”
Jabulani knows for starters that there are 11 players in a football
team. He proudly represents the 11 th generation of Adidas World
Cup match balls.
As a pure-bred South African, Jabulani knows that the 2010 host
country has 11 official languages. But the play on the magic number
11 does not end there – the diverse South African population is made
up of 11 communities, on whom Jabulani relies to provide the world
with great hospitality come 2010.
TOP SCORERS – BAFANA BAFANA
Bafana Bafana meaning “The Boys”
PLAYER SA CAREER GOALS (CAPS)
Benni McCarthy 1997 – present 31 (76)
Shaun Bartlett 1995 – 2005 28 (74)
Phil Masinga 1992 – 2001 18 (58)
Siyabonga Nomvethe 1999 – present 15 (72)
Sibusiso Zuma 1998 – 2008 13 (67)
Delron Buckley 1998 – present 10 (72)
Current World Ranking - 88 th
07