THE LIST HITS THE 2010 WORLD CUP

GAME OF THE WEEK


SOUTH AFRICA VS. MEXICO
Why? Because this is both the opener and a must-win for the host country.

Though Mexico may be the favourite, the outcome of the opening match is far from a foregone conclusion. Though the all-time stats show Mexico with 9 goals scored against the host team (to SA's 4), look for South African star Bernard Parker to try and even the score. Lauded as the future of South African football, the 24-year-old Parker will have his mettle tested by veterans such as Mexico's Cuauhtemoc Blanco and defender Rafael Marquez.



Friday, June 11th at 4:00 p.m.
Soccer City Stadium
MATCH DETAILS: fifa.com



WHERE TO CATCH THE GAME




MARY FITZGERALD SQUARE Why? Because you're staying in town for this one.
Fan parks are likely to offer as much buzz as any bar, and probably as much as Soccer City itself. With no walls, the atmosphere will vibrate with the sound of vuvuzelas, and the crowd will be a sea of competing Makarapas (an elaborate, team coloured hard hat; makarapa.co.za). Once so outfitted, you could head to one of the official fan parks (in Soweto and posh Sandton), but we suggest a more urban experience: Check out Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown, and keep score as the city buzzes around you.




Public Viewing Area At Mary Fitzgerald Sq.
Newtown (Between Jeppe and Bree Streets)
OPEN: June 11th through July 11th

WHERE TO STAY IN JOBURG





THE MELROSE ARCH HOTEL Why? Because Mexico knows that it's nothing personal.
Joburg’s mixed-use Melrose Arch precinct has transformed itself into Joburg’s little Mexico City. With a copy of Mexico’s Angel of Independence statue on the main square, and Mexicans decked out in team colors everywhere, the Melrose Arch Hotel's district is sure to come alive on Friday. Luckily, the hotel an ideal place to stay during the World Cup. Perhaps you’ll catch Akon walking through the hotel’s swish lobby, or maybe you’ll just be content relaxing in the hotel’s plush bar lounge -- either way, this is Joburg hip.



Melrose Arch Hotel
1 Melrose St., Johannesburg
PHONE: +27 21 430 5302
SITE: africanpridehotels.com