Abedi Pele (File)

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Johannesburg - Ghanaian football legend Abedi Pele has told Football35.co.za that he is optimistic of a successful World Cup in South Africa when the finals kick off in June.

"I have no doubt in my mind that this is going to be one of the biggest events so far. Everything around the World Cup points to a grand tournament and we all can't wait. The people of South Africa have built for themselves a huge reputation these past few years and this is just another fine opportunity to prove what they have that the rest of the world doesn't."

The football ambassador believes that the World Cup had come at the right time not only for South Africa but for the continent as a whole.

"Africa has always come under unwarranted tongue lashing from the rest of the world. This World Cup presents us with a very unique opportunity to prove to the whole world that we are not what and how they think we are. Our failure as a continent to get it right would also mean, giving our detractors the chance to mock us," he told this website.

"This tournament would leave a lasting legacy. I am looking forward to a bumper talent harvest after the main show. We are not only going to dazzle the rest of the world with our beautiful landscape, culture and breathtaking architecture; new Peles, Essiens, Eto'os and McCarthys and other great legends in the continent are going to emerge after all is done. I am all fired up. I can't wait. The feeling is so great. In fact, South Africa is going to sell to the rest of the world, a never to be forgotten month of football."

Abedi welcomed the criticism surrounding the global showpiece, but expressed confidence that all the kinks will be sorted out come June.

"I am sometimes amazed at the criticisms. But in every human institution, if you want to get things right, you will by all means step on some few toes.

"Despite all these, nothing short of quality awaits us. As someone who was part of the people who made this happen, I am more than convinced that every detail from transport, security, accommodation and general infrastructure would be taken care of," he concluded.