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Cape Town - Reneilwe Letsholonyane knows exactly what it's like playing at the World Cup as host nation, and the midfielder believes there will be more than a few frayed nerves on the eve of the competition.
All of world football will focus in on Brazil 2014 when the hosts take on Croatia in the opening game on Thursday evening.
In an interview on Kaizer Chiefs' website, Letsholonyane proved that he is just like the millions of expectant SWC fans by speculating on the winner of the competition, discussing potential dark horses and describing the nerves before the first game.
And Letsholonyane, who was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that took part in the 2010 showpiece, says he knows exactly what the players involved are going through just 24 hours before the showpiece event.
"I think it is a nervous time for the players. Players are looking forward to play in the biggest stage in their soccer career. Expectations are high for the host nation and more so that Brazil are one of the top ranking teams in the world, and soccer is like a culture to them," the Kaizer Chiefs' midfielder told his club's official website.
"The players must be going through emotions now that it is less than 24 hrs to go to kick off."
When asked for his favourites to challenge for this year's title, 'Yeye' said: "I am going with Spain and Argentina but obviously no one can afford to rule out Brazil.
"Belgium are the dark horses and are likely to be the surprise package this time. They are looking good. Belgians are not only playing for big teams in Europe but they are mostly doing well. It is a tough call to make, soccer is full of surprises."
