Nelson Mandela makes surprise appearance at the World Cup Final
Madiba and Graça Machel receive standing ovation
11 July 2010
July 11, 2010 – Nelson Mandela has paid a surprise visit to Soccer City to greet the 85 000 fans gathered to watch the Spain-Netherlands Fifa World Cup Final match.
Mr Mandela, accompanied by his wife Graça Machel, received a standing ovation and thunderous cheers from the packed stadium as he was driven around the field in a golf cart.
The Mandela family is still in mourning following the tragic death, one month ago today, of Zenani Mandela, 13, who was killed in a car accident after attending the opening concert.
Mr Mandela will turn 92 on Sunday, 18 July, which also marks the first Nelson Mandela International Day, when the world’s citizens are encouraged to do good work in honour of his own sacrifice.
Nelson Mandela and his wife, Graça Machel, greet the crowds at Soccer City. Photo © AFP
Nelson Mandela at the Fifa World Cup Final, Soccer City, July 11, 2010. Photo © AFP
Nelson Mandela and Graça Machel make a surprise appearance. Photo © AFP
