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PREPARING SOUTH AFRICA FOR THE WORLD |
Michael Ballack who plays for Chelsea in the English Premier League and is the captain of the German national team is one of the top goal scorers in the history of his country. He was selected as one of FIFA's 100 Greatest Living Players, and the UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year in 2002. He has won the German Footballer of the Year award three times 2002, 2003 and 2005. Following Germany's 2-0 victory in Leverkusen over the weekend, he spoke to Kick Off about the match and the 2010 World Cup...  Firstly, what did you make of the match against South Africa? It's always a great feeling to win, especially at home, but I must say it wasn't an easy match. South Africa have a lot of very strong players in midfield and there was always a physical battle. They created a number of chances; they came close on a few occasions. How do you rate this South African side? The match was a friendly, so it's always difficult to judge a team based on results from friendly matches. It's even more difficult to judge a team that will be hosting a World Cup in few months' time because things are always done with eyes looking on the bigger picture, which is the World Cup in this instance. I think South Africa has a great World Cup to look forward to and that is what is important. Can Bafana Bafana take on the best teams in the world? Yes, I think so. I saw them play at the Confederations Cup and they put on a great show. I was impressed. That's why I'm saying tonight's match was just a friendly. Thanks a lot and good luck with your future, especially with Chelsea. Especially with Chelsea? Why? It's because you are talking to a Chelsea fan... (Laughs) Oh, okay then, now I see. It's not a problem, thanks very much. more interviews...
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