A FIFA delegation was in the country for a week-long inspections of some of the venues identified to host some of the 2010 soccer tournaments.

Stadiums visited were in Kimberly, Orkney, Potchefstroom, Polokwane and Nelspruit.

Addressing the media before the team's departure on Friday, head of delegation Jim Brown expressed their satisfaction at South Africa's "level of preparation and understanding of the requirements" saying the report back to Fifa President Sepp Blatter would be positive.

"We are overwhelmed by the spirit of commitment, cooperation, enthusiasm and willingness to build a successful world cup.

"South Africa's commitment and our relationship with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) has been consistent, giving us a positive indication," Brown said.

The Fifa team included Jerome Valcke, director of marketing and television and Alain Leiblang, head of media operations.

The delegation indicated that it had no concerns but noted that the focus was now on the question of building stadiums and to develop time-frames.

CEO of the 2010 World Cup Loc, Danny Jordaan said the committee showed Fifa an insight into the country's 13 proposed venues.

They also showed the Fifa team an "insight" into the infrastructure of Swaziland and Mozambique.

Stadiums in both countries according to Mr Jordaan would be used for training sessions and friendly matches.

This was in line with the concept of hosting an "African World Cup", he said.

However, an announcement regarding host cities is yet to be made.

"The announcement will be made after required documentation like the report back stadium agreement has been done. There is some work to be done," Mr Jordaan said.

The announcement would be made by Fifa after being informed by Loc.

The delegation further announced that it would be opening its permanent office in the country at the beginning of 2006 which would operate until conclusion of the 2010 soccer World Cup games.

Source: AllAfrica.com