The World Cup kicks off in 45 days and FIFA President Sepp Blatter is hopeful that Nelson Mandela will open the ceremony although nothing yet is confirmed.

“We cross fingers that Nelson Mandela can realise this dream. And his dream would be to be at the opening of the World Cup. For the time being, he is doing well and we hope that he can do it,” Blatter said at his last regular press conference before the World Cup starts.

Mandela hasn't made any public appearances since February to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his release from prison. Blatter went on “It will be his World Cup.”

Blatter also faced questions about South Africa’s readiness to host the tournament and he admitted that he was confident the event would be a success.

In other news FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke, who is responsible for overseeing the tournament in South Africa is confident of having 95% occupancy at all matches.

“We're very confident of having a high number of people attending all 64 matches,” Valcke said. “The only World Cup with 100 per cent occupancy was in 1994 in the United States, but we will have at least 95 per cent occupancy of all stadiums.