9 September 2009, JOHANNESBURG - The 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC) would like to congratulate Spain on qualifying for the FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa next year.

OC CEO Dr Danny Jordaan said: "The champions of Europe will excite many football fans with their exciting brand of football during the World Cup next year. South Africa was lucky to experience La Fúria Roja at the Confederations Cup in June, and we are sure that we can expect even more of them at the World Cup next year."

Spain booked their place in the finals after beating Estonia 3-0 in Merida on Wednesday evening. The Spanish retained their unbeaten run and now secure top place in Group 5 with eight wins from eight matches.

Although the Spanish are among one of the most decorated football sides of all time the most sought after prize in football has continued to elude them.

The number two ranked side in the world took fourth place in the 1950 World Cup in Brazil and have been European champions on two occasions - 1964 and 2008 - and runners up in 1984.

Issued by the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC) Communications Division

For further information please contact:

OC Chief of Communications, Rich Mkhondo, E-mail: rich.mkhondo@2010oc.com, Mobile: +27832010254

OC Media Manager, Jermaine Craig, E-mail: jermaine.craig@2010oc.com, Mobile: +27832010121

media@2010oc.com

FIFA.com