Blatter rejects World Cup criticism

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has defended the 2010 World Cup from criticism over empty seats and poor refereeing standards.

The head of world football’s governing body also claimed he was not surprised by the poor showing by African countries.

Instead, the 74-year-old believes the decision by Ivory Coast and Nigeria to change coaches just months before the tournament made it very tough for them to make an impact.