Mandela - Tragedy must not divide us

Nelson Mandela has called for unity in South Africa after the tragedy at Ellis Park stadium.

Fourty-three football fans were crushed to death during the derby match between Kaiser Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

And Premier Soccer League boss Robin Petersen said lives could have been saved had officials acted sooner.

Former president Mandela, however, said in a statement: "This incident should not divide us now, but rather bring us even closer to ensure this horror story does not repeat itself."

Gauteng sport minister Mondii Gungubele offered his condolences to the bereaved on behalf of the provincial government.

"This has been a catastrophe that will remain in the hearts and minds of soccer fans the world over," he said.

Meanwhile, Tunisia and Morocco do not believe the tragedy has done irreparable harm to Africa's chances of hosting the 2010 World Cup.

Tunisian Football Federation press officer Mustapha Zoubeidi said: "Like any other country in the world we are very saddened by this tragedy. It is all the more dramatic that it happened in Africa.

"I don't believe it will influence Fifa's decision to give the 2010 World Cup to Africa. By then nine years will have passed. Things change."

Fifa recently declared that the World Cup would be rotated on a continental basis - more than likely starting in 2010 with Africa.

Tunisia and Morocco have not launched bids to host the 2010 tournament but each wants the World Cup to come to Africa for the first time.

The disturbing television pictures of the game will not have helped the 2010 bid of South Africa, who were seen as near certainties after Fifa's recent announcement that the tournament was expected to go to Africa.

Moroccan Federation spokesman Mohammed Jeffal said: "What happened is horrible. It is bad for Africa. However, similar events have happened in Europe too.

"I'm convinced Africa still have all their chances to host the 2010 World Cup. South Africa almost got it for 2006 and our hopes to get it in nine years' time are intact.

"It gives us the opportunity to think about the security and safety issues in our stadiums."