In winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Spain have joined in debunking the theory that losers don’t win. West Germans were first to prove that a country can lose in the group matches and then forge ahead to win the World Cup.

In 1954, Hungary were adjudged the best football country and in group matches, the Hungarians walloped hosts, West Germany eight goals to three. The scoreline could demoralize West Germany, but through tenacity and perseverance, the Germans fought their way to the final and defeated their early conquerors Hungary two one. In 1974, the same West Germany were involved in “losers do win” mantra. West Germany lost to East Germany one nil, but powered through, reached the final to beat Holland two one.

And in 1978, the same Holland tasted the sour pills when they lost in the final to Argentina three one.

The Argentines had been beaten by Italy one nil in the group matches. So after a break of 32 years, Spain reenacted the theory that losers can win. In 2010, Spain the hot favourites were stung by un-rated Switzerland one nil. Spain went on to beat Honduras, Chile to top group H and the rest is history. Sir Stanley, if I had a choice over who should win in South Africa, I would have shared the Cup between the two.

If their star player, Arjen Robben had converted two glaring chances into goals, the Dutch would have won. It is painful to reach the World Cup finals three times and to lose. However for the Spaniards, it has been a long wait, and by the time they won the World Cup, even their opponents acknowledged their superiority.

Finally Sir, please do not judge Africa by their woeful performances in South Africa and one hopes you will not be tempted to reduce African slots of five. Let me re-assure you Sir, that when next the World Cup is hosted on African Soil, an African country will win.