With the World Cup South Africa 2010 final approaching, the excitement is building and supporters of both teams, Holland and Spain are relishing the prospect of being crowned football world champions. But what happened to all of the African teams in this year's World Cup? All eyes were on the host nation already, so I think South Africa need no part in this article, so here is a run-down on the other 'big five'.
Ivory Coast
Upon qualifying, Ivory Coast and Chelsea striker Didier Drogba commented "I am very happy indeed because Ivory Coast is going to the World Cup for the second time." Ivory Coast finished 3rd in their group, unluckily being placed with two competition favourites, Brazil and Portugal.
Cameroon
Cameroon qualified for an record sixth time for the World Cup this year after a last day qualification against Morocco. Cameroon finished bottom of their group with no points, a disappointing and huge let down for all of their fans.
Nigeria
Nigeria's qualifying match was against fellow African team Kenya, they went from 1-0 down, to 2-1 up in the second half. Nigeria also finished bottom of their group with a mere one point to their name.
Algeria
Algeria got through to the World Cup by the skin of their teeth, their coach Rabah Saadane had this to say about it "They played with heart - they had so much heart and I think that's what made the difference. I think we will have time to prepare ourselves for the Cup in Africa now." Algeria disappointed in a group that was won by United States and England, by finishing last with a single point.
Ghana
Ghana were the first team through to the group stages after a 2-0 win over Sudan. Chelsea midfielder and Ghana International Michael Essien commented "The people of Ghana wanted us to win and we did not let them down. What a fantastic feeling to be the first African country to qualify for the first World Cup to be staged in Africa." Ghana were the only team to make it through the first round of the World Cup, they were brave throughout the competition and sadly knocked out in the quarter finals on penalties by Uruguay.
So now you know of the 'big five' of African football teams featured in this year's World Cup, time to learn about the wildlife 'big five' of Africa. This consists of lion, leopard, cape buffalo, rhino and elephant, which can be spotted in many Kenyan National Parks such as Amboseli and the world famous Masai Mara.
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