Nerves and excitement precede Bafana match

Australia and Bafana Bafana were due to kick-off at 7.30pm local time in what would be the Aussies final fixture before heading to Brazil on Wednesday.

Among the expected 50 000 fans were Hennie and Sue Oberholzer, a South African couple living in southern Sydney, who travelled to the stadium to watch the match.

A doctor by trade, Hennie moved to Australia 10 years ago and met Sue, before the couple were married in 2008.

“It’s great to be here,” Hennie said before kick-off “I’ve lived in Sydney for some time but I have never watched a South African team playing against Australia live at a ground, in any sport.

“This is a great game to play because the Australians are going to the World Cup and the people here make a big deal out of this farewell game.”

Sue, who is a self-professed “stay-at-home-mom” said she was pleased she joined her husband, adding that the atmosphere made the experience of traveling to the ground a memorable experience.

“We live quite far away and it’s a bit of a drive to get here but it’s good that we came,” Sue said.

“I hope Bafana win because I will always support South African teams and it’s nice to have some memories from home.”

– Sapa