Football or soccer, also known as the beautiful game, may be the most universal sport in the world, but in 2010 it will have a definite African flavour.

With the 2010 Fifa World Cup being hosted in South Africa, you are in for a uniquely African treat.

Whether you will be coming to the shores of South Africa, or following the games from your home, you need to learn the street soccer lingo of South Africa to experience the game ‘African style’.

South Africa has a unique soccer language, which developed from the black township slang in the 1950’s. To fully enjoy your South African World Cup experience of the beautiful game, it will be worth your while to learn some of the local terms.

South Africa is a culturally diverse nation, but stand singularly united by the beautiful game. Despite the eleven official languages, football has produced a single glossary of terms, giving it a uniquely South African spin.

Glossary of terms:

• ikasi lingo – township slang
• idiski – soccer or football
• grounds – stadium or pitch
• ishibobo – literally means nutmeg, but refers to passing the ball through the legs of the opponent, making a ‘fool’ of the person
• kwetla – dribbling
• tsamaya – breath taking skill
• vuvuzela – a colourful, fog-horn type instrument is a cause of much debate. You either love it your you hate it. There are even calls for FIFA to ban it.
• makaraba, or makarapa – a uniquely adorned safety hat, worn when attending matches
• ladduuuuuuuuuumaaaa – cries of joy when a goal is scored

Take these down, memorise them and use them. You will be welcomed by the hospitable locals with open arms.

So, whatever happens in 2010, you are sure to experience the beautiful game as it’s never been experienced before – African style!