Confed scores for fans despite goalless draw

JOHANNESBURG: In a buzzing mix of drums, songs, dance and baritone vuvuzelas, Confederations Cup hosts South Africa failed to drive home a goal for nearly 50,000 fans in Sunday's opening match.

But, for those in the stadium, the energetic atmosphere at FIFA's biggest tournament yet on African soil was a match-winner.

"It was beautiful," said Ahmed Jassat, 20, about the event's upbeat opening ceremony that took place before the 0-0 game between Iraq and South Africa, which he followed in various emotional states.