2010 FIFA World Cup Group A

South Africa became the first World Cup host team to fail to advance past the group stage after finishing behind Mexico on goal difference.

France, despite having made the final at the previous edition of the World Cup, were also eliminated after drawing one and losing two matches, including one against South Africa.

[3] In the final minutes of the match, Katlego Mphela almost scored a winning goal for South Africa, but his shot bounced off the post.

[9] Man of the Match: Diego Forlán (Uruguay) Assistant referees: Toru Sagara (Japan)[5] Jeong Hae-sang (South Korea)[5] Fourth official: Joel Aguilar (El Salvador)[5] Fifth official: William Torres (El Salvador)[5] Uruguay took the lead in the 24th minute, when Diego Forlán launched a shot from 30 yards out that beat goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, who did not attempt to save the shot.

[11] Man of the Match: Diego Forlán (Uruguay) Assistant referees: Matthias Arnet (Switzerland)[5] Francesco Buragina (Switzerland)[5] Fourth official: Wolfgang Stark (Germany)[5] Fifth official: Jan-Hendrik Salver (Germany)[5] Mexico's 2–0 victory over France in Polokwane was overshadowed by French striker Nicolas Anelka launching a tirade of abuse towards coach Raymond Domenech during the half-time interval.