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Fifa delegates go on stadium walkabout

A total of 40 Fifa technical personnel members have arrived in South Africa to assess the country's readiness for the 2010 World Cup finals.

A total of 40 Fifa technical personnel members have arrived in South Africa to assess the country's readiness for the 2010 World Cup finals.

They have been complemented by staff from the Local Organising Committee since they started with their inspections tours in Cape Town on Friday.

The week-long inspection of the new stadiums looks mainly into general construction of match venues, dressing rooms, stadium lighting and installation of seats.

On Saturday, the inspectors were in Port Elizabeth to assess the new Nelson Mandela Sports Complex, which has already hosted two high profile soccer events.

Yesterday, they flew to Durban for an inspection of the KwaZulu-Natal's flagship Moses Mabhida Stadium, which is nearing its completion stage.

Their next stop will be Nelspruit today for an assessment of the newly built Mbombela Stadium.

The inspectors will wrap-up their visits in Polokwane where the new Peter Mokaba Sports Complex, which is next to the existing Peter Mokaba Stadium, is being built.

"We are ready for the delegation from Fifa, we are in the process of completing the construction of the stadium," said Ndavhe Ramakuela, Polokwane's 2010 World Cup director.

"Most of the things inside the stadium have been completed, that is why the process of doing the parking and hospitality area is also under way."

The existing Peter Mokaba Stadium has also been temporarily closed and will be upgraded to meet Fifa specifications as it will serve as a training venue for national teams based there during the tournament.

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