ORDINARY South Africans are getting in on the action.

Gugu Mthethwa of Robetsham, Johannesburg, will celebrate today's 50 day countdown with "friends, family and fellow football lovers".

Mthethwa said he had bought tickets for the Ivory Coast and Korea game but was disappointed about the lack of tickets for Gauteng matches.

Mdu Damoi, 38, could only lay his hands on a solitary ticket but was happy nonetheless.

"At least I will be able to say I was there. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Damoi said he would not be doing anything special for today's celebrations.

Unfortunately for Skhumbuzo Sigasa, 32, he was unable to get hold of tickets - but he nevertheless expressed his excitement at the mood in the country.

"I am behind Bafana Bafana all the way. The mood around the country is electrifying and I can't wait for the tournament to start."

Sigasa said he was happy to see all South Africans sharing in the excitement of the football festivities.