As the opening of the soccer World Cup draws closer, entertainment outlets – from cafeterias and restaurants, to bars, pubs, clubs and even take-away outlets – are getting ready to reap the benefits of this exciting sporting event that is attracting the attention of football lovers as well as many people who are normally indifferent to the world of football.

Philip Fenech, president of the Chamber of SMEs (GRTU) tourism division, told this newspaper yesterday that many owners of entertainment outlets he spoke with are looking forward to the World Cup in a very positive way.

“Most bars are setting up big screens in a bid to try to get people out of their homes and create a festive atmosphere. Both the popular sports bars and other entertainment outlets have come with special menus and they’re planning to serve hors d’oeuvres during the matches.”

Mr Fenech said many entertainment outlets have been advertising on Facebook and other media. Even small corner shops like take-away outlets have been setting up small television sets in prominent places, he said.

A number of dignitaries, including former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela, are expected to attend the opening game between South Africa and Mexico in Johannesburg on Friday.

South African Sport and Recreation Minister Makhenkesi Stofile was reported as saying that the 91-year-old former anti-apartheid activist will be at Soccer City for the opening match. Mr Mandela famously united South Africa into a nation through the Rugby World Cup when the Springboks beat the All Blacks. The monumental triumph was made into the film Invictus.