In what might be an ominous sign, the All Whites soccer team has been "adopted" by Limpopo, the poorest province in South Africa.
New Zealand are one of weakest of eight sides in South Africa for the Confederations Cup, attended by mighty Brazil, World Cup holders Italy and world No
1 Spain.
Each team was adopted by school children from a South African province, with the big guns coincidentally going to the richer provinces.
New Zealand went to Limpopo, which apparently makes up for its spectacular lack of money with its equally spectacular game reserves and stunning waterfalls.
Even though the people of Limpopo are among South Africa's poorest the All Whites could yet get support from them, as they play their opening games in nearby Rustenburg.
The Eastern Cape adopted Spain, Free State adopted Italy, rich Gauteng popularly adopted South Africa, the Northern Cape adopted crowd favourites Brazil.
The All Whites, at No 87 the lowest ranked side in the tournament, were not central to pre-tournament discussions, New Zealand high commissioner Geoff Randal said.
"Everyone knows we are a modest performer on the world stage, but modesty is a virtue, I feel."
New Zealand play in the same pool as European champions Spain, who they meet this weekend, a fervently supported South Africa and likely sentimental favourites Iraq.
Five-time World Cup winners Brazil and World Cup champions Italy head the other pool for the June 14-28 tournament, which also contains the United States and Egypt.
- NZPA
