Host South Africa crashed out of the ongoing World Cup despite a slim 2-1 victory over former champions France. Mphela and Khumalo brought South African hopes alive with two early goals in the first half and with France down by a man following a red card to Gourcoff, whilst South Africans had their vuvuzelas blaring to a crescendo. Reports of Uruguay leading Mexico by a lone goal in the group’s other game made the South Africans quest for a second round place a daunting task. Moreover a late goal by Malouda dashed any faint hopes of a South Africa revival. The French also exit the competition, their worst ever campaign dogged by player-coach row. Chelsea star Nicholas Anelka was sent packing home ahead of the team, whilst skipper Patrice Evra was benched for rebelling against Coach Raymond Domenech. Mexico qualify ahead of South Africa despite the 0-1 defeat to Uruguay. They have a superior goal difference ahead of the host. Mexico are likely to meet Argentina in the round of 16 Story by Nathan Gadugah/Myjoyonline.com/Ghana