By Osasu Obayiuwana BBC Sport

Blatter says he has a close relationship with Mandela

When Fifa president Sepp Blatter announced the decision to award the 2010 World Cup finals to South Africa, there was probably no happier man than Nelson Mandela.

The former South African president, who is now 86, beamed with delight when the announcement was made at the World Trade Centre in Zurich on 15 May.

"I feel like a young man of fifteen," the living legend said in response to a question on how he felt about realising his country's dream to host football's most prestigious event.

The relationship between us has almost developed to that of a father and son Fifa president Sepp Blatter

His presence on South Africa's campaign team was the trump card that none of the other competing countries - Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia and Libya were able to match.

"We have no personality that can compete with the stature of Nelson Mandela. There is no one like him in Africa," Egyptian FA board member Zohair Ammar admitted to BBC Sport in Malaysia.

Enthusiastic to promote South Africa's cause despite his declining health, Mandela often went against the advice of his doctors to join the bid team on their global trips spanning thousands of kilometres.

Determined supporter

Danny Jordaan, chief executive of South Africa's bid, admitted to BBC Sport that Madiba's role in ensuring their success cannot be underestimated.

"When Madiba followed us to the Caribbean (where they sought the support of the Concacaf members of the Fifa executive) the reaction of the people was unforgettable.

"They all lined the streets just to get a glimpse of him and his appearance at the Concacaf congress, where he got a very warm reception was a great moment for us.

Jordaan (centre) said Mandela was determined to win the 2010 bid

"I remember when we were talking about a subsequent trip, when some of his advisers told him that he wouldn't be going anywhere else because of the strain on his health.

"But as soon as he thought they were out of earshot, he told me he was determined to travel no matter what," Jordaan recalled with laughter.

Watching Mandela beam with joy as he danced for joy over the 2010 decision was particularly satisfying for Sepp Blatter.

"Having him at my side and seeing his emotions, I could see how happy he was," Blatter told BBC Sport.

"The relationship between us has almost developed to that of a father and son.

"We have been in contact since he came out of prison, where I first met him in the office of the African National Congress.

"To my mind, I think bringing the World Cup to South Africa is his last major international achievement for his country."