Forlan powers Uruguay to 1-0 half-time lead

Uruguay’s Diego Forlan blasted a stunning 25-metre goal in the 24th minute to give the two-time world champions a 1-0 half-time lead over South Africa in a Group A World Cup match on Wednesday.

The Atletico Madrid star slammed a rasping right-footed shot from well outside the penalty area. The ball tucked under the crossbar and into the back of the net, leaving South African goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune helpless.

Bitter cold and noisy vuvuzelas provided the backdrop to the first match of the second phase of opening-round World Cup group play.

Uruguay had the better chances but neither side could consistently dominate, the hosts Bafana Bafana only progress coming at times down the wings.

South Africa’s playmaker, Steven Pienaar of Everton, received a yellow card in the sixth minute when a Forlan free kick struck him on his left arm as he charged a free kick from the wall.

South African midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi, who plays for Fulham, picked up a yellow card in the 42nd minute, his second in as many matches meaning he misses the potentially decisive final Group A match against France.