United Nations, Jul 14 (IANS): UN Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon Tuesday hailed South Africa and the entire African continent as the real winners of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

As the soccer World Cup came to an end Sunday with Spain's victory in the final against The Netherlands, Ban described the month-long tournament as a success for South Africa and an opportunity towards development for the African continent.

"It is my hope that this renewed focus on Africa will lead to an African renaissance and I call upon all parties to focus on ensuring that the success is sustained," Ban said in a statement.

According to Xinhua, Ban acknowledged South Africa's achievement in hosting the global event and praised the football governing body FIFA's efforts to draw investment into the region.

"FIFA should be commended for its commitment to using the momentum and attention of football's greatest stage as a catalyst for development and economic stimulus for the African region," Ban stated.

The secretary-general described sport as a development and peace-building tool.

"Following this path and looking to the example of South Africa and the World Cup, I am convinced that investors will be confident to focus on sustained investment on the continent," he said.