Rice, who appeared tense following her meeting with al-Jaafari -- in contrast to her appearance after meeting with other leaders -- said that she was "very direct" that the U.S. and Britain have invested a lot to help Iraq build a democratic country.

CNN: Rice: End Iraqi political stalemate

The dramatic finale at Soccer City was in stark contrast to a hugely underwhelming opening 45 minutes, which was a brutal disappointment after the spectacular opening ceremony and moving appearance by former president Nelson Mandela that had preceded it.

BBC: Netherlands 0-1 Spain (aet)