Johannesburg - Former US president Bill Clinton said on Thursday South Africa's successful hosting of the World Cup had defied the country's critics and cast the country in a positive light.

"South Africa has branded itself in this World Cup in a very special way. Lots of people didn't think you can pull it off," Clinton said in Johannesburg, while on a trip promoting the US bid to host the World Cup in 2018 or 2022.

"South Africa is being given a chance to set standards the world can learn from," he said.

The former statesman watched the US win 1-0 over Algeria on Wednesday in Pretoria, and plans to attend the team's next match against Ghana this weekend in the second round of the tournament.

He also paid tribute to former president Nelson Mandela while visiting the Nobel laureate's foundation.

"I have always visited South Africa close to Mandela's birthday. His birthday has been dedicated to civil service," said Clinton.

Mandela's 92nd birthday will be observed globally on July 18. The United Nations recognised the date last year as Mandela Day, a day meant to encourage volunteer work.

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