Durban – German soccer team’s fate is sealed if Jabu the seal at uShaka Marine World is to be believed.
Taking time out from his busy schedule, Jabu selected who he thought would take home the coveted World Cup trophy on Sunday tonight.
As a crowd gathered for the 1.30pm seal show on Saturday, the flags of the two competing countries were laid out before him.
Although the audience chanted for Germany, 15-year-old Jabu paid no attention as he stared down at the two flags.
With a little help from his trainer, Mhlaba Mthethwa, he selected the Argentinian flag.
To satisfy the audience, the flags were set before Jabu again. And he picked the Argentinian flag yet again, giving the German flag only a cursory glance.
He then picked up the “winning” team’s flag to further emphasise his point, much to the amusement of the audience.
A spokeswoman for uShaka Marine World, Anne Kunz said it was clear who Jabu thought would win.
“The audience didn’t seem too happy with his choice. We will just have to wait and see if he is right,” she laughed.
“I am not sure why he thinks Argentina will beat Germany, perhaps it’s because he feels connected to his southern hemisphere friends as he is a southern ocean seal.”
She said Jabu was the largest seal at uShaka and had been with them since he had been a cub.
“Jabu is such a gentle soul and not aggressive with other seals.
“But he definitely has an eye for the ladies. His harem is fiercely protected. He is a real ladies’ man.”
Jabu proved just what a ladies’ man he was, as he planted a wet, sloppy kiss on this reporter’s cheek once his task was done.
Durbanites will have their pick of where they want to watch the final on Sunday tonight.
A fanpark will be held at the Wavehouse at the Gateway shopping mall on Sunday.
Cash prizes of R5 000 are up for grabs for those keen on entering a beach volleyball or soccer team.
There will also be sporting celebrities interacting with the crowds.
There will be a Jumping Jack corner, with trampolines, inflatables, jumping castles and an obstacle course.
Rio carnival dancers will give a dance lesson to the audience before kick-off.
And every time a goal is scored during the match, the audience will be expected to get up and dance for giveaways. Entrance is free.
Hops on Riverside will have a DJ playing from 5pm and are also offering specials on spirits, shooters and cocktails.
The kitchen will stay open until 10pm.