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The World Cup may have ended for many but the memory will live on for schoolboy Ali Nabeel Mirza Ahmed who had a taste of football fever from Johannesburg's Ellis Park Stadium pitch itself.
The 10-year-old Bahraini, who attends Al Maaref School in Juffair, was granted the privilege to run out onto the field alongside one of football's greatest players during the World Cup quarter-final clash between eventual champions Spain and Paraguay.
Ali and his father flew out to South Africa on an all expenses paid trip which included three-nights stay at a fancy hotel, an array of planned sightseeing activities and tours courtesy of McDonald's Player Escort Programme.
Ali also received a uniform to wear during the big game and souvenirs. His mother Bahia and sister Jood also accompanied the soccer-mad duo on this fantastic experience.
Bahia said: "We had such an amazing time in Cape Town. Ali made so many friends as there was a huge group of McDonald's winners from across the region.
"Most of the children were about Ali's age but roughly between six and 10. We were taken on a number of sightseeing trips. We saw Table Mountain and different parks such as the butterfly park and also went on safaris.
"The day before the match the Gulf McDonald's winners played a friendly game against the South African McDonald's winners. They had so much fun - no winners or losers just untied as one by the love of the game. At the end of it they were given footballs as memorabilia.
"The next day was the big match and Ali was extremely excited. He was going to hold the hand of a great player and run out on to the field before watching the match live. I sensed he was nervous but could tell he was really happy.
"This honestly was not just a great moment for him - but a great experience for the entire family to have together. We really enjoyed ourselves and seeing him so happy made it worth it."
Ali ran out with Paraguayan football player Antol’n Alcaraz Viveros (pictured left) who plays for Premier League club Wigan Athletic. He said: "When I arrived with the other kids at the stadium I was nervous but also very excited. It was the most amazing day of my life. It was such a memorable experience.
"Also it was an excellent match and I am very happy Spain won because I was rooting for them! McDonald's kitted us out with uniforms, shoes and a jacket along with an Adidas bag filled with goodies.
"I couldn't wait to get home and watch the finals at my grandfather's house with the entire family. I wanted to tell them all the great things I did and saw. Thanks McDonald's for making my dream come true. I will never forget this!"
