Gamers and football fans from around the World joined forces today to set a Guinness World Record for the most players to compete in a football video game. 82 players took turns on the controller as England and the USA drew 2-2 in a game of EA SPORTS 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa in front of hundreds of football fans who had gathered in Trafalgar Square to watch the opening ceremony and first match between the host nation and Mexico.
Despite England starting strongly it was the US who broke the deadlock with Californian, Bryson Boatwright, slotting home from close range. England dug deep and got their reward in first half stoppage time with an equaliser from Sol Matiba. The US pressed again and nearly scored as the referee called a halt to proceedings and the players went to the dressing rooms all square.
Five minutes into the second half the move of the match saw Laura Cole restore the USA's lead with a 35 yard pile-driver that left Robert Green stranded. Similar to the first half, England continued to pepper the USA's keeper but he denied them with a string of fine saves.
As England fans began to think this wasn't going to be their day Akshay Chopda dribbled through the US defence and clinched the all important equaliser sending the home crowd into raptures. The final few minutes were tense but neither team was able to break through and a 2-2 draw sent everyone home happy.
With the World Cup trophy under wraps until Sunday July 11th, it was left to Guinness adjudicator, Gaz Deaves, to present both teams with the World Record Certificate.
2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa is out now on PS3, PSP, X360 & Wii.
