The USA will kick off their Group C campaign against England in Rustenburg on June 12 with Americans having bought more tickets for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa than any other travelling nationality.

While the US Department of State believes there is no credible threat of a terrorist attack it has warned its citizens to be on alert during the finals.

"Large-scale public events like the World Cup may present a wide range of attractive targets for terrorists," reads the travel alert posted this week on the State Department's website.

"There is a heightened risk that extremist groups will conduct terrorist acts within South Africa in the near future."

The State Department also repeated warnings about the levels of criminality in South Africa and in particular the dangers of travelling between the nine host cities during the tournament.

"The vast majority of visitors complete their travels in South Africa without problems; however, visitors should be aware that criminal activity, including violent crime, is prevalent throughout the country," the alert continued.

"Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, looking out for your own personal security."

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