TOP LEFT: Four-pack cocktail glasses, R179.95, ice crusher, R129.95, wing corkscrew, R99.95, 4-pack coasters, R49.95.

TOP RIGHT: Boardmans bar fridge, R1 199.95.

RIGHT: Fish bottle opener, R89.95.

Crank up the style factor when you gather with friends and fellow fans for the sporting highlight of the decade! A soccer event has never looked this good.

See bottom of this page for entertaining and serving ideas

TOP LEFT: Russell Hobbs 4-slice toaster, R729.95

TOP RIGHT: Pyrex glass roaster, R349.95, Gordon Ramsay side plates, cereal bowls and dinner plates, from R39.95 to R44.95 each

LEFT: Tray, R189.95, assorted mugs, R24.95 each.

Your kitchen needs to work as hard as you do when you’re entertaining a hungry sporting crowd, and sleek, stylish and functional are the buzzwords. Here’s what to look for:
• Slick, functional kitchen-top toasters, kettles and grillers.
• Elegant finishes to add interest, along with bold chunky tableware and sophisticated serving dishes.
• Striking splashes of red and glossy black that add glamour and up the colour tempo.

ENTERTAINING TIPS

• To make guests feel relaxed the minute they walk through the door, offer a selection of pre-mixed cocktails.
• Bring out the elegant glasses, choose matching coasters and ensure there’s loads of crushed ice on offer.
• Make sure you don’t have to rush to the kitchen every few minutes for extra tumblers, ice tongs and corkscrews. Some planning goes a long way towards helping you to spend more time with your guests.
• To up the cool quotient, invest in a show-stopping bar table, which can form the focal point of a dull corner in your entertainment area. Choose high-gloss and chrome for ultimate chic.

SERVING IDEAS

• Opt for simple, scrumptious snacks prepared well in advance. Consider
  fresh, crusty loaves and home-made
  dips that guests can tackle without too much fuss. And make a point of offering fresh, raw vegetables as a healthy option.
• Small details make a difference. When serving mugs of after-match coffee, tie a hand-written guest tag to each handle. Whether your team has won or not, you’ll score points with style-conscious friends who’ll appreciate feeling special.