Nigeria and Tunisia have submitted their intention to host the 2010 World Cup finals, joining the four countries – South Africa, Morocco, Libya and Egypt – already confirmed as contenders.

Nigeria and Tunisia acted on December 30, a day before the deadline, FIFA, world football’s governing body confirmed.

FIFA decided last year the competition should rotate among the continents with 2010 being the first time the tournament is held in Africa. South Africa, who narrowly lost out to Germany in the race to host the 2006 competition, are favourites to hold the 2010 finals.

The six national associations have until April 30 to confirm or withdraw their bids, with those confirming their bids having until to August 31 to make a formal submission.