Africa could be handed more places in future World Cups according the the Fifa president Sepp Blatter.

Six teams will represent the continent in next summer's tournament as South Africa are hosting the tournament. The number of African sides in the finals was increased to five for the 1998, 2002 and 2006 finals.

"I will advocate for Africa, or indeed for any other continent that is doing well in the World Cup," Blatter said.

"It is not easy for Africa to make an impression because by the law of averages they don't have the same possibility to make an impression in the way Europe and South America do. Europe has 13 places to Africa's six and so it is hard to expect there can be a host of African sides dominating the latter stages.

"But in 2010 the African teams have an advantage in that they are playing at home and in their own special atmosphere. African sides have proven they can play a big part next year. Let's see what will happen."

No side from Africa has ever gone beyond the last eight of a World Cup.