Reality appears to be sinking in among small and medium-size businesses that the chances of making a killing are slim.

As a result, some businesses are trimming their expectations.

Among them is Niki Rwaxa of Oasis restaurant in Johannesburg's Mary Fitzgerald Square in the Newtown precint.

"I am not expecting overnight millions. For a start, I hope the event will lift us out of the recession. It has been a tough period for many of us.

''I plan to give visitors a memorable experience so that they can come back with their friends and relatives.

''My aim is to give them a taste of the spirit of ubuntu. This will help us reap the benefits," says Niki.

The mother of one quit formal employment in 1994. Before she opened Oasis, she worked for an NGO, SASIF, which folded when donor funds dried up.

Niki enjoyed having friends over to her house for food and music, a social activity that she would turn into a business.

Oasis, which specialises in authentic African cuisine, has been around for 15 years.

Niki says she has not spent any money on alterations or renovations for the World Cup.

"Money has gone to training our staff, hiring more people and expanding our menu."