HOLLYWOOD: Oscar award-winning South African actress Charlize Theron, 34, put up another good performance when she pulled "Ireland" during a rehearsal for the World Cup draw.

The actress was pulling Fifa’s leg over Ireland’s failed bid to become the 33rd team at the 32-nation Cup.

Ireland had asked to be allowed to participate after being ousted in the play-offs by France, which clinched its place with a goal from striker William Gallas after captain Thierry Henry had handled the ball.

Theron, who will co-host Friday’s draw with Fifa general secretary Jerome Valcke, pulled the “Ireland” ball out of the bowl instead of France.

“Yes, she did, but it was only a joke,” Valcke told reporters.

Friday’s draw will determine which teams will meet each other in the first round of the World Cup.