Archive soccer news from around the world
Cafu the key for Brazilian World Cup hopes (May 31, 2006)
Despite the attacking gems at Brazil's disposal it is veteran defender Cafu who continues to impress coach Carlos Alberto Parreira ahead of the World Cup. . . . more . . .
France on the right path for Germany (May 31, 2006)
The mood in the France camp was distinctly upbeat after a confidence-boosting 2-0 win over a well-organised Denmark side in their penultimate World Cup warm-up match. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg back on track after foot injury (May 31, 2006)
Sweden midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg resumed training after recovering from a foot problem and should be ready to play in Sweden's last World Cup warm-up friendly against Chile on Friday. . . . more . . .
Hope and doubt for Japan ahead of World Cup (May 31, 2006)
Japan's 2-2 draw against powerhouse Germany has given the Asian champions a moral boost but also a reason for soul-searching ahead of their World Cup matches. . . . more . . .
Italy fail to find their feet in draw against Switzerland (May 31, 2006)
Italy looked uninspired during a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in a largely experimental World Cup warm-up where both sides substituted six players during the second half. . . . more . . .
Gerrard happy to fill Rooney role (May 31, 2006)
Steven Gerrard insists he is ready and willing to fill the gap left by Wayne Rooney and play as England's emergency striker at the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Mourinho wants Roberto Carlos, world's best defender (May 31, 2006)
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said he wants Real Madrid's Brazilian international Roberto Carlos to join the English champions next year because the 33-year-old is the world's best defender. . . . more . . .
Saudi Arabia crash to Turkey in World Cup warm-up (May 31, 2006)
Saudi Arabia did themselves no favours in a warm-up game for the World Cup, crashing to a 1-0 defeat to Turkey. . . . more . . .
Henry and Wiltord on target as France beat Denmark (May 31, 2006)
Goals in either half from Thierry Henry and Sylvain Wiltord boosted home hopes of World Cup success this summer with a 2-0 warm-up friendly win over Denmark in northern France. . . . more . . .
Croatia, Hungary hand over joint candidacy file for Euro 2012 (May 31, 2006)
Croatia and Hungary handed over to UEFA documents needed for their joint bid to host the Euro 2012 football tournament, Croatia's Football Federation spokesman said. . . . more . . .
Knee injury rules Edmilson out of World Cup (May 31, 2006)
Brazilian international defensive midfielder Edmilson has been ruled out of the World Cup with a ruptured left kneecap, team doctor for the defending world champions Jose Luis Runco confirmed. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko signs for Chelsea in club record deal (May 31, 2006)
Chelsea have signed Ukrainian striker Andriy Shevchenko from AC Milan on a four-year deal for a club record fee, the English Premiership champions announced. . . . more . . .
China warns fans to avoid World Cup hooligans (May 31, 2006)
China has warned its football fans to stay away from hooligans and avoid drinking establishments at the World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Italy coach angered by strong-arm Swiss (May 31, 2006)
Italy coach Marcello Lippi slammed Switzerland's tough tackling after watching his side held to a 1-1 draw in a World Cup warm-up match. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko on verge of Chelsea deal (May 31, 2006)
Andriy Shevchenko on the verge of becoming Chelsea's most expensive signing to date after being given permission by AC Milan to open talks on a move to London. . . . more . . .
Scandal threatens to derail Italian World Cup hopes (May 31, 2006)
The scandal threatening to bring Italian football to its knees is now starting to affect the national team's World Cup preparations, according to the Italian press. . . . more . . .
Germany ready for World Cup visitors, says interior minister (May 31, 2006)
Germany will use the World Cup to show the world it is a peaceful country where foreign visitors need have no fear of racist attack, Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg fights off injury to train with Swedish team (May 31, 2006)
Sweden and Arsenal midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg fought off a foot injury to take part in his first training session with his country's World Cup squad, the Swedish Football Association said. . . . more . . .
Security in place for World Cup but German team under fire (May 31, 2006)
The German government played down fears next month's World Cup could be scarred by racist attacks on visiting fans as the host nation's football team was savaged in the press. . . . more . . .
Germany's Lahm to return against Colombia (May 31, 2006)
German international left back Philipp Lahm is poised to make his comeback in Friday's friendly match against Colombia, manager Jurgen Klinsmann said. . . . more . . .
Del Horno to miss World Cup after Spain ask FIFA for replacement (May 31, 2006)
Spain have asked football's world governing body for permission to replace injured full-back Asier del Horno in their World Cup squad, FIFA confirmed. . . . more . . .
Scholes will be back: Ferguson (May 31, 2006)
As Manchester United embark on a close season search for a midfield enforcer for next season they can at least looked forward to the return of Paul Scholes, according to manager Sir Alex Ferguson. . . . more . . .
Atletico snap up former Porto pair from Dynamo Moscow (May 30, 2006)
Atletico Madrid have raided Dynamo Moscow's defensive ranks to sign Portugal's holding midfielder Costinha and Greek defender Georgios Seitaridis. . . . more . . .
World Cup testers for England and Germany (May 30, 2006)
With the World Cup kicking off in Munich in under two weeks, England were facing Hungary in their penultimate warm-up game on Tuesday with all eyes on striker Michael Owen after he suffered an injury scare. . . . more . . .
English football hooligans forced to hand over passports (May 30, 2006)
More than 3,000 English football hooligans were due to have handed over their passports to police to prevent them travelling to the World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Red Bull denies 120-million-dollar offer for Ronaldo (May 30, 2006)
The Austrian maker of the energy drink Red Bull denied reports that it had offered Brazilian striker Ronaldo a 10-year contract worth 120 million dollars to play for US club Red Bull New York. . . . more . . .
Brazil enjoy shooting practice in Switzerland (May 30, 2006)
Brazil warmed up for the World Cup with a comfortable 8-0 thrashing of Swiss second division team Lucerne. . . . more . . .
Togo worried by chicken-pox and cold weather (May 30, 2006)
Togo's World Cup preparations have been hit by cold weather and a chicken-pox scare, according to the country's team doctor. . . . more . . .
Santa Cruz battling to be fit for England game (May 30, 2006)
Paraguay's star striker Roque Santa Cruz is nearing full fitness from a injured right knee but is still unable to play a full part in training, the team doctor has said. . . . more . . .
Germany scramble draw against Japan (May 30, 2006)
World Cup hosts Germany needed a late comeback to salvage a 2-2 draw against Japan in a warm-up for the finals. . . . more . . .
Paraguay striker Valdez joins Dortmund (May 30, 2006)
Paraguayan international striker Nelson Haedo Valdez has signed a four-year contract with German club Borussia Dortmund after Werder Bremen finally accepted a 4.7-million-euro bid. . . . more . . .
Chelsea swoop to sign Kalou (May 30, 2006)
Ivory Coast-born striker Salomon Kalou has become big-spending Chelsea's second signing of the close season after his Dutch club Feyenoord agreed to sell him to the English Premiership giants. . . . more . . .
Van Basten calms van der Vaart fears (May 30, 2006)
Netherlands coach Marco van Basten insisted there was nothing to worry about after attacking midfielder Rafael van der Vaart missed training with an ankle injury. . . . more . . .
Nakata tells Japan to get serious (May 30, 2006)
Japan midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata is telling his team-mates to get serious ahead of a pre-World Cup friendly with hosts Germany. . . . more . . .
Chelsea fined over conduct of players during Fulham loss (May 30, 2006)
English football's governing body, the FA, fined Premiership champions Chelsea 10,000 pounds for the behaviour of their players in March's match at Fulham. . . . more . . .
Portuguese parliament changes schedule for key World Cup match (May 30, 2006)
Portugal's lawmakers said they had changed their schedule on the day of a key World Cup match between the country and Mexico next month so that members of parliament could watch the game. . . . more . . .
Jordan to sue Dowie over Charlton move (May 30, 2006)
Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan is suing former manager Iain Dowie after he joined south London rivals Charlton, just a week after walking out at Selhurst Park. . . . more . . .
Owen and Crouch backed to overcome Rooney absence (May 30, 2006)
Michael Owen and Peter Crouch have been backed to make up for the loss of Wayne Rooney by scoring the goals to take England to World Cup glory in Germany. . . . more . . .
Cahill boost for Australia (May 30, 2006)
Australian midfielder Tim Cahill has completed a first full training session since he badly injured his right knee on April 22. . . . more . . .
German Jewish group to protest during Iran World Cup match (May 30, 2006)
The Central Council of Jews in Germany is planning to hold a protest at the World Cup football match between Iran and Mexico in Nuremberg on June 11, the German press reported. . . . more . . .
French fans optimistic for World Cup hopes (May 30, 2006)
Reports of dissension within France's World Cup squad has failed to douse public enthusiasm with over 50 percent of fans canvassed in an opinion poll saying the team would at least reach the semi-finals. . . . more . . .
Ten-man Ivory Coast hold Chile to draw (May 30, 2006)
Ivory Coast warmed up for the World Cup with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Chile in a bruising encounter that saw the Africans finish with 10 men. . . . more . . .
New-look England off to a winning start (May 30, 2006)
England's new look was good enough to secure a 3-1 win over Hungary without quite convincing that it will resemble the finished article in time for the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Argentina too pacy and clever for Angola (May 30, 2006)
Argentina produced an impressive display to defeat a weak Angola team 2-0 in the South Americans' final warm-up match before the World Cup from June 9-July 9. . . . more . . .
Totti to make comeback in Swiss friendly (May 30, 2006)
Midfielder Francesco Totti will make his comeback from a broken bone in his left leg suffered in February in Italy's World Cup warm-up game against Switzerland, coach Marcello Lippi said. . . . more . . .
Vieira back to full fitness for World Cup (May 30, 2006)
France midfielder Patrick Vieira has vowed he will be fighting fit for the World Cup after a season marred by injury. . . . more . . .
Injury doubts over Trinidad and Tobago stalwart Andrews (May 30, 2006)
Trinidad and Tobago coach Leo Beenhakker has expressed concern over the fitness of his veteran central defender Marvin Andrews. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo eyes playing future in US, but not just yet (May 29, 2006)
Brazilian striker Ronaldo said he could envisage playing in the United States in the future but was for the present focused only on his country's defence of the World Cup. . . . more . . .
US players take final break before World Cup departure (May 29, 2006)
US World Cup players began a three-day rest break before their Thursday departure for Germany and their date with destiny in the global football showdown. . . . more . . .
New date set for Rooney foot scan (May 29, 2006)
England are to keep their options open on Wayne Rooney's injured foot bringing forward to June 7, the next assessment scan on the injury. . . . more . . .
Dortmund strike deal to buy back stadium (May 29, 2006)
Six-time German champions Borussia Dortmund have taken an important step towards financial stability when they reached a deal to buy back their stadium from the Molsiris group, who had been leasing the venue since 2004. . . . more . . .
Rooney to travel with England ahead of scan (May 29, 2006)
Wayne Rooney will travel to Germany with the England squad on Monday before returning home two days later for a scan on his injured foot. . . . more . . .
Ghana post morale-boosting win over Jamaica (May 29, 2006)
Ghana did much to put memories of their disappointing African Nations Cup campaign behind them as they continued their preparations for the World Cup with a morale-boosting 4-1 win over Jamaica. . . . more . . .
Relax and mention the war: World Cup advice to Germans (May 29, 2006)
Germans are being encouraged to loosen up and even discuss World War II in a bid to change their image when a million foreign visitors pour into the country for the football World Cup finals which kick off next week. . . . more . . .
England can win World Cup without Rooney: Ferdinand (May 29, 2006)
Rio Ferdinand has insisted that England can still win the World Cup this summer, even if Wayne Rooney fails to make the plane for Germany. . . . more . . .
Ljungberg continues foot rehab (May 29, 2006)
Swedish star and Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg is continuing rehabilitation training of his injured right foot at a gym in Stockholm, Swedish news agency TT said. . . . more . . .
Wounded Germany braced for Japan World Cup test (May 29, 2006)
The national coaches of Germany and Japan have stated their intention to lift the World Cup on July 9 and both Jurgen Klinsmann and Zico have a chance to assess their team's progress on Tuesday when they face off in a friendly match at the BayArena. . . . more . . .
Full-time management behind me says Venables (May 28, 2006)
Terry Venables claimed he was too old for full-time management and that was why he turned down the chance to succeed Steve McClaren at Middlesbrough, the News of the World reported. . . . more . . .
Spain coach Aragones fears another World Cup flop (May 28, 2006)
Spain coach Luis Aragones fears his team could be heading for another World Cup of under-achievement after a disappointing 0-0 draw with Russia. . . . more . . .
Australia's Aloisi fit for Dutch warm-up match (May 28, 2006)
Striker John Aloisi said he would be fit to play in Australia's World Cup warm-up match against the Netherlands in Rotterdam next weekend. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann urges caution after Germany pole-axe Luxembourg (May 28, 2006)
Jurgen Klinsmann was refusing to get carried away after Germany's 7-0 thrashing of Luxembourg in a World Cup warm-up on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Ronaldinho has double vision of World Cup, Champions League (May 28, 2006)
Brazil star Ronaldinho wants to complete a dream season by adding a World Cup winners' medal to his Champions League crown with Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Zidane outraged by 'scandalous' jeering of Barthez (May 28, 2006)
France skipper Zinedine Zidane lashed out at fans who "scandalously" jeered and whistled team-mates including goalkeeper Fabien Barthez during Saturday's friendly win over Mexico. . . . more . . .
Ballack and Huth set to miss Japan game (May 28, 2006)
Germany captain Michael Ballack and defender Roberth Huth are both doubtful for the World Cup warm-up against Japan at Leverkusen through injury, team chiefs said. . . . more . . .
Italy's Zambrotta injured (May 28, 2006)
Italy left back Gianluca Zambrotta injured his right thigh during a training match at the national team's training base at Coverciano, team doctors said. . . . more . . .
Cisse expecting to quit Liverpool before World Cup (May 28, 2006)
Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse said he is hoping to settle his future before the World Cup amid speculation that he could return to French football. . . . more . . .
Torres' talent threatens to outshine Spain icon Raul (May 28, 2006)
Real Madrid icon Raul is already playing catch-up in Spain's pre-World Cup goalscoring and popularity charts with his cross-city rival at Atletico, Fernando Torres. . . . more . . .
Pakistan's 'Pele' hopes football World Cup brings family joy (May 27, 2006)
For Abdul Ghafoor, once known as the "Black Pele of Pakistan," life revolves around football and he has found a renewed vigour ahead of the World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Venables turns down Middlesbrough job: report (May 27, 2006)
Former England manager Terry Venables has turned down the chance to join Middlesbrough when press reports had claimed the UEFA Cup finalists were about to name him as the new boss. . . . more . . .
Ukraine players unfit for finals says coach Blokhin (May 27, 2006)
Ukrainian national coach Oleg Blokhin told the press that only 16 players in his 23-man squad were in top form and ready to play at the forthcoming World Cup. . . . more . . .
Fabregas tipped for golden World Cup with Spain (May 27, 2006)
If there's one player the fans of Spain and England will be keeping an eye on at this summer's World Cup, it has got to be Arsenal's talented midfielder Francesc Fabregas. . . . more . . .
Stop racist neo-Nazis at World Cup says Asamoah (May 27, 2006)
German international Gerald Asamoah, the first black player to represent the country, has said it is vital that the host nation do not allow racist neo-Nazis to spoil the World Cup, which begins in two week's time. . . . more . . .
US blanks Venezuela 2-0 in World Cup warm-up (May 27, 2006)
Clint Dempsey and Brian Ching scored and the United States snapped a three-game winless skid by defeating Venezuela 2-0 in a warm-up friendly for next month's World Cup. . . . more . . .
Magnificent seven as Germany warm up for finals in style (May 27, 2006)
World Cup hosts Germany boosted morale a fortnight before the finals with a 7-0 friendly drubbing of minnows Luxembourg. . . . more . . .
World Cup boost for Poborsky (May 27, 2006)
Czech international Karel Poborsky received a pre-World Cup boost after seeing his unfashionable Ceske Budejovice club promoted to the top-flight. . . . more . . .
Czech stars to donate World Cup cash to young talent (May 27, 2006)
Czech footballers and the national football association have reportedly agreed to channel some of their World Cup earnings into a fund to develop young football talent in the country. . . . more . . .
Del Piero likely to start for Italy: Lippi (May 27, 2006)
Juventus star Alessandro Del Piero appears to have won his battle with fit-again Francesco Totti for the playmaking duties in Italy's World Cup campaign. . . . more . . .
Ivory Coast impress Swiss coach in World Cup warm-up (May 27, 2006)
Ivory Coast came from behind to register a deserved 1-1 draw against fellow World Cup qualifiers Switzerland. . . . more . . .
Ivory Coast's Kalou in Chelsea talks (May 27, 2006)
Ivory Coast's Feyenoord striker Salomon Kalou, who failed in his Dutch naturalisation bid which would have put him in Holland's World Cup squad, is in talks with Premiership champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
France edge Mexico in World Cup prep (May 27, 2006)
Florent Malouda helped France to a 1-0 win over Mexico in a lively World Cup warm-up game at the Stade de France. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy, van Persie shine as Netherlands down Lions (May 27, 2006)
Ruud van Nistelrooy marked his 50th international appearance with the winning goal as the Netherlands downed Cameroon 1-0 in a friendly. . . . more . . .
Pires winging his way to Villarreal (May 26, 2006)
French winger Robert Pires has confirmed he is leaving Champions League finalists Arsenal for a two-year deal with Spanish side Villarreal. . . . more . . .
UEFA fine Schalke for unruly fans (May 26, 2006)
European football's governing body UEFA have hit German club Schalke 04 with a 12,600 euro fine as punishment for the conduct of their away fans in a UEFA Cup match, the club said. . . . more . . .
Lennon hopes to be Sven's super sub (May 26, 2006)
Tottenham's Aaron Lennon is hoping to complete his meteoric rise from nowhere by playing a major role at the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Rooney ruled out of early stages of World Cup (May 26, 2006)
Wayne Rooney will travel with England to the World Cup despite being told that he will be unable to resume full training before June 14 at the earliest, four days after his country's opening match. . . . more . . .
Sven calls up United keeper Foster (May 26, 2006)
Manchester United keeper Ben Foster, on loan to Watford last season, has been called up to the England World Cup squad to replace injured Robert Green. . . . more . . .
Houghton set to become India's football coach (May 26, 2006)
Indian football officials were shortly expected to appoint Englishman Bob Houghton as their new national coach, officials said. . . . more . . .
Bayern want Podolski decision before World Cup (May 26, 2006)
German champions Bayern Munich issued an ultimatum to relegated FC Cologne saying they want a decision on German international Lukas Podolski's future before the World Cup begins on June 9. . . . more . . .
Italy coach's son Davide Lippi under investigation (May 26, 2006)
Davide Lippi, son of Italy coach Marcello Lippi, was placed under judicial investigation in a new twist to the country's football scandal on Friday though the head of the Italian delegation said this would not affect World Cup morale. . . . more . . .
Rooney on plane to Germany but out of group stages (May 26, 2006)
Wayne Rooney will travel with England to the World Cup despite being told that he will be unable to resume full training before June 14 at the earliest, four days after his country's opening match. . . . more . . .
Shevchenko set for Chelsea move after AC Milan exit (May 26, 2006)
AC Milan's Ukrainian striker Andrei Shevchenko will leave AC Milan this summer, opening the way up for a transfer to English champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Take care of yourself Ferguson tells Rooney (May 26, 2006)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has warned Wayne Rooney not to jeopardise his World Cup dream by pushing himself too hard and not taking care of himself. . . . more . . .
It's a Dunne deal (May 26, 2006)
Richard Dunne has signed a new three-year contract with Manchester City that will keep him at the Premiership club until 2009. . . . more . . .
Japan coach Zico promises to go for World Cup title (May 26, 2006)
Japan coach Zico renewed his ambitious goal to go for a World Cup title as the Asian champions left for Germany, despite uplifting international wins by their rivals this week. . . . more . . .
South Korea record morale-boosting win (May 26, 2006)
South Korea beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 in a farewell friendly in front of 65,000 home fans on the eve of their departure for Europe to prepare for next month's World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Jancker a hit in Shanghai on debut (May 26, 2006)
Former German international striker Carsten Jancker proved a hit in his first match with Shanghai Shenhua despite failing to find the net in a 3-0 win over Liaoning, state press said. . . . more . . .
Socceroos pound it out as Hiddink works for the finished article (May 26, 2006)
Guus Hiddink will continue to pump the work into his Australian players in a week-long training camp as he builds on transforming the Socceroos into a competitive force at next month's World Cup in Germany. . . . more . . .
Rooney set to miss early stages of World Cup (May 26, 2006)
England striker Wayne Rooney is set to miss the opening stages of the World Cup after being told he will not be able to resume full training until June 14 at the earliest. . . . more . . .
Woe betide workers who are World Cup shirkers: British bosses (May 25, 2006)
British bosses are planning to crack down hard on football-crazy employees who take a day off work during the World Cup. . . . more . . .
Pauleta extends contract at PSG (May 25, 2006)
Paris Saint Germain striker Pauleta has extended his contract by one year, the French first division club has confirmed. . . . more . . .
Sionko starts Czech World Cup training (May 25, 2006)
Libor Sionko, who was drafted into the Czech Republic World Cup squad as cover for Vladimir Smicer, trained for the first time at the team's base at Seefeld, Austria. . . . more . . .
Bolton agree 8.5-million-pounds for Johnson (May 25, 2006)
Bolton Wanderers have agreed to match Championship side Crystal Palace's asking price of 8.5 million pounds for striker Andrew Johnson. . . . more . . .
Car-jacking gang behind Vieira burglary (May 25, 2006)
A pan-European car-jacking gang is believed to be behind a weekend burglary at the Riviera home of Juventus midfielder Patrick Vieira, who was knocked out with gas during the raid. . . . more . . .
England embarrassed by ten-man Belarus (May 25, 2006)
England's final countdown to the World Cup began uncertainly as a 'B' selection went down to a 2-1 defeat by ten-man Belarus in a match marred by a serious injury to back-up goalkeeper Robert Green. . . . more . . .
Fans pay tribute to Argentina World Cup squad (May 25, 2006)
Argentine football fans turned out in numbers at the Monumental Stadium to give a boisterous send-off to their World Cup squad. . . . more . . .
Pires winging his way to Villarreal (May 25, 2006)
French winger Robert Pires has confirmed he is leaving Champions League finalists Arsenal for a two-year deal with Spanish side Villarreal. . . . more . . .
Skoko's spectacular winner sends Aussies on their way (May 25, 2006)
Australia has given 95,000 home fans a rousing World Cup send-off with a 1-0 win over European champions Greece in a football friendly at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. . . . more . . .
Ballack signs up as UN anti-AIDS campaigner (May 25, 2006)
German football star Michael Ballack has agreed to help raise the profile of the global fight against HIV/AIDS as special representative for the United Nations, UNAIDS revealed. . . . more . . .
India seek foreign coach to boost football fortunes (May 25, 2006)
Indian football officials hoping to find a high-profile foreign coach to boost sagging standards in this cricket-crazy country have begun interviewing candidates. . . . more . . .
Greece coach Rehhagel unconcerned as pressure mounts (May 25, 2006)
Otto Rehhagel, hailed for Greece's astonishing triumph in Euro 2004, is under growing pressure after the European champions' lacklustre 1-0 loss to World Cup-bound Australia. . . . more . . .
Rui Costa quits AC Milan to return to Benfica (May 25, 2006)
AC Milan's Portuguese midfielder Rui Costa has quit the Italian side to return to Benfica where he started his career. . . . more . . .
French squad rocked by bust-up (May 25, 2006)
France coach Raymond Domenech has admitted that he had had a bust-up with reserve goalkeeper Gregory Coupet but insisted that the matter had since been resolved. . . . more . . .
AC Milan official under the spotlight (May 25, 2006)
An AC Milan official has for the first time become directly involved in a match-fixing affair in a new twist to the Italian football scandal which has been raging the past few weeks. . . . more . . .
Croatian football fans hope to watch World Cup at work (May 25, 2006)
One out of every three Croatians is expecting to be allowed to watch World Cup matches at work. . . . more . . .
No Belarus blushes for upbeat Eriksson (May 25, 2006)
An upbeat Sven-Goran Eriksson put a positive spin on an embarrassing start to England's World Cup countdown after an experimental 'B' side went down to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of ten-man Belarus. . . . more . . .
Bajevic in charge at Red Star (May 25, 2006)
Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade have named Dusan Bajevic as their new manager replacing Italian Walter Zenga. . . . more . . .
Dyer arrested over indecent assault claim: report (May 25, 2006)
Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer has been arrested after a woman complained that he had indecently exposed himself. . . . more . . .
Give Germany's Klinsmann a break says Pele (May 25, 2006)
Brazilian legend Pele has told the critics to lay off Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann, claiming he has done a fine job with the hosts ahead of next month's World Cup. . . . more . . .
Switzerland's Vonlanthen in World Cup doubt (May 25, 2006)
Young Swiss striker Johan Vonlanthen looks almost certain to miss the World Cup finals in Germany after suffering a torn thigh muscle earlier this week. . . . more . . .
Celtic foiled in Larsson return bid (May 25, 2006)
Celtic's hopes of enticing Champions League winning star Henrik Larsson back to Glasgow have been thwarted. . . . more . . .
Ankle scare for Ballack ahead of World Cup (May 25, 2006)
German international captain Michael Ballack suffered an injury scare ahead of the World Cup after picking up an ankle knock in a warm-up match in Geneva. . . . more . . .
Coupet temporarily quits French training camp (May 24, 2006)
France coach Raymond Domenech's attempt to create a feeling of harmony in his World Cup squad appeared to falter when second keeper Gregory Coupet abruptly packed his bags and left the squad's hotel. . . . more . . .
Beckham seeking World Cup cure for Madrid blues (May 24, 2006)
England captain David Beckham has revealed how three years with no trophies at Real Madrid have left him with a thirst for World Cup glory in Germany this summer. . . . more . . .
France take high road to World Cup glory (May 24, 2006)
France coach Raymond Domenech has cloistered his squad high up on the French Alps to get them mentally ready for the World Cup and avoid the fiaso that downed the team four years ago. . . . more . . .
Costly affair for football fans heading to Germany (May 24, 2006)
Fans heading to Germany for the World Cup can expect their living costs to rise up to 110 percent during the four-week extravaganza, according to a survey by human resources firm ECA International. . . . more . . .
UEFA appeal toughens sectarian chanting sanction on Rangers (May 24, 2006)
UEFA's appeals body have formally warned Rangers about the behaviour of their fans and increased a fine slapped on the Scottish club for sectarian chanting. . . . more . . .
Atletico Madrid snap up Aguirre (May 24, 2006)
Mexican Javier 'Vasco' Aguirre was unveiled as the new coach of Spanish first division side Atletico Madrid. . . . more . . .
Fenerbahce confirm Campbell, Crespo interest (May 24, 2006)
Turkish first division side Fenerbahce have confirmed they are in negotiations with two leading Premiership players - Sol Campbell of Arsenal and Chelsea's Argentine attacker Hernan Crespo. . . . more . . .
Hiddink may use Kewell off the bench in World Cup opener (May 24, 2006)
Coach Guus Hiddink is tinkering with using injured star Harry Kewell off the substitutes' bench for Australia's crucial World Cup opener against Japan in Germany next month. . . . more . . .
Brazil get down to the serious stuff (May 24, 2006)
The Brazil World Cup squad was put through its paces for the first time since arriving in its Swiss training base. . . . more . . .
Reyna gets good news on hamstring injury (May 24, 2006)
US captain Claudio Reyna was relieved to learn the tightness he felt in his hamstring in a World Cup warm-up against Morocco the previous night wasn't a sign of a serious injury. . . . more . . .
Greeks out for revenge against Aussies for missing World Cup: Hiddink (May 24, 2006)
European champions Greece will be looking for revenge for not making next month's World Cup finals when they take on Germany-bound Australia in a friendly international, Australia's coach Guus Hiddink warned. . . . more . . .
Italian prosecutors to examine 41 Juventus transfers (May 24, 2006)
Public prosecutors in Turin have ordered the seizure of financial documents concerning the transfer of 41 players by Juventus in the latest development of the scandal embroiling Italy's top club. . . . more . . .
Portugal's Boa Morte, Gomes to miss Cape Verde friendly (May 24, 2006)
Portugal winger Luis Boa Morte and striker Nuno Gomes will both miss the squad's World Cup warm-up match on Saturday against Cape Verde as they continue to recover from slight injuries. . . . more . . .
Ballack fined for dodging airport tax (May 24, 2006)
German football captain and new Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has been fined 60,000 euros (77,000 dollars) for failing to declare a handbag he bought in Dubai at airport customs. . . . more . . .
Owen to skipper England for World Cup warm-up (May 24, 2006)
Michael Owen will captain an England B side in a World Cup warm-up match against Belarus in Reading on Thursday. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo hoping to shut some mouths as goals record beckons (May 24, 2006)
After a season dogged by questions over his form and fitness, Ronaldo is planning once again to use football's greatest stage as his platform to provide the answers. . . . more . . .
Merkel says Germany will not tolerate World Cup violence (May 24, 2006)
German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the country would not tolerate racist violence during the World Cup, while prosecutors said they would be on duty full-time to deal with offenders. . . . more . . .
Chile too hot for Irish (May 24, 2006)
Steve Staunton's second game in charge of the Republic of Ireland ended in a 1-0 defeat to a Chilean side that included an impressive first-half performance from Liverpool winger Mark Gonzalez. . . . more . . .
Rooney's doctor leaves Man Utd (May 24, 2006)
English Premiership giants Manchester United have said that club doctor Mike Stone, who was treating injured striker Wayne Rooney, has left "because of a difference of opinion". . . . more . . .
US hit by disappointing 1-0 loss to Morocco in World Cup warm-up (May 24, 2006)
Reserve Mohamed Madihi scored on a counter-attack in the 90th minute to give Morocco a 1-0 victory over a World Cup-bound US squad here in a disappointing warm-up for the Americans. . . . more . . .
Japan plotting downfall of Brazilian rivals (May 24, 2006)
Japan, led by Brazilian coach Zico, are plotting to bite the hands that have fed them at the World Cup by upstaging five-time world champions Brazil. . . . more . . .
Barthez injury cuts short alpine climb (May 24, 2006)
France's World Cup and Euro winning 'keeper Fabien Barthez has been forced to cut short a mountain climb in the Alps with the rest of Raymond Domenech's World Cup squad complaining of a calf injury. . . . more . . .
Blades cut a deal with Sommeil (May 24, 2006)
Newly-promoted English Premiership side Sheffield United bolstered their defence by signing experienced French defender David Sommeil. . . . more . . .
Palace accept Johnson bid from Wigan (May 24, 2006)
Crystal Palace have accepted an 8.5-million-pound offer from Wigan for England striker Andrew Johnson. . . . more . . .
Capello named as Juve general manager (May 24, 2006)
Italian giants Juventus, embroiled in ugly match-fixing allegations, have named coach Fabio Capello as their new general manager with responsibility for transfer policy. . . . more . . .
Japan polishing up long-ball attacks for World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Japan coach Zico said the Asian champions were polishing up their long-ball attacks ahead of their World Cup battles against more physical first-round opponents. . . . more . . .
Italy keeper Buffon quizzed in illegal betting probe (May 24, 2006)
Italy keeper Gianluigi Buffon was called away from preparing for the World Cup to be quizzed by prosecutors investigating alleged illegal betting. . . . more . . .
Spurs fail in 3.5-million bid for Davies (May 24, 2006)
Tottenham have failed in a bid to sign Curtis Davies after relegated West Brom rejected a 3.5-million-pound bid for the 21-year-old central defender. . . . more . . .
Deschamps tapped for Marseille hotseat (May 24, 2006)
France's World Cup and Euro winning captain Didier Deschamps could be in line for a return to management after he revealed he had met with Marseille bosses. . . . more . . .
Cristiano Ronaldo out to make lasting impact at World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Manchester United's Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo has said he aims to be one of the best players at the 32-nation World Cup football finals which kick off in Germany on June 9. . . . more . . .
Roberto Carlos to give Chelsea answer before World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Veteran Brazil defender Roberto Carlos revealed he had received an offer from Chelsea and would give them an answer before the World Cup finals starts on June 9. . . . more . . .
Oxfam cries foul over sportswear sweatshops ahead of World Cup (May 24, 2006)
Sportswear manufacturers received a red card from international charity Oxfam for failing to stamp out sweatshops in Asia ahead of next month's football World Cup. . . . more . . .
Czech Rosicky joins Arsenal (May 23, 2006)
Czech Republic international Tomas Rosicky has joined Arsenal from Borussia Dortmund. . . . more . . .
Toni not certain to stay at Fiorentina (May 23, 2006)
Italy's top scorer Luca Toni said he was not certain to stay at Fiorentina next season unless certain things were resolved at the club. . . . more . . .
Messi making slow progress says Pekerman (May 23, 2006)
Outstanding Argentinian teenager Lionel Messi is making slow progress in returning to his best form as he recovers from a right thigh injury claimed national team boss Jose Pekerman. . . . more . . .
Pires becomes a submariner: report (May 23, 2006)
Champions League semi-finalists Villarreal signed former France international attacking midfielder Robert Pires on a two year contract from Champions League finalists Arsenal Spanish radio station Cadena Ser announced. . . . more . . .
Spain not so mellow as Raul arrives in yellow (May 23, 2006)
Spanish striker Raul was torn off a strip by coach Luis Aragones when the country's World Cup squad gathered to begin preparations for next month's finals after arriving in a yellow surfer-style t-shirt, a colour his manager deems unlucky. . . . more . . .
Portuguese World Cup duo in hot water over counterfeit films (May 23, 2006)
Officials in Portugal are investigating Benfica duo Armando Petit and Nuno Gomes after they were seen in a television report taking what appeared to be counterfeit films to a World Cup training camp.