Sports

Lionel Messi will be in action on Sunday when Argentina open their World Cup campaign against Bosnia-Herzegovina in Group F.

A shock 3-1 defeat to Costa Rica on Saturday showed the Luis Suarez-shaped hole in Uruguay's forward line was just too big to fill, leaving fans praying for his speedy return.

Cristiano Ronaldo is training well and will play in their opening World Cup Group G game against Germany despite concerns about his left knee, goalkeeper Eduardo said on Saturday.

With Van Gaal yet to take charge at United, fans are eager to see him at the world cup. For United fans the Netherlands, Spain match offers an insight into van Gaal's style of football.

Ahead of the opening match against Australia, Chile are sweating over the fitness of Vidal who is struggeling with a knee injury.

Scolari rejected claims they were favoured by the referee and heaped praise on Neymar after the forward scored twice in a 3-1 win over Croatia.

Chile have a more talented squad than Australia with Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez and Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal major players at top European clubs.

Brazil's exciting forward Neymar may be their best hope of glory at the World Cup but he cannot win a record sixth title on his own, said Parreira.

Ronaldo strolled off Portugal's plane as the squad flew in a day after a 5-1 friendly win over Ireland in the United States.

"Nothing compares to a world title. We need to approach each competition as if it is our last," Del Bosque said.

FIFA president Blatter fancifully suggested that soccer could one day be played on other planets.

The ceremony, which featured awards and artistic shows, was highlighted by a special moment when 80-year-old former French striker Just Fontaine received an Adidas Platinum Boot.

For the first time in the history of football in Brazil, Brazil has the defence better than the attack.

Gerrard, 34, did only a few runs down the touchline as the main squad was put through a punishing schedule at the Urca military base in Rio de Janeiro.

As Brazil gears up to host the World Cup Final next month at the Maracana stadium, the Ivory Coast city of Bouake has held its own homage to the game -- the Maracana Cup.

Subway workers suspended a strike in Brazil's biggest city, but warned they could resume their walkout on Thursday, when Sao Paulo hosts the first game.