Archive soccer news from around the world
Brazil well on their way to defending World Cup title: Parreira (Jun 30, 2005)
Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira said his team had made significant progress towards defending their World Cup title after demolishing Argentina in the Confederations Cup final. . . . more . . .
A few clouds but Germany proves its readiness for World Cup (Jun 30, 2005)
The Confederations Cup ended with a stunning Brazilian victory and Germany patted itself on the back for staging a relatively trouble-free dress rehearsal for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Robinho edges closer to Real (Jun 30, 2005)
Santos have slapped a 50 million dollar price tag on Robinho after the Brazil striker said he wanted to join Real Madrid before the start of the new season. . . . more . . .
Austria Vienna sign Czech midfielder Vachousek from Marseille (Jun 30, 2005)
Austria Vienna announced it had signed international Czech midfielder Stepan Vachousek from Marseille on a three-year contract. . . . more . . .
Charlton reassured after Glazers meeting (Jun 30, 2005)
Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton admitted that he was now reassured about the future of the club after meeting new owner Malcolm Glazer's sons. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo to extend Manchester United deal to 2010 (Jun 30, 2005)
Cristiano Ronaldo was expected to sign a new contract keeping him at Manchester United to 2010. . . . more . . .
Newcastle rule out Jenas sale (Jun 30, 2005)
Newcastle have rejected claims that manager Graeme Souness was looking to sell England midfielder Jermaine Jenas. . . . more . . .
Adriano shines as Brazil rout Argentina to lift Confederations Cup (Jun 30, 2005)
Brazil produced a masterful display against Argentina, trouncing their old foes 4-1 to win the Confederations Cup title. . . . more . . .
Barcelona future far from Ronaldinho's thoughts (Jun 30, 2005)
Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho admitted he has not given any thought yet to a proposal by his club FC Barcelona to extend his contract to 2014. . . . more . . .
Porto block McCarthy from playing for South Africa (Jun 30, 2005)
Porto have refused to allow Benni McCarthy to travel to the US next month to play for South Africa in the CONCACAF Gold Cup in the latest tug of war between the striker and the Portuguese club. . . . more . . .
Marseille agree Niang deal (Jun 30, 2005)
Marseille reached agreement with French league rivals Strasbourg to sign Senegalese striker Mamadou Niang. . . . more . . .
Glazers escape angry United fans in police vans (Jun 30, 2005)
Joel, Avi and Bryan Glazer had to leave Old Trafford in police vans after Manchester United fans, angry at their 790 million pound takeover, protested outside the ground. . . . more . . .
Gung-ho Germany to carry on attacking for World Cup (Jun 30, 2005)
Germany do not have a reputation for playing attacking football over the years but Jurgen Klinsmann seems intent on winning the 2006 World Cup by outscoring opponents. . . . more . . .
Adriano the star but Nakamura and Sanchez shine (Jun 30, 2005)
Brazil striker Adriano was the undoubted star of the Confederations Cup playing a pivotal role in his country's second success, but some lesser known stars raised their profiles. . . . more . . .
Heavy rain tears hole in roof of Confederations Cup final stadium (Jun 30, 2005)
Storm rains tore a hole in the high-tech fabric roof of the stadium hosting the Confederations Cup final between Brazil and Argentina, soaking dozens of photographers. . . . more . . .
Kirkland to join West Brom (Jun 30, 2005)
Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has decided to join West Brom rather than Celtic for a season-long loan. . . . more . . .
Man Utd fans clash with police as new US owners visit ground (Jun 30, 2005)
Manchester United fans clashed with police at the English Premiership side's Old Trafford ground after the sons of the club's new US owner visited the stadium for the first time since their family takeover. . . . more . . .
Tiny Czech football club keeping rivals on the hop (Jun 29, 2005)
It may be a tiny village with just 300 inhabitants but Blsany boasts a professional football club that launched the career of Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech. . . . more . . .
Brazil cannot be intimidated claims Parreira (Jun 29, 2005)
Brazil and Argentina may have stumbled along the way but they eventually lived up to their star billing by making it through to Wednesday's Confederations Cup final. . . . more . . .
Ferguson says Ronaldo is staying (Jun 29, 2005)
Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has quashed suggestions that star winger Cristiano Ronaldo may move to Spanish giants Real Madrid or Barcelona. . . . more . . .
Zurawski set for Celtic (Jun 29, 2005)
Polish champions Wisla Krakow said they had accepted a 3 million euro bid from Celtic for their 28-year-old striker Maciej Zurawski. . . . more . . .
Nantes rule out Lyon bid for Toulalan (Jun 29, 2005)
New Nantes president Rudi Roussillon has rejected a Lyon bid for defensive midfielder Jeremy Toulalan whom the French champions want as a possible replacement for Michael Essien. . . . more . . .
Kahn set to extend Bayern career (Jun 29, 2005)
German champions Bayern Munich will sit down with goalkeeper Oliver Kahn about extending his contract before the new season. . . . more . . .
Australia coach Farina departs after Confederations Cup flop (Jun 29, 2005)
Coach Frank Farina resigned after reaching a "mutual agreement" with Football Federation Australia (FFA) that he was not the man to lead Australia's qualifying campaign for a spot at the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
South Korean star Park has street named after him (Jun 29, 2005)
World Cup star Park Ji-Sung has become the first South Korean footballer to have a street named after him. . . . more . . .
Newcastle rule out Bellamy loan (Jun 29, 2005)
Celtic have been told to stump up cash if they want to take unsettled Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy next season. . . . more . . .
Doping ban for Iceland goalkeeper (Jun 29, 2005)
An international goalkeeper who refused to take a drugs test has been suspended indefinitely by the English Football Association. . . . more . . .
UEFA toughen up drug tests (Jun 29, 2005)
European football's governing body UEFA announced that for the first time they will instigate out-of-competition drug tests on players involved in next season's Champions League. . . . more . . .
Claiton banned for one game over traffic accident (Jun 29, 2005)
Brazilian midfielder Claiton has been banned for one game after injuring a motorcyclist in a traffic accident. . . . more . . .
Furious Shepherd hits Robert with second fine (Jun 29, 2005)
Laurent Robert has been hit with a second two-week fine in the space of 24 hours after telling a newspaper that fellow Newcastle midfielder Jermaine Jenas will leave the club. . . . more . . .
Kezman completes Atletico switch (Jun 29, 2005)
Mateja Kezman wrapped up his switch to Atletico Madrid after passing a medical. . . . more . . .
Zola hangs up his boots (Jun 29, 2005)
Former Chelsea favourite Gianfranco Zola announced his retirement from football. . . . more . . .
Phillips makes immediate Premiership return with Villa (Jun 29, 2005)
Former England striker Kevin Phillips is poised to make an immediate return to the Premiership with a move to Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Glazers gush over 'positive' meeting with football leaders (Jun 29, 2005)
Controversial new Manchester United owners, the Glazers, claimed to have enjoyed "positive" meetings with football's powerbrokers in London. . . . more . . .
Eto'o signs on Barca dotted line for five-year extension (Jun 29, 2005)
Cameroon international forward Samuel Eto'o said he had put pen to paper for a double-your-money contract extension which will keep him at the Spanish league champions until 2010. . . . more . . .
FIFA confirm Australia move to Asian World Cup group (Jun 29, 2005)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter confirmed that Australia would move into the Asian qualifying group in time for the 2010 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Kezman drools at Torres link-up in Spain with Atletico (Jun 29, 2005)
Serbia and Montenegro striker Mateja Kezman said he was itching to link up with Spanish star Fernando Torres after signing a three-year deal with Atletico Madrid, adding he had already forgotten about his travails with Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Liverpool must play in World Club Championships: Blatter (Jun 29, 2005)
European champions Liverpool must play in the World Cup championships in Japan in December. . . . more . . .
Boca Juniors unveil Alfio Basile as new coach (Jun 29, 2005)
Former Argentina coach Alfio Basile was officially named as new Boca Juniors coach. . . . more . . .
Collina gets green light to continue for another season (Jun 29, 2005)
Top referee Pierluigi Collina will be allowed to carry on for another season, Italian football federation (FIGC) president Franco Carraro confirmed after a meeting of their federation council. . . . more . . .
Slavia lodges official UEFA complaint over Liverpool exemption (Jun 29, 2005)
Czech club Slavia Prague, runners-up in the Czech first division, said it had lodged an official protest with UEFA over a potential usurping by Champions League holders Liverpool. . . . more . . .
Burley expected to be named Hearts head coach (Jun 29, 2005)
Former Ipswich and Derby manager Craig Burley is expected to be named the new head coach at Hearts within the next 48 hours. . . . more . . .
FIFA to market TV rights for 2010 World Cup itself (Jun 29, 2005)
FIFA has decided to market its own rights for the television coverage in Europe of the 2010 World Cup which will take place in South Africa, FIFA president Sepp Blatter announced. . . . more . . .
Ballack the saviour as Germany clinch third (Jun 29, 2005)
Captain Michael Ballack scored a sensational free-kick in extra-time as ten-man Germany defeated Mexico 4-3 to win the Confederations Cup third-place play-off. . . . more . . .
Phillips pledges 20 goals to new boss O'Leary (Jun 29, 2005)
Kevin Phillips vowed to score 20 goals for his new boss David O'Leary next season after completing his 1 million pound (1.8 million dollars) move from Southampton to Aston Villa. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann to fight Hanke World Cup suspension (Jun 29, 2005)
Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann has vowed to consult football's governing bodies to prevent striker Mike Hanke from being suspended for the opening match of the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Parreira to spend more time with his paintbrushes after 2006 World Cup (Jun 29, 2005)
Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira announced he will not stay on in charge of the national side after the 2006 World Cup finals. . . . more . . .
Adriano shines as Brazil rout Argentina (Jun 29, 2005)
Brazil produced a masterful display against Argentina, trouncing their old foes 4-1 to win the Confederations Cup title. . . . more . . .
Robert fined by Newcastle in final insult (Jun 28, 2005)
Laurent Robert's tumultuous Newcastle United career has ended acrimoniously with the 30-year-old being fined two weeks wages for insulting manager Graeme Souness. . . . more . . .
FA supremo warns of swearing crackdown on Rooney and co. (Jun 28, 2005)
Wayne Rooney and other Premiership stars with a penchant for foul-mouthed tirades against referees have been served warning that their verbal onslaughts will face tougher sanctions next season. . . . more . . .
Brazil cannot be intimidated claims Parreira (Jun 28, 2005)
Brazil and Argentina may have stumbled along the way but they eventually lived up to their star billing by making it through to Wednesday's Confederations Cup final. . . . more . . .
Revenge not on our minds say Brazil (Jun 28, 2005)
Revenge over Argentina was not uppermost in the Brazil team's mind as they put the final touches to their preparations for Wednesday's Confederations Cup final. . . . more . . .
Austrian international Pogatetz signs for Boro (Jun 28, 2005)
Middlesbrough have bolstered their defensive options for the new season with the signing of Austrian international Emanuel Pogatetz from Bayer Leverkusen. . . . more . . .
Glazer set to score complete ownership of Manchester United (Jun 28, 2005)
US sports tycoon Malcolm Glazer has been guaranteed 100-percent ownership of Manchester United after his stake in the world's richest football club passed a key barrier, his takeover vehicle said. . . . more . . .
Liverpool to play at Racecourse (Jun 28, 2005)
Liverpool will play the second leg of their Champions League first qualifying round tie against Welsh champions Total Network Solutions at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground. . . . more . . .
Kuqi delighted to sign for hero Hughes (Jun 28, 2005)
The lure of manager Mark Hughes proved enough to convince Finnish striker Shefki Kuqi to sign for Blackburn Rovers. . . . more . . .
Chelsea striker Kezman set for Atletico (Jun 28, 2005)
Chelsea striker Mateja Kezman reached agreement with Atletico Madrid to join the Spanish top flight outfit on a three-year contract, club chairman Enrique Cerezo said. . . . more . . .
Arsenal keeper Taylor joins Villa (Jun 27, 2005)
Arsenal goalkeeper Stuart Taylor has agreed to join fellow Premiership side Aston Villa and will sign a four-year deal after completing a medical. . . . more . . .
Torino return to Italian league top flight (Jun 27, 2005)
Torino returned to the Italian first division following their playoff victory over Perugia at the weekend. . . . more . . .
Dortmund's Demel heads for Hamburg (Jun 27, 2005)
Borussia Dortmund midfielder Guy Demel has agreed a two-year deal with Bundesliga rivals Hamburg. . . . more . . .
Beckenbauer promises solution to pitch invaders for World Cup (Jun 27, 2005)
The German organisers of the 2006 World Cup finals will find a way to stop pitch invaders disrupting play, organising committee chairman Franz Beckenbauer said. . . . more . . .
Juventus target Vieira after snubbing Chelea's Trezeguet bid (Jun 27, 2005)
Juventus have reportedly targeted Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira after rejecting Chelsea's 30 million pound bid for their France striker David Trezeguet. . . . more . . .
Celtic hopeful of getting Arsenal's Aliadiere (Jun 27, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has given Celtic boss Gordon Strachan his blessing to take French forward Jeremie Aliadiere on loan. . . . more . . .
Fulham snap up Iceman Helguson (Jun 27, 2005)
Fulham have beaten newly promoted Wigan and Sunderland in the race to sign Watford striker Heidar Helguson on a four-year deal for 1.3 million pounds. . . . more . . .
Bring on World Cup battle, roars Kahn (Jun 27, 2005)
Bayern Munich custodian Oliver Kahn insists he is more than ready for the three-way battle to become Germany's number one goalkeeper for the 2006 World Cup. . . . more . . .
Birmingham set to lose Pandiani to Zaragoza (Jun 27, 2005)
Birmingham could lose out in their bid to sign Walter Pandiani after Deportivo La Coruna accepted a 2.7 million pound bid from Real Zaragoza for the Uruguayan striker. . . . more . . .
Collina gets reprieve (Jun 27, 2005)
Top referee Pierluigi Collina might be be able to carry on another year after the Italian football federation proposed changing its retirement age from 45 to 46 for international referees. . . . more . . .
McCarthy wants out of FC Porto (Jun 27, 2005)
Porto's South African striker Benni McCarthy, linked recently to English Premiership side Blackburn Rovers and Bolton, wants to leave the Portuguese club because he has fallen out with its management. . . . more . . .
Blatter raises possibility of pre-World Cup doping tests (Jun 27, 2005)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter said world football's governing body would consider introducing pre-World Cup doping tests to ensure all teams arriving for the 2006 finals in Germany were drug-free. . . . more . . .
Arsenal star Van Persie released, but still a suspect in rape case (Jun 27, 2005)
Robin van Persie was released from custody but prosecutors will continue to investigate the rape charges against the Arsenal striker. . . . more . . .
Brazil's Adriano gets green light after training scare (Jun 27, 2005)
Brazil striker Adriano has been given the all-clear to play in the Confederations Cup final against Argentina despite limping out of a training session. . . . more . . .
Lavolpe claims 'financial' interest cost Mexico dear (Jun 27, 2005)
Mexico coach Ricardo Lavolpe suggested financial considerations were behind what he regarded as questionable refereeing in his team's semi-final loss on penalties to Argentina. . . . more . . .
Saints get Wise (Jun 27, 2005)
Relegated Premiership side Southampton made their first summer signing when they secured former England international midfielder Dennis Wise for free. . . . more . . .
Belarussian Hleb joins Arsenal (Jun 27, 2005)
Belarussian international Alexander Hleb has agreed to join Arsenal, the English Premiership club said. . . . more . . .
Scare for Brazil as Adriano limps out of training (Jun 27, 2005)
Brazil striker Adriano limped out of a training session, 48 hours ahead of his country's Confederations Cup final against Argentina. . . . more . . .
Lyon sign Norwegian striker Carew from Besiktas (Jun 26, 2005)
French champions Lyon signed Norwegian international striker John Carew from Turkish first division side Besiktas on a four-year contract worth 7.65 million euros. . . . more . . .
Klinsmann to select goalkeeper month prior to World Cup (Jun 26, 2005)
Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann revealed he would rotate his three goalkeepers up until a month before the 2006 World Cup, running from June 9 to July 9, and then make a decision. . . . more . . .
Parreira hails 'World Cup intensity' match, awaits all-Latin final (Jun 26, 2005)
Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira was looking forward to an all-Latin American final in the Confederations Cup after his side beat Germany in a match he said was played at World Cup intensity. . . . more . . .
Penalty hero Cambiasso fires Argentina into Confed Cup final (Jun 26, 2005)
Argentina face Brazil in the Confederations Cup final after beating Mexico 6-5 on penalties. . . . more . . .
FIFA wants World Cup players to have medical certificates (Jun 26, 2005)
FIFA said it wanted all teams in the 2006 World Cup to supply medical certificates in a bid to prevent a re-occurence of the death of Cameroon midfielder Marc-Vivien Foe exactly two years ago. . . . more . . .
Spurs and Chelsea agree Arnesen deal (Jun 25, 2005)
Tottenham have accepted a "significant" cash settlement from Chelsea that allows sporting director Frank Arnesen to move to Stamford Bridge. . . . more . . .
Adriano magic inspires Brazil to Confederations Cup final (Jun 25, 2005)
Brazil marksman Adriano turned in a scintillating two-goal display to send the five-time World Cup winners into the final of the Confederations Cup with a 3-2 win over hosts Germany. . . . more . . .
Mexican football chief relieved FIFA upheld results (Jun 25, 2005)
The head of the Mexican Football Federation said he was relieved at FIFA's decision to maintain his team's results at the Confederations Cup despite the expulsion of two players for presumed doping. . . . more . . .
Brazilians will not bamboozle us vows Ballack (Jun 24, 2005)
Germany captain Michael Ballack insists the hosts will have respect for the talent in the Brazil team ahead of the Confederations Cup semi-final. . . . more . . .
Brazil v Germany game 'more important for Germany': Parreira (Jun 24, 2005)
Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira suggested that Saturday's Confederations Cup semi-final with Germany was more important for the home side than for the five-time World Cup winners. . . . more . . .
Wenger believes Hleb on his way to Arsenal (Jun 24, 2005)
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has told a German newspaper that he believes Belarus midfielder Alexander Hleb will join the English Premiership club from VfB Stuttgart in the next few days. . . . more . . .
Owen not on his way to United: Queiroz (Jun 24, 2005)
Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz ruled out a move by the English Premiership side for Real Madrid pair Michael Owen and Iker Casillas. . . . more . . .
Liverpool close in on Sevilla youngster (Jun 24, 2005)
Liverpool are on the point of signing teenage right back Antonio Barragan from Spanish top flight side Sevilla, the Spanish side's director of sport Ramon Rodriguez told the club's website. . . . more . . .
Monaco to keep UEFA curtain-raiser (Jun 24, 2005)
Monaco will continue to stage UEFA's pre-season gala events and the UEFA Super Cup match for three years from 2006. . . . more . . .
Mexico open drugs investigation into two players at Confed Cup (Jun 24, 2005)
The Mexican football federation announced that it "presumed" two of its players sent home from the Confederations Cup had taken performance-enhancing drugs and was opening an investigation. . . . more . . .
Mexico results will stand despite failed drugs tests (Jun 24, 2005)
Football's world ruling body FIFA said that Mexico's results in the Confederations Cup would stand despite two of their players testing positive for drugs. . . . more . . .
Liverpool to open title defence against Welsh minnows (Jun 24, 2005)
European champions Liverpool will open their title defence against Total Network Solutions (TNS) in the Champions League first qualifying round next month, following a draw at UEFA's headquarters. . . . more . . .
Brazil tired and unmotivated? I doubt it, says Klinsmann (Jun 24, 2005)
Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann believes there is too much being made of reports that Brazil are too tired ahead of the Confederations Cup semi-final on Saturday. . . . more . . .
The student, the painter, the chain-smoker and the poker-faced tactician (Jun 24, 2005)
This weekend's Confederations Cup semi-finals are being contested by teams managed by vastly different personalities with, it would seem, only one point in common - football. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid books two US matches (Jun 24, 2005)
David Beckham, who captivated US football fans last month when England played two matches in America, will return again in July alongside his Real Madrid teammates. . . . more . . .
Tired Brazil look for final push against Germany (Jun 24, 2005)
Germany and Brazil have won the World Cup eight times between them and the two great footballing nations lock horns in the semi-final of the Confederations Cup. . . . more . . .
Kahn final spot in hands of rival Lehmann (Jun 23, 2005)
Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn faces more frustration on Saturday when manager Jurgen Klinsmann will start Jens Lehmann in goal for the Confederations Cup semi-final clash with Brazil. . . . more . . .
Inter's Emre plans English switch (Jun 23, 2005)
Inter Milan's Turkey midfielder Belozoglu Emre says he will definitely be playing football in England next season. . . . more . . .
Juventus stars Nedved and Thuram extend contracts (Jun 23, 2005)
Czech midfielder Pavel Nedved and French defender Lilian Thuram have each extended their contracts with last season's Serie A champions Juventus for another two years. . . . more . . .
Newcastle linked with Portugal defender Andrade (Jun 23, 2005)
Deportivo la Coruna's Portugal defender Jorge Andrade claims he has received an approach from Newcastle - although he would prefer to move to Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Brazil aim to be the guests who wreck the party (Jun 23, 2005)
Carlos Alberto Parreira left no one in any doubt that Brazil were intent on playing the role of party wrecker when they take on hosts Germany on Saturday. . . . more . . .
Manchester United begins new life as unlisted private company (Jun 23, 2005)
Manchester United began a new life as an unlisted, private company after US tycoon Malcolm Glazer withdrew the world's richest football club from the London Stock Exchange. . . . more . . .
Khadafi junior signs for Udinese (Jun 23, 2005)
Perugia midfielder Saadi Kadhafi, son of the Libyan leader Moamer, will play for Italian Serie A side Udinese next season. . . . more . . .
Mexico duo kicked out for indiscipline, not doping: Beckenbauer (Jun 23, 2005)
Indiscipline and not doping was behind the expulsion of two Mexican players from the Confederations Cup, Franz Beckenbauer stated. . . . more . . .
Spurs set Chelsea deadline in new 'tapping up' affair (Jun 23, 2005)
Tottenham have set Chelsea a deadline of noon Friday to resolve the row over Frank Arnesen before making an official complaint to the Premier League. . . . more . . .
Chelsea open defence at Wigan (Jun 23, 2005)
Chelsea open the defence of their English Premier league title at newly-promoted Wigan on August 13 while last season's runners-up Arsenal host Newcastle. . . . more . . .
Milan reject Chelsea's world record bid for Shevchenko (Jun 23, 2005)
English champions Chelsea are reported to have offered AC Milan a world record 57 million pounds for Ukraine star Andriy Shevchenko - and were told it wasn't enough. . . . more . . .
Brazilian Lucio eyes Bayern bragging rights (Jun 23, 2005)
Brazilian international defender Lucio is determined to defeat Germany in Saturday's Confederations Cup semi-final to win bragging rights in the Bayern Munich dressing room. . . . more . . .
AS Roma, Mexes appeal FIFA ruling over Auxerre transfer (Jun 23, 2005)
AS Roma and Philippe Mexes have appealed to the Lausanne-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the eight-million-euro (9.6 million dollar) indemnity the Italian club was ordered by FIFA to pay to French club Auxerre for the transfer of the defender. . . . more . . .
Stephan sacked as Senegal ponder no World Cup (Jun 23, 2005)
Senegal have sacked their coach, Frenchman Guy Stephan, due a string of poor results in their World Cup qualifying campaign, it was announced. . . . more . . .
Regueiro and Villa head for Valencia (Jun 23, 2005)
Spanish outfit Valencia continued their rebuilding process for next season with the signing of Spanish international striker David Villa and Uruguay international midfielder Mario Regueiro. . . . more . . .
Brazil can beat Germany - by playing the Brazilian way (Jun 23, 2005)
World Cup holders Brazil will beat Germany in Saturday's semi-final of the Confederations Cup if they play to their strengths, coach Carlos Alberto Parreira said. . . . more . . .
Celtic return to scene of broken dreams (Jun 23, 2005)
Celtic begin the new campaign at the ground where last season's Scottish Premier league title was lost just two minutes short of glory. . . . more . . .
Brazil coach says Robinho move to Europe is 'inevitable' (Jun 23, 2005)
Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira said it was inevitable that the new star of Brazilian football, Robinho, would move to a European club soon. . . . more . . .
Riquelme makes Villareal move permanent (Jun 22, 2005)
Argentina midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme has completed a permanent move from Barcelona to Villareal where he has been on loan for the last two seasons. . . . more . . .
Turkey coach Yanal sacked (Jun 22, 2005)
Turkey coach Ersun Yanal has been sacked, the president of the country's football federation Levent Bicakci said. . . . more . . .
Greece play for pride, Mexico still on cloud nine (Jun 22, 2005)
Greece surprised everyone by lifting the Euro 2004 title in Portugal but the European champions are merely playing for pride in the Confederations Cup match against a buoyant Mexico. . . . more . . .
Greek football chiefs want Rehhagel to stay to 2009 (Jun 22, 2005)
The Greek football federation want German coach Otto Rehhagel to remain in charge of the European champions until 2009 despite a poor showing in the Confederations Cup. . . . more . . .
Everyone learning, including me: Klinsmann (Jun 22, 2005)
Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann admits he is still a managerial novice and regulary seeks help from some of the top managers in international football. . . . more . . .
Schweinsteiger suspended for semi-final (Jun 22, 2005)
Germany must do without suspended midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger for their Confederations Cup semi-final. . . . more . . .
It's a Miller's tale for Sunderland (Jun 22, 2005)
Freescoring midfielder Tommy Miller became newly-promoted English Premiership side Sunderland's fifth signing of the close season. . . . more . . .
Bring on Brazil roars Klinsmann (Jun 22, 2005)
Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann claims he would prefer to face five-time world champions Brazil in the semi-final of the Confederations Cup rather than Japan or Mexico. . . . more . . .
Lyon reveal Real interest in Essien (Jun 22, 2005)
French champions Lyon said a 25 million euro bid they turned down for Ghana midfielder Mickael Essien came from Real Madrid and not Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Mexico held but ready for Argentina semi-final clash (Jun 22, 2005)
Mexico face Argentina in the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup after a 0-0 draw against Greece in their final Group B match. . . . more . . .
Glazer set to de-list United (Jun 22, 2005)
US tycoon Malcolm Glazer was set to formally delist Manchester United from the Stock Market at close of trading, ending 14 years of trading in Red Devils shares. . . . more . . .
Farina safe despite Confederations Cup flop: FFA chief (Jun 22, 2005)
Australian coach Frank Farina's position is safe even though his team failed to secure a single point at the Confederations Cup in Germany, Football Federation Australia chief of staff Peter Friend said. . . . more . . .
Germany proved Ballack not only cog in German wheel: Klinsmann (Jun 22, 2005)
Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann insisted the 2-2 draw with Argentina in the Confederations Cup Group A match was proof that the team were not too dependent on captain Michael Ballack. . . . more . . .
United confirm Park move (Jun 22, 2005)
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has completed the signing of South Korean midfielder Park Ji-Sung from Dutch side PSV Eindhoven. . . . more . . .
Chelsea snap up Bilbao left-back Horno (Jun 22, 2005)
English champions Chelsea have completed the signing of Spain left-back Asier del Horno for 12 million euros (8 million pounds) from Athletic Bilbao. . . . more . . .
Riquelme resurrection complete under Pekerman (Jun 22, 2005)
Juan Roman Riquelme continues to shine as the midfield general of Argentina and manager Jose Pekerman's faith in the Villareal playmaker was justified further in the 2-2 Confederations Cup Group A draw with Germany here. . . . more . . .
Lots of positives but defence cost us dear: Farina (Jun 22, 2005)
Australia coach Frank Farina will return home with as many negatives as positives from the Confederations Cup, which exposed his side's faultlines five months ahead of a crucial World Cup playoff. . . . more . . .
Parreira gambles on change against Japan (Jun 22, 2005)
Carlos Alberto Parreira is taking a gamble in planning wholesale changes for Brazil's crunch game against Japan, to avoid a humiliating first round exit from the Confederations Cup. . . . more . . .
Brazilian Costa signs for Espanyol (Jun 22, 2005)
Marseille's Brazilian midfielder Eduardo Costa has signed a four-year contract with Espanyol, the Spanish first division club said. . . . more . . .
AC Milan baulk at Gilardino price tag (Jun 22, 2005)
AC Milan have baulked at Parma's asking price for their highly rated striker Alberto Gilardino. . . . more . . .
Park confident he can make grade at United (Jun 22, 2005)
South Korean midfielder Park Ji-Sung is confident he can become a regular fixture in the Manchester United first team after a six-million-euro (four-million-pound) move from PSV Eindhoven. . . . more . . .
Super sub Oguro earns Japan a draw but Brazil march on (Jun 22, 2005)
Brazil booked a Confederations Cup semi-final date against hosts Germany despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Japan in a match scarred by another pitch incursion here on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
No holidays for Woody as Real comeback looms (Jun 21, 2005)
Real Madrid's England star Jonathan Woodgate is throwing everything into his summer fitness training programme as he bids to get fit for the new campaign having not played a single game since signing from Newcastle almost a year ago. . . . more . . .
Tunisia defender Jaidi agrees new deal with Bolton (Jun 21, 2005)
Tunisia international central defender Radhi Jaidi has agreed in principle to sign a new two-year deal with Bolton, the English Premiership club said. . . . more . . .
Tunisia win match of pride against Australia (Jun 21, 2005)
African champions Tunisia ensured they departed the Confederations Cup with one win after a 2-0 victory over Australia in both nations' final group game. . . . more . . .
Sampdoria take Borriello on loan (Jun 21, 2005)
Sampdoria have taken striker Marco Borriello on a season-long loan from Serie A rivals AC Milan. . . . more . . .
Japanese princess to attend football matches in Germany (Jun 21, 2005)
Japan's Princess Takamado will attend her country's Confederations Cup football match against Brazil on Wednesday and Germany's game against Argentina 24 hours earlier. . . . more . . .
Eto'o to stick with Barca till 2010 (Jun 21, 2005)
Cameroon international forward Samuel Eto'o is set to sign a double-your-money contract extension next week, keeping him at the Spanish league champions until 2010. . . . more . . .
No 2006 World Cup for top referee Collina (Jun 21, 2005)
Italian referee Pierluigi Collina, widely considered the world's top match official, will definitely not be allowed to officiate in the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany. . . . more . . .
Elmer set for Chelsea gantry (Jun 21, 2005)
Rising Swiss youngster Jonas Elmer is set to become the latest signing by English Premiership champions Chelsea. . . . more . . .
Zico keeps faith with under-performing strike force (Jun 21, 2005)
Zico explained why he was keeping faith with Keiji Tamada and Atsushi Yanagisawa - his two strikers who failed to shine in front of goal against Greece - for the Confederations Cup group decider against Brazil. . . . more . . .
Bolivian striker Cabrera joins Dynamo Zagreb (Jun 21, 2005)
Bolivian striker Diego Cabrera has signed a three-year contract for Croatian first division side Dynamo Zagreb, the club said. . . . more . . .
Bowyer rejected Birmingham mainly over safety fears (Jun 21, 2005)
Birmingham co-owner David Sullivan said it was mainly Lee Bowyer's fears over his personal safety which finally led him to reject the chance to join the club. . . . more . . .
Shamed Juventus doctor facing further punishment (Jun 21, 2005)
Disgraced Juventus doctor Riccardo Agricola, who last year was found guilty by a Turin judge of administering the banned drug EPO to the club's players during the 1990s, is facing further punishment from the Italy's Olympic Commitee (CONI). . . . more . . .
Liverpool seeded for Champions League openers (Jun 21, 2005)
Liverpool face the possibility of a trip to Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan or Armenia when they start the defence of their Champions League crown next month. . . . more . . .
Former Genoa coach in bribe probe (Jun 21, 2005)
Former Genoa coach Serse Cosmi was questioned by police amid suspicion the club newly-promoted to Serie A bribed their opponents on the final day of the season. . . . more . . .
Newcastle reveal Figo interest (Jun 21, 2005)
Newcastle manager Graeme Souness has confirmed the English Premiership club are interested in Real Madrid's Portuguese star Luis Figo. . . . more . . .
Camara flashes first for new Celtic boss Strachan (Jun 21, 2005)
Guinean international defender Mohammed Camara became Gordon Strachan's first signing as Celtic manager after agreeing to sign a two year contract from English Championship side Burnley. . . . more . . .
Birmingham look to sign Nafti permanently (Jun 21, 2005)
English Premiership club Birmingham hope to secure the permanent signing of Racing Santander midfielder Mehdi Nafti by the end of the week. . . . more . . .
New offside rule bamboozles coaches and players at Confed Cup (Jun 21, 2005)
Coaches and players have complained that an experimental offside rule being tried out in the Confederations Cup is confusing and hard for referees to enforce. . . . more . . .
Germany win group but Argentina spoil party (Jun 21, 2005)
Hosts Germany go into the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup as Group A winners despite twice surrendering the lead in a 2-2 draw with Argentina. . . . more . . .
Ze Robert extends contract at Bayern Munich (Jun 20, 2005)
Brazil international Ze Roberto has signed to play another season at Bayern Munich. . . . more . . .
Greek football enlists FIFA backing in "political conflict" with government (Jun 20, 2005)
The Greek football federation (EPO) enlisted the backing of world football governing body FIFA to resolve a "political conflict" with the Greek government that has resulted in a state fund freeze. . . . more . . .
FIFA boss Blatter advocates lower players' wages (Jun 20, 2005)
FIFA president Sepp Blatter has advocated the lowering of players's wages in the bi-weekly football magazine Kicker. . . . more . . .
Ferguson chases Real Madrid's Owen (Jun 20, 2005)
Manchester United were reported to be chasing Real Madrid's England star Michael Owen and Newcastle United midfielder Jermaine Jenas. . . . more . . .
Czech Federation to support Slavia over Liverpool protest (Jun 20, 2005)
The Czech Football Federation (CMFS) announced that they will support championship runners-up Slavia Prague in any appeal to UEFA should Champions League holders Liverpool reach the third preliminary round of the upcoming tournament. . . . more . . .
Zico confident Japan can get result against Brazil (Jun 20, 2005)
Japan coach Zico believes his team can pull off a surprise result against Brazil in their final qualifying match of the Confederations Cup on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
Newcastle's Dutch striker Kluivert joins Valencia (Jun 20, 2005)
Newcastle's Dutch striker Patrick Kluivert has joined Valencia after passing a medical. . . . more . . .
Last-chance Viduka 'desperate' to play in World Cup (Jun 20, 2005)
Australia and Middlesbrough striker Mark Viduka said he was desperate to help his country qualify for their first World Cup finals in 22 years. . . . more . . .