Roy Hodgson unleashed Liverpool’s Raheem Sterling as England set up to attack Italy in their World Cup opener in Manaus.

Republic of Ireland defender Richard Dunne has launched a blistering attack on France coach Raymond Domenech ahead of their crunch World Cup qualification play-off match.

The World Cup 2010 qualifying match between Georgia and the Republic of Ireland scheduled for September 6 will take place at a neutral venue, FIFA have confirmed.

FRENCH rugby coach Bernard Laporte has revealed he will be looking to copy Ireland’s strategy as the hosts prepare for next year’s rugby World Cup.

Three major FIFA sponsors have ended their relationships with world football's governing body, it has emerged.

The Rugby Football League has signed an exclusive contract with James Gilbert Ltd to supply balls for the 2000 - 2001 Silk Cut Challenge Cup Final between Bradford Bulls and St Helens at Twickenham on Saturday, April 28.

Qatar's successful bid for the 2022 World Cup looks set to become mired in fresh controversy after the leaking of a secret FIFA report into the 2010 bidding contests.

The Czech Republic and Turkey both handed out thrashings to keep their World Cup qualification bids on course on Wednesday.

Belmont Stakes winner Jazil has been ruled out of the Breeders’ Cup Classic and will now be prepared for a crack at next year’s Dubai World Cup.

“We would urge Mr Dyke to let the legal process take its course and concentrate on delivering his promise to build an England team capable of winning the World Cup.”

Diego Maradona is set to rest a number of key players in their final World Cup Group B clash with Greece.

Scotland scrum-half Chris Cusiter has flown to Australia for a short-term playing stint in a bid to improve his match fitness ahead of the World Cup.

Dirk Kuyt scored twice as Holland maintained their 100% record in 2010 World Cup qualifying with a comfortable 4-0 win over FYR Macedonia.

BRITISH and South African police have thwarted attempts by English hooligans to get to the World Cup and around 3,200 identified trouble-makers have until today to hand in their passports to prevent them travelling.

PORTUGAL suffered a major injury blow yesterday after it was announced winger Nani would play no part in the World Cup after damaging his collarbone.

LLANELLI pledged to slap a life ban on the fan who confronted All Black great Jonah Lomu at Stradey Park during Monday’s Celtic League clash against Welsh rivals Cardiff.