Liverpool’s Dutch defender Jan Kromkamp is determined to maintain his place in the side in order to fulfil his World Cup dreams.

Rudi Voller has resigned as Germany coach after his side’s meek exit from Euro 2004, according to reports in the German media.

Argentina striker Gabriel Batistuta has confirmed his retirement from international football.

The teams for the Slovenia v Paraguay Group B World Cup qualifier have been named.

South Africa coach Jomo Sono is adamant his side can end Spain’s fantastic start to the World Cup when the sides meet tomorrow.

The events of Saipan ultimately cost Roy Keane his World Cup place and Mick McCarthy his job.

Philippe Troussier has a full squad to choose from as Japan prepare to take on Turkey for a place in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

Raul may miss Spain's World Cup quarter-final against Italy or South Korea because of a groin strain.

David Seaman is winning his race to be fit to make the England squad for the World Cup finals.

Ade Akinbiyi could yet face England in the World Cup - for Nigeria.

The failure by Uruguayan officials to award England a valid goal in their World Cup last-16 clash with Germany yesterday has been described as a “gross error” by a newspaper column in the South American country.

Spain and Portugal boast “ideal” venues for the World Cup and have a strong chance of being elected as tournament host, according to the head of FIFA’s inspection team.

Marcello Lippi insists he will not renew his contract before the World Cup finals, prompting speculation over the Italy coach’s future.

MICK McCARTHY yesterday celebrated five years at the helm with Wolves and revealed he would love to take the Republic of Ireland to another World Cup.

Coach Philippe Saint-Andre urged French rugby supporters to cast aside their doubts about him and rally behind his squad as they head to England for the rugby World Cup.

Wales fly-half Stephen Jones looks set to miss next Saturday’s World Cup warm-up clash with England after pulling a groin muscle.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry predicts England’s failed Grand Slam attempt will make them a force at the World Cup.

Argentina coach Diego Maradona has been handed a two-month ban from “any football-related activity” by a FIFA disciplinary committee for his outburst following the World Cup qualifier against Uruguay last month.

JUST as an outward looking and more confident America can be a force for good so too can the great friendships built on sport.