THE youngest referee for a World Cup qualifier involving the Republic of Ireland will be in charge when Cyprus host Brian Kerr’s team in Nicosia on Saturday.

THE US and Mexico signalled their intentions with valuable away wins on Wednesday as the final round of 2006 World Cup qualifying began in the North and Central America and Caribbean region.

Stephen Larkham has been ruled out of the Australia side for today’s pivotal World Cup clash with Wales in Cardiff after suffering a knee injury in training.

Leeds winger Anitele’a Tuilagi has been ruled out of Samoa’s World Cup campaign after suffering a wrist injury in training.

Ireland’s chances of reaching the semi-finals of the World Cup qualifier in China have been virtually ended by the 1-0 defeat to Belgium.

Brazil midfielder Edmilson has been ruled out of the World Cup.

Scotland 18 Italy 16

Norway 1 Scotland 2

British Grand Prix organisers have reported an increase in ticket sales for the June race, despite a clash with football’s World Cup.

France utility back Xavier Garbajosa could miss the World Cup because of a thigh injury.

Will Greenwood is set to return home tomorrow after being given compassionate leave from England’s World Cup camp.

Clive Woodward today pledged that England would “fully comply” with a World Cup probe into how his team briefly fielded 16 players against Pool C opponents Samoa.

2006 World Cup qualifiers draw:

Georgia qualified for their first-ever World Cup by beating Russia 17-13 in Tbilisi today.

Roy Keane has said he would still like to play in the World Cup - but that time is running out for him.

Denmark and Senegal have handed a World Cup boost to France with a draw in their Group A clash in Daegu.