Brazil overcame a sluggish start to beat Chile 2-0 in their World Cup qualifier and improve their chances of reaching next year's tournament.

Ireland manager Mick McCarthy was involved in a confrontation with Portuguese counterpart Antonio Oliveira after the sides drew 1-1 in a World Cup qualifier at Lansdowne Road.

Craig Brown insisted Scotland could still make it through to the World Cup finals after being held to a 2-2 draw by Belgium at Hampden Park.

THEY say hard men don’t cry. Don’t believe a bit of it.

Brazil have slipped from the top of the FIFA world rankings for the first time in more than four years, replaced by world champions Italy.

Stay on top of all the results and group stage standings.

Donal shows us some of the reaction to Japan's win from his hotel before reflecting on the significance of the host nation's victory.

Donal Lenihan gives his reaction to Ireland's quarter-final exit at the hands of the All Blacks.

Michael D Higgins has brushed off the question of whether football is coming home.

The FAI has confirmed two international friendlies against Greece and Poland at Aviva Stadium.

SOUTH AFRICA’S Craig Joubert will take charge of Saturday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final between Ireland and Wales in Wellington.

ARSENAL have signed highly-rated Costa Rica forward Joel Campbell from Deportivo Saprissa.

LIMERICK man George Clancy will referee the RBS 6 Nations clash between England and France at Twickenham on February 26.

Wales physical performance manager Craig White has left his role to pursue a new academic career, the Welsh Rugby Union have confirmed.

FIREFIGHTERS have put out a scrub fire near Northland Events Centre in Whangarei where the Rugby World Cup Pool A game between Japan and Tonga was held.