Football

Barcelona has already made an unsuccessful bid for Fabregas.

Hodgson said Mascherano "is contracted to Liverpool so whether he leaves or not will be our decision."

French police investigating a prostitution network questioned soccer stars Franck Ribery and Karim Benzema.

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson says club has a tough job convincing disenchanted players to stay.

So after all Octopus Paul was right about a Spanish win in the final.

Shakira, who will be performing at the closing ceremony at Soccer City, is proud of her Hispanic origins and will be supporting the Spaniards.

Spain's defense hasn't conceded a goal in the three knockout round games in South Africa.

Former Dutch captain Frank de Boer feels the present Netherlands team has the belief to lift the World Cup.

Rosetti and his assistant were dragged into a wave of controversy after they failed to spot a clear offside goal.

The coach and his staff were fired two days after Brazil was beaten by the Netherlands in the WC quarterfinals.

Perennial World Cup underachievers Netherlands knocked off mighty Brazil, stamping the Dutch as strong contenders for the title.

Dutch style and Brazilian flair no longer have a place at major tournaments, says Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk.

Asamoah Gyan says Ghana are ready to become the first African side to make it to the semi-finals of a World Cup.

Elano is out because of a bruised bone in his right ankle, while Felipe Melo and Julio Baptista are doubtful.

Brazil, who haven't faced many difficulties in South Africa so far, will be tested in the quarter-finals.

When it comes to charisma, not many football coaches can rival Argentina's Diego Maradona.