Football

Hopes of the first World Cup in Africa producing the continent's first winner seem increasingly far-fetched.

South Africa are making an effort to avoid becoming the first host nation not to advance from the group stage.

South Korea can advance to the next round by defeating the winless Nigerians at Durban on Tuesday.

Substitute Mark Gonzalez scored on a header in the 75th minute.

The Koreans only lost 2-1 to Brazil last Tuesday in a resilient display.

Rooney barely got a sniff against Algeria on Friday night and reacted sarcastically to a TV camera.

The reported outburst could lead to Anelka being excluded from France's squad.

North Korea will hold a press conference on Friday to explain why four of its players did not show up.

Ronaldo and Ivory Coast right back Guy Demel clashed off the ball in Tuesday's Group G match.

Maicon and Elano scored a goal apiece in the second half .

"It is frustrating not to get on - I am desperate to play my part," Upson said.

Andres Iniesta will be available for the World Cup match against Switzerland after taking part in a full training session.

The midfielder said a large chunk of the team has played together for years and are now at the peak of their powers.

Coach Radomir Antic conceded said playing in their maiden tournament as an independent nation got to Serbia.

Denmark is being tipped to compete with Cameroon and Japan for the vital second place in this group.

Players and coaches are complaining about the new high-bouncing World Cup ball that has resulted in goalkeeping blunders.