Football

Scolari should carry on because of his good work in the job even though the hosts were humiliated by Germany, says CBF officials

Four Germans, three Argentines, and one player each from Brazil, Colombia and the Netherlands were short-listed for the "Golden Ball" award.

Sabella believes a well-rested Germany will have the advantage against the weary South Americans in World Cup final.

Tottenham Hotspur say they have signed goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to a new five-year contract at the club.

Lionel Messi can secure his place among the game's greats with a World Cup triumph after Argentina defeated the Netherlands on penalties to reach the final.

Scolari tried to explain their defeat, saying their opponents played superbly and took chances against a Brazil side that played poorly.

With a rampant Germany awaiting in the final, Argentina and the Netherlands face selection dilemmas going into their semi-final on Wednesday.

Nike, who had sponsored United since 2002, said on Tuesday that the 2014-15 season would be its last as a partner of the 20-times English champions.

Known as "jefecito", or little boss, Mascherano has fired up Argentina for what has become their best World Cup run since 1990.

Spanish football club FC Barcelona says its doctor will be travelling to Brazil to check on Neymar's fitness.

Loew so far has one previous World Cup semi-final, the 2008 European Championship final and the Euro 2012 semi-final to show.

Brazil doctor Runco said the players were "shocked and saddened" when they heard Neymar would miss the rest of the World Cup.

Rashmita Patra a defender in the U-16 AFC women's qualifying competition at Kuala Lumper in 2008, now runs betel leaves shop.

Belgium goalkeeper Courtois has kept Messi scoreless the last seven times his Atletico Madrid faced Barcelona.

Belgium last qualified in 2002, the current squad were a disparate gaggle of schoolboys poised unknowingly on the brink of global stardom.

Argentina's coach Alejandro Sabella congratulated his team on their tactical discipline and declared the win over Switzerland "well-deserved."