Football

Cristiano Ronaldo sat out Portugal's exhibition match against Greece on Saturday and his flair was sorely missed as the two World Cup-bound teams produced a tedious 0-0 draw.

Brazil's preparations for their home World Cup are getting underway amid chants of protests instead of support for the national team.

Fernando Torres was a little surprised to hear coach Vicente del Bosque include him in Spain's squad that will likely go to the World Cup.

Kranjcar started the play-off match against Derby County at Wembley Stadium but in the 33rd minute he was forced to leave the field due to injury.

Atletico Madrid have already outperformed this season in securing a remarkable La Liga triumph, shattering the domestic dominance of Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Nigeria's Super Eagles are scheduled to depart for London ahead of their international friendly with Scotland.

Moyes, who was sacked as manager of Manchester United last month, has been accused of assaulting a man in a bar in northern England, a police source said.

Racist abuse directed at Balotelli by a young fan outside Italy's training camp was "unacceptable", FIGC president Giancarlo Abete said.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says forward Gareth Bale will play in Saturday's Champions League final against Atletico Madrid.

Louis van Gaal wants to put United back top of the English game as soon as possible, he said after being confirmed as the Premier League club's manager.

Emotional during victories and resembling a red-hot volcano ready to explode after defeats, the 62-year-old, who was named United manager, thrives in the spotlight.

The main surprise was the inclusion of Braga midfielder Rafa, who has just one international appearance.

Former United goalkeeper Schmeichel believes a combination of the experienced Van Gaal and Giggs would be "fantastic" for the club.

Pogrebnyak has been left out from Russia's World Cup squad after coach Fabio Capello on Friday trimmed his provisional 30-man lineup.

Roy Hodgson should be brave and let his young guns off the leash at the World Cup in Brazil, according to former striker Michael Owen.

Scolari is suspected of failing to declare millions of dollars in income, but he has denied any wrongdoing.