Rivelino says iconic No 10 jersey has lost its mystique

Think of Brazil's famous No 10 jersey and the mind conjures images of Pele, Zico or Rivaldo, swaggering past transfixed defenders with a nonchalant dip of the shoulder before firing the ball past a helpless goalkeeper.

Maradona: Messi doesn't need title to cement greatness

Lionel Messi does not need a World Cup winners' medal to be considered among soccer's all-time greats, fellow Argentine Diego Maradona said on Tuesday.

IN BRIEF (Page 23)

Spain building confidence for title defense

Spain will open its defense of the World Cup the same way it ended the 2010 tournament in South Africa - by facing the Netherlands.

FA charges Pardew in wake of head-butt

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew faces the prospect of a lengthy touchline ban after being charged with "improper conduct" by the Football Association on Monday following his head-butt on Hull's David Meyler.

Friendly fire will help determine final World Cup rosters

Brazil-born Diego Costa could finally make his Spain debut on Wednesday when the world and European champion hosts Italy in one of more than 60 friendly internationals being played worldwide.

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Basketball

Li too busy for league, targets No 1

Australian Open champion Li Na on Monday defended her decision to skip the International Premier Tennis League, as she targets more Grand Slams and the world No 1 ranking.

Agassi ranks Thanksgiving ahead of iptl obligations

Andre Agassi will snub the inaugural International Premier Tennis League if it clashes with Thanksgiving, the former world No 1 said the day after being drafted by the Singapore franchise.

IPTL set to showcase galaxy of tennis greats

World No 1 Rafael Nadal has been drafted by Team Mumbai, while Novak Djokovic will headline Team Dubai and top WTA star Serena Williams will be the face of Team Singapore in the inaugural edition of the International Premier Tennis League (IPTL).

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Alpine Skiing

Brazil preps while the world awaits

Brazil erupted in wild celebrations after being chosen to host the World Cup, a chance for the "sleeping giant" of 200 million to show its growing sporting and economic clout.