Latin America rallies around Argentina

With a reputation for arrogance and manufactured European-style grandeur, Argentines have long been the object of scorn and the butt of jokes across Latin America

What they're saying

"Messi's history in the sport is so important; he has won a lot of trophies and I will be cheering for him. He is a friend, he is my teammate and I wish him luck."

Brazilians take another beating

Brazilians might have thought their World Cup nightmare couldn't possibly get any worse - until bitter rival Argentina reached the final in their own backyard on Wednesday.

Romario wants soccer bosses behind bars

Romario, who led Brazil to the 1994 World Cup, said on Wednesday the nation's soccer bosses should serve prison time for the national team's humiliating 7-1 World Cup defeat to Germany.

Kobe approves of Lakers' moves

Kobe Bryant feels great, would welcome Byron Scott as coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, would love to play alongside free agent Carmelo Anthony and is pleased with the moves of the team's front office so far.

World's biggest tee party confirmed

History was created at Mission Hills Shenzhen-Dongguan recently when nearly 2,000 golfers took part in the biggest single-day tournament ever held.

Score board

Van Gaal had a hand in defeat

Louis van Gaal took some credit for teaching Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero how to stop penalty kicks - advice that cost the Netherlands coach dearly on Wednesday.

Romero goes from zero to hero

Having spent most of the last 12 months out of favor at club level, Sergio Romero has emerged from the shadows to star in Argentina's run to the World Cup final.

It's Messi's moment to shine

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

Sabella says Germany has an edge

Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella believes a well-rested Germany will have an advantage against the weary South Americans in Sunday's World Cup final.

The mourning after the nightmare

Brazilians cried, cursed their president and covered their faces in shame after their beloved soccer team's humiliating 7-1 thrashing by Germany in the World Cup semifinals on Tuesday.