In-form Negredo eyes Spain recall

Sevilla striker Alvaro Negredo hopes his two-goal salvo against Real Mallorca caught the attention of Spain coach Vicente del Bosque.

Negredo twice netted equalisers as Sevilla battled back to beat Mallorca 3-2 in last night's La Liga clash at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

Those goals took Negredo's tally for the season to six in eight La Liga matches and the 27-year-old hopes his form has not gone unnoticed by Del Bosque.

Negredo was part of Spain's successful UEFA EURO 2012 squad but has not been called up by Del Bosque for the last five internationals.

Negredo told reporters: "This is the only way to get into the national squad, scoring goals and working well. I'll be hoping for a call from Del Bosque, and if not, I'll continue working hard."

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Stadiums Progress: Brazil 2014

At each of the 12 stadiums that will host the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, fans can already get a sense of what it will be like to be in the stands when the action gets underway. Moreover, at the venues which will also be hosting games at the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013, it is not just the impressive stands that catch the eye. The installation of seating and the advances in the various roof constructions highlight the strong focus the country’s stadiums are placing on the comfort and protection of attending fans.

Check out this month’s stadium pictures by clicking on the photo gallery bar on the right-hand side brought to you by FIFA.com.

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Zaccheroni untroubled by Kagawa absence

Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni on Monday shrugged off the absence of injured Manchester United attacking midfielder Shinji Kagawa from a FIFA World Cup™ qualifier against Oman away next week. The four-time Asian champions, leading Asia's final round Group B five points clear of Oman and Australia, have the depth to make up for missing stand outs, the coach insisted.

Zaccheroni, announcing his 23-man squad against Oman, recalled how Kagawa had stayed idle for months after breaking his right foot in the January 2011 Asian Cup and CSKA Moscow playmaker Keisuke Honda had missed the next-to-last FIFA World Cup qualifying round with a knee injury.

"But don't forget that the players that have come in to deputise for them have done a great job," theKyodo news agency reported. "Kagawa is not here this time, but I'm sure that whoever fills in for him will do well."

Kagawa, 23, who moved from Borussia Dortmund in the summer, injured his left knee in Manchester United's 3-2 UEFA Champions League win over Braga on 23 October. His Premiership club want him to be out for four weeks. He has scored 12 goals in 37 internationals, most recently in the 1-0 friendly win over France in Paris last month.

Zaccheroni has called up 13 Europe-based stars including such regulars as Honda, Inter Milan defender Yuto Nagatomo and Stuttgart striker Shinji Okazaki for the 14 November match. Okazaki is coming back to international duty after a foot injury forced him out of Japan's European tour last month, in which they upset 1998 World Cup winners France but bowed 4-0 to five-time champions Brazil in Wroclaw, Poland.

Zaccheroni also called up Takashi Usami, on loan to Hoffenheim from Bayern Munich, for the first time in over a year. But Wigan Athletic striker Ryo Miyaichi, who played the final few minutes against Brazil and is recovering from a groin injury, miss out.

Japan currently lead Group B with ten points from three wins over Oman, Jordan and Iraq and a draw with Australia, having beaten their upcoming opponents 3-0 at home in June.

"Oman are one of the more organised and balanced teams in the group," Zaccheroni said, recalling that they "sat back and defended" against Japan in their last encounter. "But they will come at us this time. We have to be very focused," he added, warning that Paul Le Guen's squad are armed with "highly accurate counter-attacks."

Japan squad
Goalkeepers: Eiji Kawashima (Standard Liege/BEL), Shusaku Nishikawa (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Shuichi Gonda (FC Tokyo)

Defenders: Yuichi Komano (Jubilo Iwata), Yasuyuki Konno (Gamba Osaka) Yuzo Kurihara (Yokohama Marinos), Masahiko Inoha (Vissel Kobe), Yuto Nagatomo (Inter Milan/ITA), Atsuto Uchida (Schalke/GER), Maya Yoshida (Southampton/ENG), Hiroki Sakai (Hannover/GER)

Midfielders: Yasuhito Endo (Gamba Osaka), Kengo Nakamura (Kawasaki Frontale), Makoto Hasebe (Wolfsburg/GER), Hajime Hosogai (Bayer Leverkusen/BER), Keisuke Honda (CSKA Moscow/RUS), Hideto Takahashi (FC Tokyo)

Forwards: Ryoichi Maeda (Jubilo Iwata), Shinji Okazaki (Stuttgart/GER), Mike Havenaar (Vitesse Arnhem/NED), Takashi Inui (Eintracht Frankfurt/GER), Hiroshi Kiyotake (Nuremberg/GER), Takashi Usami (Hoffenheim/GER)

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LOC board meeting discusses FIFA Confederations Cup

The FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013 was the main item on the agenda at the latest six-weekly board meeting of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ Organising Committee (LOC), held on Thursday at Rio de Janeiro’s Riocentro. Also up for discussion were preparations for Brazil 2014.

“This is a special moment,” said LOC President Jose Maria Marin. “It is the first time that one of these meetings has been held at the Riocentro, the new headquarters of the Local Organising Committee, which will grow even more in size at the start of next year.”

For his part, Brazilian Minister of Sport Aldo Rebelo said: “I would like to restate our desire and commitment to work together and make every effort to ensure that preparations for the FIFA World Cup in Brazil progress smoothly.”

FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke was unable to attend the meeting due to a kidney infection and was represented by FIFA Deputy Secretary General and Director of Finance Markus Kattner. After visiting Valcke on Thursday, Dr Joao Mansur Filho said he was responding well to treatment.

“I hope the Secretary General is fit and well again soon,” said Kattner. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the LOC and the federal government for the first-class cooperation they have offered in recent months, which has already yielded excellent results.”

The LOC announced that a press event would be held in Sao Paulo on 8 November, where it will reveal the prices and terms and conditions of sale of the tickets for the FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013.

The draw for the FIFA Confederations Cup, which will take place on 1 December at the Anhembi Convention Centre in Sao Paulo, was also discussed. Brazilian television presenter Glenda Kozlowski will host the event, which will feature musical performances by Arlindo Cruz, Maria Gadu and Os Meninos do Morumbi.

It was also confirmed that FIFA would set up its head office at the Forte de Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro during Brazil 2014.

During the meeting the Brazilian government’s representatives provided an update on the work it has been carrying out, and focused in particular on the operational plans that are currently being implemented. In addition, the LOC and FIFA also provided an update on the situation with regard to national team training centres, safety, team services, broadcasting and marketing.

The next LOC board meeting is scheduled to take place in Sao Paulo on 28 November. “The next time we come together the group draw for the FIFA Confederations Cup will be almost upon us,” commented Marin. “That competition will give us a valuable opportunity to test out all the services for the FIFA World Cup.”

The meeting ended with all those present wishing the FIFA Secretary General the speediest of recoveries.  

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Pick of the qualifying Tweets

Featuring regional clásicos, stunning fightbacks, teams reaching the next phase and virtuoso displays from players the world over, the latest 2014 FIFA World Cup™ qualifying double-header had many a tale to tell. We took to Twitter to find out how some of the biggest names on Planet Football viewed the latest twists and turns on the road to Brazil.

“France vs Spain. None of the Spanish guys are singing their anthem, not that it stops them being the best. Go for it lads!” French striker Louis Saha (@louissaha08) as kick-off time to the European Zone Group I crunch clash drew closer. 

“@louissaha08 that’s normal bro, their anthem doesn’t have any words!!! LOL,” FC Rostov’s French attacker Florent Sinama-Pongolle (@sinamapongolle4), who spent several seasons in La Liga, sets Saha straight. 

“For once I won’t be cheering for Iker Casillas!! But after this game I’d be pleased to see him win the Ballon d’Or, he deserves it,” Le Mans keeper Jeremie Janot (@jeremiejanot).

“Be realistic, ask the impossible!” France midfielder Blaise Matuidi (@MATUIDIBlaise), prior to the game against Spain.

“I am as proud to wear the Portugal jersey for the 100th time as I was the first time,” Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo (?@Cristiano), who reached this landmark figure in the draw with Northern Ireland.

“Did I say 5 - 0 England.....errrr, yes! Love it lads! Congrats to Wales winning their 1st game under Chris Coleman + @AshWills84 as captain!” Veteran England defender Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5), after the Three Lions’ win over San Marino at Wembley.

“Huge fan of Baines and I love how unselfish Welbeck is. Decent performance, no more than that. Game on Tuesday is a big one,” former England striker Michael Owen (@themichaelowen) who, like Ferdinand, is very active on Twitter, gives his verdict on the San Marino win.

“This German team is different class. Can't remember the last time Ireland got thrashed on their own patch,” Owen again, proving our point.

 “@LAMBREMONTPY: @VincentKompany It’s my birthday today. I only want one present: the win. COME ON BELGIUM!!! " - Happy Birthday :-)” BELGIUM captain and centre-back Vincent Kompany (@VincentKompany), makes a birthday wish ahead of the clash with Serbia. 

“Proud of my team, proud of our fans, proud of our country. Together we can achieve anything. #Belgium,” Kompany underlines his flair for leadership, on the back of scoring a fine goal in the victory over Scotland.

?#NigeldeJong played yesterday a great game for Holland. Now take Milan by the hand and go for the Scudetto...” Former AC Milan and the Netherlands legend Ruud Gullit (@GullitR), throws his support behind the combative Dutch midfielder. 

“Congratulations to my friend @_Pedro17_ for his three goals today and to @andresiniesta8 for his 75th cap. You guys deserve it!!!” David Silva (@21LVA), underlines the mutual respect between the members of the Spain squad, when hailing his team-mates’ feats in the victory over Belarus. 

“Nice match today in Belarus, great work by the team and especially Pedro! Looking forward to the next match against France!” Spain and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas (@cesc4official) continues the swift exchange of compliments. 

“Great win in my 75th game for La Selección!! Congrats to Pedro on his hat-trick!” Andres Iniesta (@andresiniesta8) rounds off the tiki-taka of La Roja stars.

“I'm glad we fulfilled our goal - get the full 6 points in these two matches. We achieved that in the best way possible,” Argentina striker Sergio Aguero (@aguerosergiokun), savouring the moment after La Albiceleste’s back-to-back wins over Uruguay and Chile.

“Great win. Today’s was a team display, and I’m happy with that. Laters!!!” Argentina’s midfield general Javier Mascherano (@Mascherano), highlights the increasing solidity of Alejandro Sabella’s La Albiceleste, after the win in Santiago.

“How they roar, the fans in the Metropolitano [stadium] and in Colombia as a whole!! Thanks be to God for this success, the glory’s all yours!” Los Cafeteros’ red-hot goal-getter Radamel Falcao (@Falcao), scorer of a brace in his country’s win over Paraguay. Mere days later he was in the stands of Atletico de Madrid’s Vicente Calderon stadium to watch Spain-France.

“The idea is to win your home games but there’s a real football saying that says ‘if you can’t win at least try not to lose’. There’s a long way to go left! And we’re still picking up points,” Venezuela defender and key man Oswaldo Vizcarrondo (@vizcarrondo4), after La Vinotinto moved up to fifth in South American Zone qualifying after the home draw with Ecuador. 

“A vital 3 points, well deserved but what an emotional way to do it. Great spirit lads, it's in our hands!” Australia captain Lucas Neill (@LucasNeill|), both proud and relieved after the Socceroos 2-1 comeback win over Iraq.

“Good luck boys. 3 points. We will all be watching. ?#USAvGUA,” Abby Wambach (@AbbyWambach), lethal goal-getter for the US women’s side, gets behind her counterparts in the men’s set-up.

“On to the Hex! Congrats to the ?#USMNT on a job very well done. Great and fun game to watch. Keep it going! ?#USA ?#USA ?#USA,” American striker Jozy Altidore (@JozyAltidore), after the USA’s victory over Guatemala which guaranteed their berth in the region’s final six-team hexagonal qualifying round.

“Watching world cup qualifiers makes me excited for ?#brazil2014,” Wambach’s Stars and Stripes strike partner Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13), just can’t get enough of the beautiful game.

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Trio celebrate as Iran stumble

Japan took a giant stride towards 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ qualification with a 2-1 win in Oman cementing their dominance in Asia's Group B.

Over in Group A, Qatar edged out visiting Lebanon 1-0 to claw themselves back into contention. Iraq also revived their fortunes by scraping past Jordan with the same scoreline.

Elsewhere, there was a surprise as Uzbekistan overcame all the odds in Tehran to record their first-ever win against hosts Iran. Join FIFA.com as we detail an enthralling matchday in Asia.

Final qualifying round, matchday 5 results:
14 November
Group A: Iran 0-1 Uzbekistan, Qatar 1-0 Lebanon
Group B: Oman 1-2 Japan, Iraq 1-0 Jordan

The match
Oman 1-2 Japan
Goals: Ahmed Mubarak 77; Hiroshi Kiyotake 20, Shinji Okazaki 89

A pair of new faces shone as Japan maintained their dominance with a hard-fought victory over Oman. Nurnberg midfielder Hiroshi Kiyotake, on for injured Shinji Kagawa, put Alberto Zaccheroni's visitors ahead on 20 minutes with his first international goal. Ahmed Mubarak may have drawn the hosts level on 77 minutes, but second-half substitute Gotoku Sakai provided the decisive cross which led to Shinji Okazaki's match-winning goal a minute from time.

The hosts carved out more clear chances as they sought their first win against the Japanese. Coach Paul Le Guen's Red Warriors nearly broke the deadlock on ten minutes, too, with Fawzi Bashir agonisingly pulling his shot over with only the goalkeeper to beat. The Omanis were soon punished for the near-miss when Kiyotake latched onto Yuto Nagatomo's pull-back from the right to put his side ahead.

The home team would miss another glorious chance when Ismail Al Ajmi's glancing header rattled the upright. Cheered on by the home crowd, the hosts continued to press forward after restart, with Mubarak equalising from a free-kick to put the game on a knife’s edge. However, Sakai surged down the left to flick a venomous cross into the area, which was tapped home by Okazaki to settle the affair.

The surprise
Iran 0-1 Uzbekistan
Goal: Ulugbek Bakaev, 71

While few teams have left Tehran unscathed, Uzbekistan returned home in celebratory mood by inflicting their first-ever defeat on their hosts. Ulugbek Bakaev struck the match-winning goal as the visitors ended the Iranian jinx. The result moves coach Mirdjalal Kasimov's charges to the top of the section, a point clear of the Iranians, Qatar and Korea Republic, all of whom are level on seven points.

In a scrappy match at the intimidating Azadi Stadium, Carlos Queiroz's home side enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, but they had few clear-cut opportunities. Mohammad Nori had a goal ruled out early on, before Karim Ansarifard saw his effort fly just over after the restart. With the hosts looking too anxious in front of goal, the visitors took a surprise lead when an unmarked Bakaev turned Server Djeparov's dipping free-kick home to silence the 100,000-strong home crowd and seal a famous triumph.

The other attractions
Striker Sebastian Soria eased a nation's worries by scoring the only goal as hosts Qatar scraped past Lebanon in Group A. The result not only extends the Qataris' unblemished head-to-head record to five wins, but also leaves them sharing second spot, level with Korea Republic on seven points.

With Theo Bucker's visitors content to defend, coach Paulo Autuori's home side were limited to three shots in the opening half despite pressing forward with gusto. The breakthrough finally came on 75 minutes, when an onrushing Soria caught keeper Abbas Hassanout, coolly firing into the top of net from 25 yards out. 

Elsewhere, captain Noor Sabri put in a series of brave saves before teenage striker Hammadi Ahmed scored the only goal against Jordan four minutes from time as Iraq recorded their first win of the campaign.

The triumph leaves Zico’s side level with Australia and Oman on five points, with the Jordanians trailing by a point. With Japan boasting a massive eight-point cushion at the top, Group B looks likely to turn into a three-way battle for the second automatic qualifying spot.

The player
Having netted the match-winning goal in their first-leg 3-0 home win against Oman, Shinji Okazaki continued his prolific form against the West Asians by sealing the second victory.

The stat
3 - Three players - Okazaki, Younis Mahmoud and Hassan Abdel Fattah - are tangled for tournament top-scorer honours with seven goals apiece.

What they said
"I know this young squad doesn't have enough experience, but I always believe what they are capable on the pitch. Before the match I told them to focus on their play and to my pleasure, they performed well as an organised team," Iraq coach Zico.

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Okazaki nicks Japan win in Oman

Shinji Okazaki scored a late winner as Asian champions Japan edged Oman 2-1 to home in on a berth at the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ in Brazil.

Oman had not lost at home in the final round of qualifiers and Ahmed Mubarak's 77th-minute free-kick looked like preserving their unbeaten streak, after Hiroshi Kiyotake's first goal for Japan had put the visitors in front after 20 minutes.

But Okazaki had the last word when he scored from close range after a break down the left, putting Alberto Zaccheroni's men provisionally eight points clear at the top of Group B with three games to play.

"I'm pleased I was able to score because I didn't do much else for the whole of the match," Okazaki said. "We kept chipping away and found a way to win in the end. We weren't in control today so I hope we can dominate to beat Jordan next time." 

Japan were weakened by the injury-enforced absence of Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa and Schalke defender Atsuto Uchida, while Hiroki Sakai started at right-back in place of Yuichi Komano, who hurt his back in training.

Oman looked dangerous on the break and should have taken the lead after ten minutes, but Fawzi Bashir blazed over from a promising position after being picked out from the right wing by Ismail Al Ajmi.

Stuttgart's Okazaki, who missed Japan's recent friendlies against France and Brazil, saw a couple of half-chances saved by Oman's Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi at the other end, before Kiyotake broke the deadlock.

Oman failed to properly deal with Yuto Nagatomo's cross from the left and Nurnburg midfielder Kiyotake seized on the loose ball to slot home from close range.

Okazaki winner downs Oman
The goal settled nerves but Oman were unlucky not to be on level terms in the 36th minute, as Al Ajmi headed against the post and Nagatomo hacked the ball to safety, before Al Ajmi was taken off injured.

Oman came out with renewed purpose after the break and Mubarak nearly made it all square with a long-range effort that was well dealt with by Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima.

Kiyotake and Sakai both had chances to extend Japan's lead as the pace slowed, but with 13 minutes remaining, Mubarak squeezed in a low free-kick which sent the home fans into a frenzy.

However, as Oman pressed for the winner, substitute Gotoku Sakai raced free on the left flank and his cross was flicked on at the near post by Yasuhito Endo, leaving the arriving Okazaki with the simplest of finishes. Japan resume their qualifying campaign away to Jordan on 26 March, when Oman are away to Australia.

"We had set ourselves the target of three points here, and I'm happy we accomplished that goal," Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni said. "The heat meant we couldn't play the way we're capable of playing. Oman showed a lot of heart but I'm proud of the way my team refused to give in."

Oman coach Paul Le Guen commented: "We played against one of the best teams in the world at the moment and we had a great performance so we are very disappointed with the result, the manner in which we lost. There are still three games to play and we are still in the running to qualify."

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Ahmed keeps Iraqi dream alive

Iraq resurrected their slim chances of making it to 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ with a 1-0 victory over Jordan in their qualifying match today. Winless in four matches prior to the clash in Doha, Iraq were in serious danger of missing the global finals before an 86th minute strike from forward Hammadi Ahmed kept their dream alive.

The result leaves Iraq five points from as many matches in Group B, one clear of Jordan, which draws them level on points with second-placed Australia, who have a game in hand, and Oman.

The result brought relief to Iraq coach Zico who had dropped veterans Younus Mahmoud and Nashat Akram from the squad. It was a decision that surprised many because other regulars, such as striker Ala Abdulzehra and defenders Basem Abbas, Muthana Khalid and Salam Shaker, were already unavailable through injuries.

Jordan's Iraqi coach Adnan Hamad was also handicapped by the suspension of Anas Bani Yaseen but the return of goalkeeper Amer Shafi and defender Basem Fathi from injuries gave the team some solidity. Shafi made his presence felt by providing a stellar role in goal before Ahmed's late strike ruined what could have been a perfect day.

Goalkeepers on song
In a fast-paced match, Jordan held the upper hand but found the Iraqi goalkeeper Nour Sabri a tough nut to crack. Sabri saved a 33rd minute strike by Abdulla Deeb and in the 59th minute, Hassan Abdel-Fattah, one of Jordan's heroes in the win against Australia, failed to score from less than six yards out, his weak shot finding the goalkeeper's body and going out of play.

With time running out. a desperate Iraq gave their all in the final 30 minutes, but the Jordanian goalkeeper Amer Shafi, too, was equal to the task, pulling off three saves to deny powerful efforts on goal. But Shafi could do nothing four minutes from time when Ahmed cracked home a left-footer from outside the penalty area, much to the delight of the Iraqi expatriate crowd in the stadium.

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Honduras rout Canada to advance with Panama

Jerry Bengtson scored a hat-trick on Tuesday to spark hosts Honduras to a 8-1 win against Canada and into next year's final round of 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ qualifying in North and Central America.

Panama also advanced with a 1-1 draw at winless Cuba as the Canadians failed to reach next year's FIFA World Cup qualifying final round in CONCACAF.

Tuesday marked the conclusion of the 12-nation penultimate qualifying round with only unbeaten Mexico assured of moving on when the day began.

Needing a victory to advance from Group C, Honduras struck quickly with Bengtson scoring in the seventh and 16th minutes.

Carlos Costly added the first of his two goals in the 28th minute and Mario Martinez followed in the 32nd as Honduras seized a 4-0 half-time advantage.

Canada's David Edgar netted an own goal in the 48th minute and Martinez netted his second tally in the 62nd to put Honduras ahead 6-0.

Iain Hume answered for Canada in the 76th minute but Bengtson completed his hat-trick in the 82nd minute and Costly finished off the scoring in the 85th to complete the rout.

At Havana, the already-eliminated Cubans netted their only goal in six qualifying matches when Alberto Gomez scored in the 38th minute.

Nelson Barahona equalized for Panama in the 77th to earn a draw. Honduras took the group crown on goal difference thanks to the blowout of Canada.

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Armadillo a big hit with the kids

“Hey fans, I’m all of a flutter! I know it’s hard to believe that an armadillo can feel like that, but I guarantee it’s true. I think that I’m getting more and more involved in the FIFA World Cup™.

This Wednesday I was in the Beira-Rio. As a football-following armadillo, I know that a host of superstars of Brazilian and South American football have graced that green turf. It made me want to roll around on it, but I managed this time to restrain my desire to roll into a ball.

Of course I was the first to get out of the car and take the field. And, though I was already happy, seeing the kids that were waiting for me gave me an even bigger buzz. There were children of all ages there, all wanting to have their photos taken with me.

I’m a cheeky armadillo, everyone knows that. They said that I was very good-looking, that I was cool and colourful too. If they say so, they must be right... right? And at the end of the day, my colours are the same as Brazil’s!

I was so happy that I wanted to go onto the pitch hand-in-hand with the local kids. The stadium is looking better all the time too, and it’s going to be really cool to come back here in 2014.

Well, later on I got away from the delegation and went to eat churrasco (grilled meat), because no Brazilian could resist that, right? The trip has come to an end but I’ve got some great memories from Belo Horizonte and Porto Alegre to take with me. Next month I’ll have more too and by then I’ll even have a name. See you all next time!”

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Montenegro top qualifying group

Andrija Delibasic scored twice as Montenegro knocked England off the top of FIFA World Cup™ Qualifying Group H with a 3-0 victory over group minnows San Marino in Podgorica.

Delibasic opened the scoring after 14 minutes and made it 2-0 at the break when he doubled the home side's lead on the half-hour. Elsad Zverotic added the third in the second half.

Montenegro's third straight win takes them two points clear at the top of the group having played the same number of games as England. Poland sit in third place a further three points behind, having played a game less.

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Familiar foes reunite in Asian showdowns

Asia's final qualifying round for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ reaches the second-half of the campaign on Wednesday, with four pairs of contenders meeting up in their first return matches.

Notably, Group B's runaway leaders Japan travel to Oman determined to maintain their momentum with a fourth victory, while bottom side Iraq entertain Jordan in Doha desperately seeking their first win.

Elsewhere, Iran from Group A will be hopeful of moving to the section summit with a home triumph over Uzbekistan. Lebanon, meanwhile, challenge hosts Qatar buoyed by their recent good form in what is a crucial match for both teams. Join FIFA.com as we preview these enticing match-ups in detail.

Final qualifying round, matchday 5 fixtures:
14 November
Group A: Iran-Uzbekistan, Qatar-Lebanon
Group B: Oman-Japan, Iraq-Jordan

The match
Oman-Japan
The great rivalry between the two sides needs no introduction, with the encounter at Muscat marking their eighth qualifying meeting. Their first dates back to 1997, when an emerging Japan carved out four points over two legs en-route to sealing their maiden qualification for the global extravaganza at France 1998.

Samurai Blue maintained their dominance with two victories on the road to Germany 2006, before another four points added to their undefeated record against Oman and helped pave the way for South Africa 2010 qualification. Their latest meeting saw Alberto Zaccheroni's Japan again prevail with an emphatic 3-0 home win.

Revenge, understandably, will be on the Omanis mind as Paul Le Guen's hosts seek to move into second place with their first-ever defeat of Japan. The Red Warriors overcame Jordan 2-1 in the last qualifier, although they were edged out by Estonia by the identical scoreline in a recent warm-up.

Star goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi is expected to continue his recent form with Wigan Athletic, while the team's goalscoring task lies on the shoulders of Amad Al Hosni, who famously scored the only goal as they stunned Australia this time last year.

Taking heart from their proud head-to-head record, the visitors received a further boost heading into the game with a 1-0 friendly win against France, although they lost 4-0 to a rampaging Brazil lately.

If there is anything to cause Zaccheroni concerns, it must be the loss of Shinji Kagawa due to a knee injury. Nuremberg midfielder Hiroshi Kiyotake is likely to fill the gap left by the Manchester United star, while CSKA Moscow playmaker Keisuke Honda remains the man to lead the team.

The other attractions
In a match neither side can afford to lose, Iraq welcome Jordan for the fourth time in the campaign. With just two points from four outings, Zico's hosts are quickly facing a must-win scenario, and the under-pressure Brazilian could field a new-look line-up without stars such as Younis Mahmoud and Nashat Akram.

The Jordanians, under Iraqi Adnan Hamad, are inspired by the return of goalkeeper Amer Shafi and defender Basem Fathi, both of whom were suspended against for the 2-1 defeat against Oman. And with a second victory potentially taking them to second, the visitors won't easily let the chance slip away.

In-form Iran and Uzbekistan enter their second leg meeting with a shared aim of moving top with three points in Tehran. Level with leaders Korea Republic on seven points, a draw will be enough to move Carlos Queiroz's hosts to the summit. Mirdjalal Kasimov's visitors, though, face a must-win if they wish to target top spot.

Team Melli ran riot against Tajikistan in a pre-match friendly which they won 6-1, with Ali Karimi excelling by providing three assists. However, the Iran captain injured his hamstring and is ruled out for the Uzbekistan showdown. The White Wolves, meanwhile, arrive in Tehran with a full-strength line-up as they seek to avenge their 1-0 defeat in Tashkent.

Elsewhere, Lebanon coach Theo Bucker travels to Qatar keeping faith with the line-up skippered by Chinese-based Roda Antar, who scored the match-winning goal as they sealed a history-making win against Iran in the last outing. Sitting out the previous matchday with a bye, the Cedars flexed their muscles with a 2-1 defeat of Yemen.

Similarly, Qatar coach Paulo Autuori, showed unwavering belief in his squad despite losing to Uzbekistan 1-0 at home. And his faith paid dividends in the build-up with his side edging Iraq 2-1 in a friendly.

Players to watch
In what coach Zaccheroni has predicted to be a largely defensive game by hosts Oman, Japan will look to make their most of set-piece specialists Yasuhito Endo and Keisuke Honda.

The stat
13 - Japan has edged Australia to boast Asia's highest quota of European-based players, with thirteen players from their current squad plying their trade in Europe.

What they said
"The game in Oman will be important for us. We are going to have three away matches in the latter half of the qualifiers, and it will be down to how many points we can collect in those away games," Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni

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Saucedo, Bolivia’s late bloomer

Bolivia’s Carlos Saucedo will surely never forget the events of 16 October 2012, and with good reason. Indeed, how often does a 33-year-old make their senior national-team debut in a FIFA World Cup™ qualifier in the fiercely competitive South American Zone and fire three goals past Copa America holders Uruguay?

“I’d always dreamed of playing for my country, though what I really wanted was to be finally given a chance,” Saucedo told FIFA.com, clearly still thrilling in the 4-1 win over La Celeste that revived Bolivia’s hopes of reaching Brazil 2014. “Once I knew I was going to start against Uruguay I said to myself: ‘You have to score a goal now.’ That’s because I’ve seen so many proven strikers come in and not perform that I was afraid I wouldn’t be up to the test when it came to my turn. But I never imagined I’d score three!”

What's more, Saucedo has been something of a late bloomer throughout his professional career, with the right-footed forward only making his debut in the Bolivian top flight at the age of 26, back in 2006 at Oriente Petrolero. His first league top scorers’ honours would take a further six years to arrive – when he grabbed 17 in 22 games for San Jose de Oruro in the Clausura 2012.

Not that he was without goalscoring pedigree before then, having struck 18 times in 33 matches for Bolivar in 2007 and 15 in 41 for Aurora in 2010, but a national-team opportunity had always eluded him. Why does he think that was? “There was always a foreign-based player doing well at the same time, and they ended up getting the nod,” said the Santa Cruz-born front-runner, who himself has also played for domestic outfits Blooming and The Strongest, as well as Ecuador’s Deportivo Quito and Colombian side Independiente Medellin.

Nose for goal
Ninety minutes against Uruguay have done Saucedo’s international profile no end of good, however, and the modest goal-getter now finds himself pursuing the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Gonzalo Higuain (all on seven goals) and Falcao (five) in the race for scorers’ honours in CONMEBOL qualifying. “It’s a very nice feeling and something that really spurs you on. They’re still quite far ahead, though, so I need to score more to get into the hunt,” he said with a grin.

“The most important thing is not to get ahead of myself and start saying ‘I’m going to top score in this qualifying phase,’” he continued. “It’s true that I played my part, but I don’t even know if I’ll start the next game. Over and above any selection dilemma I might have given the coach, it’s the team that matters. Our objective is to reach Brazil.”

And in Saucedo’s view, despite their stuttering start, Bolivia were never out of the running for a qualification place. “In our country the fans tend to see everything in terms of results, but we players don’t. So, just as we didn’t feel we had no chance after drawing [1-1 at home] with Peru, we don’t think we’re already there now we’ve beaten Uruguay,” said the self-described “penalty-area opportunist”, whose treble against Las Charrúas – one with the left foot, one with the right and finally a header – underlined his mastery of the art.

“We’re now four points short of the qualifying places and, though we’re already past halfway and we’ve got incredibly tough games next against Colombia away and then Argentina at home [in March 2013], we’ve still got a chance. As long as that’s the case, we’ll never stop believing,” added the man nicknamed El Caballo (The Horse) who, urged on by his team-mates, celebrated his hat-trick goal by miming a gallop across the pitch.  

Global aspirations
Saucedo is now fully focused on continuing to do his bit to help coach Xabier El Bigotón Azkargorta lead Bolivia to the next FIFA World Cup, a feat the supremo already achieved back at USA 1994. “I’ve got very vivid memories of watching that on TV, and I still can’t believe it’s the same Xabier who’s given me my national-team debut,” said the striker, a fervent admirer of attacking icons Ronaldo and Martin Palermo.

“When the game finished I went up to Xabier and said ‘Thanks gaffer for giving me this opportunity’. He replied, saying, ‘You don’t have anything to thank me for. You’ve earned everything that’s happening to you’. His words really meant a lot to me,” continued Saucedo, who admitted to being unable to hold back the tide of emotion in the hours after his stellar display.

“When I got to the hotel I just started weeping, and the same thing happened once I got back home,” said the player. “I just needed to get it all out my system. I was thinking about all the sacrifices I’d made and my family too, who are always there for me. I was so happy that I barely slept!”

Visibly moved when recalling those post-match moments, Saucedo recovered his composure as the conversation drew to a close. “I’ve had to do it all the hard way and, like the gaffer said, everything I’ve achieved in football is the result of my hard work,” he concluded with the same conviction with which he put Uruguay to the sword.

“I earned my chance with the national team and I didn’t disappoint. Now I’m hoping to stay in the squad and keep helping the team so Bolivia can reach the next World Cup.”

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Prandelli pleased with Azzurri

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli believes his side showed spirit in overcoming the dismissal of Pablo Osvaldo to beat Denmark 3-1 at the San Siro.

Two goals in the space of five minutes from Riccardo Montolivo and Daniele De Rossi had Gli Azzurri 2-0 up, although Denmark got a goal back in first-half stoppage time through William Kvist Jorgensen. Then, just 18 seconds into the second half, Osvaldo was shown red for violent conduct after an incident involving Denmark's Nicolai Stokholm.

However, Mario Balotelli, making his first appearance for Italy since UEFA EURO 2012, fired in a third in the 54th minute to put the result beyond doubt. The win saw Italy move four points clear at the top of Group B, and Prandelli could find few faults with his team's performance.

"We had some initial difficulties, but then we began to play some good football and we deserved the two goals," he told the Italian Football Federation's website. "We used up a lot of energy playing a man down, but I saw a great spirit in the ten still out there and we fought with determination and order.

"And for this, I have to congratulate the lads. We are now a bit more relaxed about our position in the group but we have to improve a lot."

It was a happy return to the San Siro for former Inter Milan striker Balotelli.

"I was hoping to win this game," he said. "We took the lead but things then became a little complicated when they scored at the end of the first half. My goal was instinct. I just tried to anticipate the goalkeeper. It's always special to play at the San Siro. It's a great stadium and gives you great emotions."

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Sacked Levein pays for poor Scotland results

Craig Levein paid for a poor run of results when he was sacked as Scotland manager by the Scottish Football Association (SFA) on Monday.

"The Scottish FA tonight announces that Craig Levein has been relieved of his duties as Scotland National Coach," said an SFA statement.

"The board of the Scottish FA has taken the decision primarily due to the disappointing results in the FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014™ Qualifiers, which have culminated in Scotland being bottom of the group after four matches."

Former Scotland defender Levein guided the Scots to just three wins in his 12 competitive matches in charge after replacing fellow former international George Burley in 2009. Their chances of reaching the finals of a major tournament for the first time since the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France are hanging by a thread.

Scotland U-21 coach Billy Stark will take caretaker charge of the senior side for next week's friendly away to Luxembourg.

Following a meeting of the SFA board at Glasgow's Hampden Park, chief executive Stewart Regan said in a statement: "We are taking this decision with real sadness. Craig has worked hard to bring success, and has been thoroughly professional in his approach to the job.

"He has achieved a great deal with the team and in other areas, such as the performance strategy. However, he would be the first to agree that football is a results-driven business. For that reason we have relieved Craig of his duties with immediate effect.

"After the Luxembourg match, the board will meet to begin the process of identifying and recruiting the next national coach to take us forward. We will give ourselves time, given our fixture schedule, to find the right person for the job.

Recent defeats by both Wales and Belgium had piled the pressure on Levein. But he'd lost the support of many fans early in his time as Scotland manager by opting for a 4-6-0 formation - playing without a recognised striker - in a 1-0 defeat away to the Czech Republic, Scotland's main rivals for a UEFA EURO 2012 play-off place.

However, the scale of the problem confronting Scotland is that a full-time successor to former Hearts and Dundee United boss Levein will be their eighth manager already this century.

Former Scotland midfielder Gordon Strachan, currently out-of-work, has long been tipped as the favourite to replace Levein. Strachan, who played under Alex Ferguson at both Aberdeen and Manchester United, has previously been in charge of Glasgow giants Celtic and has also managed in the English Premier League at Coventry and Southampton.

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The Giant of Porto Alegre welcomes delegation

Popularly known as O Gigante (The Giant) and one of the venues for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, the Estadio Beira-Rio received a visit on Wednesday from a delegation comprising representatives from FIFA, the Brazil 2014 Organising Committee (LOC) and the Brazilian government.

Headed by the FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke, the Brazilian Minister of Sport Aldo Rebelo, LOC Operations Director Ricardo Trade, local dignitaries and the official mascot of Brazil 2014, the delegation was warmly welcomed by a large group of children and saw for itself how well work is progressing at the stadium and with the city’s urban mobility projects.

FIFA.com rounds up what the leading members of the delegation had to say about their Porto Alegre visit:

FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke:
“We visited the stadium this morning and I was fortunate enough to be taken by the local authorities to see the urban mobility programme that is being implemented here in Porto Alegre. I can safely say that FIFA need have no concerns as to the city’s preparations. It is making good progress and the schedule is being met. There is still much to be done of course, and we are going to carry on monitoring everything. You can be sure, however, of our continued support. The stadiums should be ready ahead of schedule as we have to carry out a minimum of two test events for the FIFA Confederations Cup and the FIFA World Cup, one with the stadium 35 per cent full and the other 70 per cent full, to ensure they are fully operational .”

Brazilian Minister of Sport, Aldo Rebelo:
“I have seen for myself that there’s a real sense of optimism and hard work here in Rio Grande do Sul, going towards getting Porto Alegre ready to host the FIFA World Cup for a second time, the city having also been a venue in 1950. I am absolutely convinced that  Porto Alegre will offer the warm welcome the state is known for to journalists, fans, delegations and all visitors to the city in general. That’s the tradition here in Rio Grande do Sul: to offer a warm welcome and overcome whatever problems there are. I can see the result of that dedication and hard work at the stadium and in the urban mobility projects. We all know the problems that exist. But there are problems even in the world’s most advanced countries, and I can cite a few international events in making that point. However, there’s a difference between building an image based on what’s gone right and one that’s founded on what’s gone wrong.”

Beto Grill, Acting Governor of Rio Grande do Sul:
“The Rio Grande do Sul state government decided it was going to focus special attention on building whatever was needed to stage a great FIFA World Cup. We have been working in complete harmony with the city council and the federal government. We know just how big a challenge it is to organise a FIFA World Cup, and we are convinced we will do the people of the state proud. Our job dictates that we do everything in our power to stage a great event, and we are not going to disappoint. We are going to achieve everything that’s been agreed on.”

Jose Fortunatti, Mayor of Porto Alegre:
“I hope all of you have felt right at home. We know that the FIFA World Cup is a major opportunity for us, not only because it is a huge event, but because it is going to leave an important legacy for the city of Porto Alegre and for the people of our state. Urban mobility, safety, public transport and a host of other initiatives: this whole process of transformation is geared towards the staging of the competition. I am sure that Porto Alegre will be making every effort to ensure everything is ready in 2014.”

LOC Operations Director Ricardo Trade:
“Once again we are absolutely delighted. We have formed an excellent partnership with the game of football here in Rio Grande do Sul, which is very strong, and with the state government, the city council and both regional departments. These are important points, as we are working closely together. Work is progressing as smoothly as it possibly can.”

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Poland earn point against England

Poland failed to pull off an historic win over England on Wednesday, a day after their FIFA World Cup™ qualifier had to be rescheduled due to a waterlogged pitch, but for home fans the 1-1 draw had a taste of victory.

Wayne Rooney sent the Poles' morale sinking 15 minutes from half-time, heading in a corner from Steven Gerrard for his 30th goal in an England shirt. Poland's answer came in the 70th minute, thanks to Torino defender Kamil Glik, courtesy of another header from a corner.

Conscious of their underdog image, they stand 54th in the FIFA rankings to England's fifth, Poland took the game to their rivals from kick off.

The game had been billed as a personal battle between Poland's Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski and England's Manchester City keeper Joe Hart, who recently did battle in the UEFA Champions League.

But with Lewandowski failing to shine in the half, it was midfielder Kamil Grosicki who first sent home fans' pulses racing in the 58,000-capacity Kazimierz Gorski Stadium in the eighth minute, though poor control stymied his effort.

England had their chance after 15 minutes but James Milner's lateral pass failed to find a team-mate before Polish goalkeeper Przemyslaw Tyton smothered the ball.

Working hand-in-hand with fellow midfielder, French-born Ludovic Obraniak, Sivasspor's Grosicki continued to seek weak links in the England defence, to no avail.

Manchester City's Milner fed Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermain Defoe up front in the 26th minute, only for the latter to lose the battle with Poland captain Marcin Wasilewski, standing in for the injured Kuba Blaszczykowski.

Two minutes later, Poland powered back, with Grosicki finding Lewandowski in the box, only for newcomer Pawel Wszolek to fail to latch onto the pass.

A minute after Rooney's goal put England up, Grosicki again came up empty.

For the remainder of the half, both teams failed to capitalise on corners and free kicks, while strikes from Glen Johnson and Grosicki went wide minutes from the whistle.

After the interval, Poland upped the pace in a drive to close the deficit, with corner-taking stalwart Obraniak firing over the bar in the 49th minute, followed by Lewandowski ten minutes later.

A lone run by substitute Danny Welbeck then found Tyton floundering, but Rooney failed to make it two.

Poland's traditionally unforgiving fans began to harangue their team, but were suddenly silenced when a 70th-minute Obraniak corner found Glik, who earned his second Poland goal, as Hart came for the ball and was left stranded.

Ten minutes later, they were inches away from pulling ahead, as yet another Obraniak corner found Glik.

Three minutes from time, Milner found himself free, only for Tyton to beat him, before Obraniak pounded at Hart twice, the second time forcing the England keeper into a lunging save.

The Poles had been aware that history was against them having beaten England just once, in the race to qualify for the 1974 FIFA World Cup, when they deprived the English of a berth at the finals, and drawn six times in a total of 17 previous meetings.

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USA move on with Jamaica

Clint Dempsey scored two goals to lead USA over visiting Guatemala 3-1 on Tuesday and into next year's CONCACAF final round qualifying for Brazil 2014, where they will be joined by Jamaica.

Tottenham striker Dempsey broke a 1-1 deadlock with a goal in the 18th minute and added another in the 36th minute to spark the Americans, while the Guatemalans were eliminated when Jamaica beat Antigua and Barbuda 4-1.

"Credit my team-mates. They were putting good balls in. I was lucky enough to get them to go in," Dempsey said. "A little pressure on us but it's behind us now. We want to go to the World Cup. This is the first step to getting there.

"We haven't been able to get too many wins away from home," Dempsey said. "If we start getting wins away from home and keep our results at home, I think we'll be all right."

Carlos Ruiz gave Guatemala the lead with a goal in the fifth minute to put a scare into the Americans at Kansas City. US captain Carlos Bocanegra answered in the tenth minute to equalise, setting the stage for Dempsey's double strike.

At Kingston, Jamaica's Reggae Boyz advanced thanks to goals by Dane Richards in the 78th and 88th minutes. Jamaica and Guatemala each finished 3-2 with one drawn in Group A but Jamaica moved on due to superior goal difference.

Needing a victory to have any chance to advance, Jamaica took command quickly on goals by Demar Phillips in the 16th minute and Nyron Nosworthy, a Watford defender, in the 17th.

Quinton Griffith pulled one back for visiting Antigua and Barbuda in the 61st minute, putting Jamaica's FIFA World Cup dream at risk before Richards saved the day.

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M'Vila hit with big ban

Rennes midfielder Yann M'Vila is unlikely to feature at the FIFA World Cup™ in 2014 after being suspended from international duty for two years by the French Football Federation (FFF).

M'Vila is banned from representing "any national team" until July 2014 after five France U-21 players broke a curfew to visit a Parisian nightclub just days before a European Championships play-off meeting against Norway in October.

An FFF statement read: "Yann M'Vila is suspended from selection for any national team between November 12, 2012 and June 30, 2014."

The statement confirmed that M'Baye Niang, Antoine Griezmann, Chris Mavinga and Wissam Ben Yedder have all received the same sanction, but until December 31, 2013.

Amiens-born M'Vila, who has been capped 22 times for France's senior side, was a surprise omission from the squad announced to face Italy next week until the FFF clarified his situation.

The 22-year-old also served a one-match international ban for refusing to shake the hand of substitute Olivier Giroud when he was substituted against Spain during this summer's European Championships.

The five players have the option to appeal against the FFF's decision.

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Joy of six in CONCACAF

THE DAY REPLAYED – USA, Jamaica, Panama, Honduras and Costa Rica all did enough to join mighty Mexico in the final six-team (hexagonal) round of CONCACAF qualifying. FIFA.com wraps up all the action from the New World, where Honduras humbled Canada 8-1, USA coach Jurgen Klinsmann proved he’s still an attacker at heart, and Costa Rica and Jamaica came back from the dead. 

Game of the day
USA 3-1 Guatemala
A nice, neat, simple draw was all that was required in Kansas City to send both USA and Guatemala through to the final round from Group A. But American coach Klinsmann – a top striker in his playing days – was in no mood for caution, starting with the attacking trio of Clint Dempsey, Herculez Gomez and Eddie Johnson on the pitch. In a sensational twist, however, it was Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz who opened the scoring, collecting a long ball from midfield, rounding US keeper Tim Howard and poking home to silence a capacity crowd decked out in red, white and blue regalia. It didn’t take long for the home side to respond, though, first through captain Carlos Bocanegra, and then Clint Dempsey (2), to send the Americans through and Guatemala out.

In other action
Cool Jamaican nerves were put to the test on Tuesday night as the Reggae Boyz only just managed to grab hold of the second ticket on offer from Group A. A pair of Dane Richards goals late in a 4-1 win over Antigua and Barbuda was enough to spark off a mighty party in Kingston as Jamaica edged Guatemala on goal difference.

Costa Rica booked their place in the final round with a stunning 7-0 win over Guyana in San Jose, completing a harrowing revival after a tepid start to their semi-final campaign. Mexico, who qualified two rounds ago at a canter, finished with a simple 2-0 win over El Salvador in Torreon to keep up their 100 per cent record. 

Canada needed only a draw on the road in Honduras to book their place in the final round, but they got nowhere near it, losing out 8-1 to Honduras. Jerry Bengston and Carlo Costly both scored hat-tricks in a game that put Honduras through to the hexagonal along with Panama, who drew Cuba 1-1 in Havana.

Player of the day – Jerry Bengston (HON)
Young striker Jerry Bengston has been called the future of Honduran football, and he had his say in the stunning 8-1 victory over Canada in San Pedro Sula. The New England Revolution ace, who wasn’t even in the squad for Honduras’ near-catastrophic start to Brazil 2014 qualifying, scored three goals against the lethargic Canucks, his first-ever hat-trick in a Honduran jersey. Hero of Honduras’ shock run to the quarter-finals of the London Olympics, the tall and pacey Bengston is on an upward trajectory to be sure. He may well be clairvoyant, too, as he told FIFA.com just a few weeks ago: “We’re going to be really strong at home from now on.”

The number
30 – The number of goals Clint Dempsey, who scored two and set up the other in USA’s 3-1 win over Guatemala, has scored for the Stars and Stripes. It ties him with Brian McBride as third all-time top US scorer. Guatemala’s only goal on the night came from Carlos Ruiz, who is his country’s all-time top scorer with 55 in 104 caps.

What they said
“All I can do is ask the fans’ forgiveness on behalf of the players. I know they’ll never forgive me. You’re supposed to go down all guns blazing, but we were horrible.” Canada coach Stephen Hart on the 8-1 loss he called “disturbing,” and one that will have the footballing powers that be in the Great White North asking big questions.

CONCACAF third round, matchday six
Honduras 8-1 Canada
Cuba 1-1 Panama
USA 3-1 Guatemala
Jamaica 4-1 Antigua and Barbuda
Costa Rica 7-0 Guyana
Mexico 2-0 El Salvador

The CONCACAF hexagonal field (in no order)
Honduras
Panama
USA
Jamaica
Costa Rica
Mexico

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