Intriguing quarter-final pairings drawn

“It’s my great pleasure to declare the draw ceremony open,” FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter said by way of welcome to the invited guests. “I wish every success to all the teams taking part in this wonderful tournament.”Blatter handed over to Japan Football Association President Kuniya Daini, who had this to say: “We’re proud to…

The 34-year-old may have been offered the opportunity to become part of André Villas-Boas’ new era at the club but instead opted to join up with his old Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes at Queens Park Rangers.“I could’ve probably stayed at Tottenham,” he says.“They pretty much said they would like me to stay but they…

Les Cagous paid for their errors in defence by going down 2-0 to reigning champions and tournament favourites Martinique while the Toa Aito were beaten 3-1 by Mayotte.Leading into the competition, New Caledonia coach Alain Moizan said he believed his team has the qualities to put up a good fight against some tough competition.“We know…

A spirited Futsal Whites gave a good account of themselves in the final match of the series at ASB Stadium in Kohimarama with goals to 2011 New Zealand player of the year Dylan Manickum and Jakub Sinkora ensuring honours were shared 2-2 in the second half.Australia proved too strong for their opponents racing out to…

The final score flattered the visitors, who netted three goals inside the final sixty seconds when Futsal Whites coach Scott Gilligan rolled the dice and deployed skipper Marvin Eakins as a ‘flying goalkeeper’ in the final few minutes, and failed to reflect the closeness of the match.There was a moment to savour for the hosts…