Sports

Italy secured a thrilling 4-3 win over Japan on Wednesday to book a semi-final berth in the Confederations Cup.

Barcelona defender Carles Puyol has successfully undergone surgery to treat a painful swelling in his right knee.

Brazilian side Santos is said to have placed a five million euro price tag on the 23-year-old.

Ethiopia soccer officials have admitted fielding an ineligible player in a World Cup qualifier and are resigned to being stripped of three points, potentially handing South Africa and Botswana a 2014 lifeline.

FIFA is investigating Ethiopia and Togo for allegedly fielding ineligible players in World Cup qualifying.

Mario Balotelli scored the winner in Italy's 2-1 victory over Mexico on Sunday at the Confederations Cup at the renovated Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

The striker said that it's natural that in the national team he hasn't been able to play as well as he used to for Santos.

West Ham have identified Belgian international Lukaku as their No 1 target and will be looking to partner him with Andy Carroll who has agreed to £17 million deal.

Pele has warned Brazil not to underestimate Japan in the opening match of the Confederations Cup.

They have been accused by Spanish tax authorities of defrauding the state of more than four million euros.

Japan finished their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 1-0 win over Iraq that ended the West Asian nation's slim hopes of joining them in Brazil.

Balotelli apologised for his red card with coach Cesare Prandelli telling him he must to get used to being provoked.

Former Manchester City defender Simon Colosimo has signed up with I-League club Dempo SC for a one-year deal.

Sevilla FC has accepted the English club's offer, taking into account the wishes of the player, who will have to pass a medical.

Real Madrid has agreed with Emirates for the airlines to be its sponsor for the next five seasons.

"I would have liked to stay and played on at Barcelona, but the club saw it differently," said the French defender.