World Cup for Saturday: Sixty years later, U.S. and England meet again

RUSTENBURG, South Africa (AP) — When they emerged victorious the last time, they wound up calling it "The Game of Their Lives."

Once-unknown players have spent a lifetime reliving memories of that unexpected night in Belo Horizonte, when the United States rose up and defeated mighty England in the World Cup.

Sixty years removed and 4,449 miles from that stadium in Brazil, the nations finally meet again Saturday in a game that matters, a rematch in this year's World Cup opener for both teams.

Once again, England is stocked with the talented and the wealthy, carrying the hopes of long-suffering supporters who still believe even though 44 years have passed since the Three Lions' last and only World Cup title.

And while the Americans are no longer obscure, and many have gained experience with the very Premier League clubs that produced England's stars, they remain outsiders, eager to earn the respect of not only the soccer powers but of a skeptical public back home.

So, in refurbished Royal Bafokeng Stadium, in the open savannah bushveld near platinum mines and game parks filled with elephants and baboons, soccer's English-speaking power and English-speaking upstart face off for pride, and more importantly, three points toward reaching the second round.

"We believe we're going to win," U.S. coach Bob Bradley said Friday night. "It's said with no disrespect to our opponent. We certainly know that it will take a strong, strong effort on our part."

Far, far away from home, the setting is most unusual. This is the first World Cup match for the Americans in the southern hemisphere since that trip to Brazil ended with a 5-2 loss to Chile. On Friday, the U.S. bus was blocked twice when leaving the team hotel, the Bakubung Bush Lodge, and it wasn't exactly because of traffic.

"It was cool," American captain Carlos Bocanegra said. "A big elephant was just eating, I think, on the path."

For England, the U.S. seems to be sort of a generic opponent, like the teams that lose to the Harlem Globetrotters. During coach Fabio Capello's nine-minute prematch news conference, there was not a single reference to the Americans. While England is ranked eighth in the world and the U.S. 14th, it might as well be first and 207th.

"We are sure that we go forward in this competition," Capello said.

Americans like Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard have succeeded in the fast-paced English club game. And last year they finished second in the Confederations Cup, beating African champion Egypt 3-0 in this very stadium and before defeating European champion Spain 2-0 in the semifinal.

"The USA are very hard working — very fit and physical," England captain Steven Gerrard said. "They will be trying to deny us time and space on the ball. They know we have quality on the ball. We are expecting to be pressed really quickly. I'm sure it will be a good physical battle."

There was no live broadcast in the United States of the 1950 game. Indeed, when the initial account came across, some assumed it was a mistake and that the English had won 10-0 or 10-1.

But, as was celebrated in a movie, the U.S. won 1-0 on a 38th-minute goal by Joe Gaetjens, a Haitan immigrant who wasn't even an American citizen, so lax were the rules of that era. Gaetjens disappeared in 1964, presumed killed in Haiti by forces of dictator Francois "Papa Doc" Duvalier.

American players who triumphed, like Walter Bahr, Harry Keough and goalkeeper Frank Borghi, have gained increased prominence.

"I say the older I get, the more famous I become," Bahr said. "I wasn't for famous for 50 years."

Just one U.S. reporter made the journey in 1950, Dent McSkimming of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, who paid his own way to South America. This time, there will be a live telecast on ABC starting at 2:30 p.m. EDT, and viewing parties were scheduled across the country, with stadiums opening for live screenings in Chester, Pa.; Columbus, Ohio; Frisco, Texas; Harrison, N.J.; and Sandy, Utah.

FIFA told the U.S. Soccer Federation that 8,000 American fans purchased tickets, 2,000 more than English supporters, and groups such as Sam's Army and American Outlaws were expected to fill the 38,646-capacity stadium with sections of red, white and blue.

Following the 1950 tournament, the Americans failed to reach the World Cup again for 40 years. Now they're in for the sixth straight time.

Hopes were raised after they reached the World Cup quarterfinals in South Korea in 2002, their best finish since the initial tournament in 1930. But they dropped out in the first round in Germany four years ago, and Bradley was hired to replace Bruce Arena as coach.

Grouped with England, Slovenia and Algeria, with the top two nations advancing, the U.S. faces its toughest opponent first. The Americans are 2-7 in head-to-head matchups, getting outscored 35-8. The other win was 2-0 in a 1993 exhibition at Foxborough, Mass.

Some of Bradley's lineup decisions were unclear, although he did say Jozy Altidore had recovered from a sprained ankle to start at forward and Bocanegra will start on defense.

But would he start Oguchi Onyewu or Clarence Goodson in central defense with Jay DeMerit? Onyewu is coming off knee surgery last October and without a 90-minute match in eight months. Would Ricardo Clark, Maurice Edu or Jose Torres start in central midfield with Michael Bradley?

And would Edson Buddle or Robbie Findley start up front with Altidore?

Stopping the speedy and strong yet tempestuous Wayne Rooney will be the key. The striker has 25 goals in 60 international appearances, giving England hope that it can win its first World Cup title since hosting the tournament in 1966.

The Americans have other ideas.

"Historically," Donovan said, "it's an incredible game."

Bradley says Altidore will start against England

RUSTENBURG, South Africa (AP) — Jozy Altidore will start Saturday in the United States' World Cup opener against England, 10 days after spraining his right ankle in training.

The big forward injured the ankle during training June 2 to miss last Saturday's friendly win over Australia, and only resumed full training Tuesday. But coach Bob Bradley says the U.S. staff always felt the injury was "minor," and Altidore has made good progress.

Altidore scored his ninth goal in 25 international appearances against Turkey in the U.S. sendoff game last month. He scored two goals for Hull last season in the Premier League while on loan from Spain's Villarreal.

Bradley made the initial announcement about Altidore during a radio interview — quite a contrast to England coach Fabio Capello, who said he won't disclose any of his starting lineup until two hours before kickoff.

"I got asked the question and I just felt at that point Jozy is starting," Bradley said after the U.S. team's training session at Royal Bafokeng Stadium. "I thought we could give one name out.

"There will be no more," he said, smiling as reporters laughed.

Altidore, the United States' most experienced forward, has been running at full speed in training. He jogged a few laps around the field with the rest of the team during the 15 minutes of Friday night's session open to reporters, showing no signs of gingerness.

Altidore's Premier League season ended on a sour note. Not only was Hull relegated, but Altidore missed the last two games of the season after receiving a red card April 24 for head-butting Sunderland's Alan Hutton, who had thrown the ball at him.

"The one thing I would always say about Jozy, from our experiences with him, when he's come into camps he's shown that, when things don't come easily, it's helped him," Bradley said. "He comes in with a level of determination and ready to prove himself. He knows we believe in him. That's why he continues to be important for us."

It's no secret Wayne Rooney is the most important player for England, and some have suggested the Americans should try and rile up the mercurial forward to throw him off his game. Rooney picked up a yellow card in a meaningless warmup Monday after swearing at a referee, prompting the officiating crew for Saturday's match to brush up on English-language curse words.

He also was sent off during the last World Cup after stomping on the groin of an opposing player.

But that isn't the way the Americans play, Bradley said.

"We respect him as a player," Bradley said. "He's experienced, a competitor. We don't have anything else other than to try and compete at the same level he plays at. ... Our ability to keep track of him and make life hard for him is a key part of us making sure we can win."

-- Nancy Armour

Meola praises U.S. goalkeeper

NEW YORK (AP) — Tony Meola remembers asking Tim Howard what the teenager was writing in his journal when the two were teammates and roommates with the MetroStars more than a decade ago.

Howard replied that he was recalling being a youngster and watching Meola play.

"Wow, this kid's young," Meola thought. "He's making me feel really old right now."

It also seemed fitting.

"Tim Howard was meant to do this from the time he was a kid," the former U.S. national team goalkeeper said Friday of the current American starter.

"This is Tim Howard's calling, and this is Tim Howard's time right now."

His time starts when the U.S. opens the World Cup against England on Saturday. Meola has watched how much Howard has matured the last four years.

"He was an athlete, sometimes out of position, but was so good athletically where he could make up for it," Meola said. "The best goalkeepers in the world are the ones that make it look real easy. It's not an easy position, but oftentimes it becomes difficult when you're out of position, you don't read the game properly, you don't read it one step ahead of time."

When Meola was 20, it "killed me" to hear people say that goalies peaked between the age of 31-35. Now he knows it's true, recognizing the full value of experience.

Howard turned 31 this year. Meola believes he's one of the top 10 goalkeepers in the world.

"Tim Howard is certainly a guy that could keep you in a game, make the save you need him to make, and really just command the respect from his teammate," Meola said.

-- Rachel Cohen

U.S. players stuck in traffic jam caused by elephant

RUSTENBURG, South Africa (AP) — Forget getting past England. The U.S. team had to get past the elephants first.

The Americans were delayed twice Friday when elephants blocked the road, the second back-up coming as the squad was traveling to its training session at Royal Bafokeng Stadium. The elephant was munching on a tree as the Americans left the Bakubung Bush Lodge, and it moved to the side of the road after about four minutes.

"Everybody had their cell phones out, pictures were being taken," coach Bob Bradley said. "It was all part of the experience."

Earlier in the afternoon, a bus carrying 10 players on their way to an open-air market at the entrance to the team hotel got stuck behind an elephant, spokesman Michael Kammarman said. Players had timed the trip to get back to the hotel in time for the start of the World Cup opener between South Africa and Mexico.

Signs outside the U.S. hotel warn: "ELEPHANTS COME CLOSE TO OUR FENCE KEEP A DISTANCE OF 30 METERS AND PLEASE BE QUIET" and "BABOONS ARE DANGEROUS — PLEASE KEEP CLEAR OF THEM AND DO NOT FEED THEM." Another one reads, "THIS IS BIG 5 TERRITORY TREAT THE ANIMALS WITH RESPECT AND THEY WILL RETURN THE COMPLIMENT."

"It was cool," U.S. captain Carlos Bocanegra said of the up-close encounter with the animal kingdom. "A big elephant, just eating on the path out of our hotel."

It wasn't clear if the same elephant caused both delays.

Biden says U.S. will beat England at World Cup

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — U.S. Vice President Joe Biden says America will beat England in their World Cup match on Saturday.

Biden addressed a gathering of diplomats and South African politicians at the U.S. consulate in Johannesburg on Friday and received loud applause when he said "in the spirit of a real Irishman, we are going to beat England".

He wished South Africa luck in staging the World Cup, saying "no other sport in the world ever focussed such attention on one country than the World Cup".

"All eyes are on South Africa. This is truly historic, this is the first World Cup on the Africa soil," Biden said.

Other Saturday Games

Maradona's Argentina faces Nigeria at World Cup

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — The memorable feature of Argentina's performance in its opening World Cup match against Nigeria might be either some Lionel Messi inspired brilliance, or just a plain mess.

Argentina has come to South Africa with a powerful team, its group of elite goalscorers led by Barcelona's Messi. But the haphazard direction of coach Diego Maradona has created doubts over the team's readiness for the World Cup.

With Maradona using more than 100 players during the qualifying rounds, Argentina barely made it to South Africa after winning its last qualifier, against Uruguay, and narrowly avoiding a playoff with Costa Rica for a spot at the World Cup.

Leading into Saturday's match at the Ellis Park Stadium, Maradona seems to have decided that he just can't have enough scorers. He is expected to leave out defender Nicolas Otamendi in order to have Messi, Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain and Manchester City's Carlos Tevez leading a three-pronged attack.

With Diego Milito and Sergio Aguero available on the bench, Argentina's scoring chances should be numerous. Yet, despite having some of the world's best at his disposal, Maradona's capacity to pull it all together and send a disciplined, well-drilled team onto the pitch is far from certain.

Widely regarded along with Pele as the best ever footballer, "El Diego" led Argentina to victory at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico and to the final against Germany four years later. But his coaching credentials are thin — just two brief spells with Argentine club teams Racing de Avellaneda and Mandiyu in the mid-1990s.

Some unexpected selection choices — such as the absence of Inter Milan defender Javier Zanetti — and his bizarre relationship with the media have also made it hard for Maradona to carry over the respect he had as a player to his current assignment.

Still, Argentina is the favorite to win Group B, which also includes Greece and South Korea.

While Nigeria is not quite the dynamic team which lived up to its nickname of the "Super Eagles" in the 1990s, it is ranked third in Africa behind Egypt and Cameroon and reached the gold medal match at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where it lost 1-0 to Argentina.

The speed of the Nigerians could cause problems for Argentina, which despite victories over Nigeria at the 1994 and 2002 World Cups shows nothing but careful admiration for the squad coached by Sweden's Lars Lagerback.

"Nigeria is a strong and fast team which could present difficulties in a first game," said midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron. "They have experienced players who play in some of the best leagues in Europe."

Argentine defender Gabriel Heinze marveled at the athleticism of the Nigerians, saying he'd never seen Marseille teammate Taye Taiwo tired.

Nigeria will be without injured Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel, while their attack will likely be led by Malaga's Victor Obinna and Everton's Yakubu Aiyegbeni. In its last exhibition match before the World Cup, Nigeria defeated North Korea 3-1 this week in Johannesburg.

Maradona, by contrast, chose to give his team a longer rest and they haven't played since a 5-0 drubbing of Canada at Buenos Aires on May 24. With players from other World Cup team's picking up injuries in recent friendlies, Maradona's decision might be the right one and it may be a more relaxed squad which tries to win Argentina's third World Cup title.

In any case, Maradona declared himself to be "the happiest man on earth" last week and was confident his team would go deep into the to tournament.

"These kids deserve to reach the final because of all of their efforts," Maradona said. "And based on what they are showing me, they are sure to achieve it."

-- Pablo Gorondi

SKorea coach: Team can deal with tall Greece side

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa (AP) — South Korea coach Huh Jung-moo has been working on combating Greece's height advantage when the teams meet in their opening World Cup match on Saturday.

Greece's height at set pieces was one of the key features of its surprise 2004 European Championship title, but Huh said Friday that he isn't overly concerned ahead of the Group B match in Port Elizabeth.

"If height were the main factor, we would have to have all basketball players," Huh said. "We are fully prepared. There is a risk, but we have our strong points."

South Korea's strongest suit at the 2002 tournament it co-hosted with Japan was its fitness. The hosts outlasted Italy and Spain to surge into the semifinals against all expectations.

But after an opening 2-1 win over Togo in 2006 for its first World Cup victory outside Asia, South Korea went out in the first round after drawing 1-1 with France and losing 2-0 to Switzerland.

With teams now aware of the running power of the likes of Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung, Huh is having to take another tactical approach against a team that has failed to make an impact at major championships since its Euro 2004 triumph.

Huh has also given his players two sets of instructions on how to lineup: one to deal with a four-man Greek defense and another for a more aggressive three-man back line.

"It can change any minute," Huh said. "I have told my players that, if Greece come out with a four back formation, how they have to react and if they have a three back as well. We are well prepared."

Huh would not divulge his starting lineup until an hour before kickoff but said most of his players knew what the team would be without having to be told.

The biggest problem his players face, he said, is not Greece but staying calm under the weight of expectations from traveling supporters.

"Everybody is working to win the matches," Huh said. "When we get to the match, the players, if they feel pressure or are afraid, they will not be able to perform to their true capability."

That shouldn't be a problem for Park, who has won three Premier League titles with Manchester United and appeared in the 2009 Champions League final.

"It has given me a lot of experience and I could get a feel for the atmosphere in big games," Park said. "It will help me relax a bit more since I've played in a lot of major matches."

Park said his teammates would look to exploit Sotiros Kyrgiakos, who drew criticism for his ponderous performances in central defense for Liverpool this season.

"He is a very good athlete and player but we looked at a lot of data so we know his strengths and weaknesses," Park said.

This will be Greece's second World Cup appearance. In 1994 it exited at the group stage without a point, with no goals scored and 10 conceded.

Greece failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup and becoming the first defending European champion not to pick up a point in the subsequent edition of the tournament.

Greece's chances Saturday have been hit by the absence of central defender Vangelis Moras with a persistent groin injury.

Moras had been receiving daily physiotherapy instead of training in an attempt to overcome the nagging injury. Tests Wednesday showed he was fully recovered, but he said it is too early to be plunged into a World Cup match.

"I don't want to risk it," Moras said. "I want to be fit for Nigeria."

Greece, which faces Nigeria on June 17 and Group B favorite Argentina on June 22, should know what to expect from South Korea, according to midfielder Giorgos Karagounis.

"They cover each other very well and they play as a real team, especially in defense," Karagounis said. "They mark the opposing team with at least two players. They play like Greece in this respect. The two teams are similar in more than one respect.

"If tomorrow we play as good as we can play, the match will be decided on the other qualities in each team."

Karagounis said that, despite attacking talent including his fellow 2004 champion Angelos Charisteas and Eintracht Frankfurt's Fanis Gekas, fans might not get much excitement in 2010 either.

"Our main feature might be our compact defense, so our main target is not to concede a goal," Karagounis said. "We would not achieve so much without being able to score — we create chances and we score — but we will start by trying not to concede a goal."

-- Staurt Condie

Other News

Polokwane: 4 World Cup games to make impact

POLOKWANE, South Africa (AP) — "Sokkerkoors!" read the headline in local newspaper Polokwane Observer on Friday. Football fever!

The atmosphere was building in the smallest of the nine World Cup host cities ahead of its first game on Sunday.

"Finally, after six long years... It's here!" read the frontpage of the daily newspaper Northern Review.

"I can't wait for the tournament to start," said Oniz, a 23-year-old selling newspapers in the heart of the city formerly known as Pietersburg, which has a population of just over 500,000.

"I love football but I also think it's great for Polokwane. A lot has happened over the last couple of years. They built the new stadium, a lot of new roads. It has united us and it has brought new life to the city."

Oniz spoke over the din of traffic in Polokwane's city center. Many drivers keep a hand free to blow their vuvuzela trumpets, and 408 taxis branded with the World Cup logo honk constantly to attract clients.

Polokwane hosts only four of the tournament's 64 matches, starting with Algeria-Slovenia on Sunday, followed by France-Mexico, Greece-Argentina and Paraguay-New Zealand over the next two weeks.

Aside from those with a ticket to Peter Mokaba Stadium, there is a Fan Fest nearby where all World Cup matches will be shown live and which is expected to attract up to 30,000 visitors for games.

The Polokwane Observer estimated 10 Boeing 747s would not be able to hold the amount of food and drinks that will be consumed at the FanFest over the length of the World Cup.

Oniz is eager to visit the Fan Fest to enjoy the event with his mates — old and new.

"I love the World Cup because it gives us the chance to meet new people," he says.

The World Cup has been good to him so far. He has sold all but one of the issues of a local magazine's World Cup special edition.

But will there be a lasting legacy for the city from the World Cup?

"Let's wait and see. I don't know what to expect," Oniz says.

The newly built 45,000-capacity stadium will remain, though Polokwane has no first-division team to play in it.

Roads, plus water and energy infrastructure have been enhanced in a 2-kilometer area around the stadium. And the local airport has tripled its service capacity from 400 to 1200 passengers per hour.

"These are all major important services for the future of Polokwane," says Ndavhe Ramakuela, director of the local World Cup organizing committee. "The World Cup is an opportunity, a big legacy for our city."

The city council expects up to 80,000 visitors on each of the four match days and is urging locals to help build a positive image. "We know our city! Let's proudly promote Polokwane!," reads a huge banner in Grobler Street.

"We should use the event to entrench a culture of pride and self reliance and vow never to undermine our capacity in the human race," Premier Cassel Mathale of Limpopo province was quoted as saying by Northern Review.

Unlike Oniz, Ramakuela has no doubts about long-term benefits for the city.

"The idea behind the event is to make friends — nationally and internationally," Ramakuela says. "We've got a lot of new infrastructure which will help us entering global markets."

The city hosts companies like Coca-Cola and South African Breweries and has a growing financial market.

The director does not think that just four matches is too little to imprint the name Polokwane on an international audience. Cape Town and Port Elizabeth will host eight games each, and Johannesburg has 15.

"I see it the other way round. We've got four matches to showcase to a global audience who we are," Ramakuela says. "That can't be taken away from us. Whether in Mexico, in Germany or in India, we can always say: 'We were one of the host cities of the World Cup.'"

That would mean even more if an African team makes it all the way to the final, and Oniz is sure that will happen.

"South Africa will win for sure," he said with a smile. "We use our vuvuzelas to blow all opponents away!"

-- Eric Willemsen

Results before beauty for Brazil

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Fans expecting the Beautiful Game may get an unpleasant surprise when Brazil debuts in the World Cup next week.

Brazil arrives in South Africa with a different look. The nifty moves and fancy dribbles may not be there. The flashy soccer and attacking style could be missing, too.

Defense will come first, and the "Jogo Bonito" long associated with Brazil will give way to pragmatic soccer.

"I want to win the title," Brazil right back Maicon said. "Regardless of playing with flair or playing ugly, the most important thing is to win. The most important thing is that on July 11 we are in the final, bringing the trophy home."

Coach Dunga revamped Brazil when he took over the team after the 2006 World Cup in Germany, passing over stars such as Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Adriano in favor of lesser-known but harder-working players.

There is still much talent on this Brazilian squad, with Kaka and Robinho still able to produce the dazzling flair that's a trademark of Brazilian players. But the team has become more European in style, anchored on solid defense and quick counterattacking.

"If you ask anybody, they will prefer to win a match playing badly than lose playing well," Brazil defender Juan said.

Despite all the stars in Germany, Brazil failed to impress and was eliminated 1-0 by France in the quarterfinals.

Dunga's defensive style drew criticism from millions in Brazil and abroad, but indisputable results on the field again make the Brazilians favorites to win a sixth world title.

"This national team is well-balanced, and that's very important in a football team," Kaka said. "We have some of the best defenders in the world, a strong midfield, and strikers who can be decisive at any moment. Whether we play well will vary from match to match. The biggest show will be to be lifting the trophy at the end. That's the spectacle we want."

A former defensive midfielder known for his tenacity and tough marking, Dunga captained Brazil to the 1994 World Cup title in the United States, and was on the team that was runner-up at the 1998 tournament in France.

Brazil also was touted for having great teams in the 1982 and 1986 World Cups, but was eliminated early both times. In 1994, the team was criticized as too boring, but it won the title.

"To win, any team needs to have a solid group," Dunga said.

With top offensive players omitted from this year's squad, the Brazilian defenders have been gaining much of the attention ahead of the World Cup, and it's almost inevitable to have the focus switch from offense to defense.

The Brazilian defense is led by Inter Milan goalkeeper Julio Cesar, and he is flanked by Maicon, Lucio, Juan and Michel Bastos. The defense actually continues into the midfield, with Gilberto Silva and Felipe Melo as specialists at containing attackers. And there is still Elano, who has quality offensively but is known as a good marker.

That leaves the attacking responsibility to Kaka and strikers Robinho and Luis Fabiano, who may end up having to rely heavily on counterattacking.

Playing like that, Brazil won the 2007 Copa America, the 2009 Confederations Cup and finished first in South American qualifying for the World Cup. It also achieved significant results in friendlies against Italy, Portugal, Argentina and England.

Brazil easily beat lowly Zimbabwe and Tanzania in warmups after arriving in South Africa, but the team will truly be tested for the first time in the World Cup opener against North Korea on Tuesday. It will then face Ivory Coast on June 20 and closes play in the tough Group G against Portugal on June 25.

"We always try to play well, but that's not the main goal. We want to win," Robinho said. "It depends on the circumstances. We know that the better we play, the greater chances we have to win."
-- Tales Azzoni

Elano OK with supporting role in Brazil's squad

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Elano is never treated as a star in the Brazilian team, and that's just the way he likes it.

The low-key midfielder knows he will never get the same attention as the flashier Kaka or Robinho, but he could be just as important for Brazil when the World Cup begins.

The 28-year-old Galatasaray player will again be in a secondary role when he starts for Brazil in the team's opener against North Korea on Tuesday.

"I've always been in a supporting role in every team I've played and I'm happy with that," Elano said. "That's how I have won so much in my career so far."

Elano moved to Europe in 2005 after starring for Brazilian club Santos, a team which had striker Robinho and playmaker Diego as its stars. Elano again was just a side note, but he was instrumental in helping the team win two Brazilian league titles.

Elano is a key part of Dunga's team for the World Cup, too. Effective in marking and passing, he fits perfectly into the coach's style of solid defense and quick counterattacking.

"It's not about having stars," Brazil coach Dunga said. "It's about players who can do what you need them to do on the field."

Elano arrived in South Africa fighting for a starting midfield spot with Ramires and Kleberson, and secured his position in training. Plus he was handed responsibility for free kicks and penalties.

"I always give a lot of importance to regularity," Elano said. "And that's how I've been gaining my space here in the national team."

Elano's first club in Europe was Ukraine's Shakhtar Donetsk before transferring in 2007 to Manchester City, where he was coached by Sven-Goran Eriksson.

He will be facing the Swedish coach at the World Cup when Brazil faces the Ivory Coast on June 20 in Johannesburg.

"With Eriksson I scored 16 goals in my first year in England," Elano said. "I have a lot of respect for him. The Ivory Coast has very talented players and it gained a lot by adding a great coach like him. I'll give him a hug when I get a chance to see him."

A star or not, the easygoing Elano — known for his love of Brazilian country music — will try to make the most out of his first World Cup.

"There is no reason to put a lot of pressure on myself," Elano said. "It's the World Cup and here we are, I prefer to be here than playing in the sugar cane fields I used to play back in Brazil."

Trying to win its sixth world title, Brazil will also face Portugal on June 25 in Group G.

-- Tales Azzoni

Brazil-Argentina rivalry heats up ahead of WCup

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — The rivalry between Brazil and Argentina is already at full steam at the World Cup.

A potential match between the South American powerhouses is in the far distance, but players from both teams have already started exchanging taunts.

When told that Diego Maradona said his Argentina team is a Rolls Royce driven by Lionel Messi, Luis Fabiano compared Brazil to an aircraft.

"It's a jet, a low-flying jet," Luis Fabiano said Friday. "For sure we will surprise a lot of people out there."

Luis Fabiano also dismissed reported comments by Argentine midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron that if joy alone won matches, the Brazilians would win titles every time.

"Our happiness comes from the inside," Luis Fabiano said. "If they are not happy, it's their problem. Brazil is a country of joy, samba, carnival. We bring this happiness to our work. Others are more bitter with life, but that's how it goes."

Brazil has won five World Cup titles and Argentina two, and they enjoy an intense rivalry in football and other areas of society.

On Thursday, Brazil defender Daniel Alves hinted Barcelona teammate Messi doesn't play as well for Argentina as he does with the Spanish club because of the lower quality of players in the Argentine squad.

He said Messi struggles with his national team because he doesn't receive the same support that he gets at his club, and that "there is no comparison" between the Barcelona and Argentina squads.

The rivalry surfaced a couple a days ago when an Argentine journalist asked Kaka why Brazil wasn't playing with flair recently.

"When we beat Argentina 3-1 in Rosario it was beautiful," Kaka said, reminding the journalist about Brazil's victory in a World Cup qualifier last year. "It was a beautiful performance for us."

Brazil defender Juan tried to temper the heightening pre-World Cup rivalry.

"Luis Fabiano was talking after a joke by Maradona," Juan said. "Brazil and Argentina are two football teams."

The tournament draw means the teams can't clash on the field until the semifinals or final.

Brazil is in Group G along with North Korea, the Ivory Coast and Portugal. It will start against North Korea on Tuesday. Argentina plays its Group B opener against Nigeria on Saturday. It then faces South Korea and Greece.

-- Tales Azzoni

Maradona won't reveal Argentina starters

PRETORIA, South Africa (AP) — Argentina coach Diego Maradona would not reveal his starting lineup ahead of time on Friday for his team's opening World Cup game against Nigeria.

Speaking to reporters in Pretoria, Maradona only confirmed that he had decided who would be his starting 11 a short time ago and that he was satisfied with the whole team's condition.

In an interview Thursday with Argentine television, Maradona confirmed that Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez would start, making him the likely third forward along with Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain.

"I realized that (Tevez) can't be excluded from this team because of what he showed me and what he showed in England," Maradona said. "Seeing him play gives me goose bumps."

Teams are not obliged to reveal their lineups until one hour before the game, but unless there are some last-minute changes, Argentina should start with goalkeeper Sergio Romero; defenders Gabriel Heinze, Martin Demichelis and Walter Samuel; midfielders Jonas Gutierrez, Angel Di Maria, Javier Mascherano, and Juan Sebastian Veron; and Messi, Tevez and Higuain up front.

Maradona said he expects Messi to have the same impact in South Africa that he himself had when leading Argentina to the 1986 World Cup title in Mexico.

"I wish with all my heart that 'Leo' has a wonderful starring role and that he becomes the best player of all time," Maradona said, adding that he could rest Messi during the World Cup if match circumstances allow.

"Behind Messi, there is a team that has to support him and he would have to be the strawberry on top of the dessert," Maradona said. "(Messi) knows very well that he is a defining player who can create a scoring opportunity at any time."

Maradona defined first rival Nigeria as a "rough, hard team" but said that Argentina was prepared to face them.

"The group is well, secure and it knows what it wants," Maradona said. "Being at the front of these 23 monsters — but first of all football players — gives me peace of mind I never expected."

Maradona also made an appeal for fair play, asking FIFA to pay special attention to the issue.

"That's what we have to start with, because we will see better football, we will see the stars we want and we are going to enjoy this World Cup," Maradona said. "FIFA has to keep fair play very much in mind ... and the referees have to know the meaning of those words."

In the face of much criticism because of some his disputed decisions as coach, Maradona acknowledged some of the difficulties but also his right to lead the team.

"After a qualifying stage which really did not go well for us, I was waiting for this moment to have all the players together and teach them things," Maradona said. "I gave something to Argentine football to deserve being on this bench, just as others who have given sacrifice, blood and courage to the national jersey also deserve it."

-- Pablo Gorondi

Cannavaro confident in Italy's new generation

IRENE, South Africa (AP) — When Fabio Cannavaro looks at his side, he no longer sees longtime Azzurri standouts Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Nesta or Marco Materazzi. He's getting comfortable with that.

Preparing for his fourth and final World Cup, the 36-year-old Italy captain has adjusted to playing with a new generation of center backs. The new defenders are Giorgio Chiellini and the relatively obscure pair of Leonardo Bonucci and Salvatore Bocchetti — both 23 years old.

"Giorgio and I have played a lot together by now and I think that whoever has made it here has the talent to play at the top level," Cannavaro said Friday at Italy's training camp. "Sure, the names are new, but if we create a strong, compact defense and we all work together, we can achieve great things."

During its run to the 2006 World Cup title, Italy's defensive wall was, as usual, the team's strong point, allowing only two goals over seven games. The only balls that entered the net were an own goal by Cristian Zaccardo against the United States and a penalty kick by Zinedine Zidane during the final against France.

However, Italy lost some of its defensive strength during last year's Confederations Cup, allowing five goals over three matches and failing to advance from the group phase.

"We lost a bit of that aura, but we're working hard to regain it," Cannavaro said, flashing his trademark smile and personally greeting nearly half the journalists at a news conference. "I don't know why, but I'm very confident. ... A compact defense has always been the basis of Italy's team. We'll never (attack) like Brazil or Spain or Portugal — just as they'll never be able to defend like us."

Chiellini established himself as the next in the long line of standout Italian defenders when thrust into a starter's role after Cannavaro was injured just before the 2008 European Championship.

Bonucci (two) and Bocchetti (four) have made a combined total of six appearances with Italy. Cannavaro, of course, holds the Azzurri record with 133 caps.

With new players come new lineup questions and coach Marcello Lippi has provided no clear indications during recent exhibition matches, switching starters randomly from game to game.

"In 2006, we were coming off two years where we played with nearly the same lineup every game," Cannavaro said. "I played with Alessandro for many years and whenever Marco came in, that always worked well, too. This year is different, we've got new players. It's only natural that a new generation has come along."

Much has been made of Lippi's apparent inability to settle on a lineup, but Cannavaro isn't concerned just three days before Italy's opener against Paraguay on Monday.

"I think the coach has a lineup in his head, but it's only right that he tests every option," Cannavaro said. "If we use our weapons wisely we play with anyone."

After the World Cup, Cannavaro is planning to retire from the national team. He recently signed a two-year deal to play in the United Arab Emirates for Dubai-based club Al Ahli after Juventus didn't exercise an option on his contract.

Cannavaro also moved abroad — to Real Madrid — after the 2006 World Cup, and has often expressed frustration with the violence and dilapidated stadiums that tarnish the Italian game.

"Going to Dubai represents a different way of life," he said. "An experience abroad really enriches you."

-- Andrew Dampf

Podolski: Australia will defend

ERASMIA, South Africa (AP) — Playing for Germany seems to bring the best out of Lukas Podolski even though the Cologne forward has been a Bundesliga flop almost since he had been voted the best young player of the 2006 World Cup at home.

Podolski looks set to be in Germany's starting lineup when the three-time champion opens its campaign against Australia on Sunday in Durban despite scoring only two Bundesliga goals this season.

Podolski thinks Australia will defend and that he could be the man to open breaches in the Socceroos' defense.

"I played a good tournament the last time and the last few games for Germany were good for me. I hope to pick up where I left off," Podolski said Thursday. "I've been training well, I feel good."

Podolski became an instant star in Germany after making his national team debut in 2004. Born in Poland, Podolski has a direct, no-nonsense attitude and provides short, crisp replies to media questions. Fans like him for his outgoing, irreverent personality and called him "Prince Poldi."

But his career stalled after the 2006 World Cup with his move to Bayern Munich. He scored 15 goals over three unhappy season and never settled down at the German powerhouse, only sporadically coming off the bench.

He continued playing for Germany, however, and has an impressive record with 38 goals in 73 games, at age 25.

Podolski left Bayern and returned to Cologne last season in a highly anticipated move. He was welcomed back as a hero, the savior of a struggling club.

Cologne mayor Fritz Schramma said Podolski belonged to Cologne just "like the Cathedral belongs to Cologne."

Despite his star status in a mediocre club, Podolski never really ignited, although the club avoided relegation.

But Germany coach Joachim Loew has stuck with Podolski, just as he has with Miroslav Klose, the second Polish-born striker who was Podolski's partner in 2006.

Since then, however, Loew has preferred to use one striker, moving Podolski to the left wing, where he can take advantage of his speed. Klose appears to still be Loew's pick for striker, although he only had three goals in the Bundesliga for Bayern the past season.

Podolski believes nothing much has changed in the German team since 2006, despite the absence of several injured players, including captain Michael Ballack.

"It's more or less the same feeling," Podolski said. "There is some pressure here but we want to go into Sunday's match with confidence and we hope to win. We want to have a good start but it will be tough.

"It's going to be difficult in the front because they will play tight defense. We will have to find and make holes in their defense."

Podolski already has scored against Australia, in Germany's 4-3 win at the 2005 Confederations Cup.

-- Nesha Starcevic

Kanu warns against overlooking Nigeria's strikers

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — With all the hoopla surrounding Argentina and its vaunted attack, Nigeria captain Nwankwo Kanu warned the South Americans on Friday not to overlook the African team's strikers.

Argentina coach Diego Maradona has said he plans to field three forwards against Nigeria in the teams' World Cup opener Saturday at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, and is expected to start world player of the year Lionel Messi, Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez and Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain.

But Kanu said Nigeria's attacking force shouldn't be taken lightly either.

"They have to be aware of our strikers. We have good strikers as they do, and tomorrow they're going to be able to see that," said Kanu, who is playing in his third World Cup.

Along with Kanu, who plays for Portsmouth, Nigeria also boasts Everton striker Yakubu Ayegbeni and Wolfsburg forward Obafemi Martins up front, while Peter Osaze and Chinedu Obasi add pace and flare from the wings.

Nigeria coach Lars Lagerback, who only took over the team in February, said Argentina's tactics to push the pace up front may open up for his players to counter attack.

"What I've seen from Argentina — not only during Maradona as a coach — is they always try to play very offensive game," Lagerback said. "If they come with a very offensive team, that means they want to attack a lot, and maybe that can give us some good chances to find useable space for us to attack."

Either way, the attention ahead of the match has focused on Messi, Maradona and the rest of the Argentina team, allowing Nigeria to breathe a bit easier than usual ahead of a World Cup opener and focus on the match itself.

"It's good, now that everybody's talking about Argentina, talking about their players and everything," Kanu said. "It helps us in a way because the pressure is on them."

-- Ryan Lucas

Park says NKorea could surprise teams at World Cup

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa (AP) — North Korea could surprise other teams at the World Cup despite being one of the rank outsiders, according to South Korea midfielder Park Ji-sung.

Park said Friday that North Korea will provide a challenge to the opposition when it comes to pre-game scouting.

"Since North Korea has players that are not well known, that could be a difficult factor" for other teams, Park said. "For me personally, it will be interesting to look at the three matches."

North Korea has a challenging draw. It opens Tuesday against Brazil in Johannesburg, then plays Ivory Coast and Portugal.

North Korea's only previous World Cup appearance was in 1966, when it provided a shock by making the quarterfinals, taking a 3-0 lead against a Portugal team led by the great Eusebio before succumbing.

South Korea opens against Greece on Saturday. Greece coach Otto Rehhagel also said North Korea needs to be watched.

"Brazil must win this match because they have the best players, but they would be well advised to be careful," Rehhagel said.

"This is what I keep telling my players as well. If you think this is going to be an easy match because North Korea or South Korea are down in the rankings, you might be wrong. Do not underestimate your opponent."

It is the first time that the two Koreas are playing in the same World Cup, although this is the South's eighth trip to the finals.

"North Korea is in a very difficult group as we know," Park said. "It's been a long time since North Korea managed to join the World Cup, and I am very glad that North and South Korea are here."

Tensions between the two countries had been heightened recently due to the sinking of a South Korean warship. The South blames the North and wants the United Nations to punish the reclusive communist state.

That dispute has spilled over into a dispute over television feeds from the World Cup. The South normally provides a free feed to its northern neighbor, but now is demanding a fee.

Park was asked whether South Korea's stance on the television feeds was fair.

"I don't think that is something that falls under my jurisdiction," Park said, smiling. "So I cannot comment."

-- Dennis Passa

Serbs brace for African solidarity

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AP) — Serbia isn't expecting the warmest African welcome on Sunday when the national football team plays Ghana in Group D of the World Cup.

Striker Marko Pantelic said he expects South Africans to rally behind Ghana at the match in Pretoria — adding to pre-tournament nerves already tested by formidable opponents and security worries.

"This will be an away game for us. But we're used to playing away from home," Pantelic said. "There's a lot of adrenalin before this game. We can't wait for it to start."

The 31-year-old forward described Ghana as the best African team at the World Cup, but said his teammates had worked hard to prepare for the match.

"To be honest, I don't think we've ever studied a team so hard," he said. "We're looking at this as a make-or-break game.

"The Ghana players are fast and are good at losing their opponents on the ball. We know who they are, probably the best team on the continent."

Ghana is one of five sub-Saharan teams at Africa's first World Cup, along with host South Africa, Nigeria, Cameroon and Ivory Coast.

The Serbs edged France in qualifying but underperformed in pre-tournament friendlies. They beat Cameroon 4-3 on Saturday, getting their only warmup win after being held 0-0 by Poland and losing 1-0 to New Zealand.

Adding to the jitters was continued concern over security after three members of the Greek team had money stolen from their hotel rooms and foreign journalists were targeted in a spate of robberies.

Guards at the Serb camp in Johannesburg searched approaching people and vehicles Friday, while police officers carried shotguns.

Serbia captain Dejan Stankovic said team members were trying to keep their minds on the training," the Inter Milan midfielder said. "We stay in our rooms and don't really go out anywhere. We have been given many instructions about security. There is a sense of tension but we are concentrating on the football.

"This is the first time we are representing Serbia as a separate nation at the World Cup, so we know our responsibility. ... I just want to go home with my head held high."

Serbia also faces Germany and Australia in Group D.

Team officials said about 5,000 Serbia fans are expected to make it to the 43,000-seat Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Sunday.

-- Derek Gatopoulos

Gyan representing both Ghana and Africa

SUN CITY, South Africa (AP) — Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan said Friday the African teams at the World Cup will be representing not just themselves but the entire continent.

Gyan, who plays for French club Rennes, had no qualms admitting he was supporting host South Africa against Mexico on Friday, and that he would also root for Nigeria, Algeria and the Ivory Coast in their campaigns.

"If Ghana is playing and other African countries aren't I am sure they will support us, and if we are not playing I have to support the other African teams," Gyan told The Associated Press. "Players don't feel they are representing a country but a whole continent."

Midfielder Sulley Muntari, though, fears that could be a burden.

"We have added pressure playing in Africa," said Muntari, who won the treble with Inter Milan last season. "But knowing we have all Africans behind us can make us very strong mentally because this is where we are from and we want to make our continent happy."

Ghana was the only African team to reach the second round of the 2006 World Cup and begins on Sunday against Serbia.

"They are a strong side because they topped their group with France," Gyan said. "It's not going to be an easy group but will make sure we will qualify for the next stage."

But Ghana, which also faces Germany and Australia in Group D, is still reeling from the loss of Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien because of a knee injury.

"He is a massive player for us — we will miss him a lot — it is natural," Muntari said. "The only thing now is to make him proud and to (play) good football and win. I hope he comes here. It would be good thing to have him here and we stay together."

The Black Stars looked relaxed at the Mogwase Stadium where they are now training after moving to Sun City from Pretoria. Training ends with all the players singing in a huddle on the pitch.

Back at their hotel on Friday they were happily mingling with tourists and playing table football in the lobby.

"You saw at practice everybody is happy," Gyan said. "We are relaxed — that is how we are — that is how we psych ourselves. We have quality players and we were the first time to qualify for the World Cup (from Africa). The confidence is there and we are ready to play."

At the back of Gyan's mind is knowing the eyes of the world — and rival clubs — will be focused on South Africa for the next month, making it a shop window for talent.

The striker scored three of Ghana's four goals earlier this year in Angola en route to the African Cup of Nations final, which Egypt won.

"What I am ready to do is help my country go further and I am not thinking about any clubs looking to buy me, but if I do well and any other club is interested then why not?" the 24-year-old Gyan said. "They have to talk to my club and discuss and see what happens. It is my dream to play in England. Now I am young but one day I know I'm going to be there.

"I support Manchester United — I started supporting Manchester when I was a baby — so I think that is my club."

-- Rob Harris

Chile's Paredes ready if need be to replace Suazo

NELSPRUIT, South Africa (AP) — Chile striker Esteban Paredes is in an unusual position at this World Cup — most of his country's fans will be hoping he won't play much.

That's because if Paredes plays, it probably means star striker Humberto Suazo has failed to recover from the thigh injury he picked up last week.

"I hope Humberto can play," said Paredes before Friday's training. "But if he's not available, then I'll step up or one of my teammates will. If I'm picked to play, I'll always go out there looking to score."

Chile opens Group H on Tuesday against Honduras at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit. Suazo took part in light jogging, stretching exercises and some three-quarter pace sprints alongside most of his teammates at training Friday.

The squad appeared in good spirits, the players sharing jokes and laughing as they trotted round the training pitch at the Ingwenyama resort, near Nelspruit.

Striker Matias Fernandez and defender Waldo Ponce were the only absentees from training due to minor injuries. Both players worked in the gym as a precautionary measure but are expected to be fit ahead for the Honduras match.

Chile coach Marcelo Bielsa said Wednesday that Suazo would be available for Tuesday's match.

The match against Honduras could be the easiest for Chile, which also faces Switzerland on June 21 in Port Elizabeth and Spain on June 25 in Pretoria.

The schedule might allow Bielsa to keep Suazo, his team's top scorer in qualifying, on the bench to begin with before starting him in later matches when he is fully fit.

That would leave Paredes with an important role to play, and the striker from Chilean club Colo Colo said he was looking forward to the challenge.

"Honestly, it's a great pleasure. A chance to play has come along and I feel really up for it, calm and hopefully I'll do well," Paredes said.

Teammate Arturo Vidal, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen, was under no illusions about what was expected against Honduras.

"We can't lose," he said. "That's the only thing that's not permitted."

-- Mark Walsh

Bougherra to use British experience vs. England

UVONGO, South Africa (AP) — Algeria defender Madjid Bougherra says his experience with British clubs will help him counter England's attack when the two teams meet at the World Cup.

The powerful center back has been with Rangers in Scotland since 2008 and previously played for English clubs Crewe Alexandra, Sheffield Wednesday and Charlton.

"It can help me," Bougherra said Friday. "I play in a big team, I played Champions League so I have learned a mentality change — I want to win every game."

Rangers fans voted him the team's player of the year in his first season, as the Glasgow club won the Scottish league and cup double.

"It is British football so this can help me with England," Bougherra said.

Algeria starts its World Cup on Sunday against Slovenia in Group C before playing England on June 18 and United States five days later.

Bougherra is a skillful defender who likes to push forward with the ball and can play in midfield if called upon.

"I can play as a striker or defender, no problem," he joked after training in this town south of Durban. "I play for my country and the coach decides."

Bougherra has played 41 times for Algeria since his debut in 2004, scoring three goals.

Algeria is playing in its third World Cup and first in 24 years and is hoping to progress beyond the first round for the first time.

While England and the United States are expected to progress from the group, Algeria could spring a surprise — it beat African champions Egypt in a highly charged playoff to reach the World Cup.

"We have nothing to lose," he said. "We have no pressure."

Bougherra was born in Dijon, France, to Algerian parents and could have declared himself for France, but has no regrets about his decision.

"I had no choice," he said. "I am Algerian in my heart."

-- Mike Corder

Drogba trains, still doubt for Ivory Coast opener

SHARPEVILLE, South Africa (AP) — Didier Drogba joined his Ivory Coast teammates for practice Friday but remains in doubt for the team's opening World Cup match against Portugal because of his broken arm.

The captain wore a protective cast and kept his right arm still as he worked on his ball skills and fitness. Drogba was hurt in a friendly against Japan last Friday and had surgery a day later.

"We can't risk any contact at this point," coach Sven-Goran Eriksson said at the team's headquarters in Vanderbijlpark.

Eriksson conceded that Drogba's absence in Tuesday's opening Group G encounter in Port Elizabeth would be a big loss to the team, but that he was working on "a B plan and a C plan as well."

Eriksson said Drogba "feels better and better" but the team had "to be prepared for the worst" if he can't play, although the playing system would be "more or less the same."

Ivory Coast is widely considered to be Africa's best hope of lifting the World Cup in a month's time. It is blessed with a wide array of talent, including Drogba's Chelsea teammate, Salomon Kalou, and Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure.

However, it has been dealt an extremely tough-looking group — again.

After kicking off its World Cup schedule against 2006 semifinalist Portugal, Ivory Coast faces five-time winner Brazil. If it loses both games, then its seemingly easier match against North Korea could be made redundant.

"It's very difficult for all of us," Eriksson said.

This is Ivory Coast's second consecutive World Cup appearance. The team was also in what was considered the most difficult group in Germany in 2006, failing to get past the group stage following defeats against Argentina and the Netherlands.

Ivory Coast's preparations for the World Cup were complicated by the dismissal of coach Vahid Halilhodzic in February after a quarterfinal loss to Algeria at the African Cup of Nations, his first defeat in 24 games. Eriksson was appointed about a month later.

Eriksson, the Swede who coached England to the quarterfinals in both 2002 and 2006, said Spain and Brazil merited their positions as favorites for the tournament.

"If I bet 100 euros, 50 would be on Spain and 50 on Brazil," Eriksson said.

-- Pan Pylas

Iniesta still a doubt for Spain's World Cup opener

POTCHEFSTROOM, South Africa (AP) — Injured midfielder Andres Iniesta remained in doubt for Spain's opening World Cup match after training alone Friday during the European champion's first practice in South Africa.

Iniesta ran individual drills with one of the team's physiotherapists at the North West University sports complex, where the team is based for the tournament.

The Barcelona playmaker hurt his right thigh muscle during Tuesday's 6-0 win over Poland. Spain opens Group H against Switzerland on Wednesday before facing Honduras and Chile.

Spain was the last of the 32 teams to arrive on Friday and was welcomed with a warm reception from locals, who closed the 60-minute evening session with chants of "Ole."

Coach Vicente del Bosque put the rest of his 23-man squad through an up-tempo session following its overnight flight. Fernando Torres took part with his right knee heavily bandaged as he recovers from surgery.

Earlier, local dancers and teenage children welcomed the team to the North West Province town of around 200,000 with dancing and a 20-minute concert featuring tribal rhythms. Yellow and red Spanish flags lined most streets.

"We're happy Spain is with us," mayor Andrew John Maphetle said. "Many days we've awaited your arrival. The kids, the youngest ones, don't stop asking about when Torres, (Carles) Puyol and Iniesta would arrive."

Midfielder Cecs Fabregas also trained normally as he also continues his recovery from a fractured right leg.

-- Paul Logothetis