The Republic of Ireland are potentially just 180 minutes away from a place in South Africa next year. But it’s a tough 180 minutes. Standing in their way are former joint world and European champions France. But eyeing them hungrily is Robbie Keane – desperate to play on the world’s bigges ...

Before you wade into combat, you must be prepared – mentally and physically. Rooney is ready. Ready to take on the in-form blues and ready to take United to the top of the table. Prepare for combat.

Sometimes the most important goal is not the winner. Six minutes left, 3-1 behind. All heads down. Except one. Scholes rose high to nod in the cross, instill belief in his team and ignite the comeback. Minutes later, they were level and through to the knockout stages of Europe’s premier cl ...

Pressure. It changes everything. On Sunday, Fernando was only 80% fit, burdened with expectation and desperate to end a four-game losing streak for his club. But when your back’s against the wall, there’s only one way to go. El Niño burst into the box, shrugged off his man and fired int ...

One side invented Total Football. The other invented Aussie Rules Football. One's consistently labelled as under-achievers. One's billed as a surprise package. Can Australia take the next step and cause some damage in South Africa? Will Holland finally fulfill their potential? It was goall ...