World Cup winners and losers

Tongues tied around tatu-bola

Chinese soccer fans turn their attention to gathering facts about the mascot for the world's biggest soccer tournament, and some claim it is related to Chinese pangolin.

Paraplegic in 'Iron Man' bodysuit to set World Cup rolling

The first kick at the World Cup opening ceremony will be made by a paraplegic wearing an Iron Man-like robotic bodysuit controlled by signals from the brain.

8 popular Brazilian dishes

When visiting Brazil for the World Cup, soccer fans will be able to seize the chance to try out the local delicacies.

Sportswear brands hope for Brazil sales bounce

First-quarter sales figures indicate that domestic sportswear brands are showing signs of recovery, and companies expect further growth this summer to come from the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil subway strike on in WCup city despite fine

A labor court slapped fines on the subway workers union Sunday for a strike that has closed many stations and clogged the avenues of Brazil's largest city just days before it hosts the World Cup opening match.

Soccer sponsors raise pressure on FIFA over Qatar claims

Sponsors Adidas, Sony, Visa and Coca-Cola Sunday called on FIFA to deal thoroughly with allegations of bribery to secure the 2022 World Cup for Qatar, an issue overshadowing this week's kickoff in Brazil.

France thrashes Jamaica 8-0 in final warm-up

France heads to Brazil with its confidence high after rounding off its World Cup warm-up matches by thrashing Jamaica 8-0 on Sunday, with striker Karim Benzema scoring two and creating two in an impressive display of attacking football.

Italy beats Fluminense 5-3 in World Cup warm-up

Ciro Immobile bagged a hat-trick as Italy warmed up for the World Cup with a 5-3 victory over Brazilian Serie A club Fluminense on Sunday.

New claims of corruption in Qatar Cup vote

FIFA's decision to award the 2022 World Cup to Qatar came under further scrutiny as a British newspaper published new allegations that Mohamed bin Hammam used his wealth and top-level contacts to buy support for the oil-rich country's successful bid.

Rooney ends goal drought as England, Ecuador draw

With pressure building after a four-game England goal drought, the striker bundled the ball over the line from close range against Ecuador on Wednesday for a goal that lacked finesse or power but was a timely confidence boost ahead of the World Cup.

French coach unknown quantity for opening test

Argentina beats T and T in warm-up, 3-0

Goals by Rodrigo Palacio, Javier Mascherano and Maxi Rodriguez led Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago in a World Cup warm-up Wednesday.