“Zambia are one of just two countries in the southern African region still left with a chance of qualifying for the first-ever FIFA World Cup finals in their own backyard.” (Zambianfootball), Zambia call on forgotten men(FIFA)

Spain stay top of world rankings for ninth month (Reuters)
“European champions Spain remained top of FIFA’s world rankings published on Wednesday while their Iberian neighbours Portugal climbed back into the top 10.”

Milan join race to sign Brazil hot-shot Keirrison (FourFourTwo)
“AC Milan have joined the the race to sign Brazilian striking sensation Keirrison, with both Liverpool and Barcelona reportedly keen on landing the talented youngster.”

African football’s integrity is undermined (WorldSoccer)
“With a population of just over 500,000 and a landmass of less than 30,000 sq km, Equatorial Guinea is among Africa’s smallest countries. Decades of tyrannical rule have also made it among the most isolated – until the recent discovery of oil and a sudden cash injection.”

Bagheri warns of Saudi backlash (AFC)
“Iran must be wary of a Saudi team who will be fighting for their World Cup lives, Team Melli skipper Karim Bagheri said. Iran face Saudi Arabia at home in a Group B clash on March 28 that is crucial for both teams, more so for the visitors who are battling to salvage their qualifying campaign for the FIFA World Cup 2010 finals.”