Sports

Football fans in sports bars waved flags and screamed "Russia! Russia!" after the country was awarded the right to host the 2018 football WC.

Russia's selection came despite the no-show of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, but his clout still had an impact on FIFA's 22.

Argentina forward Lionel Messi maintained his hot streak by scoring his 150th goal for Barcelona in a 3-0 victory at Panathinaikos.

The victory lifted Parma out of last place and into a tie with four other clubs with 11 points each.

India let in two goals in the last 10 minutes after leading 1-0 to suffer a heartbreaking loss to defending champions Qatar.

Valencia were a man down from the 25th minute when midfielder Mehmet Topal was shown a red card.

Inter is second with 19 points, three behind surprise Serie A leader Lazio.

Ronaldinho was recalled by Brazil for their friendly against Argentina in Qatar next month.

Champion Chelsea extended its lead at the top of the Premier League to five points with a 2-0 victory over Wolves.

United, after drawing at Fulham, Everton, Bolton Wanderers and Sunderland this season, will travel to Stoke.

Rooney also praised the Manchester United manager, speaking of the 'debt' he owes to the Scot.

Juventus trounce Leece 4-0 while Inter Milan beat Cagliari by a solitary goal.

AC Milan and Ajax play out a 1-1 draw while Chelsea defeat Marseille 2-0.

Substitute Angel Di Maria scored a late winner as Real Madrid won 1-0 at Auxerre.

"When I went to Chelsea it was much more difficult for me than coming here," former Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho said.

Valencia leads the league with nine points after beating Hercules.