Australia, Japan and Korea Republic all won their latest South Africa 2010 qualifiers, but the reaction from their respective media contrasted.

Rangers defender David Weir has hailed summer signing Madjid Bougherra for filling the void left by Carlos Cuellar's departure to Aston Villa.

Having lost to Korea DPR in the 2006 semi-finals, Brazil claimed revenge over the Asian giants, while Japan, Germany and Norway also won.

The fancied Brazilians needed to be at their best to see off a brave fight from holders Korea DPR and win out 3-2 in Temuco on Thursday.

Five-star Germany made simple work of African debutantes Congo DR, winning out 5-0 in Santiago to move top of Group C.

The Norwegians got their Chile 2008 campaign off to a hot start with a 2-1 win over a game Mexico side on Thursday in Temuco.

Japan's incisive short-passing game saw them run out easy 2-0 winners over CONCACAF champions Canada in Santiago on Thursday.

Argentine striker Guillermo Barros Schelotto was named Major League Soccer's top player on Thursday after a great season with the Crew.

Former CAF vice-president Farah Weheliye Addo passed away on Wednesday 19 November 2008 in Egypt, at the age of 73.

Even though both sides have moved on to the final CONCACAF qualifying section, the moods in Honduras and Mexico are a study in contrast.