World Football Daily

The Brazilians are, of course, the most successful nation in terms of World Cup titles having lifted the trophy on five separate occasions, the most recent of which was in 2002.  Along with Spain and England, Brazil are among the favourites to lift the trophy in South Africa and full-back Dani Alves claims his national side are ‘almost invincible.’
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I have to admit I have developed a bit of a soft spot for Portsmouth this season. Firstly because they have provided me with plenty of ideas for blogging – their perilous financial state has had more twists and turns than the most gut wrenching of roller coasters, providing fresh, cringe-worthy headlines almost every day.

But another interesting subplot to rise from the wreckage has been the side’s march to Wembley and the FA Cup semi-finals. The national stadium is, of course, familiar to Pompey fans. They won the cup back in 2008, beating West Brom and then Cardiff at the famous stadium.

However, we know now that Harry Redknapp’s star studded side was bought on borrowed money, and that taste of success could ultimately cost the club its existence.

It is this troubled backdrop that makes their FA Cup results this season all the more satisfying, and I’m sure the fans would consider a Wembley triumph this year a much greater achievement than the win two years ago.
Credit has to go to boss Avram Grant. The Israeli’s hang-dog appearance and dour public persona often see him criticised for a lack of passion.

However, despite a succession of let downs from the club’s crisis riddled board, Grant  behaved with dignity, taking each blow on the chin and using it to forge a backs-to-the-wall spirit with his remaining players.

Sadly their drop into administration means a nine point deduction and almost certain relegation, but far from going out with a whimper, Grant seems determined to salvage something from this car crash of a season, a final at Wembley would be just the ticket.

I’m sure Spurs or Fulham will have something to say about that. The London duo face a replay to decide who will play Portsmouth in the semi-final. But in an era where people question the continued existence of FA Cup magic, few would begrudge Portsmouth’s day in the sun, and possible final appearance, after all they had to cope with this season.

The club may cease to exist in a few weeks time, but anyone who was at Fratton Park on Saturday will tell you the heart and soul of the club is still alive and kicking, whatever a high court hearing might say.

Meanwhile, England manager Fabio Capello could face a fresh selection headache. Defender Wes Brown has a suspected broken foot, and he could be out for some time.

The FIFA World Cup odds make England third favourites to win the tournament, but at the rate injuries are piling up the team might have to field a makeshift back four.

Finally, in horse racing news, the Cheltenham betting is really hotting up as the countdown to this year’s Festival begins.

Manchester United striker Michael Owen has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after picking up a hamstring injury during the Carling Cup final last weekend.

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Arsenal’s victory over Stoke yesterday certainly put them back in the mix to lift the league title and secure their first piece of silverware since 2005.

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