A cup of Brazilian mint tea has pain relieving qualities to match those of commercially available analgesics, a study suggests.

Southern African countries have high expectations that they too will benefit from South Africa's World Cup.

Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor still has a chance of making England's World Cup squad, says club boss Martin O'Neill

Sunderland fear Darren Bent may be sidelined for three weeks after their leading scorer underwent a scan on a suspected hamstring injury.

In our series of viewpoints from African journalists, Farai Sevenzo ponders the possible unifying and peacemaking powers of the beautiful game.

Julie Walters takes an acting prize while Sir David Frost wins a lifetime achievement award at the International Emmys.

Brazil has reaffirmed its support for Iran's right to a civilian nuclear programme, but called for a "just and balanced" solution with the West.

A film about the Brazilian president's life proves controversial because of a clash with the next election.

The BBC's Garry Duffy finds out why the rock star Sting is calling on Brazil to listen to indigenous tribes protesting against a proposed new hydro-electric dam in the Amazon.

Portsmouth manager Paul Hart tries to allay fears over David James after the keeper has to pull out of the loss at Stoke because of a calf injury.

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce believes striker Darren Bent "has to be" in England boss Fabio Capello's squad for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Many Nigerians have returned home to escape the rigours of the downturn in the West. But with Nigeria experiencing its own credit crunch can the country's brain gain be sustained?

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson denies reports of out-of-favour goalkeeper Ben Foster leaving Old Trafford in January.

West Brom striker Chris Wood is buoyed by New Zealand's qualification for South Africa next summer.

BBC Mundo's Pablo Esparza examines why recent massive power shortages have resulted in millions of homes being plunged into complete darkness in Latin America.

Key facts, figures and dates

A chronology of key events

Key facts, figures and dates

Growth and recovery are expected in 2010 in most world regions, but the upturn will be modest, the OECD says.

Uruguay secure the final place at the 2010 World Cup by drawing 1-1 with Costa Rica in Montevideo to seal a 2-1 aggregate win