Miroslav Klose Announces International Retirement

Germany's all-time leading goalscorer, Miroslav Klose, 36, has announced his retirement from international football.

The Polish born German took his tally of World Cup goals to a record 16 - setting a record as the highest goal scorer in the history of the prestigious tournament - during the summer show in Brazil.

Having enjoyed 137 caps for his country and netted 71 goals, the 2014 World Cup winner has opted to call it a day.

World Cup 2014: Lionel Messi 'very alone' - Maradona

Napoli great Diego Armando Maradona has hinted on Argentina's poor form, saying than Lionel Messi is "alone" and singlehandedly dragging the Albiceleste through this World Cup.

The 27-year-old Barcelona ace has been named man of the match in every of Argentina's four matches at the tournament so far. He netted four goals in their first three games and laid on the 118th minute winner for Angel Di Maria in Tuesday's 1-0 last-16 win over Switzerland. 

And Maradona believes the team must raise their game if they must beat a highly spirited Belgium side in the quarter-final match, and progress to the semis.

Ozil must force 'magic' World Cup moment, says Ballack

Former Germany midfielder, Michael Ballack, has called for Mesut Ozil to do more to influence games and create magic moments at the World Cup tournament in Brazil.

Germany won their opening group game 4-0 against Portugal - but Ozil was unable to make it onto the score sheet or put his name to any assists.

Hence, Ballack made it clear that his comments should be seen as constructive rather than negative, as it is meant to stir the best from the Arsenal creative midfielder.

2014 World Cup: I have faith in Africa - Gervinho

Cote d'ivoire international Gervinho has stated that he believes Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria and the other African representatives will succeed at this term's World Cup.

The AS Roma winger is optimistic that the African representatives will survive the group stages and confirm the emergence of African football; thereby making name for Africa.

“We the African players are footballers as well as others,” Gervinho told ATS.