| Gregory Sica: Who has the guns to win this year's Libertadores?
Forget the UEFA Champions League. If you want a competition that boasts the future of world soccer, look no further than South America's Copa Libertadores. The Champions League may have the glamour, money and superstars, but South America -- in particular, Brazil and Argentina -- is where much of its success started. The world's two best players in history -- Pel and Diego Maradona -- have stood out in past editions of the Libertadores. More recently, star turns have included Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Romrio -- players that have won seven of the last 13 FIFA World Player of the Year awards. Brazilian and Argentine clubs have almost completely dominated the Libertadores since its inception in 1960, and the fact that together they have won 13 of the last 15 competitions means it won't be any different this year -- they still produce the most talented players.
Ghana climbs up FIFA
ACCRA, February 14 -- Ghana is now FIFAs 22nd best football nation, moving six places up the rankings for February courtesy her post World Cup impressive outings. The new rating is a firm confirmation that Ghana football especially at the senior level is on the growth path, with the Black Stars dismissing such strong opposition as perennial opponents, the Super Eagles of Nigeria. Nigeria herself suffered a massive slump on the table, dropping 27 places to now perch at an uncomfortable 36th. Nigeria was previously Africas best at the 10th position. Now leading Africas charge is Cameroon at yet a poor 17th for a continent, followed by Cte d'Ivoire at 21st, just five points ahead of Ghana. But news also is that Brazil for the first time in a long, long while, swapped its topmost position with World Champions Italy.
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