Karim Benzema cemented his return to form with his second hat-trick of the month and Cristiano Ronaldo also netted three goals as Real Madrid crushed lowly Levante 8-0 in their King’s Cup last-16 first leg on Wednesday.

Arsene Wenger has branded FIFA’s controversial move to make Russia hosts of the 2018 World Cup ahead of a England as a decision from the “Middle Ages”.

Cheetahs coach Naka Drotske has shown faith in the men who were on song in last week’s 78-7 drubbing of the Leopards by making no changes to his team ahead of Saturday’s Currie Cup semifinal against Western Province.

Arsenal face Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday without their captain, Cesc Fabregas, and goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.

Arsenal fans may need some convincing but manager Arsene Wenger was adamant Lukasz Fabianski could become a “great keeper” after the Pole’s impressive display in the Champions League victory away to Partizan Belgrade.

Theo Walcott and Andrei Arshavin fired Arsenal to a 2-1 win over Blackburn in a frenetic encounter at Ewood Park.

Uncapped Arsenal youngsters Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs and Fulham forward Bobby Zamora were named in the England squad for Wednesday’s friendly against Hungary as Fabio Capello began his post-World Cup rebuilding job.

Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas ended speculation linking him with a move back to La Liga champions Barcelona by confirming his commitment to the Premier League club.

France coach Laurent Blanc has kept a promise to leave 23 World Cup upstarts at home as he recalled Karim Benzema, Samir Nasri and Philippe Mexes to a 22-man squad in time for a friendly against Norway.

Sol Campbell has slammed the “pathetic” Newcastle fans who criticised his fitness after the former England defender was photographed looking overweight.