Spain survived a stiff first-half examination from Nigeria to clinch their place in the last four of the Confederations Cup yesterday. Two goals by Jordi Alba and another from Fernando Torres set up a semi-final showdown with Italy.

The 'Special One' addresses the media for the first time since his reinstatement

The Spanish club have accepted an offer

The Brazilian striker has put the finishing touches to his move

Goalkeeper will not renew his contract which expires next summer

Tito Vilanova's side close in on title

Ancelotti denies suggestions he was forced to start the former England captain

Coach to undergo surgery and chemotherapy

Two goals last night see Messi reach 86 goals for the calender year

Messi breaks 40-year-old record

So, Catalonia might secede from Spain. This is of course massive political and economic news. But the central question here - one thankfully addressed by First Post - is what would happen to Spain's all-conquering football team were the Catalans (i.e. Barcelona) to break away?

As well as equalling the best start to La Liga, Barcelona's 4-0 win at Levante on Sunday was an extra source of pride for the Catalan club as it was achieved playing with an entire team of players developed through their academy for most of the match.

As well as celebrating his 100th cap for Portugal tomorrow night, Cristiano Ronaldo can revel in becoming the first sportsman to receive over 50 million 'Likes' on Facebook.

Even Pepe could not muster up a breach of the peace after the weekend's clasico left both Real Madrid and Barcelona in a peculiar state of mutual awe. The video nasties from previous seasons have traditionally made fertile ground for days of recrimination from both sides but Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi's brilliance overshadowed all inklings of post-match bitterness.