Australia's push for an automatic bid to the World Cup has
gotten off to a rough start, but a win or a tie against Japan
on June 4 would put the Socceroos back in prime position
for second place in their group. Veteran midfielder
Tim Cahill (left) must come up big for his squad to knock off
the powerful Samurai Blue, writes John Duerden.

Game 1 - Saturday 5/18 at Reading (7:05 p.m. ET)
Game 2 - Sunday 5/19 at Reading (4:05 p.m. ET)
Game 3 - Tuesday 5/21 at Stockton (7 p.m. PT)
Game 4 - Friday 5/24 at Stockton (7:30 p.m. PT)
Game 5 - Saturday 5/25 at Stockton (7:30 p.m. PT)
Game 6 - Tuesday 5/28 at Reading (7:05 p.m. ET)
Game 7 - Wednesday 5/29 at Reading (7:05 p.m. ET)

When Yao Ming joined the Houston Rockets in 2002, many thought it
would open a pipeline of players from China to the U.S. That didn't
materialize — there are currently zero Chinese players in the NBA.
But there are three young prospects, including two talented
seven-footers, who have the potential to reach the world's
best league, says Jon Pastuszek.

Both the Los Angeles Dodgers and Angels came into the season
with star-studded rosters and World Series expectations. However,
so far things have been downright ugly for players such as Albert Pujols
(right). In fact, the first part of the season has played out like a
Hollywood disaster flick for both teams, writes Amanda Rykoff.

NBA legend Michael Jordan has been involved in a heated court
battle — but it's not the type of court that he's accustomed to.
Jordan has sued the Chinese apparel company Qiaodan for using
his name and and uniform number without his permission. Knockoff
companies such as Qiaodan have become a big problem for famous
athletes, reports Jon Pastuszek.

There will be plenty on the line during the June 4 meeting between
Qatar and Iran. Star midfielder Khalfan Ibrahim (10) will be the key
in keeping Qatar's hopes alive for an automatic berth for Brazil 2014,
writes John Duerden.

Jose Mourinho's future with Real Madrid is up in the air.
Rumors are swirling that the outspoken manager may
jump to the Premier League. But he could stay at the
Santiago Bernabéu if his demands for revamping the
team's roster are met, writes Duncan Castles.