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Capello learns from defeat

Author: Brandon Barker
Date: 16/11/2009
Football betting

Coach Fabio Capello has admitted England must improve if they are to beat the best sides at next summer's World Cup following Saturday's 1-0 friendly defeat to online betting favourites Brazil.

The England side was decimated by a number of high-profile injury absentees, including Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Ashley Cole, while skipper John Terry was ruled out shortly before kick-off due to an ankle injury.

But despite a disappointing performance, Capello believes the game was a worthwhile exercise for his players.

"We learned a lot today," he said. "For me, it was important this game because I understand the value of Brazil.

"I understand a lot of things about the value of some players when we have to play against a team like Brazil, so I understand a lot and I learned a lot."

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Meanwhile, Arsenal striker Robin van Persie looks set for a lengthy injury lay-off after suffering suspected ankle ligament damage.

The Gunners' eight goal frontman was stretchered off after 15 minutes of the Netherlands international friendly against Italy on Saturday and taken to hospital following a strong challenge from Giorgio Chiellini.

In rugby league, Tony Smith has resigned as head coach following England's Four Nations Final defeat to Australia.

The 42-year-old decided to step down after two-and-a-half years at the helm in the wake of Saturday's 46-16 defeat at Elland Road.

England rugby union team manager Martin Johnson has demanded an immediate improvement from his side following Saturday's 16-9 victory over Argentina.

Johnson admitted his players deserved to be booed at half-time by the Twickenham crowd after following up last weekend's defeat to Australia with another below-par display.

Tiger Woods shot a final-round 68 to win the Australian Masters by two strokes in Melbourne.

The world number one bounced back from a disappointing third-round 72 to hold off a strong challenge from home hope Greg Chalmers at Kingston Heath.

Meanwhile, Gregory Bourdy of France held off a strong charge from Rory McIlroy to win the Hong Kong Open by two strokes.

Northern Irish starlet McIlroy had started the final day five shots off the lead but a closing round of 64 had propelled him into contention.

His second place moved him ahead of Lee Westwood and to the top of the Race to Dubai standings.

Manny Pacquiao is the first boxer in history to win seven world titles at seven weight divisions after defeating Miguel Cotto in the 12th round of their WBO welterweight fight in Las Vegas.

The Filipino star twice put his Puerto Rican opponent on the floor before the referee called a halt to the fight in the final round.

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