Afonso who? The Brazil newcomer planning to make sure everyone knows his name

FEATURE: England fans could be forgiven for overlooking the name of Afonso Alves listed alongside Brazil’s Kaka, Ronaldinho and Robinho tonight — many people in his homeland don’t even know who he is.

Argentina have to win Copa America, insists Heinze

NEWS: Argentina defender Gabriel Heinze is determined to get revenge for his country’s defeat at the hands of Brazil in the final of the last Copa America three years ago.

Dunga: Copa is harder than World Cup

NEWS: Brazil coach Dunga belives the Copa America is harder to win than the World Cup.

Politicians fuel Copa America boycott threat

NEWS: Politicians have thrown their weight behind criticism of FIFA’s ban on matches being played at high altitude — and the threat of a Copa America boycott refuses to fade.

Uruguay team takes shape

NEWS: Uruguay coach Oscar Washington Tabarez has revealed he is close to knowing his ideal starting XI for the Copa America.

Messi eyes revenge

NEWS: Barcelona star Leo Messi says he understands why his team-mate Ronaldinho wants to rest instead of play in the Copa America, but the Argentina star insists he wouldn’t contemplate missing the tournament in Venezuela.

Arango: Venezuela can win the Copa America

NEWS: Juan Arango believes Venezuela can emulate Colombia’s 2001 feat of winning the Copa America as hosts of the tournament.

Injured Albright fears lengthy recovery

NEWS: U.S.A. defender Chris Albright needed surgery for a torn hamstring and admits his chances of recovering in time for the Copa America are slim.