Germany midfielders Sami Khedira and Simon Rolfes have been dropped from the squad ahead of Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier in Azerbaijan because of minor injuries.

Germany striker Mario Gomez enjoyed a night to remember in Vienna on Friday, scoring both goals in a 2-1 win over Austria in the same stadium where three years ago he endured one of his most embarrassing gaffes.

Runaway Group A leaders Germany will be depleted by injuries in midfield and attack when they take on Euro 2012 rivals Austria on Friday.

Midfielder Christian Traesch became the latest name on Germany's growing injury list when he was ruled out of this month's Euro 2012 qualifiers, the team confirmed on Wednesday.

Iran coach Afshin Gothbi says a combination of Persian pride and American spirit will help Iran's national soccer team -- as long as the players steer clear of politics. Iran has been in political turmoil since the crackdown on opponents of the disputed re-election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in June 2009.

Iran coach Afshin Gothbi says a combination of Persian pride and American spirit is the recipe for success for Iran's national football team as long as the players steer clear of politics. Iran has been in political turmoil since the crackdown on opponents of the disputed re-election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in June 2009.

A youthful Germany team failed to unlock host Sweden, drawing 0-0 in an international friendly Wednesday dominated by strong defenses rather than attacking flair. Scoring chances were scarce at either end. Germany's second-half substitute, Toni Kroos, came closest to breaking the deadlock but goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson clawed away his rising shot.

Four newcomers will aim to impress coach Joachim Loew as Germany rests its World Cup mainstays in a friendly against Sweden. The Germans will be without Mesut Oezil, Thomas Mueller and Philipp Lahm, who were left out at club request; and Miroslav Klose, who is injured for Wednesday's game. Loew called up midfielder Mario Goetze and defender Marcel Schmelzer of Bundesliga leader Borussia...