■ North Korea
Women's team pulls out
North Korea has pulled out of an international women's soccer competition scheduled for later this month in South Korea, citing a "complex" situation, organizers said yesterday, in an apparent reference to the country's nuclear test. North Korea had been scheduled to participate in the 2006 Peace Queen Cup Korea from Oct. 28-Nov. 4, but a South Korean businessman acting as an agent for the North's team told organizers on Monday that the North's participation would be difficult, according to Huh Kyung-rak, an official of the organizing committee. "He cited that the situation is complex," Huh said. "I think it's because of the North's nuclear test."
■ Poland
Ronaldo the danger man
Poland has struggled in European Championship qualifying and faces Portugal today with winger Cristiano Ronaldo in top form. With four points from three games, the Poles want at least a draw in Chorzow. Portugal, on four points from two games, hasn't lost on the road in international qualifying for 10 years. "Of course we're going there looking for a win, even though we know Poland is a tough outfit," said Ronaldo, who scored two goals last weekend in Portugal's 3-0 win over Azerbaijan. The Manchester United winger has taken over the playmaker role left by retired Luis Figo.
■ The Netherlands
Van Persie to lead attack
Robin van Persie is expected to again play as a lone striker in the Netherlands' European Championship qualifier against Albania today. He was the only striker when he headed in the equalizer in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Bulgaria. With Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Dirk Kuyt out or in doubt with ankle injuries, Van Persie should fulfill the role again. "I think Robin played well as a central striker," Netherlands coach Marco van Basten said on Monday "He is the kind of player who can play in every position up front." Vennegoor is injured and Ruud van Nistelrooy turned down a call-up.
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