Sporting briefs

Juninho: Ligue 1 leaders Lyon face their fifth match without midfield inspiration Juninho, who is nursing a fractured toe, when they welcome strugglers Sochaux today. "It doesn't look too good," the Brazilian free-kick specialist said. "My (left) foot is still painful and it's difficult for me to put a boot on."

Real injuries: Midfielder Guti joined Real Madrid's lengthening list of injury worries after twisting his left ankle in training and is a doubt for tomorrow's game at home to Valladolid. Leading striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is receiving treatment for a bruised ankle suffered during last weekend's defeat against Almeria, midfielder Fernando Gago is doubtful because of a muscle strain and defenders Pepe, Christoph Metzelder, Gabriel Heinze and Miguel Torres are definitely out.

Lampard: Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard's long-awaited and often delayed comeback from a thigh problem could happen tomorrow when the Londoners host Liverpool. Lampard, out since Dec. 26, could be among the substitutes. Ricardo Carvalho returns from suspension and John Obi Mikel should be available after African Nations Cup duty but Andriy Shevchenko (back) and John Terry (foot) remain out.

Africa Cup: Benin referee Bonaventure Coffi Codjia will take charge of tomorrow's African Nations Cup final between Cameroon and Egypt. The 40-year-old is officiating in his fifth Nations Cup. He handled semi-finals in 2002 and 2004 and the 2000 third-place play-off.

MFA Division Two: Zurrieq vs Balzan 2-3; San Gwann vs Rabat 1-1.

In England: The Championship - Charlton vs C. Palace 2-0.