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World Cup chit-chat: Unwell Van Persie doubtful for semis

The Netherlands have concerns over striker Robin van Persie, who was suffering from stomach problems ahead of their semi-final game against Argentina in Sao Paulo.

Van Persie has been training separately from the squad and Dutch coach Louis van Gaal said he would not be able to make a decision on his fitness until the day of the game.

"I don't know," Van Gaal said when asked if his key striker would play.

"Tomorrow I'll have to take all these decisions but I can't do that today."

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World Cup official in ticket scam released from jail

Ray Whelan, chief executive of a hospitality firm arrested in connection with an investigation into VIP ticket scalping at the World Cup, was released after spending the night in custody.

Whelan was arrested as a result of Operation Jules Rimet in which 12 people have been arrested following investigations into the illegal resale of tickets for the tournament.

The investigation has further sullied the reputation of world soccer's governing body FIFA, which was already facing allegations of bribery surrounding Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 World Cup.

Whelan's company, MATCH, said the Englishman was released in Rio de Janeiro and that he will assist police with further enquiries.

"MATCH have complete faith that the facts will establish that he has not violated any laws," it said in a statement, adding that Whelan would continue working at the World Cup.

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