EU talks competitiveness, saves details for later (AP)

AP - Germany and France gave their approval Friday to expand the bailout fund that has been propping up the eurozone's weaklings but pressed EU nations to strengthen their economies, kicking off what will likely be weeks of struggle between Europe's rich and poor over measures aimed at escaping the financial morass surrounding the euro.

Euro hits 2-month high vs dollar as stocks rise (Reuters)

Reuters - World stocks edged up on Friday but were set to post their biggest weekly drop in eight weeks on concerns that rising inflation in emerging economies could lead to aggressive policy action and hurt global growth. Spain's stocks rose. Madrid plans a partial state takeover of its weakest savings banks as it seeks to reassure investors a costly bank rescue will not weigh on its deficit, sources and reports said.

Cole won't be going to Real, says Chelsea chairman (AFP)

AFP - Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck has dashed Jose Mourinho's hopes of luring Ashley Cole to Real Madrid by insisting the England defender is not for sale.

World Cup cheers in Spain and tears in Germany (AFP)

AFP - Football fans cheered in Madrid and shed tears in Berlin as Spain set up a World Cup final showdown with the Netherlands at Soccer City on Sunday.