But since that disappointing performance, Syracuse (28-9) has gone on a run, winning five of its last six games to reach the Big East tournament final and join Indiana (29-6), No. 2 Miami and No. 3 Marquette to form the only group of 1-4 seeds left in any NCAA region this year.

WSJ: No Florida Gulf Coasts: Top 4 seeds in East Region

Japan became the first team to join hosts South Africa in the tournament when they beat Uzbekistan 1-0.

BBC: Netherlands seal World Cup place

Nasri, 21, made two appearances for his country in their failed Euro 2008 campaign, announcing after the tournament that he was to join the Premier League side.

CNN: Frenchman Nasri completes Arsenal move

However, it has been suggested that the English and American bids could join forces, with one targeting the 2018 tournament while the other focuses on 2022.

BBC: 2018 bid chief calls for humility

Jimenez, who was one of Jose Maria Olazabal's vice-captains in Europe's Ryder Cup victory in September, carded two-under-par 68 to join Campbell on 10-under 200 overall in a tournament he won in 2004 and 2007.

CNN: Jimenez seeking to become European Tour's oldest winner

"The good news is we've got 36 holes to go, " said Woods, who seeking to join Sam Snead as the only player to win the same tournament eight times.

CNN: Tiger vows to 'clean up' after more late lapses at Bay Hill

And before the tournament started, there were massive disputes over whether players could join non-South African clubs and still play for their country.

CNN: Coach White will quit South Africa

The 39-year-old Parry, who is one of the shortest men in tournament golf at only 5ft 6in, putted magnificently all week to join O'Hern at 14-under-par 270 after 72 holes of regulation play (69-66-65-70).

BBC: SPORT | Golf | European Tour stats attack

As a first step, Romney and Santorum both expressed the same position as Obama when asked Thursday about whether women should be able to join the all-male Augusta National Golf Club, site of the Masters tournament.

CNN: Obama adds politics to women's forum