1.   But Mexico appears to be on the rise, having defeated Argentina in a two-game playoff to earn the final World Cup berth.

2.   Four other judges on the nine-member panel scored Courtland-Reynolds third, giving them the final U.S. berth at the Lillehammer Olympics.

3.   Her leg was throbbing throughout the race, but Herazo managed to hold on to the final Olympic berth.

4.   The final two berths go to at-large selections made by the U.S. team captain.

5.   The final berth probably will go to defender David Regis if his bid for citizenship is approved in time.

6.   The greatest source of confusion remains the absolute final berth.

7.   Only the top four South American teams are guaranteed a spot in the Cup, while the fifth plays Australia for the final berth.

8.   A tie by Santos would have given the final semifinal berth to Atletico.

9.   AFC general secretary Peter Velappan had said that while the confederation wanted a fifth guaranteed place, it would settle again for a playoff for the final berth.

10.   An Indian victory would have given Canada the final berth.