The UN's forecasts for eastern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa are especially dark.

ECONOMIST: BRICs, emerging markets and the world economy

Its CEO, Mr. Colao, has taken the hint and announced plans to concentrate the company in Europe, India and sub-Saharan Africa rather than expanding elsewhere.

WSJ: Vodafone Overturns Tax Bill in India

North America and Europe suffered declines in economic freedom over the past year, while economic freedom increased in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.

BBC: Hong Kong retains top spot of world's freest economy

As the economies of Europe and the U.S. falter, growth in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to reach 5.4% this year, higher than any region except developing Asia, according to the International Monetary Fund.

WSJ: Hoteliers Race to Expand in Africa

By 1974 , the World Cup was starting to resemble its modern incarnation, with teams such as Zaire -- the first from sub-Saharan Africa -- and Australia extending the competition's reach beyond its roots in Europe and South America.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS