Berlin - A world economic confidence index released by a leading German institute Thursday dropped to its lowest level in 20 years amid worries that the global economy faced recession.

The Munich-based Ifo institute said its world economic climate survey fell in the fourth quarter to 60 points from 73.4 points in the third quarter.

"Altogether the data points to a global recession," the institute said releasing the report, adding that the expectations for the coming six months have worsened further.

Berlin - Smoke from a fire in the empty quarantine station at Berlin's Tegel Airport reduced visibility for planes taking off and landing Thursday, but an airport spokesman said there were no cancellations.

In continuous rain, firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze in a building where passengers with dangerous infectious diseases and illegally imported animals are normally kept. It had not been in use Thursday.

The spokesman said no one was injured. Tegel, which is one of Berlin's two international airports, is destined for closure when the other airport, Schoenefeld, has been redeveloped.

Berlin, Nov. 20 : England football skipper John Terry pulled off a `Great Escape’ to help his team beat Germany here last night.

After Matthew Upson’s opener, Terry gifted the Germans a soft equaliser when his mix-up left cursed keeper Scott Carson stranded. Terry, however, came storming back to the rescue with a brave 84th-minute winner to give Fabio Capello a magnificent end to his first full year in charge.

Berlin - German football authorities Wednesday honoured goalkeeper legend Bernd Trautmann for his services to football at a ceremony ahead of an international between Germany and England.

Trautmann, 85, was awarded the German Football Federation pin with diamond - its highest award for a person outside the federation - for his "unique services" for German football.

Berlin - Berlin's Jewish community said Wednesday it is not interested in using the villa that once belonged to Nazi propaganda minister Josef Goebbels.

Authorities in the capital had approached the Jewish community to see if it wanted to host exhibitions at the woodland property on the outskirts of the city.

Its members inspected the site at Bogensee during the summer. After that there had been no further contact with city officials, said Maya Zehden, a spokeswoman for the Jewish community.

Berlin  - England manager Fabio Capello is confident is injury-depleted side will perform well against Germany in Wednesday's friendly international in Berlin.

"I am sure we will play a big game tomorrow. I have every confidence in the team. For me it's not a friendly game. I want to win every game," he said Tuesday.

England are missing seven first-choice players, with the team doctor confirming injuries to midfielders Steven Gerrard (groin) and Frank Lampard (rib).