Search results for 'Defender'

Messi's Latest Post Before FIFA World Cup Knockouts Hints Focus

Messi's Latest Post Before FIFA World Cup Knockouts Hints Focus

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi shared insights into Argentina's World Cup preparations in Miami, posting training moments on Instagram. The defending champions are gearing up for their Round of 32 clash against Cabo Verde, with Messi, at 39, remaining a pivotal figure for the team's success.

The Best Player At World Cup 2026 Is... Vote!!!

The Best Player At World Cup 2026 Is... Vote!!!

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Nine football superstars, one ultimate honour-vote for the player you believe delivered the most memorable performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

'Humiliated' RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari quits party

'Humiliated' RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari quits party

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari has announced his resignation from the party, citing a lack of space for dedicated workers and alleging humiliation. He also claimed that Tejashwi Yadav is surrounded by elements "hollowing" the party.

Sanjay Manjrekar Calls For IPL Reforms After India's T20I Debacle

Sanjay Manjrekar Calls For IPL Reforms After India's T20I Debacle

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has criticised the Indian Premier League (IPL) for contributing to the national team's T20I struggles, particularly in overseas conditions. He urged selectors to pick players based on their suitability for international cricket rather than their IPL performance, highlighting issues like batting-friendly pitches and the 'Impact Player' rule.

Puri Rath Yatra: Lord Jagannath's missing floral crown sparks row

Puri Rath Yatra: Lord Jagannath's missing floral crown sparks row

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

A controversy has erupted in Odisha after Lord Jagannath's idol was moved from the Puri temple to the chariot during the Rath Yatra without its traditional 'Tahia' floral headgear, leading to strong criticism from opposition parties BJD and Congress against the BJP government.

Juergen Klopp appointed Germany head coach on four-year deal

Juergen Klopp appointed Germany head coach on four-year deal

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund boss Juergen Klopp has been appointed as the head coach of the German national football team on a four-year contract, following Julian Nagelsmann's departure and a series of disappointing World Cup performances.

Xavi And Mascherano Reflect On Barcelona's Impact On World Cup Final

Xavi And Mascherano Reflect On Barcelona's Impact On World Cup Final

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Barcelona legends Xavi Hernandez and Javier Mascherano discuss the profound influence of their former club on the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. They highlight the impact of La Masia-bred players like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi for Spain, and the enduring brilliance of Lionel Messi for Argentina, all products of Barcelona's footballing philosophy. Both former players express pride in the shared playing style and the quality of the final.

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Djed Spence, initially a controversial World Cup squad selection and criticised for his early performance, has emerged as a crucial impact substitute for England. His pace, energy, and passion off the bench have silenced critics, playing a vital role in England's progression to the semi-finals despite a broken jaw.

'Gen Z Has Shown How The Government's Arrogance Can Be Broken'

'Gen Z Has Shown How The Government's Arrogance Can Be Broken'

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

What remained at Shivaji Park was not Gen Z anger but of momentum -- a generation that had, in its own telling, made an emperor bow, and intends to keep singing and meme-ing about it.

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation is significant because it punctures, however slightly, the perception that the Modi government never retreats under pressure. Every long-serving government eventually reaches a point where every institutional failure is identified with the leader himself. Removing the minister may have prevented that political burden from falling directly on Modi. Whether it also resolves the underlying crisis is another matter, notes Ramesh Menon.

FIFA World Cup PIX: Messi Weeps After Argentina's Great Escape

FIFA World Cup PIX: Messi Weeps After Argentina's Great Escape

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

An emotional Lionel Messi broke down in tears after inspiring Argentina to a remarkable 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, sending the defending champions into the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after they had stared at a shock exit.

Race To The Oval: Who Will Contest The 2027 WTC Final?

Race To The Oval: Who Will Contest The 2027 WTC Final?

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Oval in London has been confirmed as the venue for the 2027 ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled from June 9-13. This marks the second time The Oval will host the final, having previously done so in 2023. Nine teams are currently competing in the ongoing WTC cycle, with Australia leading the standings, followed by South Africa and New Zealand, as the race intensifies with crucial upcoming series.

Sinner, Noskova's Wimbledon Ball Dance Delights Fans

Sinner, Noskova's Wimbledon Ball Dance Delights Fans

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Jannik Sinner and Linda Noskova captivated tennis fans with their dance moves at the Wimbledon Champions' Ball, upholding a cherished tradition after their respective singles title victories.

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Monday's proceedings demonstrated that the legislative debate has become inseparable from the broader political crisis surrounding the NEET controversy.

'We gave our utmost': Emotional Argentina coach

'We gave our utmost': Emotional Argentina coach

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni expressed deep emotion and hinted at a review of his future after his team's 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final. He spoke about giving their utmost and needing time to reflect, while also praising Lionel Messi, who was also visibly upset after the defeat.

Major League Cricket sees just one Pakistani player as PCB introduces NOC fee

Major League Cricket sees just one Pakistani player as PCB introduces NOC fee

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A recent policy decision by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to demand a $25,000 fee for players' No Objection Certificates (NOCs) left Haris Rauf -- signed by the San Francisco Unicorns -- as the country's sole representative in the USA's Major League Cricket (MLC) this year.

'This goal belongs to Spain': Torres' historic strike

'This goal belongs to Spain': Torres' historic strike

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Spain forward Ferran Torres dedicated his World Cup-winning goal to the entire nation after his extra-time strike secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The 26-year-old's solitary goal of the tournament proved decisive, ending Argentina's hopes of retaining the title and delivering Spain's first World Cup triumph since 2010. The win also extended Spain's unbeaten run to a European-record 38 international matches.

Bengal govt can now detain suspects without trial, raze rioters' properties

Bengal govt can now detain suspects without trial, raze rioters' properties

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

West Bengal has enacted two controversial legislations, the Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Act and the Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act, aimed at curbing organised crime and violent protests. These laws grant authorities significant powers, including preventive detention without trial and property attachment for riot damages, drawing both support and criticism.

Argentina's World Cup Resilience Tested Ahead of Switzerland Clash

Argentina's World Cup Resilience Tested Ahead of Switzerland Clash

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, have shown remarkable resilience in the World Cup knockout stages, overcoming a 2-0 deficit against Egypt and needing extra time against Cape Verde to reach the quarter-finals against Switzerland.

Guwahati Restaurants To Stay Open Late For FIFA World Cup Matches

Guwahati Restaurants To Stay Open Late For FIFA World Cup Matches

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Assam government has permitted restaurants in Guwahati to remain open until 3:30 am on specific dates, including July 15, 16, 19, and 20, to allow football enthusiasts to watch the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this decision, encouraging responsible enjoyment of the matches, while also allowing other districts to follow suit based on public demand and restaurant associations' requests.

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

From intense gangster epics to tender slice-of-life dramas, these 10 films showcase why Dhanush remains one of Indian cinema's most versatile leading men.

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Veteran Indian hockey midfielder Manpreet Singh, despite numerous accolades including Olympic medals, is determined to win a World Cup medal before concluding his illustrious career after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Deschamps feared Paraguay's players would 'chop' Mbappe down

Deschamps feared Paraguay's players would 'chop' Mbappe down

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

France coach Didier Deschamps said he feared Kylian Mbappe would be "chopped down" as Paraguay turned their World Cup last-16 tie into a bruising battle, with Les Bleus eventually clawing their way into the quarter-finals with a 1-0 win on Saturday.

Arsene Wenger backs Kylian Mbappe's France to win FIFA World Cup 2026

Arsene Wenger backs Kylian Mbappe's France to win FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Former Arsenal manager and FIFA's Chief of Global Football Development Arsene Wenger has backed Kylian Mbappe's France to win the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, saying Spain are the only team capable of stopping the two-time champions because of their superior technical quality.

Sinner ends Djokovic's dream in straight sets, faces Zverev for Wimbledon crown

Sinner ends Djokovic's dream in straight sets, faces Zverev for Wimbledon crown

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Defending champion Jannik Sinner ended Novak Djokovic's latest bid to claim a record 25th Grand Slam title in ruthless fashion with a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win to reach the Wimbledon final on Friday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina's passion faces Spain's precision in final showdown

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina's passion faces Spain's precision in final showdown

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The World Cup final offers football's grandest stage a deliciously odd pairing: Argentina, all pulse, fire and Lionel Messi, against Spain, the European champions who appear to treat chaos as an administrative error and have turned control into something close to an art form.

Why Croatia's late equaliser was ruled out: Martinez backs VAR decision

Why Croatia's late equaliser was ruled out: Martinez backs VAR decision

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended the VAR decisions that helped his side beat Croatia 2-1, while FIFA explained how Connected Ball Technology confirmed the stoppage-time offside call that ended Croatia's World Cup campaign.

Spain's coach shares World Cup secret: 'One family'

Spain's coach shares World Cup secret: 'One family'

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente attributed his team's second World Cup victory to their strong team-first mentality, unity, and shared values, establishing them as a dominant force in international football.

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Swiss football fans expressed pride in their national team despite a 3-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup quarter-finals, marking the end of an 'exceptional campaign' that captivated the country.

US launches 'new airstrikes' on Iran after Iran attack kills 2 American soldiers

US launches 'new airstrikes' on Iran after Iran attack kills 2 American soldiers

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The United States has launched a fresh wave of airstrikes against Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in response to a deadly attack in Jordan that claimed the lives of two American service members, aiming to curb Tehran's maritime threats.

Alfie Haaland claims Norway 'robbed' in World Cup quarter-final defeat to England

Alfie Haaland claims Norway 'robbed' in World Cup quarter-final defeat to England

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Norway international Alf-Inge 'Alfie' Haaland expressed his disappointment after Norway's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England, claiming the Scandinavian side had been 'robbed' in the contest.

Dutch coach Koeman set to quit after Morocco FIFA World Cup shock

Dutch coach Koeman set to quit after Morocco FIFA World Cup shock

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Dutch coach Koeman expected to leave in wake of early World Cup elimination

FIFA World Cup: 'Anyone can beat anyone': Argentina brace for Egypt

FIFA World Cup: 'Anyone can beat anyone': Argentina brace for Egypt

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Argentina's national football team anticipates a challenging last-16 World Cup match against Egypt, following a hard-fought victory over Cape Verde. Players Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina emphasised the increasing competitiveness of international football, highlighting that no easy games remain in the tournament, as they prepare for a stern test from the highly motivated Egyptian side.

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

After England's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final win over Norway, midfielder Jude Bellingham pushed back against manager Thomas Tuchel's "sloppy" performance assessment, highlighting the team's resilience and the challenging conditions. Despite the friction, Bellingham's two goals were crucial in securing England's semi-final spot, underscoring his vital role in the tournament.

Durand Cup Expands To Five Cities, Welcomes Seven New Teams

Durand Cup Expands To Five Cities, Welcomes Seven New Teams

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The Durand Cup football tournament will feature 24 teams, including seven debutants, across five cities from July 25 to August 23. Kolkata remains the primary hub, hosting the final, while Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong, and Guwahati will also host matches, bringing together a diverse mix of Indian and overseas teams.

Wimbledon: Jannik Sinner Eases Past Borges To Reach Round 3

Wimbledon: Jannik Sinner Eases Past Borges To Reach Round 3

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Defending Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner secured a relatively straightforward victory against Nuno Borges in the second round, winning 7-6(4), 7-6(2), 6-4.

Gambhir not to blame? Ex selector makes big claim

Gambhir not to blame? Ex selector makes big claim

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Former India cricketer and ex-chief selector MSK Prasad has questioned the consistent dropping of Sanju Samson from the T20I squad, calling it a 'big mistake' given his strong performances, while also defending head coach Gautam Gambhir against early criticism for recent series losses.

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The 2026 World Cup has been marred by widespread controversy surrounding the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, with coaches, players, and fans criticising its application, consistency, and impact on match outcomes, leading to a significant increase in interventions and red cards.

US senators name India in sweeping Russia sanctions bill

US senators name India in sweeping Russia sanctions bill

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A bipartisan group of US senators has introduced a comprehensive bill imposing extensive sanctions on Russia, with India identified as one of five countries that could incur tariffs for its continued purchase of Russian oil.

FIFA World Cup final marks full-circle moment for Messi and Yamal

FIFA World Cup final marks full-circle moment for Messi and Yamal

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will face-off as defending champions Argentina meet reigning European champions Spain in the FIFA World Cup final, in New York on Saturday.