Search results for 'opening matches'

Inspirational and epic: Djokovic lauds Serena's return at Wimbledon

Inspirational and epic: Djokovic lauds Serena's return at Wimbledon

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Novak Djokovic confirmed that Serena Williams is hitting the gym harder than ever ahead of her eagerly awaited Wimbledon return as he led the praise for the 44-year-old American icon on Saturday.

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Australia's coach Tony Popovic expresses confidence in his team's ability to challenge favourites Turkey in their World Cup opener in Vancouver, despite being considered underdogs. He also confirmed the squad is fully fit, including Mohamed Toure.

First Test: Pacers run riot as England wrap up win over New Zealand inside four days

First Test: Pacers run riot as England wrap up win over New Zealand inside four days

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

England exploited to the full a Lord's pitch once again offering erratic bounce and lateral movement on Sunday to win the rain-interrupted first Test against New Zealand by 115 runs with a day and two sessions to spare.

Qatar hail first World Cup point after late goal stuns Switzerland

Qatar hail first World Cup point after late goal stuns Switzerland

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Qatar celebrated their first World Cup point after a late own goal forced a 1-1 draw against Switzerland and sent the Gulf nation into jubilation on Saturday.

Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali Powers India to five-wicket win over Bangladesh

Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali Powers India to five-wicket win over Bangladesh

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Shafali Verma's aggressive 53 laid the foundation for India's five-wicket win over Bangladesh, though dropped catches and fielding lapses remained a major concern ahead of the Australia clash.

French crowd roars as Parry shocks 6th seed at Roland Garros

French crowd roars as Parry shocks 6th seed at Roland Garros

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Diane Parry defeated Amanda Anisimova in a thrilling three-set match to advance to the fourth round of the French Open, marking her first time reaching this stage in a Grand Slam tournament.

India crush West Indies in T20 World Cup warm-up

India crush West Indies in T20 World Cup warm-up

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

India defeated West Indies by 26 runs in their first Women's T20 World Cup warm-up match. Bharti Fulmali's unbeaten 56 and strong bowling performances from Shreyanka Patil and Radha Yadav secured the victory, despite a batting collapse by the West Indies.

Morocco rally to down Haiti and reach last 32 as Group C runners-up

Morocco rally to down Haiti and reach last 32 as Group C runners-up

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Morocco confirmed their progress to the World Cup last 32 but twice had to come from behind to get the better of plucky Haiti with a 4-2 win in an action-packed game on Wednesday and fell short of topping Brazil in the Group C standings.

FIFA World Cup: 90th-minute drama sends Ghana past Panama

FIFA World Cup: 90th-minute drama sends Ghana past Panama

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Caleb Yirenkyi scored a stoppage-time winner to earn Ghana a 1-0 win over Panama in a chilly and lively World Cup game in which the African side were forced to play the second half without starting goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi on Wednesday.

Australia women smash 219 in record T20 World Cup win, crush Netherlands

Australia women smash 219 in record T20 World Cup win, crush Netherlands

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Australia secured a commanding 98-run victory over the Netherlands in the Women's T20 World Cup, setting a new tournament record by becoming the first team to cross 200 runs. Beth Mooney's 74 and Ashleigh Gardner's 58 were key to their 219/6 total, while the Netherlands showed resilience with Babette de Leede's unbeaten 56.

FIFA World Cup: Gun Gesture Celebration Sparks Controversy

FIFA World Cup: Gun Gesture Celebration Sparks Controversy

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Iranian footballer Mohammad Mohebi's goal celebration during a World Cup match against New Zealand sparked controversy after some interpreted his hand gesture as a 'gun signal'. Mohebi denied any political intent, stating it was a spontaneous reaction.

IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals thump Mumbai Indians in rain-hit match

IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals thump Mumbai Indians in rain-hit match

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's explosive batting helped Rajasthan Royals reach 150 for 3 in a rain-curtailed IPL match.

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Maxi Araujo scored a late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw for Uruguay in their World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia on Monday, preventing another stunning upset in Group H after Spain's earlier goalless draw with Cape Verde.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Secures Semifinal Berth In FIH Nations Cup

Indian Women's Hockey Team Secures Semifinal Berth In FIH Nations Cup

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The Indian women's hockey team defeated Japan 2-1 in the FIH Nations Cup, with goals from captain Salima Tete and Lalremsiami, securing their place in the semifinals and qualifying for next year's FIH Pro League.

FIFA World Cup: Qatar hold Switzerland for first ever World Cup point

FIFA World Cup: Qatar hold Switzerland for first ever World Cup point

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Qatar snatched their first ever World Cup point with a stoppage-time goal to draw 1-1 with Switzerland in an energetic and one-sided Group B opener on Saturday.

FIFA World Cup: France's firepower puts Sweden in the firing line

FIFA World Cup: France's firepower puts Sweden in the firing line

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

France's formidable attack has propelled them through the World Cup group stage, but coach Didier Deschamps is focused on resolving issues on the team's left side before their Round of 32 match against Sweden.

This Duck Just Became Mexico's FIFA World Cup Hero

This Duck Just Became Mexico's FIFA World Cup Hero

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Merlin, a domesticated duck dressed in a miniature Mexico shirt and custom socks, has become an unexpected unofficial mascot for Mexico's World Cup team. After going viral during street celebrations, Merlin's popularity soared, with fans embracing the feathered supporter and his owner, Karla Gomez, expressing delight at his newfound fame.

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Frustrated As DR Congo Hold Portugal To Draw

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Frustrated As DR Congo Hold Portugal To Draw

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Portugal and their talisman Cristiano Ronaldo were left frustrated after being held to a 1-1 draw by Group K rivals Democratic Republic of Congo in their World Cup clash in a sodden Houston.

FIFA World Cup: Confident DR Congo have a message for Cristiano Ronaldo

FIFA World Cup: Confident DR Congo have a message for Cristiano Ronaldo

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Democratic of Republic Congo's supporters are confident their side can shine at the World Cup and have a message for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Fakhar Zaman Banned for Two PSL Matches Over Ball Tampering

Fakhar Zaman Banned for Two PSL Matches Over Ball Tampering

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has been suspended for two Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches after being found guilty of breaching the code of conduct related to changing the condition of the ball during a match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings.

Iran fight back to hold New Zealand in Group G thriller

Iran fight back to hold New Zealand in Group G thriller

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their opening World Cup match on Monday after an end-to-end contest played against the backdrop of Iranian fan protests against the government in Tehran.

No one has a given right to be selected for Australia: Nathan Lyon

No one has a given right to be selected for Australia: Nathan Lyon

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon said on Monday he is on track to recover from a hamstring injury in time for the home Test series against Bangladesh in August.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Struggling Spain face another stubborn opponent in Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Struggling Spain face another stubborn opponent in Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Spain arrive into their Group H clash against Saudi Arabia needing a sharper attacking display after being held to a shock 0-0 draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde in their opening match in Atlanta.

Trump to present trophy at 2026 FIFA World Cup final, says Infantino

Trump to present trophy at 2026 FIFA World Cup final, says Infantino

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump will be on hand to present the World Cup final trophy on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday.

FIFA World Cup: Cunha and Vinicius shine as Brazil cruise past Haiti

FIFA World Cup: Cunha and Vinicius shine as Brazil cruise past Haiti

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Brazil secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Haiti, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice and Vinicius Junior adding another goal. The win keeps Brazil in contention for the top spot in Group C, though their decision to ease off in the second half could impact goal difference in a tight race with Morocco.

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

England captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket after the third Test against New Zealand, saying the demands of captaincy had burned him out after a remarkable career featuring World Cup glory and Ashes heroics.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Co-hosts Mexico kickstart campaign with dominant win over South Africa

FIFA World Cup 2026: Co-hosts Mexico kickstart campaign with dominant win over South Africa

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Julian Quinones gave hosts Mexico a dream start as he scored in the ninth minute in the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match against South Africa.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Storms Into Nations Cup Final With 6-0 Rout Of Chile

Indian Women's Hockey Team Storms Into Nations Cup Final With 6-0 Rout Of Chile

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Indian Women's Hockey team delivered a commanding 6-0 victory over Chile in the FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup semi-final, securing their place in the final. Navneet Kaur and Deepika scored two goals each, contributing to India's fourth consecutive win in the tournament.

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off at the World Cup for violating a new rule against covering mouths during confrontations. His dismissal left Paraguay with 10 men, but they still secured a 1-0 victory over Turkey, keeping their World Cup hopes alive while eliminating Turkey. The incident has sparked debate among coaches about the impact of new rules on the game's essence.

Serena's return puts familiar force at centre of Wimbledon

Serena's return puts familiar force at centre of Wimbledon

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The 23-time Grand Slam champion has become the undisputed headline act at a tournament at which she has won seven singles titles and six doubles crowns with sister Venus.

The dark truth behind Mexico's cute FIFA World Cup symbol

The dark truth behind Mexico's cute FIFA World Cup symbol

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The smiling axolotl is everywhere at the World Cup in Mexico City. But behind the colorful murals and mascot statues lies a troubling reality: scientists say the critically endangered amphibian is becoming increasingly difficult to find in the wild.

Super Subbu Review: Bold Subject, Bumpy Ride

Super Subbu Review: Bold Subject, Bumpy Ride

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Despite its uneven storytelling, Super Subbu deserves applause for turning India's discomfort with sex education into an entertaining, often insightful satire, notes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

IPL 2026: Kohli hailed as greatest chaser after match-winning 81 vs Gujarat Titans

IPL 2026: Kohli hailed as greatest chaser after match-winning 81 vs Gujarat Titans

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn has described Virat Kohli as the finest chaser in cricket after his 81-run knock guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a five-wicket win over Gujarat Titans in an Indian Premier League match in Bengaluru on Friday, April 24. 2026.

Iran Warns FIFA against unauthorised flags, slogans at World Cup games

Iran Warns FIFA against unauthorised flags, slogans at World Cup games

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Iran threatened to halt its matches at the World Cup if unauthorised flags are displayed or slogans targeting the national team are chanted at stadiums, Iranian media reported, citing Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, following criticism of the team's presence at the tournament.

IPL 2026: 'One ball at a time': Kishan opens up on his fearless batting approach

IPL 2026: 'One ball at a time': Kishan opens up on his fearless batting approach

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Ishan Kishan credits his maturity and shot selection for his success in the Indian Premier League, after scoring his sixth half-century. He also praised the team's support staff and captain Pat Cummins for their roles in the team's performance.

Why India Are The Big Favourites To Win Women's T20 World Cup!

Why India Are The Big Favourites To Win Women's T20 World Cup!

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Former cricketer Reema Malhotra believes the Indian women's cricket team is a strong contender to win the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup, largely because of its strong spin bowling resources.

Gurbaz credits Gambhir after slamming century against India

Gurbaz credits Gambhir after slamming century against India

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz credited India head coach Gautam Gambhir for his technical inputs after smashing a 51-ball 102 in the rain-hit first One-Day International.

FIFA World Cup: Goan Origin Araujo Earns Uruguay Crucial Point

FIFA World Cup: Goan Origin Araujo Earns Uruguay Crucial Point

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Uruguay winger Maximiliano Arajo, whose grandfather hailed from Goa's Loutolim village, scored a late equaliser to earn his side a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia in their FIFA World Cup opener.

India U-17 Women's Team Loses To Russia In Second Friendly Match

India U-17 Women's Team Loses To Russia In Second Friendly Match

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The India U-17 women's team suffered a 0-3 defeat against Russia in their second friendly match in Sochi, Russia, as part of their preparations for the upcoming AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in China.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Curacao fans take heavy defeat to Germany in their stride

FIFA World Cup 2026: Curacao fans take heavy defeat to Germany in their stride

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Curacao fans will have woken up the morning after still a little hurt by the 7-1 defeat to Germany in their World Cup debut on Sunday, but the result has not dampened their spirit or their delight at a first global finals for the tiny island nation.