News for '-fifa'

Heard Shakira's New FIFA World Cup Song Yet?

Heard Shakira's New FIFA World Cup Song Yet?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Colombian singer Shakira has released 'Dai Dai', the official song for the 2026 World Cup, featuring Nigerian singer Burna Boy.

Norway Football Team Gets Royal Welcome

Norway Football Team Gets Royal Welcome

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Norway enjoyed a memorable 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in the tournament before suffering a narrow 2-1 extra-time defeat to England.

'They showed who is the boss'

'They showed who is the boss'

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Zlatan Ibrahimovic praises Mexico after Ecuador victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match on Tuesday.

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India football coach Stephen Constantine has expressed deep disappointment over the national team's current decline, criticising the All India Football Federation for its decisions, including the appointment of Khalid Jamil as coach despite his lack of international experience. Constantine, who led India to a historic FIFA ranking of 96, believes he should still be managing the team and calls for wider structural reforms in Indian football.

Neymar's heartfelt birthday post for daughter steals the spotlight at World Cup

Neymar's heartfelt birthday post for daughter steals the spotlight at World Cup

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

'May our Heavenly Father guide your paths and grant you lots of health so you can play more and more.'

Dutch stars targeted with racist hate after penalty loss

Dutch stars targeted with racist hate after penalty loss

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Dutch football players Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber, and Crysencio Summerville were subjected to racist, discriminatory, and hateful online abuse after missing penalties in their World Cup shootout defeat to Morocco. The Dutch football association (KNVB) has condemned the abuse, calling it appalling, and plans to file a case with 'Meld Online Discriminatie' which could lead to a criminal investigation. Morocco won the thrilling Round of 32 match 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, advancing to face Canada.

Egypt's Pharaohs get heroes' welcome after best-ever World Cup campaign

Egypt's Pharaohs get heroes' welcome after best-ever World Cup campaign

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Thousands of ecstatic supporters welcomed the Egyptian national football team home after their historic World Cup campaign, which saw them reach the last 16 for the first time, despite a heartbreaking defeat to Argentina.

From knee injury to World Cup hero: Rodri's rise

From knee injury to World Cup hero: Rodri's rise

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Rodri, Spain's midfield maestro, completed his collection of major football prizes by winning the World Cup, less than two years after a significant knee injury. Named the tournament's best player, he joins an elite group of footballers. Rodri highlighted the importance of overcoming adversity and praised his team's collective effort in their hard-fought victory against Argentina.

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe admitted VAR confusion distracted him before his missed penalty against Morocco but said France's talented squad still has plenty to prove despite reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a 2-0 victory.

Embolo's Simulation Red Card: A World Cup Turning Point for Switzerland

Embolo's Simulation Red Card: A World Cup Turning Point for Switzerland

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Breel Embolo became the first player in 20 years to be sent off at a World Cup for a second yellow card for simulation, a decision that proved a turning point in Switzerland's 3-1 extra-time defeat to Argentina in the quarter-finals.

Russian Athletes Closer To Full Return In International Sports

Russian Athletes Closer To Full Return In International Sports

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, easing restrictions on Russian athletes. This move, welcomed by the Kremlin, allows Olympic sports bodies to consider reintegrating Russian athletes as neutrals, though some sports like track and field are not following suit.

Paraguayan Senator calls Mbappe 'son of a b****' in fiery outburst

Paraguayan Senator calls Mbappe 'son of a b****' in fiery outburst

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla escalated her feud with French footballer Kylian Mbappe, calling him a "son of a b****" during a Senate speech. This follows an incident where Mbappe allegedly refused to shake goalkeeper Orlando Gill's hand after a FIFA World Cup match. Amarilla also claimed Mbappe called her "despicable," while France coach Didier Deschamps stated the controversy hasn't affected Mbappe's focus.

Deschamps thanks Mbappe, France squad for support after mother's death

Deschamps thanks Mbappe, France squad for support after mother's death

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

'Kylian's gesture touched me deeply'

Neymar Trolls Economist After Brazil's Dramatic World Cup Victory

Neymar Trolls Economist After Brazil's Dramatic World Cup Victory

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Neymar, despite not playing, made headlines with a social media post trolling an economist after Brazil's 2-1 comeback win against Japan in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. Coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed he held Neymar back for potential extra time, while Gabriel Martinelli scored the dramatic winner.

FIFA World Cup: 'There is still a long way to go': Mbappe sends rivals a message

FIFA World Cup: 'There is still a long way to go': Mbappe sends rivals a message

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

France showcased their tactical superiority and attacking prowess to defeat Morocco in the World Cup quarter-final, effectively neutralising Morocco's usually exhilarating offensive style with a dominant midfield and relentless pressure.

France boss Deschamps becomes most successful World Cup coach ever

France boss Deschamps becomes most successful World Cup coach ever

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

France head coach Didier Deschamps made World Cup history by becoming the most successful manager in terms of victories after France's dominant 3-0 win over Sweden, with Kylian Mbapp starring once again to send Les Bleus into the Round of 16.

Toronto launches football-themed condoms ahead of FIFA World Cup

Toronto launches football-themed condoms ahead of FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Toronto will hand out free soccer-themed condoms during the FIFA World Cup as part of a public health campaign promoting safer sex and sexual health awareness.

France not afraid of Spain ahead of World Cup semi-final, says Konate

France not afraid of Spain ahead of World Cup semi-final, says Konate

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

France defender Ibrahima Konate says Les Bleus fear no one ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Spain, while acknowledging the challenge posed by Lamine Yamal and the tournament's best defence.

Thierry Henry: Messi 'Not Human' in World Cup Comeback; Beckham, Rivaldo Also Praise Star

Thierry Henry: Messi 'Not Human' in World Cup Comeback; Beckham, Rivaldo Also Praise Star

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Football legends Thierry Henry, David Beckham, and Rivaldo have lauded Lionel Messi's extraordinary performance in Argentina's dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 comeback against Egypt, with Henry stating Messi is 'not human' for his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.

'This was my final match': Mahrez ends Algeria career

'This was my final match': Mahrez ends Algeria career

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Riyad Mahrez, the Algerian football star, has announced his retirement from international football following Algeria's elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 by Switzerland. Mahrez confirmed his decision after Algeria's 2-0 defeat, concluding a distinguished career with 119 appearances, 40 goals, and 45 assists, including a pivotal role in Algeria's 2019 Africa Cup of Nations victory.

Klopp's Humorous Chat with Mbappe After World Cup Win

Klopp's Humorous Chat with Mbappe After World Cup Win

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Former Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp shared a humorous exchange with France captain Kylian Mbappe after France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final, joking about Mbappe's prolific scoring and calling him a 'detector'.

SEE: Inside Belgium's wild dressing room celebrations

SEE: Inside Belgium's wild dressing room celebrations

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Belgium's dressing room erupted in celebration after their dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Senegal, with match-winner Youri Tielemans leading the festivities.

Jurgen Klopp Criticises VAR Decision In Germany's World Cup Defeat

Jurgen Klopp Criticises VAR Decision In Germany's World Cup Defeat

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp criticised the VAR decision that disallowed Jonathan Tah's goal, leading to Germany's early exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. He also took a dig at Arsenal regarding their set-piece goals, suggesting many would be ruled out if Tah's goal was illegal.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Complete List Of All 26-Man Squads

FIFA World Cup 2026: Complete List Of All 26-Man Squads

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The official 26-man squads for FIFA World Cup 2026.

Brazil rewrite World Cup history with dramatic comeback victory

Brazil rewrite World Cup history with dramatic comeback victory

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, recording their first knockout victory after trailing at half-time since 1978 as Casemiro made history and Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic late winner.

Tensions flare as Palestinian FA chief snubs Israeli official at FIFA Congress

Tensions flare as Palestinian FA chief snubs Israeli official at FIFA Congress

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Palestinian soccer federation President Jibril Rajoub refused to stand alongside Israel FA Vice-President Basim Sheikh Suliman in a heated moment at the FIFA Congress on Thursday.

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.

'We are better': Yamal sparks fire ahead of France clash

'We are better': Yamal sparks fire ahead of France clash

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Spain's young star Lamine Yamal has confidently stated that France holds no advantage in the FIFA World Cup 2026, dismissing them as favourites. Yamal expressed strong belief in Spain's ability to win the tournament, highlighting that knockout rounds are a different challenge from the group stage.

FIFA World Cup on the brink: India, China yet to secure broadcast deal

FIFA World Cup on the brink: India, China yet to secure broadcast deal

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Millions of soccer fans in the world's two most populous nations may not be able to watch the World Cup that starts next month, due to a deadlock over broadcast rights in India and no official decision in China.

Portugal star Ronaldo links up with Drake after Croatia victory

Portugal star Ronaldo links up with Drake after Croatia victory

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo met Canadian music superstar Drake after Portugal's dramatic 2-1 World Cup win over Croatia, with the Portugal captain celebrating his first-ever World Cup knockout goal before a quarter-final clash against Spain.

Guess How Messi Celebrated His 39th Birthday

Guess How Messi Celebrated His 39th Birthday

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi, on the eve of his 39th birthday, demonstrated his unwavering commitment to Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign by engaging in an intense gym session. The football legend, who is already the FIFA World Cup's all-time top goalscorer, is leading Argentina into the Round of 16 and continues to break records with his exceptional performance.

PIX: Neymar With Family After Ending Illustrious International Career

PIX: Neymar With Family After Ending Illustrious International Career

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazilian football legend Neymar Jr. has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil's shocking 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The 34-year-old forward, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, confirmed his decision after the match, marking the end of a celebrated career with the national team.

Brazilian footballer Micael sent off for urinating by bench

Brazilian footballer Micael sent off for urinating by bench

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Brazilian footballer Micael was sent off before his Copa Paulista match for Sao Jose after the referee witnessed him urinating next to the substitutes' bench, an act for which his club later issued an apology.

Modric vs Ronaldo at FIFA World Cup: Legends set for epic battle

Modric vs Ronaldo at FIFA World Cup: Legends set for epic battle

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Portugal and Croatia face off in a high-stakes Round of 32 clash in Toronto on Thursday, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric both eyeing a deep World Cup run in what could be the final chapter of their legendary international careers.

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni lauded his team's ability to 'suffer without losing belief' after their dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in the World Cup quarter-finals, highlighting their growth in navigating challenging situations.

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final saw a galaxy of stars on the field and off it.

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.

FIFA World Cup: Iran's players granted visas to enter the US

FIFA World Cup: Iran's players granted visas to enter the US

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Iran's World Cup football team has finally received visas to enter the United States, just days before their first match in Los Angeles.

FIFA World Cup: From hero to outcast: Balogun sent off, US move on

FIFA World Cup: From hero to outcast: Balogun sent off, US move on

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Balogun scored and celebrated in style before a VAR review turned his night around for the worse, as he was sent off for a foul. Even with 10 men, the United States stayed disciplined and beat Bosnia 2-0. Malik Tillman sealed the win with a free-kick goal. The result sends the U.S. into the last 16 against Belgium. Balogun is suspended for that match.

World Cup 2026: France seek revenge on Spain in blockbuster semi-final

World Cup 2026: France seek revenge on Spain in blockbuster semi-final

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

France take on Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final aiming for a third consecutive World Cup final, with Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele leading Les Bleus against Europe's champions.