News for '-france'

Brothers face off at 2026 FIFA World Cup

Brothers face off at 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will feature four sets of brothers playing for different countries.

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The 10 takeaways from the FIFA World Cup, which was co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

1st Major triumph! Guo-Mladenovic make Wimbledon doubles history

1st Major triumph! Guo-Mladenovic make Wimbledon doubles history

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Chinese and French duo Guo Hanyu and Kristina Mladenovic secured their first major triumph together by defeating second seeds Gabriela Dabrowski and Luisa Stefani 6-3, 7-5 in the Wimbledon women's doubles final. Mladenovic, recovering from a long-term injury, expressed her disbelief and gratitude for her partner, while Guo celebrated her maiden major final victory.

Indian Goalkeeper Reflects On Ronaldo And Neymar's World Cup Heartbreak

Indian Goalkeeper Reflects On Ronaldo And Neymar's World Cup Heartbreak

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Legendary Indian goalkeeper Brahmananda Sankhwalkar reflects on the emotional FIFA World Cup exits of Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Junior. He discusses their unfulfilled World Cup dreams, their rivalry with Lionel Messi, and the circumstances of their respective team's eliminations, highlighting their enduring legacy despite the absence of a World Cup trophy.

Indian Shuttlers Tanya Hemnath And Aakarshi Kashyap Exit Canada Open

Indian Shuttlers Tanya Hemnath And Aakarshi Kashyap Exit Canada Open

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Indian badminton players Tanya Hemnath and Aakarshi Kashyap were eliminated from the Canada Open after losing their respective women's singles second-round matches, marking the end of India's challenge at the Super 300 tournament.

Messi's Dark Blue Shirt: A World Cup Good Luck Charm?

Messi's Dark Blue Shirt: A World Cup Good Luck Charm?

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Argentina's dark blue away jersey holds significant historical and superstitious value for the team, particularly in World Cup encounters against England. The team will wear this kit in their upcoming semi-final, hoping to replicate past successes from 1986 and 1998, where the blue jersey was worn during famous victories over England. Both coaches acknowledge the role of superstition in high-level sports, though Argentina's coach downplays the specific jersey choice. The jersey also features cultural motifs.

Gukesh And Praggnanandhaa To Compete In Grand Chess Tour's Zagreb Event

Gukesh And Praggnanandhaa To Compete In Grand Chess Tour's Zagreb Event

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

World champion D Gukesh and Indian star R Praggnanandhaa are set to compete in the Zagreb Rapid and Blitz Tournament, part of the prestigious Grand Chess Tour. Despite Gukesh's sabbatical from classical chess, he joins a strong field including recent Norway Chess winner Praggnanandhaa, promising an exciting week of high-stakes chess.

Rodri reveals Spain's secret plan to stop Messi

Rodri reveals Spain's secret plan to stop Messi

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Spain captain Rodri has expressed his team's ambition and hunger ahead of the World Cup final against Argentina. He highlighted Spain's gradual growth and well-rounded team play, while acknowledging Argentina's competitive spirit and the formidable presence of Lionel Messi. Rodri anticipates a physical battle and draws inspiration from Spain's 2010 World Cup victory.

Tunisia Coach Lamouchi Joins FIFA World Cup's Infamous List

Tunisia Coach Lamouchi Joins FIFA World Cup's Infamous List

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Sabri Lamouchi's dismissal as Tunisia coach after a single game at the World Cup places him on an ignominious list that includes one of the most successful coaches in tournament history.

FIFA World Cup: Why Argentina Wanted This Kit Against England

FIFA World Cup: Why Argentina Wanted This Kit Against England

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Argentina will wear their navy-and-black away kit for the World Cup semi-final against England, a decision that has sparked fan interest due to the kit's association with past victories against England, including the 1986 'Hand of God' match and the 1998 penalty shootout win. The team hopes this alternate strip brings them continued success.

Historic! Paddlers Manav Thakkar-Manush Shah rise to World No. 2

Historic! Paddlers Manav Thakkar-Manush Shah rise to World No. 2

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Guided by Indian table tennis legend Sharath Kamal, the duo have established themselves among the world's elite through a series of impressive performances on the WTT circuit.

Gouramangi Singh predicts FIFA World Cup final will be decided by fine margins

Gouramangi Singh predicts FIFA World Cup final will be decided by fine margins

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India captain Gouramangi Singh offers his expert analysis on the upcoming FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. He highlights Spain's aggressive pressing game and defensive transitions against Argentina's champion's mentality and composure, predicting the match will be decided by small margins. Singh also discusses the individual strengths of both teams and downplays the Messi vs. Yamal narrative.

If India is attacked and Modi is PM, US will help: Trump

If India is attacked and Modi is PM, US will help: Trump

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Trump lauded the defence relations between India and US and affirmed support precisely for the PM Modi-led nation during conflict situations.

Rain Halts Archery World Cup Stage 4 Qualification

Rain Halts Archery World Cup Stage 4 Qualification

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

India's Sahil Jadhav was placed third in the men's compound qualification at the Archery World Cup Stage 4 in Madrid before persistent rain forced the suspension of play. Other Indian archers, including Rishabh Yadav and women compound archers like Prithika Pradeep and Jyothi Surekha Vennam, also competed, with their qualification rounds impacted by the weather.

PSG celebrate European dominance at French Open

PSG celebrate European dominance at French Open

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Paris St Germain players presented their Champions League trophies to the French Open crowd on Monday, two days after winning Europe's premium club competition for the second time in a row.

India's Boxers Secure 12 Medals At Czech Grand Prix

India's Boxers Secure 12 Medals At Czech Grand Prix

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Indian boxers, including Commonwealth Games-bound athletes, achieved a remarkable feat at the 56th Grand Prix Usti nad Labem in Czechia, securing a total of 12 medals, with eight gold, three silver, and one bronze. Both the men's and women's teams delivered commanding performances, showcasing their prowess ahead of major international competitions.

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Germany's 2014 World Cup winner Sami Khedira sees no identity crisis in his brother Rani playing for Tunisia at FIFA World Cup 2026.

World Cup: England's late collapse raises questions over Tuchel's defensive tactics

World Cup: England's late collapse raises questions over Tuchel's defensive tactics

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

England's World Cup journey ended in heartbreak after their decision to sit back defensively against Argentina in the semi-final allowed Lionel Messi to orchestrate a stunning comeback, exposing the perils of premature defensive play, according to manager Thomas Tuchel.

World Cup: Messi in a happy place as Argentina ready to take on England

World Cup: Messi in a happy place as Argentina ready to take on England

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Argentina midfielder Rodrigo de Paul highlights Lionel Messi's contentment and record-breaking performance as a significant morale booster for the team, who are 'one step away' from another World Cup final and preparing to face England.

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could significantly alter the sport's economics and logistics, despite opposition from major confederations like UEFA and AFC.

Ounahi's Double Propels Morocco Into World Cup Last Eight

Ounahi's Double Propels Morocco Into World Cup Last Eight

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Morocco defeated Canada 3-0 in the World Cup last 16, with Azzedine Ounahi scoring two goals, to advance to the quarter-finals for the second consecutive time. The victory ended Canada's tournament run.

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Argentina, one of football's most successful teams, is also one of its most polarising, inspiring both devotion and irritation due to its history, iconic players like Maradona and Messi, and a national identity often perceived as arrogant by rivals.

Gurpreet talks pressure of goalkeeping role

Gurpreet talks pressure of goalkeeping role

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

India's national football team goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu discusses the immense mental pressure of his position, the importance of resilience, and his admiration for Argentina's Emiliano Martinez. He also shares his predictions for the FIFA World Cup 2026, backing traditional powerhouses and hoping for an Asian team's strong performance.

'Messi is a machine! He will remain world's best player,' says Argentina coach Scaloni

'Messi is a machine! He will remain world's best player,' says Argentina coach Scaloni

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni believes 39-year-old Lionel Messi will continue to be the world's best player for as long as he desires, dismissing age concerns as Messi dominates the World Cup with eight crucial goals.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland target Argentina's weaknesses in last-eight clash

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland target Argentina's weaknesses in last-eight clash

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Switzerland players have heaped praise on Lionel Messi ahead of Saturday's World Cup quarter-final against Argentina, but said they have identified weaknesses in the defending champions and believe they can cause an upset.

Nicolas Pepe's brace earns Ivory Coast World Cup knockout berth

Nicolas Pepe's brace earns Ivory Coast World Cup knockout berth

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Nicolas Pepe scored two goals to lead Ivory Coast to a 2-0 victory over Curacao, securing their first-ever qualification for the World Cup knockout phase. Curacao, the smallest nation to qualify, was eliminated. Ivory Coast will now face the second-place team from Group I (France or Norway) in Arlington, Texas.

Neeru Dhanda wins women's trap gold in Shotgun World Cup

Neeru Dhanda wins women's trap gold in Shotgun World Cup

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Asian Championships gold medallist Neeru Dhanda has secured her first individual ISSF World Cup title in the women's trap event in Lonato, Italy.

Wimbledon: Fritz flies past Kypson, De Minaur, Zverev ease into third round

Wimbledon: Fritz flies past Kypson, De Minaur, Zverev ease into third round

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Taylor Fritz continued his smooth progress at Wimbledon by mowing down fellow American Patrick Kypson 6-2, 6-2, 7-5 to make the third round on Thursday.

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

England's manager Thomas Tuchel has faced heavy criticism following their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, but he attributes the loss to fundamental issues like a lack of 'ball possession DNA' rather than just tactical errors, while acknowledging the unstoppable brilliance of Lionel Messi.

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's Argentina take on Jude Bellingham's England in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, reviving one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the final on the line.

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian wedding bookings to Sri Lanka are projected to grow 20-25 per cent annually over the next few years.

'Just look at him!' Trump gushes over Modi at G7 meet

'Just look at him!' Trump gushes over Modi at G7 meet

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'calm, cool, killer' persona at the G7 leaders' lunch in France, underscoring the deeply strategic relationship and formidable diplomatic skills of the Indian leader ahead of their crucial bilateral meeting.

Beckham tips Japan to pull off surprise at World Cup

Beckham tips Japan to pull off surprise at World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

David Beckham has tipped Japan as a dark horse for the 2026 FIFA World Cup while backing England to end their 60-year wait for glory. The former captain also highlighted France, Spain, Argentina and Brazil as title contenders.

Gueye double keeps five-star Senegal's World Cup hopes alive

Gueye double keeps five-star Senegal's World Cup hopes alive

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Senegal kept their World Cup knockout hopes alive in dominant fashion on Friday with a 5-0 victory over 10-man Iraq, who were eliminated from the tournament.

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

In one of the biggest upsets ever seen at the World Cup, Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved the efforts of Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade before Jonathan Tah fired over the bar, paving the way for Jose Canale to blast home the decisive spot kick.

Paraguay eliminate four-time champions Germany after penalty shoot-out

Paraguay eliminate four-time champions Germany after penalty shoot-out

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Paraguay achieved a stunning upset by eliminating four-time World champions Germany from the World Cup in a penalty shootout. After a 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 match, Paraguay secured a 4-3 victory in the shootout, with Jose Canale scoring the decisive kick.

It's a shame! Meloni blasts Trump for saying 'she begged for a photo'

It's a shame! Meloni blasts Trump for saying 'she begged for a photo'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly rebuked former US President Donald Trump's claims that she 'begged' for a photo-op at the G7 summit, dismissing his remarks as 'utterly fabricated' and asserting, 'Italy and I never beg.'

NRAI Elevates Officiating Standards With ISSF Judges Course

NRAI Elevates Officiating Standards With ISSF Judges Course

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) is conducting an ISSF 'B' judges course for rifle and pistol disciplines in Surajkund, bringing together 31 technical officials. The programme, led by international and Indian experts, aims to enhance officiating knowledge and skills according to the latest ISSF rules, contributing significantly to the development of shooting sport in India.

Diplomatic century: Modi completes 100 foreign visits in 12 yrs as PM

Diplomatic century: Modi completes 100 foreign visits in 12 yrs as PM

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's week-long ongoing tour of France and Slovakia is his 100th foreign trip since he assumed the high office 12 years ago.

'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.