News for '2026 FIFA World Cup'

Jude Bellingham's brace takes England past Norway to World Cup semis

Jude Bellingham's brace takes England past Norway to World Cup semis

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Jude Bellingham scored twice as England fought back to defeat Norway 2-1 in the third World Cup quarter-final at Miami Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida, on Saturday.

Quinones, Jimenez fire Mexico into last 16 with historic World Cup win

Quinones, Jimenez fire Mexico into last 16 with historic World Cup win

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Mexico ended a 40-year wait for a FIFA World Cup knockout victory as Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored in a 2-0 win over Ecuador, sending the co-hosts into the last 16 amid emotional scenes at the Azteca Stadium.

Why US denied Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry for World Cup

Why US denied Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry for World Cup

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The Trump administration said on Tuesday the United States had denied Somali soccer referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry for the World Cup because of his links to "suspected members of terror organizations".

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.

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Rodri delivered a midfield masterclass against France, anchoring Spain's 2-0 victory and securing their place in the World Cup final. His performance marked a significant return to his pre-injury form, reminiscent of his dominant displays for Manchester City, as he frustrated France's attacking efforts and dictated play.

Excited to bring world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences: Zee CEO

Excited to bring world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences: Zee CEO

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

"Excited to bring world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences": Zee CEO Punit Goenka after securing FIFA broadcasting rights till 2034

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Nora Fatehi has successfully transitioned to the global stage, with her FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem Siir Siir becoming a viral hit, especially following Morocco's impressive draw against Brazil.

Argentina sweats over Messi hamstring injury before World Cup

Argentina sweats over Messi hamstring injury before World Cup

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Lionel Messi is dealing with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring less than three weeks before the start of the World Cup, Inter Miami said on Monday after the Argentine forward was forced off in his final club match before the tournament.

Ronaldo Equals World Cup Qualifying Record!

Ronaldo Equals World Cup Qualifying Record!

Rediff.com10 Sep 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo scored from the penalty spot in the 58th minute to net his 39th goal in World Cup qualifying matches, equalling the record held by Guatemala's Carlos Ruiz.

France Midfielder Tchouameni Sidelined For Paraguay Match

France Midfielder Tchouameni Sidelined For Paraguay Match

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has been ruled out of the upcoming World Cup last-16 match against Paraguay due to a thigh injury. The 26-year-old, a regular starter, is expected to be replaced by Manu Kone as France continues its knockout stage campaign.

Thanks to World Cup, hockey-mad Canada warming up to football

Thanks to World Cup, hockey-mad Canada warming up to football

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

'It's really easy to get into and the kids love it.'

'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.

Young Tigresses' World Cup Dream Ends After China Defeat

Young Tigresses' World Cup Dream Ends After China Defeat

Rediff.com11 May 2026

India's impressive run in the AFC Women's U17 Asian Cup concluded with a 3-0 defeat against China in the quarter-finals, ending their hopes for a historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup.

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed various issues ahead of the World Cup, defending the body's handling of visa challenges, stressing its inability to override government decisions, and highlighting efforts to ensure participation from all nations, including Iran. He also defended ticket pricing and expressed optimism for a competitive tournament focused on unity.

England Receive Saka Boost Before High-Stakes World Cup Test Against Ghana

England Receive Saka Boost Before High-Stakes World Cup Test Against Ghana

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

England coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed Bukayo Saka is fully fit and available for the World Cup clash against Ghana, while also voicing concerns that FIFA's mandatory hydration breaks are disrupting the flow and identity of football.

Neymar earns Brazil World Cup recall under Ancelotti

Neymar earns Brazil World Cup recall under Ancelotti

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Carlo Ancelotti has recalled Neymar to Brazil's squad for next month's FIFA World Cup, backing the veteran forward's fitness and experience despite his injury-disrupted recent years.

Haaland, Norway train ahead of England quarter-final showdown

Haaland, Norway train ahead of England quarter-final showdown

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Norway forward Erling Haaland has openly challenged the media to 'put every single pressure on the English lads' ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash against England, following Norway's stunning upset victory over Brazil.

FC Barcelona acquire Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim on three-year deal

FC Barcelona acquire Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim on three-year deal

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

FC Barcelona have signed Egypt forward Hamza Abdelkarim on a three-year deal, the LaLiga club said in a statement on Tuesday.

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has cautioned the Spanish national team against underestimating Argentina in the upcoming World Cup final, labelling them a "real nuisance" and highlighting their experience and tactical prowess.

Mbappe, Dembele shine as France cruise past Morocco into World Cup semis

Mbappe, Dembele shine as France cruise past Morocco into World Cup semis

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

France and Morocco were goalless at half-time in their World Cup quarter-final. Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty for France, whose early dominance did not translate into goals. Morocco's goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save to deny Mbappe from the spot.

Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to make World Cup last 8

Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to make World Cup last 8

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Switzerland beat Colombia 4-3 on penalties after the teams were locked goalless at the end of extra-time in the Round of 16 match to enter the World Cup quarter-finals at BC Place, Vancouver, on Tuesday.

Spain Turn Back the Clock to 2010: One Win From World Cup Glory

Spain Turn Back the Clock to 2010: One Win From World Cup Glory

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente attributes his team's commanding 2-0 victory over France and progression to the World Cup final to a revived "spirit of 2010" and strong team unity. He praised the squad's commitment, solidarity, and talent, highlighting their collective goal-oriented approach and humility. Spain has now equalled Italy's unbeaten record and looks forward to the final, with De la Fuente emphasising the team's continuous potential for growth.

France striker Kylian Mbappe diagnosed with hamstring injury ahead of World Cup

France striker Kylian Mbappe diagnosed with hamstring injury ahead of World Cup

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has suffered a hamstring injury, the LaLiga club said on Monday, weeks before the start of the World Cup.

Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' match ball awaits new keeper

Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' match ball awaits new keeper

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The match ball from Argentina's 1986 World Cup quarterfinal against England - made famous by Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal - is set to go up for auction with a $2.5-million opening bid, Heritage Auctions said.

2026 World Cup goes Super Bowl style

2026 World Cup goes Super Bowl style

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

The 2026 World Cup final will feature its first ever halftime show, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday.

FIFA WC 2026: Algeria come from behind to edge Jordan 2-1

FIFA WC 2026: Algeria come from behind to edge Jordan 2-1

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Algeria rallied to eliminate debutants Jordan and keep their Round of 32 hopes alive at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

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.

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.

Brazil romp into World Cup knock-outs after Vinicius brace

Brazil romp into World Cup knock-outs after Vinicius brace

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Brazil secured their spot in the World Cup knockout stages with a dominant 3-0 victory over Scotland. Vinicius Jr scored twice, continuing his impressive form, while Neymar made his much-anticipated return to the national team after nearly three years. The win saw Brazil top Group C, with Matheus Cunha also contributing a goal. Scotland's hopes now rest on qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.

Ten-Man Paraguay Secure Crucial World Cup Victory Over Turkey

Ten-Man Paraguay Secure Crucial World Cup Victory Over Turkey

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Ten-man Paraguay secured a vital 1-0 victory over Turkey in a dramatic World Cup Group D match, breathing new life into their campaign while condemning Turkey to an early exit.

Spain go to World Cup without Real Madrid for first time since 1950

Spain go to World Cup without Real Madrid for first time since 1950

Rediff.com25 May 2026

European champions Spain will travel to next month's World Cup with plenty of Barcelona swagger but no-one from Real Madrid after manager Luis de la Fuente named a 26-man squad on Monday built around eight players from the Catalan club.

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Iran's players say adversity has united Team Melli after a resilient 0-0 draw against Belgium kept their World Cup knockout hopes alive. A win over Egypt could secure a historic first-ever place in the last 32.

Fake World Cup Jerseys Worth C$3.5m Seized in Canada

Fake World Cup Jerseys Worth C$3.5m Seized in Canada

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Toronto is expecting more than 300,000 visitors during the World Cup with six matches to be played in the city.

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

FIFA has strongly defended Brazilian referee Raphael Claus after US President Donald Trump questioned his integrity following a controversial red card shown to US striker Folarin Balogun at the World Cup.

FIFA opens proceedings against Argentina over Falklands message, post-final brawl

FIFA opens proceedings against Argentina over Falklands message, post-final brawl

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

FIFA have opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina's football association (AFA) and its players for several alleged breaches at the World Cup, including the holding up of a banner asserting sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

Rediff.com5 days ago

Regional football powerhouses, including UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF, are reportedly discussing a vote of no confidence against FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This move comes after Infantino angered them with a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. Despite significant opposition, Infantino retains support from some member associations, particularly from Africa, complicating any challenge to his leadership ahead of the 2027 election.

African Football Chiefs Back Gianni Infantino Despite FIFA Governance Crisis

African Football Chiefs Back Gianni Infantino Despite FIFA Governance Crisis

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Leading African football administrators have publicly expressed their support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, offering him crucial backing ahead of next March's presidential election, despite his recent decision to abandon a controversial plan to sell a stake in future World Cup revenue.

Denied US Entry, Somali Referee Gets UEFA Super Cup Role

Denied US Entry, Somali Referee Gets UEFA Super Cup Role

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry to the United States for the World Cup despite a valid visa, has been appointed to officiate the upcoming UEFA Super Cup match between Paris St Germain and Aston Villa. This appointment follows a cooperation agreement between UEFA and CAF.

Eustaquio's late strike takes Canada past South Africa to World Cup last 16

Eustaquio's late strike takes Canada past South Africa to World Cup last 16

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic 92nd-minute goal to secure a 1-0 victory for Canada over South Africa, propelling the co-hosts into the World Cup last 16 for the first time. The tense match in Los Angeles saw few clear chances until Eustaquio's late strike, ending Canada's frustration and sending them to face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the quarter-finals. South Africa, despite a strong defensive effort, exited the tournament.

Argentina, Brazil, Germany win friendlies days before World Cup kick-off

Argentina, Brazil, Germany win friendlies days before World Cup kick-off

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Multi-champions Brazil, Argentina and Germany all won their preparatory games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, although by small margins, with former champion England and hopeful Portugal also securing victories.