News for 'AFC'

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and CONCACAF have jointly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his handling of a proposed sale of commercial rights to the World Cup, accusing him of 'deception' and calling for an independent review.

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is campaigning for re-election by positioning himself as the advocate for less wealthy football nations, while UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has ruled out running against him but anticipates an opposition candidate.

Denmark Loses Confidence in Infantino, Seeks New FIFA President

Denmark Loses Confidence in Infantino, Seeks New FIFA President

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Denmark's football association (DBU) has declared it has lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino and will seek a credible alternative for the 2027 election, citing a 'fundamental crisis of confidence' over his aborted proposal to sell commercial stakes in FIFA tournaments.

Infantino on course to survive FIFA vote as opponents explore new battle plan

Infantino on course to survive FIFA vote as opponents explore new battle plan

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Infantino appears to have enough global support to secure re-election, forcing opponents without a credible challenger to consider shifting from defeating him to curbing presidential powers.

How many footballers does India really have? AIFF answers

How many footballers does India really have? AIFF answers

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The All India Football Federation has disclosed the number of registered football players, coaches, and referees in India in response to an RTI application.

Premier League: Manchester City scrape past promoted Coventry City

Premier League: Manchester City scrape past promoted Coventry City

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Manchester City secured a narrow 1-0 victory over promoted Coventry City in the Premier League, maintaining their perfect start to the season despite a significant spending spree. Other matches saw Crystal Palace claim their first win against Fulham, while Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Brighton, Leeds, Brentford, and Sunderland all played out draws. Several teams, including Coventry and Fulham, remain without points after three games.

Trump: Replacing Infantino as FIFA President would be 'terrible mistake'

Trump: Replacing Infantino as FIFA President would be 'terrible mistake'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

US President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, stating that replacing him would be a 'terrible mistake' and that the sport would 'never be as successful or profitable' without him, despite Infantino facing significant backlash and a battle to retain his position ahead of next year's presidential elections.

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid is facing significant challenges as several national football federations, including Serbia, Sweden, and Wales, have withdrawn their support.

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is holding a crisis meeting with top officials in Morocco to address the fallout from his failed attempt to sell commercial rights to the World Cup, a move that has led to widespread criticism and calls for his removal.

Young Tigresses Face Japan Test In AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup

Young Tigresses Face Japan Test In AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup

Rediff.com4 May 2026

India's U17 women's team faces a tough challenge against Japan in the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup after an initial defeat to Australia. Coach Pamela Conti emphasises the need for a focused and perfect match to compete against the formidable Japanese side.

India trounced by Japan in AFC U-17 women's Asian Cup

India trounced by Japan in AFC U-17 women's Asian Cup

Rediff.com5 May 2026

India fought hard but lost 0-3 to Japan in their second group match of the AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup. Japan scored three goals in the second half to secure the win.

Explained: How No-Confidence Vote Could Oust FIFA President Infantino?

Explained: How No-Confidence Vote Could Oust FIFA President Infantino?

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

This article details the process and requirements for a vote of no confidence against the FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, following challenges to his leadership.

India snub FIFA ASEAN Cup to face Brazil in October

India snub FIFA ASEAN Cup to face Brazil in October

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

India has withdrawn from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup to prioritise a high-profile international friendly against five-time world champions Brazil in October. This decision, confirmed by AIFF, means India will miss facing Southeast Asian teams in a FIFA-sanctioned competition, opting instead for a more challenging opponent to improve its international standing.

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has assured the All India Football Federation of full government support to host India's biggest-ever international football fixture against five-time World Cup champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3. This historic match will be India's first against a top-five FIFA-ranked nation, offering crucial exposure to the national team despite initial concerns over crowd management.

India U20 Women Secure First AFC Asian Cup Win Since 2004

India U20 Women Secure First AFC Asian Cup Win Since 2004

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Indian U20 women's team defeated Chinese Taipei 3-1 in their final Group C match of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup, boosting their chances of qualifying for the knockout stage.

India U20 Women's Team Finalises Squad for AFC Asian Cup Thailand 2026

India U20 Women's Team Finalises Squad for AFC Asian Cup Thailand 2026

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Joakim Alexandersson, the head coach of the Indian U20 women's team, has announced the 23-member squad for the AFC U20 Asian Cup Thailand 2026. India will face Japan, Australia, and Chinese Taipei in the group stage, aiming for a quarter-final spot and a chance to qualify for the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup Poland 2026.

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing a deepening crisis after his proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup was abandoned, leading to public distancing from influential executives and calls for his removal from office.

India U-17 Women's Team Prepares for AFC Asian Cup with Russia Friendlies

India U-17 Women's Team Prepares for AFC Asian Cup with Russia Friendlies

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The Indian U-17 Women's team is set to play a three-match friendly series against Russia in Sochi as part of their preparations for the AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup 2026.

Punjab FC Boosts Roster With Key Signings For Upcoming Season

Punjab FC Boosts Roster With Key Signings For Upcoming Season

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Punjab FC has announced the double signing of forward Gurkirat Singh and defender Nishchal Chandan, bolstering their squad for the 2026-27 Indian Super League season. Both players have signed two-year agreements, bringing significant experience and talent to the Shers.

Young Tigresses Overwhelmed by Japan in AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup

Young Tigresses Overwhelmed by Japan in AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

India's U20 women's football team faced a tough start in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup, suffering a 6-0 defeat against Japan. Despite a promising start, Japan's dominance, particularly in the second half, proved too much for the Young Tigresses.

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Friday that the world soccer's governing body has abandoned its controversial plans to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors, following widespread backlash from major confederations and internal dissent.

Australia Overwhelms India in AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Clash

Australia Overwhelms India in AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup Clash

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

India's U20 women's team suffered a 0-5 defeat against Australia in the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup, leaving their knockout stage hopes hanging by a thread.

Wasteful India bow out of AFC Women's Asian Cup

Wasteful India bow out of AFC Women's Asian Cup

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

India's AFC Women's Asian Cup campaign ended with a 3-1 defeat to Chinese Taipei, highlighting their inability to convert chances despite dominating the game.

India in race to host 2031 AFC Asian Cup

India in race to host 2031 AFC Asian Cup

Rediff.com4 Feb 2026

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on Wednesday confirmed India's bid to host the Asian Cup in 2031

Mizoram CM Sets Ambitious Futsal Goals For State

Mizoram CM Sets Ambitious Futsal Goals For State

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has called for the state to become a hub for Indian futsal, producing players capable of leading the national team to the FIFA Futsal World Cup. Speaking at a felicitation for Tlangnuam Futsal Club, he emphasised nurturing talent for international success and highlighted government investment in sports infrastructure.

India's Final AFC Asian Cup Qualifier Against Hong Kong to be Held in Kochi

India's Final AFC Asian Cup Qualifier Against Hong Kong to be Held in Kochi

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

India's final match of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers against Hong Kong will be held in Kochi on March 31. Although India is out of contention for the AFC Asian Cup 2027, the match is still important for FIFA ranking points.

India U17 Team Gears Up for AFC U17 Asian Cup with International Friendlies

India U17 Team Gears Up for AFC U17 Asian Cup with International Friendlies

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

The Indian U17 men's football team is set to play friendly matches against Thailand, Indonesia, and Korea Republic in Thailand as part of their preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026.

Shaji Prabhakaran: OCI/PIO Players Need Balanced Strategy For Indian Football

Shaji Prabhakaran: OCI/PIO Players Need Balanced Strategy For Indian Football

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

AFC Executive Committee member Shaji Prabhakaran advocates for a balanced, long-term strategy for integrating OCI and PIO players into Indian football, stressing it's not a complete solution but a part of broader development. He also analyses recent World Cup semifinals, highlighting Spain's tactical dominance and Argentina's fighting spirit.

AFC Shifts Postponed Knockout Games to Neutral Venue in Jeddah

AFC Shifts Postponed Knockout Games to Neutral Venue in Jeddah

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

AFC relocates four postponed Asian Champions League Elite last-16 ties to Jeddah as single-leg matches amid Middle East tensions.

How India's U20 Women's Team Prepared for AFC Asian Cup

How India's U20 Women's Team Prepared for AFC Asian Cup

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

India's U20 Women's team, led by Shubhangi Singh, is prepared for the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup after a month-long training camp in Europe. The team is focused on the group stage challenges against Japan, Australia, and Chinese Taipei.

Young Tigresses Fall to Russia in First Friendly Ahead of AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup

Young Tigresses Fall to Russia in First Friendly Ahead of AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The Indian U17 women's team lost 4-0 to Russia in a friendly match as part of their preparations for the upcoming AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup.

India U20 Women's Team Confident Ahead of AFC Asian Cup

India U20 Women's Team Confident Ahead of AFC Asian Cup

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

India U20 women's team head coach Joakim Alexandersson expresses confidence in his team's progress ahead of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup in Thailand, highlighting improvements in ball movement, passing, and defensive organisation.

Sweety Devi and Panthoi Chanu Hospitalised After AFC Women's Asian Cup Clash

Sweety Devi and Panthoi Chanu Hospitalised After AFC Women's Asian Cup Clash

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Indian football team captain Sweety Devi and goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu were hospitalised after sustaining injuries during their match against Chinese Taipei in the AFC Women's Asian Cup. The injuries occurred during a collision in the 83rd minute, leading to their team's defeat and elimination from the tournament.

India Women's Team Crushed by Japan in AFC Asian Cup Clash

India Women's Team Crushed by Japan in AFC Asian Cup Clash

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

India's women's football team suffered a heavy 0-11 defeat against Japan in their second group match of the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Despite the loss, India still has a chance to qualify for the quarter-finals if they beat Chinese Taipei in their final group match.

India Women Prepare for Tough AFC Asian Cup Clash Against Japan

India Women Prepare for Tough AFC Asian Cup Clash Against Japan

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

India's women's team faces a tough challenge against Japan in their second AFC Women's Asian Cup match after a narrow defeat to Vietnam. The team aims to maintain intensity and adapt tactically against the formidable Japanese side.

India Face Vietnam in AFC Women's Asian Cup Opener

India Face Vietnam in AFC Women's Asian Cup Opener

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

India face Vietnam in their opening match of the AFC Women's Asian Cup, with concerns over India's lack of international game time.

AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup: India's Quarter-Final Hopes Rest on Victory Against Chinese Taipei

AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup: India's Quarter-Final Hopes Rest on Victory Against Chinese Taipei

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

India U20 Women's team must win against Chinese Taipei to keep their hopes alive for reaching the quarter-finals of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup.

India U-20 Women's Team Gears Up for AFC Asian Cup with Bangkok Camp

India U-20 Women's Team Gears Up for AFC Asian Cup with Bangkok Camp

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The India women's Under-20 football team has arrived in Bangkok for a pre-tournament acclimatisation camp ahead of the AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup in Thailand.

AFC Women's Asian Cup squad: Mix of youth and experience

AFC Women's Asian Cup squad: Mix of youth and experience

Rediff.com21 Feb 2026

India name six uncapped players in 26-member squad for AFC Women's Asian Cup in Australia, targeting quarterfinals and World Cup qualification.

FIFA vs UEFA: Unpacking the Power Struggle in Global Football

FIFA vs UEFA: Unpacking the Power Struggle in Global Football

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

FIFA's proposal to create a $20 billion subsidiary for the World Cup highlights the intricate balance of power in global football, where the governing body's authority is often challenged by the significant commercial strength of UEFA, particularly in Europe.