News for 'Angels'

How super-sub Merino delivers when Spain needs him most...

How super-sub Merino delivers when Spain needs him most...

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Mikel Merino, the Arsenal midfielder, has once again proven to be Spain's late-game hero, scoring an 88th-minute winner against Belgium to send his team into the World Cup semi-finals. This follows his stoppage-time goal against Portugal in the last 16. Merino attributes his consistent clutch performances to thorough preparation, embodying the collective spirit praised by coach Luis de la Fuente.

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Argentina's football players displayed a political banner claiming "The Falklands are Argentine" after their World Cup semi-final win against England, potentially violating FIFA's code of conduct.

There's justice in life, says Belgium's Raskin after beating US in World Cup

There's justice in life, says Belgium's Raskin after beating US in World Cup

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Belgium secured a dominant 4-1 victory over the United States in the World Cup last-16, with midfielder Nicolas Raskin suggesting the win felt like 'justice' following FIFA's controversial decision to allow US striker Folarin Balogun to play despite a previous red card.

A Day of Deadlocks: History rewritten at World Cup With Four Draws

A Day of Deadlocks: History rewritten at World Cup With Four Draws

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Four matches, four draws and a slice of World Cup history.

Protesters in US call on FIFA to kick Iran out of World Cup

Protesters in US call on FIFA to kick Iran out of World Cup

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Instead of pride, many Iranian-Americans feel shame about the Iran team's participation in the World Cup and are demanding that FIFA boots the country out of the competition, protesters said in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

FIFA World Cup: Argentina wary of 'tough' Cape Verde in round of 32 clash

FIFA World Cup: Argentina wary of 'tough' Cape Verde in round of 32 clash

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Following a dominant group stage performance, Argentina is now preparing to face Cape Verde in the Round of 32.

FIFA World Cup: 'We go home with our chin up': Turkey coach

FIFA World Cup: 'We go home with our chin up': Turkey coach

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Turkey's coach Vincenzo Montella expressed pride in his team's character and performance at the World Cup, despite their elimination. Following a 3-2 victory over the United States, Montella acknowledged missed opportunities but remained optimistic about the future, hoping for an earlier return to the tournament.

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.

'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.

Subrata Paul Highlights Goalkeepers' Pivotal Role In World Cup Success

Subrata Paul Highlights Goalkeepers' Pivotal Role In World Cup Success

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Former India captain Subrata Paul asserts that goalkeepers were instrumental in the success of teams at the recent FIFA World Cup, often outshining attacking players. He highlights specific goalkeepers like Vozinha, Unai Simon, Emiliano Martinez, and Thibaut Courtois for their exceptional performances and discusses the evolving role of modern goalkeepers in tactical play.

De La Fuente: Spain Must Not Be Satisfied Yet

De La Fuente: Spain Must Not Be Satisfied Yet

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente expressed caution despite a dominant 3-0 victory over Austria, which secured their spot in the World Cup last 16. He emphasised that the team still has significant room for improvement and warned against complacency, stating that "satisfaction can kill." De la Fuente highlighted the importance of continuous progress as the tournament enters its more demanding knockout stages.

How Cricket Coaching Can Be Reshaped Through AI

How Cricket Coaching Can Be Reshaped Through AI

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Advanced Impactor. an AI-powered platform, aims to modernise cricket coaching with real-time performance analytics.

Is This The Save Of The World Cup?

Is This The Save Of The World Cup?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Alireza Beiranvand produced seven saves, including a stunning contender for save of the tournament, as Iran held Belgium to a 0-0 draw at the FIFA World Cup.
The performance capped an extraordinary journey from poverty and homelessness to national hero.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Belgium find winning formula beyond star power

FIFA World Cup 2026: Belgium find winning formula beyond star power

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Belgium look to have found their best playing style at the World Cup after thrashing co-hosts the US 4-1 on Monday, but the successful tinkering of coach Rudi Garcia has come at a cost to his top players.

Harmanpreet retained as captain for Asian Games despite T20 World Cup debacle

Harmanpreet retained as captain for Asian Games despite T20 World Cup debacle

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur was on Tuesday retained as captain of a largely predictable 15-member India squad for this year's Asian Games in Japan.

De Ketelaere double as Belgium thrash USA to make last 8

De Ketelaere double as Belgium thrash USA to make last 8

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The United States' World Cup dreams came to a crashing halt in the last 16 against Belgium on Monday as Charles De Ketelaere scored twice in a 4-1 win, overshadowed by FIFA's controversial decision to suspend US forward Folarin Balogun's ban.

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India's most-capped hockey player Manpreet Singh idolises Virat Kohli and credits his longevity to fitness, saying he has drawn inspiration from the star cricketer's fitness regime.

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board has officially approved the qualification system for cricket at the LA Olympic 2028, marking the sport's return after 128 years. The event will feature men's and women's T20 competitions with six teams each.

Oyarzabal double powers Spain past Austria to World Cup last 16

Oyarzabal double powers Spain past Austria to World Cup last 16

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Spain secured their spot in the World Cup Round of 16 with a convincing 3-0 win over Austria, featuring two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal. The dominant performance saw Spain maintain their perfect defensive record, setting up a clash with either Portugal or Croatia in the next stage.

FIFA World Cup: Rivalry and revenge -- the long, bitter relationship between England and Argentina

FIFA World Cup: Rivalry and revenge -- the long, bitter relationship between England and Argentina

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Argentina and England are set to clash in a World Cup semi-final, marking their first such encounter, a match deeply rooted in decades of historical and footballing rivalry, including infamous incidents involving Antonio Rattin, Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal, and the Falklands War.

Iran to commute to FIFA World Cup games from Mexico after US refusal

Iran to commute to FIFA World Cup games from Mexico after US refusal

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Iran's national soccer team will sleep in Mexico and travel to the US on the days of its three FIFA World Cup matches after Washington declined to host the squad for the tournament.

India Gears Up To Host Major International Sports Events

India Gears Up To Host Major International Sports Events

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

India is set to host 11 international sporting events in the next six months, including the Badminton World Championships. The Sports Ministry has pledged to provide top-notch facilities, addressing previous criticisms of playing conditions, and is actively preparing for future Olympic bids.

FIFA World Cup: Plucky Iran hold 10-man Belgium to goalless draw

FIFA World Cup: Plucky Iran hold 10-man Belgium to goalless draw

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Ten-man Belgium dominated possession but could not break down a disciplined Iranian defence, with goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand producing a string of saves to preserve the result in the Group G encounter.

How a Satirical Song Became Bosnia's Unofficial World Cup Anthem

How a Satirical Song Became Bosnia's Unofficial World Cup Anthem

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

A satirical song about leaving Bosnia for America has become the country's unofficial World Cup anthem after Dubioza Kolektiv rewrote the hit to celebrate Bosnia's remarkable journey to the global football stage.

How Early Life Adversity Impacts Cellular Energy Production

How Early Life Adversity Impacts Cellular Energy Production

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

A new study reveals that adults who experienced early childhood adversities may have increased mitochondrial respiratory capacity, a 'hypermetabolism' that, while initially a response to cellular stress, can be detrimental to long-term health. The research highlights how early life experiences translate into biological changes affecting physical and mental well-being.

How Early Life Adversity Impacts Cellular Energy Production

How Early Life Adversity Impacts Cellular Energy Production

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

A new study reveals that adults who experienced early childhood adversities may have increased mitochondrial respiratory capacity, a 'hypermetabolism' that, while initially a response to cellular stress, can be detrimental to long-term health. The research highlights how early life experiences translate into biological changes affecting physical and mental well-being.

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France arrive in Philadelphia as the World Cup's most feared attacking force, but Kylian Mbappe and coach Didier Deschamps have warned that acclaim, records and a seemingly clear path mean little if they fail to stay grounded against Paraguay in Saturday's last-16 clash.

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.

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Iran's national soccer team, currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the US the day before each of their three World Cup matches, the Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo, Modric eye one last act at tournament's tiniest venue

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo, Modric eye one last act at tournament's tiniest venue

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Portugal and Croatia's World Cup last-32 clash on Thursday could be Cristiano Ronaldo or Luka Modric's final game on soccer's biggest stage, and the massive moment will unfold at the tournament's smallest venue.

'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.

Fans Ecstatic as South Africa Make History With World Cup Knockout Berth

Fans Ecstatic as South Africa Make History With World Cup Knockout Berth

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

South Africa has made history by securing their first-ever World Cup knockout stage berth after a 1-0 victory over South Korea. Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal in the 63rd minute, leading to jubilant celebrations and setting up a clash with co-hosts Canada. This marks a significant achievement for the team, overcoming previous group stage exits.

'I've Seen Aamir Cry'

'I've Seen Aamir Cry'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

'Relationships are never as simple as outsiders imagine, and it's unfair to assume only one person is responsible when a marriage ends.'

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.

Gulveer Singh Breaks 5000m National Record At LA Track Fest

Gulveer Singh Breaks 5000m National Record At LA Track Fest

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Gulveer Singh, a prominent Indian long-distance runner, established a new 5000m outdoor national record at the LA Track Fest in Los Angeles, finishing second with a time of 13:03.93.

Maseko's goal secures historic World Cup knock-out berth for South Africa

Maseko's goal secures historic World Cup knock-out berth for South Africa

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

South Africa has made history by qualifying for the World Cup knockout phase for the first time, thanks to a decisive second-half goal from Thapelo Maseko against South Korea. This 1-0 victory places them on four points in Group A, securing their progression, while South Korea still has a chance to advance as a best third-placed team.

Volpato makes late switch from Italy to Australia ahead of FIFA World Cup

Volpato makes late switch from Italy to Australia ahead of FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Former Italy under-20 international Cristian Volpato has decided to represent Australia and will join the Socceroos' training camp in Los Angeles ahead of the World Cup, Football Australia said on Friday.

OYO parent Prism files updated IPO papers for Rs 6,650-cr fresh issue; no OFS

OYO parent Prism files updated IPO papers for Rs 6,650-cr fresh issue; no OFS

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Prism, the parent company of OYO, has filed updated draft papers with Sebi for a Rs 6,650 crore initial public offering (IPO) consisting entirely of a fresh issue of shares, with no offer-for-sale component from existing investors.

Iran to play FIFA World Cup warm-up games behind closed doors

Iran to play FIFA World Cup warm-up games behind closed doors

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Iran will play their final World Cup warm-up behind closed doors in Turkey on Thursday before departing for their tournament base in Mexico on Saturday.

National record holder Gulveer fails to breach Asian Games qualifying time in 5000m

National record holder Gulveer fails to breach Asian Games qualifying time in 5000m

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Gulveer Singh, the reigning Asian champion and national record holder, failed to meet the Asian Games qualifying standard in the men's 5000m race at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships.