News for 'CHAMPION'

Iran, Egypt face crunch World Cup game in shadow of geopolitics

Iran, Egypt face crunch World Cup game in shadow of geopolitics

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

A first World Cup win for seven-times African champions Egypt, 92 years after their debut, put them in charge though Iran's dogged performances in draws with Belgium and New Zealand means victory could also see them top Group G.

How India Women's Cricket Secured Olympic Berth For LA28

How India Women's Cricket Secured Olympic Berth For LA28

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Indian women's cricket team has secured a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games as the top-ranked Asian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup. The men's team will need to be the continental leaders in world rankings by the end of 2026 to qualify directly. Cricket is making its return to the Olympics after a century, featuring six teams in both men's and women's competitions, with qualification criteria unveiled by the ICC.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Points Table

FIFA World Cup 2026 Points Table

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Points Table Of FIFA World Cup 2026.

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Football superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have taken to social media to share their preparations for crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage matches. Messi, fresh off a hat-trick, is fine-tuning for Argentina's clash against Austria, while Ronaldo, after a frustrating draw, is refocusing for Portugal's game against Uzbekistan.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A champions' mentality, a new generation of fearless players are some of the qualities that will have Saudi Arabia wary of the former champions in their upcoming Group H match on Sunday.

Why Modi Should Watch Japan's Transformation Under Sanae Takaichi

Why Modi Should Watch Japan's Transformation Under Sanae Takaichi

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

History may remember Takaichi Sanae not as the leader who simply accelerated Japanese rearmament, but as one who governed during Japan's transition from an industrial-age security model to a post-industrial strategic member of the global order, points out Varun Arya.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Moved by Lionel Messi's record-breaking form at the World Cup, Argentines have taken to the streets and social media to sing "Happy Birthday" to their favourite footballer who turned 39 on Wednesday.

Defiant Cape Verde hold Uruguay to 2-2 draw in Miami thriller

Defiant Cape Verde hold Uruguay to 2-2 draw in Miami thriller

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Cape Verde pulled off a stunning 2-2 draw against two-time World Cup winners Uruguay in Miami on Sunday.

India Seeks To Conclude Dutch Leg Of FIH Pro League On High Note

India Seeks To Conclude Dutch Leg Of FIH Pro League On High Note

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Indian men's hockey team, currently in the Dutch leg of the FIH Pro League, aims to conclude their campaign on a high note against hosts Netherlands. This tournament serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games, with coach Craig Fulton focusing on testing resources and addressing issues like conceding late goals. The team also looks forward to significant matches against England and arch-rivals Pakistan in London.

Argentina Prepare For Knockout Stage Amid Squad Rotation

Argentina Prepare For Knockout Stage Amid Squad Rotation

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Argentina, having secured top spot in Group J, will face Jordan in their final group match with an eye on the knockout stage. Coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate the squad, potentially resting Lionel Messi, while Jordan aims to conclude their debut World Cup campaign on a positive note despite early elimination.

Messi returns, scores and sends strong FIFA World Cup warning

Messi returns, scores and sends strong FIFA World Cup warning

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi led Argentina to a dominant 3-0 victory over Iceland in a FIFA World Cup 2026 warm-up friendly, scoring a penalty and contributing to another goal after recovering from muscle fatigue.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil eye payback as Japan stand in knockout path

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil eye payback as Japan stand in knockout path

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Brazil's World Cup Round of 32 meeting with Japan on Monday comes with the chance for revenge for Carlo Ancelotti's squad and a test of how far he has taken his team since a Tokyo collapse early in his tenure.

US Open Day 1: Indian-American Golfers Navigate Challenging Conditions

US Open Day 1: Indian-American Golfers Navigate Challenging Conditions

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The first round of the US Open saw Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia finish 1-over with four holes remaining, despite a challenging start and fog delays. While Bhatia provisionally stood T-29, other Indian-origin players like Sahith Theegala, Sudarshan Yellamaraju, Manav Shah, and Aaron Rai experienced mixed results, with former champion Wyndham Clark leading the field before play was suspended due to darkness.

Women's T20 World Cup: Wyatt-Hodge Stars As England Knock Out New Zealand

Women's T20 World Cup: Wyatt-Hodge Stars As England Knock Out New Zealand

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Defending champions New Zealand were knocked out of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 as England triumphed by nine wickets at the Oval in London on Sunday.

T20 World Cup: We want to play aggressive brand of cricket vs Australia, says Smriti Mandhana

T20 World Cup: We want to play aggressive brand of cricket vs Australia, says Smriti Mandhana

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana on Saturday said India will play an "aggressive brand of cricket" against Australia in the must-win Women's T20 World Cup match in London.

Rayudu: India's IPL hangover exposed in Ireland

Rayudu: India's IPL hangover exposed in Ireland

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Ambati Rayudu says India's 0-2 T20I series loss to Ireland was the result of poor preparation for challenging conditions, urges Tilak Varma to improve against slow bowling, and advises patience with teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Ian Bishop flags structural flaws after India Women's early exit from T20 World Cup

Ian Bishop flags structural flaws after India Women's early exit from T20 World Cup

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Indian women's cricket ecosystem will have to develop more fast bowlers and wrist spinners through the Women's Premier League (WPL) in order to garner success in the shortest format on global stage, said former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop on Monday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Beccacece completes dramatic redemption as Ecuador reach last 32

FIFA World Cup 2026: Beccacece completes dramatic redemption as Ecuador reach last 32

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ecuador's World Cup nightmare turned into a dream, as La Tri's once seemingly doomed campaign was resurrected against Germany in a remarkable conclusion to Group E on Thursday.

PSG too good for Liverpool in Champions League QF first leg

PSG too good for Liverpool in Champions League QF first leg

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Paris St Germain defeated Liverpool 2-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final, with goals from Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

India A's Sri Lanka Tour: Selectors watch closely as Aquib Nabi seeks breakthrough

India A's Sri Lanka Tour: Selectors watch closely as Aquib Nabi seeks breakthrough

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The India A squad is set to tour Sri Lanka for a two-match red-ball series, offering a crucial platform for emerging cricketers like Aquib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar, Sai Sudharsan, and Devdutt Padikkal to impress selectors and stake their claim for a spot in the senior national team. Dhruv Jurel will captain the side.

Raphinha out of Barcelona's Champions League quarter-final with hamstring injury

Raphinha out of Barcelona's Champions League quarter-final with hamstring injury

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Barcelona's Raphinha will miss the Champions League quarter-final against Atletico Madrid due to a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Brazil. The estimated recovery time is five weeks.

Neeraj Chopra skips Doha meet as focus shifts to recovery

Neeraj Chopra skips Doha meet as focus shifts to recovery

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Star Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra is set to miss the Doha Diamond League, to be held on June 19, as he is still recuperating from a back injury in Switzerland.

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has rebranded as World Tennis, announcing an ambitious vision to increase global participation by 30% to 140 million players by 2035. The organisation, which governs the sport and runs major competitions, plans to reinvest 85% of its income annually for the next decade to achieve its strategic goals, including powering future stars and elevating national competitions. The name change aims to enhance recognition and foster greater collaboration within the sport.

How International Exposure Is Elevating Indian Rugby

How International Exposure Is Elevating Indian Rugby

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Indian rugby player Sumit Kumar Roy highlights the critical role of international exposure and the Rugby Premier League in the team's recent success, including a silver medal in Asia's top rugby sevens competition. The team aims for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and 2036 Olympics, learning from global players and focusing on discipline. Uruguay's Diego Ardao also emphasizes the need for skilled coaches and dedicated players to develop the sport in India, acknowledging the nation's vast potential despite the long road ahead for Olympic aspirations.

How India's Bridge Teams Began Their Asia Cup Campaign

How India's Bridge Teams Began Their Asia Cup Campaign

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

India's senior bridge teams, both A and B, have made an impressive start at the fifth Asia Cup Bridge Championship in Goa, positioning themselves among the top contenders after the opening day. While the senior teams excelled, the women's teams faced a challenging start.

Shreyas Iyer's World Cup Heart Beats for Brazil!

Shreyas Iyer's World Cup Heart Beats for Brazil!

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

India's newly appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer has showed his love for football, backing five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.

Gukesh can take inspiration from Praggnanandhaa's perseverance: Vishy Anand

Gukesh can take inspiration from Praggnanandhaa's perseverance: Vishy Anand

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Legendary Viswanathan Anand hailed R Praggnanandhaa's highly competitive style of play.

Women's T20 World Cup: India Face Must-Win Clash Against Australia For Semi-Final Spot

Women's T20 World Cup: India Face Must-Win Clash Against Australia For Semi-Final Spot

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India will be desperate to overcome their fielding and batting woes when they take on six-time champions Australia in their final Group A clash at Lord's, in London, on Sunday.

2nd T20I: Hurt India Seek Revenge After Shock Loss To Ireland

2nd T20I: Hurt India Seek Revenge After Shock Loss To Ireland

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India's star-studded top order will be under pressure to make amends when they take on a buoyant Ireland in the second and final T20I in Belfast on Sunday.

Neeraj Chopra Will Deliver At Asian Games And LA 2028 Olympics, says Anju Bobby George

Neeraj Chopra Will Deliver At Asian Games And LA 2028 Olympics, says Anju Bobby George

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Legendary athlete Anju Bobby George believes it's just a matter of time before Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra delivers for the country at the big stage -- the Asian Games and 2028 Los Angles Olympic Games.

Real Madrid Bolster Defence With Free Transfer Of France Star Ibrahima Konate

Real Madrid Bolster Defence With Free Transfer Of France Star Ibrahima Konate

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Real Madrid have secured France defender Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer from Liverpool, signing him until June 2030.

Remembering Jaspal Rana: The Pioneer Who Transformed Indian Shooting

Remembering Jaspal Rana: The Pioneer Who Transformed Indian Shooting

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Jaspal Rana, a legendary Indian shooter and influential coach, has passed away at 49 after battling cardiac issues. He was a pioneer who brought shooting into the national spotlight with his fearless performances and later shaped the careers of many world-class athletes, including Manu Bhaker, leaving an indelible mark on Indian sports.

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

England captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket after the third Test against New Zealand, saying the demands of captaincy had burned him out after a remarkable career featuring World Cup glory and Ashes heroics.

Will Messi play 2030 FIFA World Cup?

Will Messi play 2030 FIFA World Cup?

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has stated his intention to continue playing as long as he remains physically fit and can contribute to his team. He remained non-committal about his participation in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, stating it's too far off to consider. Messi also celebrated his 39th birthday amidst Argentina's strong performance in the FIFA World Cup 2026, where he became the all-time leading goal-scorer.

Juergen Klopp, Legends Watch as Germany Break World Cup Opening-Match Jinx

Juergen Klopp, Legends Watch as Germany Break World Cup Opening-Match Jinx

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Germany launched their FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 7-1 victory over Curacao with Klopp, Muller watching from stands.

Diana Edulji On India's Tough Road To T20 World Cup Semifinals

Diana Edulji On India's Tough Road To T20 World Cup Semifinals

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Former India captain Diana Edulji believes the Indian women's cricket team faces a significant challenge to qualify for the Women's T20 World Cup semifinals after their recent loss to South Africa. She highlighted the team's need to win their remaining matches against Bangladesh and Australia and discussed the team's T20 playing style.

Hero MotoCorp Marks 10 Years Of MotoSports Rally Team, Unveils Future Plans

Hero MotoCorp Marks 10 Years Of MotoSports Rally Team, Unveils Future Plans

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Hero MotoCorp celebrated the 10th anniversary of its MotoSports Team Rally, highlighting a decade of achievements in global rally-raid. The event saw the launch of the "India's Next Dakar Hero" programme, a five-year partnership extension with Dakar Rally organisers, and the induction of young Indian racer Shlok Ghorpade, reinforcing the company's commitment to Indian motorsport talent.

Pankaj Advani Dominates to Reach 10-Ball Semis, Shocks Defending Champion

Pankaj Advani Dominates to Reach 10-Ball Semis, Shocks Defending Champion

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Pankaj Advani continues his impressive form, reaching the semifinals of the 10-ball national championships after defeating reigning champion Shivam Arora. He will face Shahbaaz Adil Khan in the next round.

India's Pokemon UNITE Team Shines In Asia Tournament

India's Pokemon UNITE Team Shines In Asia Tournament

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

India's national Pokemon UNITE team achieved a remarkable runner-up position at the AESF-sanctioned Pokemon UNITE Asia International Tournament in Bangkok, showcasing strong strategic play and resilience against 11 national teams from across Asia.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo ends World Cup drought, creates history in Portugal's must-win clash

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo ends World Cup drought, creates history in Portugal's must-win clash

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his critics in emphatic fashion by scoring in Portugal's crucial FIFA World Cup Group K match against Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday, becoming the first player in history to score at six different editions of a FIFA World Cup.