News for 'Defender'

Petkovic Reflects On Algeria's World Cup Exit

Petkovic Reflects On Algeria's World Cup Exit

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Algeria's coach Vladimir Petkovic attributed his team's 2-0 defeat to Switzerland and subsequent World Cup exit to costly defensive errors. He acknowledged the higher level of competition at the tournament and praised his team's overall performance, considering their return to the World Cup after 12 years and reaching the group stage a success despite the elimination.

Yellamaraju Climbs Leaderboard Amidst Tough Scottish Open Conditions

Yellamaraju Climbs Leaderboard Amidst Tough Scottish Open Conditions

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Indo-Canadian golfer Sudarshan Yellamaraju has surged into a tie for sixth place at the Scottish Open, just two strokes off the lead, after a stellar second round. Amidst challenging conditions that saw top players exit, Yellamaraju's strong performance puts him in contention for his first DP World Tour win. Rory McIlroy, Tom Kim, and Jordan Smith share the lead.

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia believes Lionel Messi needs to win the 2026 World Cup to truly equal Diego Maradona's legendary status, despite Messi's 2022 triumph. Bhutia rates Maradona higher due to his single-handed 1986 World Cup victory, while also tipping Spain as slight favourites over Argentina in the upcoming final.

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A former FIFA referee has questioned the new VAR protocol after fresh controversy involving Argentina, warning that fan confidence in World Cup officiating has been "completely eroded."

The Marriage Secret That Still Works!

The Marriage Secret That Still Works!

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Bhanu Iyer from Bengaluru tells us about the simple habits and values that helped her marriage celebrate 15 years.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule/Results

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule/Results

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The complete schedule and all the results of FIFA World Cup 2026 in IST.

Wimbledon: Swiatek overcomes Pliskova; Anisimova battles past Kenin

Wimbledon: Swiatek overcomes Pliskova; Anisimova battles past Kenin

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Defending champion Iga Swiatek eased past former world No. 1 Karolina Pliskova to reach the Wimbledon third round, while Amanda Anisimova battled back to defeat Sofia Kenin in a hard-fought all-American contest.

Cruel game! VAR drama, penalty send Senegal packing vs Belgium

Cruel game! VAR drama, penalty send Senegal packing vs Belgium

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw expressed his disappointment, calling football a "cruel game" after his team's dramatic 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the World Cup round of 32. Senegal had held a 2-0 lead until the 85th minute but conceded two late goals, followed by a controversial penalty in extra time that led to their elimination.

8 Weird Football Terms

8 Weird Football Terms

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

As the sport's popularity spread across the world, it developed its own colourful language/expressions. From clever slang to bizarre nicknames, the game's changing culture has thrown up some rather unusual turn of phrase. Here are 8 of the strangest football terms ever used.

How Sinner Overcame French Open Disappointment For Wimbledon Glory

How Sinner Overcame French Open Disappointment For Wimbledon Glory

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Jannik Sinner successfully defended his Wimbledon title, crediting intensive training after a surprising early exit from the French Open. He defeated Alexander Zverev in the final, marking his fifth major title and highlighting his dedication and resilience.

'More Proud Than Disappointed': DR Congo Coach Hails Team

'More Proud Than Disappointed': DR Congo Coach Hails Team

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre expressed pride in his team's performance at the World Cup, despite their exit after a close match against England.

Abhijeet Gupta Crowned Champion At Pune International Chess Tournament

Abhijeet Gupta Crowned Champion At Pune International Chess Tournament

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta secured the championship at the Pune International Grandmaster Round Robin Chess Tournament. International Master Aswath S finished as runner-up, achieving his final Grandmaster norm to become India's 98th Grandmaster. Kushagra Mohan took third place, while Advik Agarwal earned his second International Master norm.

Women's Hockey Squad Announced For Asian Games With Olympic Dream

Women's Hockey Squad Announced For Asian Games With Olympic Dream

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

India has announced its 20-member women's hockey squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Led by Salima Tete, the team aims to secure a gold medal, which would qualify them for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising juniors, with minor changes from the recent FIH Nations Cup-winning team.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina stage stunning fightback to storm into quarterfinals

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina stage stunning fightback to storm into quarterfinals

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Argentina produced a stunning comeback after falling two goals behind, scoring twice in four minutes through Cristian Romero and Lionel Messi to beat Egypt 3-2 in their last 16 clash of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Atlanta on Tuesday.

Praggnanandhaa holds Gukesh; joint second after opening day of Grand Chess Tour Croatia

Praggnanandhaa holds Gukesh; joint second after opening day of Grand Chess Tour Croatia

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa began his campaign in the Zagreb leg of the Grand Chess Tour with a victory over top seed Vincent Keymer of Germany before drawing his next two games.

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.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Harry Kane double strike fires England into last 16

FIFA World Cup 2026: Harry Kane double strike fires England into last 16

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Harry Kane rose to rescue England, striking twice in the span of 11 minutes as the former champions fought back from a goal down to beat a a gritty Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in their FIFA World Cup last-32 clash in Atlanta on Wednesday.

Shreyas Iyer Refuses To Blame Ravi Bishnoi For England T20I Defeat

Shreyas Iyer Refuses To Blame Ravi Bishnoi For England T20I Defeat

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer defended leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi after his expensive 29-run over proved pivotal in India's four-wicket defeat to England in the second T20I. Iyer acknowledged the momentum shift but refused to pinpoint blame, while England's Jacob Bethell was lauded for his match-winning unbeaten 76.

East Bengal Appoints Antonio Lopez Habas As Head Coach

East Bengal Appoints Antonio Lopez Habas As Head Coach

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Reigning Indian Super League champions East Bengal have announced the appointment of decorated Spanish coach Antonio Lopez Habas as their new head coach for the 2026-27 season. Habas, known for his successful stints in Indian football, returns to familiar territory as the club prepares to defend its maiden ISL League Shield amidst ownership uncertainties.

Yellamaraju Leads Indian-Origin Charge At Genesis Scottish Open

Yellamaraju Leads Indian-Origin Charge At Genesis Scottish Open

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Indian-origin golfers Sudarshan Yellamaraju and Sahith Theegala made their mark on the opening day of the Genesis Scottish Open. Yellamaraju carded a two-under 68, placing him tied 27th, while Theegala finished even-par 70, tied 72nd. Rory McIlroy shares the lead with a five-under 65.

Yellamaraju Leads Indian-Origin Charge At Genesis Scottish Open

Yellamaraju Leads Indian-Origin Charge At Genesis Scottish Open

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Indian-origin golfers Sudarshan Yellamaraju and Sahith Theegala made their mark on the opening day of the Genesis Scottish Open. Yellamaraju carded a two-under 68, placing him tied 27th, while Theegala finished even-par 70, tied 72nd. Rory McIlroy shares the lead with a five-under 65.

Salima Tete To Lead India Women's Hockey Team At Asian Games

Salima Tete To Lead India Women's Hockey Team At Asian Games

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

India has announced its 20-member women's hockey squad, led by Salima Tete, for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan. The team aims to secure a gold medal to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with minor changes to the strike force from the FIH Nations Cup winning side.

Morocco's Hakimi Feels Targeted as Rape Case Heads to Trial

Morocco's Hakimi Feels Targeted as Rape Case Heads to Trial

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Achraf Hakimi says he is ready to face trial after a French appeals court reportedly rejected his challenge to a rape case referral. The Morocco and PSG defender insists he will finally get the chance to tell his side of the story.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel has made three changes to his starting XI for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, bringing Reece James and Djed Spence into the defence, while Argentina's Lionel Scaloni makes one switch, with Giuliano Simeone replacing Rodrigo De Paul.

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.

FIFA sticks with original kickoff time for Mexico-England showdown

FIFA sticks with original kickoff time for Mexico-England showdown

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

FIFA is expected to keep the scheduled kickoff for Mexico's World Cup Round of 16 clash against England at the Estadio Azteca despite weather concerns, as the hosts prepare to defend their formidable home record.

Serena Williams To Make Wimbledon Return on Centre Court

Serena Williams To Make Wimbledon Return on Centre Court

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Serena Williams is set to make a highly anticipated return to the tournament on Tuesday, facing Maya Joint in the first round. The 44-year-old tennis icon, who had announced her retirement in 2022, is back in competitive play this month. The day's schedule also features defending champion Iga Swiatek and other top seeds like Alexander Zverev and Elena Rybakina.

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals are set, featuring a diverse lineup of one South American, one African, and six European teams, including defending champions Argentina and France, alongside surprise packages like Morocco and Norway, all vying for football's ultimate prize.

India must shed 'underachievers' tag in foreign T20 conditions, says assistant coach

India must shed 'underachievers' tag in foreign T20 conditions, says assistant coach

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has challenged the T20 team to shed its 'underachievers' tag in foreign conditions, emphasising the need for quicker adaptation to varied playing environments after recent series losses.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain oust Belgium, set up semifinal clash with France

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain oust Belgium, set up semifinal clash with France

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Substitute Mikel Merino scored in the 88th minute after goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled Pau Cubars's long-range effort, restoring Spain's lead and putting the 2010 champions 2-1 ahead of Belgium.

Goa Welcomes Asia's Top Bridge Players For Championship

Goa Welcomes Asia's Top Bridge Players For Championship

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The 5th Bonus Asia Cup Bridge Championships are set to begin in Goa, featuring nearly 300 players from 16 countries. Defending champions India will compete across various categories, facing strong contenders like Hong Kong and Indonesia. The event, described as the "Asian Games of bridge," highlights India's growing role in the sport.

No rollback of E20 petrol, no selling pure petrol: Govt

No rollback of E20 petrol, no selling pure petrol: Govt

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

It, however, conceded that 20 per cent blending of ethanol with petrol leads to 3-5 per cent lower mileage in vehicles than conventional petrol, but said the blend offers a significantly higher octane rating, superior anti-knock properties, faster combustion, better pickup, smoother acceleration, and cleaner engine operation.

Mamata dares 'treacherous' rebels to join BJP as another close aide quits

Mamata dares 'treacherous' rebels to join BJP as another close aide quits

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress supremo, has launched a strong counterattack against rebel party members, accusing them of conspiring with the BJP to split the party. She dared them to formally join the BJP and defended her leadership amidst the worst organisational crisis for TMC, while also announcing leadership changes and criticising the rebels' past actions and attempts to seize party assets.

FIFA World Cup: England survive Mexico test, now Haaland threat awaits

FIFA World Cup: England survive Mexico test, now Haaland threat awaits

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup quarter-finals, demonstrating crucial adaptability and resilience after playing with 10 men for over half an hour, a performance that manager Thomas Tuchel believes proves their ability to survive when matches don't follow the script.

Cape Verde make history; set up date with Argentina in Round of 32

Cape Verde make history; set up date with Argentina in Round of 32

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Debutants Cape Verde have made history by qualifying for the World Cup round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia. This unexpected achievement sets up a clash with defending champions Argentina. Despite a low-quality match, Cape Verde secured second place in their group, sparking celebrations among players and fans, while Uruguay and Saudi Arabia were eliminated.

FIFA World Cup: 10-man US overcome red card to knock out Bosnia

FIFA World Cup: 10-man US overcome red card to knock out Bosnia

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The United States defeated Bosnia 2-0 to advance to the World Cup round of 16. Malik Tillman scored the decisive goal from a free kick after Folarin Balogun was sent off, having previously opened the scoring. This marks their first knockout win since 2002.

Lord's Test: Mandhana magic and Gaud's five-for put India in control

Lord's Test: Mandhana magic and Gaud's five-for put India in control

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Kranti Gaud announced herself on the Test stage with a stunning maiden five-wicket haul, while Smriti Mandhana's unbeaten fifty put India firmly in control against England.

Trump hails 'GREAT player' Harry Kane after England's World Cup win

Trump hails 'GREAT player' Harry Kane after England's World Cup win

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

United States President Donald Trump has praised England captain Harry Kane as a 'GREAT player' following his pivotal role in England's 3-2 FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 victory over co-hosts Mexico, where Kane scored his sixth goal of the tournament.

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.

Rory McIlroy holds nerve to defend Masters title

Rory McIlroy holds nerve to defend Masters title

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Rory McIlroy overcame a shaky start to secure his second consecutive Masters title, joining an elite group of golfers who have achieved this feat. His victory came after a tense final round where he held off a strong challenge from Scottie Scheffler.