News for 'Defender'

Why Gukesh is Reducing Tournament Play to Defend His World Chess Title

Why Gukesh is Reducing Tournament Play to Defend His World Chess Title

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

World Chess Champion D. Gukesh has decided to reduce his tournament schedule to focus on training and preparation for his upcoming title defence, following a series of disappointing performances.

UNICEF hands Goodwill Ambassador role to Spain's rising star Lamine Yamal

UNICEF hands Goodwill Ambassador role to Spain's rising star Lamine Yamal

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Spain winger Lamine Yamal has been appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, becoming one of the youngest footballers to take on the global role ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Siddhesh Lad-led Maratha Royals unveil 'Royal Roar' jersey in Mumbai

Siddhesh Lad-led Maratha Royals unveil 'Royal Roar' jersey in Mumbai

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Defending champions MSC Maratha Royals unveiled their new 'Royal Roar' jersey ahead of the T20 Mumbai League 2026, blending tiger-inspired design, Mumbai street culture and fearless championship ambition.

Manpreet Singh's Milestone As India Beats Germany 3-1

Manpreet Singh's Milestone As India Beats Germany 3-1

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India secured a 3-1 victory over Germany in the FIH Hockey Pro League, a match where Manpreet Singh became the most capped player for India. Goals from Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Nilakanta Sharma, coupled with a strong defensive performance, ensured the win, with Hardik Singh named Player of the Match.

Pochettino's attacking blueprint shapes US mauling of Paraguay

Pochettino's attacking blueprint shapes US mauling of Paraguay

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Mauricio Pochettino's gameplan worked a treat in the United States' 4-1 win over Paraguay in their World Cup opener on Friday, the hosts showcasing an attacking fluidity and positional interplay that overwhelmed the South Americans.

Who are the women's contenders to look out for at Wimbledon?

Who are the women's contenders to look out for at Wimbledon?

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Wimbledon 2026 begins on Monday, and the women's singles draw is once again stacked with star power, form questions, and rising challengers all chasing the same prize.

India rally to beat Pakistan in thrilling FIH Pro League clash

India rally to beat Pakistan in thrilling FIH Pro League clash

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 in a thrilling FIH Pro League match in London, extending their decade-long unbeaten streak against them in international hockey. Despite Pakistan taking an early lead, India rallied with goals from Abhishek, Nilakanta Sharma, Sukhjeet Singh, and Rajinder Singh. Pakistan mounted a late comeback in the final quarter, but India held on for a crucial victory, moving up to seventh in the standings.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Vinicius joins Brazil legends, reaches unique feat

FIFA World Cup 2026: Vinicius joins Brazil legends, reaches unique feat

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Brazil showed their attacking intent from the outset and thought they had taken an early lead when Raphinha finished from Bruno Guimaraes' clever through ball. However, the celebrations were cut short by an offside flag.

Women's T20 WC: Can India fix middle-order woes, fielding lapses?

Women's T20 WC: Can India fix middle-order woes, fielding lapses?

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The Indian women's cricket team is set to face Bangladesh in a critical T20 World Cup Group A match, aiming to address persistent middle-order batting struggles and fielding lapses. While openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma have provided strong starts, the inability of the middle order to capitalise has put pressure on the lower order. India, currently second in their group, needs a strong performance to solidify their semi-final chances, especially after a recent loss to South Africa highlighted their vulnerabilities.

AIFF Defends Women's Asian Cup Preparations After Group Stage Exit

AIFF Defends Women's Asian Cup Preparations After Group Stage Exit

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The AIFF defends its preparation for the AFC Women's Asian Cup despite India's group-stage exit, citing extensive overseas exposure and matches. An inquiry has been ordered into a kit controversy.

Bengal's mid-day meal shift sparks fresh egg vs veg debate

Bengal's mid-day meal shift sparks fresh egg vs veg debate

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The move has sparked a political row, with the opposition accusing the BJP of promoting a vegetarian agenda.

India's Women's Football Team Dominates To Win SAFF Championship

India's Women's Football Team Dominates To Win SAFF Championship

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

India's women's football team secured their sixth SAFF Women's Championship title, and their first in seven years, by defeating defending champions Bangladesh 3-1 in the final. The team maintained an all-win record throughout the tournament, scoring 18 goals and conceding only one, showcasing a dominant performance.

Fit-again Kohli back for England ODIs; Bumrah recalled

Fit-again Kohli back for England ODIs; Bumrah recalled

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Virat Kohli was on Sunday named in India's squad for the three-match ODI series against England next month, subject to fitness clearance.

U-18 Asia Cup Hockey: India men seal final berth with stunning win over Pakistan

U-18 Asia Cup Hockey: India men seal final berth with stunning win over Pakistan

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

India beat Pakistan 5-3 in thrilling semi-final to enter U18 Men''s Asia Cup final

Croatia bank on Modric for one last World Cup push

Croatia bank on Modric for one last World Cup push

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Luka Modric is expected to lead Croatia at what could be his final World Cup as Zlatko Dalic's side aim to continue their remarkable record of success on football's biggest stage despite fitness concerns over their captain.

Messi to lead Argentina's Qatar heroes at 2026 FIFA World Cup

Messi to lead Argentina's Qatar heroes at 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Lionel Messi will lead defending champions Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after coach Lionel Scaloni named a 26-man squad featuring 17 players from the 2022 title-winning team.

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.'

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off at the World Cup for violating a new rule against covering mouths during confrontations. His dismissal left Paraguay with 10 men, but they still secured a 1-0 victory over Turkey, keeping their World Cup hopes alive while eliminating Turkey. The incident has sparked debate among coaches about the impact of new rules on the game's essence.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Yamal ignites Spain's goal rush in 4-0 rout of Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Yamal ignites Spain's goal rush in 4-0 rout of Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Inspired by Lamine Yamal, Spain strolled to a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia in Group H on Sunday, where Mikel Oyarzabal restored his reputation with two goals and Luis de la Fuente's side found their groove after an underwhelming World Cup opener.

Who is cricket's Federer? Sanju Samson has an answer

Who is cricket's Federer? Sanju Samson has an answer

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson drew parallels between cricket and tennis legends, comparing MS Dhoni to Roger Federer and Virat Kohli to Carlos Alcaraz. He also reflected on India's recent T20 World Cup victory, crediting the women's team for inspiring the men, and discussed the challenge posed by Australia. Former tennis player Rohan Bopanna shared his Wimbledon predictions and memories.

FIFA World Cup: Vinicius Jr rescues draw for Brazil against Morocco

FIFA World Cup: Vinicius Jr rescues draw for Brazil against Morocco

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Brazil and Morocco played to a 1-1 draw in their World Cup Group C opening match. Morocco took an early lead through Ismael Saibari, but Vinicius Jr's brilliant goal brought Brazil level before halftime. Despite Brazil's second-half improvements, Morocco's strong defence held them to a point.

Questions mount over Ben Stokes' future after off-field incident

Questions mount over Ben Stokes' future after off-field incident

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

England Test captain Ben Stokes is reportedly considering retirement following his involvement in a nightclub incident with teammate Gus Atkinson after the first Test against New Zealand. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has launched an investigation into the breach of team protocols, while former pacer Steve Harmison has defended Stokes, urging caution until all facts emerge.

Belgium Star Jeremy Doku's World Cup Fatherhood Challenge

Belgium Star Jeremy Doku's World Cup Fatherhood Challenge

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Belgian winger Jeremy Doku faces a personal dilemma during the World Cup as his wife is due to give birth to their first child. He hopes to be present for the birth, potentially requiring him to leave the tournament.

Top Golfers Hovland And Fox Join DP World India Championship

Top Golfers Hovland And Fox Join DP World India Championship

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

PGA Tour winners Viktor Hovland and Ryan Fox are confirmed to participate in the second DP World India Championship at the Delhi Golf Club from October 15-18. They will join other European Ryder Cup stars like Tommy Fleetwood, Rory McIlroy, and Justin Rose in the USD four million event, which is a key part of the Race to Dubai.

Alappuzha Police Defend Investigation into Sexual Harassment Case

Alappuzha Police Defend Investigation into Sexual Harassment Case

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Alappuzha District Police Chief submits a report denying lapses in the investigation of a case where a woman, injured in an accident, was allegedly sexually harassed while being transported to a hospital in Kayamkulam.

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Government sources have clarified that a passport has never been considered proof of citizenship in India, a stance consistent for the past 12 years and rooted in the Passport Act 1967. This clarification, reiterated by the Ministry of External Affairs, has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and public figures.

FIFA World Cup: 90th-minute drama sends Ghana past Panama

FIFA World Cup: 90th-minute drama sends Ghana past Panama

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Caleb Yirenkyi scored a stoppage-time winner to earn Ghana a 1-0 win over Panama in a chilly and lively World Cup game in which the African side were forced to play the second half without starting goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi on Wednesday.

Messi's March Through History Continues With World Cup Goals Record

Messi's March Through History Continues With World Cup Goals Record

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi, nearing 39, has broken the World Cup all-time goal-scoring record with 18 goals, surpassing Marta and Miroslav Klose. This latest achievement adds to his illustrious career, which includes numerous club and international titles, cementing his status as one of football's greatest players.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Balogun brace as US prove too good for Paraguay

FIFA World Cup 2026: Balogun brace as US prove too good for Paraguay

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The United States men's national team secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their World Cup Group D opener, with Folarin Balogun scoring two goals and Giovanni Reyna adding another.

Magical Salah inspires Egypt to historic World Cup victory

Magical Salah inspires Egypt to historic World Cup victory

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Talismanic Mohamed Salah scores twice to help Egypt rally to 3-1 win over New Zealand on Sunday.

French Open: Gauff crashes out as Potapova pulls off huge upset

French Open: Gauff crashes out as Potapova pulls off huge upset

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Defending champion Coco Gauff was defeated by Anastasia Potapova in the French Open, with Potapova winning 4-6, 7-6(1), 6-4 to advance to the fourth round.

'There is no comparison between Nehru and Modi'

'There is no comparison between Nehru and Modi'

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Sharad Pawar objected to comparing PM Modi with Jawaharlal Nehru, highlighting Nehru's sacrifices and nation-building contributions.

India down Bangladesh challenge to win SAFF Women's Championship 2026

India down Bangladesh challenge to win SAFF Women's Championship 2026

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

India beat defending champion Bangladesh 3-1 to win their first SAFF title in seven years.

Massive Mahapanchayat In Bihar Against Encounter Killing

Massive Mahapanchayat In Bihar Against Encounter Killing

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Bharat Tiwari, a self-proclaimed social worker, was shot by an STF team after he surrendered near his Bilauti village but succumbed to injuries few hours later on June 17.

Undav double powers Germany into FIFA World Cup knockouts

Undav double powers Germany into FIFA World Cup knockouts

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Germany secured a spot in the World Cup knockout stage after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Ivory Coast.

India to battle defending champions China in Thomas and Uber Cups

India to battle defending champions China in Thomas and Uber Cups

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Indian men's and women's badminton teams face challenging draws in the upcoming Thomas and Uber Cups, with both teams grouped alongside defending champions China.

CPI(M) Alleges Sabotage In Sabarimala Gold Case Over Lawyer Appointment

CPI(M) Alleges Sabotage In Sabarimala Gold Case Over Lawyer Appointment

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Congress-led UDF government's decision to appoint a defence lawyer for the accused in the Sabarimala gold loss case as a Devaswom advocate has drawn strong criticism from the opposition CPI(M), which alleges the move is an attempt to sabotage the ongoing probe and protect political figures.

From 4,715 followers to global fame: Viral video changes Tim Payne's life

From 4,715 followers to global fame: Viral video changes Tim Payne's life

Rediff.com28 May 2026

New Zealand defender Tim Payne's social media profile has exploded over the last few days after an Argentine influencer decided he was the least known player at the World Cup.

Arjun Tendulkar, Shreyas Light Up Mumbai T20 League

Arjun Tendulkar, Shreyas Light Up Mumbai T20 League

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The five standout moments that defined the league stages of the Mumbai T20 league.

Modi meets Trump in France, discusses seafarers' safety, Iran deal

Modi meets Trump in France, discusses seafarers' safety, Iran deal

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged US President Donald Trump to prioritise the safety of Indian seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz during the implementation of Washington's proposed Iran peace deal, as both leaders focused on repairing strained bilateral relations at the G7 summit.