News for 'Defender'

Blue Colts Aim For Historic Win Against Syria In U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Opener

Blue Colts Aim For Historic Win Against Syria In U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Opener

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

India's U20 football team, the Blue Colts, is set to kick off their AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers campaign against Syria in Tashkent. This opening match is crucial as India aims to secure their first-ever win against Syria and qualify for the Asian Cup for the first time since 2006, navigating a tough group that also includes Uzbekistan and Bangladesh.

Barcelona Begins LaLiga Title Defence With Resounding 5-0 Win At Elche

Barcelona Begins LaLiga Title Defence With Resounding 5-0 Win At Elche

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Barcelona commenced their LaLiga title defence with a dominant 5-0 away victory against Elche, featuring two goals each from Raphinha and Fermin Lopez, and one from debutant Karim Adeyemi.

10 Must Watch Taapsee Pannu Films

10 Must Watch Taapsee Pannu Films

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

From Pink and Thappad to Aadukalam and Game Over, these 10 films showcase Taapsee Pannu at her most powerful and versatile.

GTRI Urges India To Resist US Pressure On UPI Policies

GTRI Urges India To Resist US Pressure On UPI Policies

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

A think tank, GTRI, has urged India to resist US pressure regarding its UPI policies, advocating for competition, policy autonomy, and a sustainable payments ecosystem. This comes as the Lok Sabha passed a bill allowing charges on UPI, and the US has criticised India's digital payment systems, raising concerns about the future of India's digital payment landscape.

How India U-20 Prepared For AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

How India U-20 Prepared For AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The India U-20 men's football team has concluded its preparations for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers with an unbeaten run in four friendly matches, securing three wins and a draw without conceding any goals. The team is now heading to Uzbekistan for the crucial qualifiers, aiming for a strong performance.

Lionel Messi Scores Emotional First Goal Since Father Jorge's Death

Lionel Messi Scores Emotional First Goal Since Father Jorge's Death

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Lionel Messi scored his first goal for Inter Miami since the recent passing of his father, Jorge Messi, during a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union.

India-Pakistan blockbuster gets women's Asia Cup date

India-Pakistan blockbuster gets women's Asia Cup date

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Asian Cricket Council has announced that India will play arch-rivals Pakistan in the Women's T20 Asia Cup on September 5 in Dubai. The tournament, featuring eight teams, will run from August 28 to September 13, with India being the most successful team in its history.

Vidit Reveals what Gukesh must fix before title defence

Vidit Reveals what Gukesh must fix before title defence

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi discusses D Gukesh's mental strength challenge for his World Championship defence against Javokhir Sindarov, highlighting Gukesh's recent inconsistent form. Vidit also assesses India's strong prospects for the upcoming Chess Olympiad, praising the form of players like Praggnanandhaa, Erigaisi, and Sarin, while cautioning against overconfidence. He also reflects on his Arjuna Award and the need for better organisation in chess formats.

India's World Cup Hopes Dwindle After 2-0 Loss to Dominant Netherlands

India's World Cup Hopes Dwindle After 2-0 Loss to Dominant Netherlands

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

The Indian women's hockey team suffered a 2-0 defeat against the formidable Netherlands in their FIH World Cup Pool E encounter, with goals from Yibbi Jansen and Frederique Matla, both from penalty corners. This loss puts India in a precarious position, requiring a victory against Australia to keep their semi-final aspirations alive.

Top Golfers Tee Off At Coal India Open In Kolkata

Top Golfers Tee Off At Coal India Open In Kolkata

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The second edition of the Coal India Open golf tournament is set to begin in Kolkata, featuring a strong field of leading Indian and international professionals competing for a prize purse of Rs 1 crore. Defending champion Angad Cheema and other notable golfers will participate at the Tollygunge Club.

East Bengal edge SC Delhi in penalty shootout to enter Durand Cup final

East Bengal edge SC Delhi in penalty shootout to enter Durand Cup final

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

East Bengal secured their spot in the Durand Cup final by defeating SC Delhi 5-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout, following a goalless draw in regulation time. Captain Mohammed Rashid scored the decisive fifth penalty, sending East Bengal to their record-equalling 17th final appearance.

Premier League: Munoz rescues Liverpool with late equaliser; Spurs go down to Newcastle

Premier League: Munoz rescues Liverpool with late equaliser; Spurs go down to Newcastle

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Liverpool survived a Nottingham Forest scare with Victor Munoz's late equaliser, but Andoni Iraola remains without a Premier League win after two games in charge.

How India Overcame Late-Game Vulnerability Against Pakistan

How India Overcame Late-Game Vulnerability Against Pakistan

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh states that the Indian hockey team has overcome its past late-game vulnerabilities against Pakistan, attributing this to significant improvements in fitness, game awareness, and decision-making. He notes that matches against Pakistan are no longer as challenging as they once were, though he stresses the need for defensive discipline against stronger European teams in the upcoming World Cup.

PSG score over Aston Villa to retain UEFA Super Cup

PSG score over Aston Villa to retain UEFA Super Cup

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Paris St Germain defeated Aston Villa 2-1 to retain the UEFA Super Cup, with goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue. Despite Brian Madjo's equaliser for Villa, PSG secured their victory, marking another trophy for manager Luis Enrique and highlighting their continued dominance in European football.

CJP protest was hijacked by 'history-sheeters': Delhi Police to SC

CJP protest was hijacked by 'history-sheeters': Delhi Police to SC

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Delhi Police has strongly defended its use of force during the 'Chalo Sansad' protest on July 20, telling the Supreme Court that the agitation was 'hijacked by anti-social elements and history-sheeters,' leading to law and order breakdown and over 240 police personnel injuries.

Arsenal Begin Premier League Title Defence With Coventry Rout

Arsenal Begin Premier League Title Defence With Coventry Rout

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Arsenal commenced their Premier League title defence with a commanding 3-0 victory over newly-promoted Coventry City. Goals from Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard secured the win, showcasing Arsenal's intent for the season.

'The ultimate goal is the Olympics': Arundhati after CWG gold

'The ultimate goal is the Olympics': Arundhati after CWG gold

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Indian pugilists Arundhati Choudhary and Jaismine Lamboria, both Commonwealth Games 2026 gold medallists, shared their experiences and overwhelming reception following their historic victories in Glasgow, with Choudhary setting her sights on an Olympic medal.

Ajaraie's Hat-Trick Powers NorthEast United To Emphatic Durand Cup Victory

Ajaraie's Hat-Trick Powers NorthEast United To Emphatic Durand Cup Victory

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Defending champions NorthEast United FC secured a resounding 6-0 victory over Bodoland FC in their opening Group F fixture of the 135th Durand Cup. Alaaeddine Ajaraie led the charge with a hat-trick, supported by goals from Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia, Redeem Tlang, and Antonio Moyano, showcasing a commanding performance.

Indian-American Akshay Bhatia Eyes Strong Finish At PGA TOUR Championship

Indian-American Akshay Bhatia Eyes Strong Finish At PGA TOUR Championship

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia has qualified for the season-ending TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club, joining an elite 30-man field. Having previously competed in the event, Bhatia aims to leverage his experience and consistent performance, including a strong showing at the BMW Championship, to challenge top contenders like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy for the FedExCup title and a share of the USD 40 million purse.

Private Defence Firms Get DRDO Missile Tech Boost

Private Defence Firms Get DRDO Missile Tech Boost

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

The move is meant to enhance the operational capability of the armed forces, reduce import dependence and increase domestic value addition.

NorthEast United FC stage stunning comeback to reach Durand Cup semifinals

NorthEast United FC stage stunning comeback to reach Durand Cup semifinals

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

NorthEast United FC secured a thrilling 5-2 victory over Shillong Lajong in the Durand Cup semifinals, largely thanks to Alaaeddine Ajaraie's hat-trick. After trailing 1-2 at halftime, the Highlanders mounted a spectacular second-half comeback, scoring four goals to book their spot in the semi-finals for the fourth consecutive time, where they will face Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Alonso's Chelsea kick off season with thrilling win at Fulham

Alonso's Chelsea kick off season with thrilling win at Fulham

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Chelsea secured a breathless 3-2 victory over West London rivals Fulham in Xabi Alonso's first Premier League match as coach, with goals from Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer.

Rajasthan govt restricts entry, photography in schools amid CJP campaign

Rajasthan govt restricts entry, photography in schools amid CJP campaign

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Rajasthan government has issued an order restricting the entry of outsiders into government schools and barring photography and videography without prior permission, a move that follows protests over poor conditions and an announced inspection by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

Amol Muzumdar challenges young India to play fearless cricket at T20 Asia Cup

Amol Muzumdar challenges young India to play fearless cricket at T20 Asia Cup

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Amol Muzumdar wants India's young team to embrace aggressive cricket at the T20 Asia Cup, despite inconsistent form, as they prepare for a crucial six-month campaign ahead.

Active MFs reduce bets to multi-year low

Active MFs reduce bets to multi-year low

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

HDFC Bank's share in active mutual fund schemes has fallen to multi-year lows, despite overall MF ownership in the bank rising, as the stock faces weak performance, soft margins, and governance concerns.

Cong to stick to 2-stanza Vande Mataram; BJP calls it 'New Muslim League'

Cong to stick to 2-stanza Vande Mataram; BJP calls it 'New Muslim League'

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Congress Working Committee has decided to adhere to its 1937 resolution, mandating that only the first two stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' be sung at all party events, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, which labelled the Congress the 'new Muslim League'.

Ben Shelton wins back-to-back Canadian Open titles

Ben Shelton wins back-to-back Canadian Open titles

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Ben Shelton successfully defended his Canadian Open title, defeating fellow American Brandon Nakashima in an all-American final.

'Fully focused on defeating Germany': India eye fifth place at World Cup

'Fully focused on defeating Germany': India eye fifth place at World Cup

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

India's Women's Hockey team will compete against higher-ranked Germany in the fifth-place playoff at the Women's Hockey World Cup, aiming to conclude their impressive campaign with a victory and build momentum for the upcoming Asian Games.

Harmanpreet calls for tunnel vision as India prepare for tougher Women's T20 Asia Cup

Harmanpreet calls for tunnel vision as India prepare for tougher Women's T20 Asia Cup

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur said India will not single out Pakistan or any opponent at the Women's T20 Asia Cup, focusing instead on consistent cricket and handling pressure.

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Makes Progress In Swiss Ladies Open

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Makes Progress In Swiss Ladies Open

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Indian golfer Pranavi Urs showed improvement in the second round of the VP Bank Swiss Ladies Open, moving to T-24. While Urs progressed, fellow Indian golfers Tvesa Malik and Diksha Dagar faced challenges, with Dagar at risk of missing the cut. Sweden's Kajsa Arwefjall leads the tournament, maintaining a strong performance.

East Bengal FC Thrash South United 5-0 In Durand Cup

East Bengal FC Thrash South United 5-0 In Durand Cup

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

East Bengal FC secured a comprehensive 5-0 victory over South United FC in their final Durand Cup Group A match, significantly boosting their chances of qualifying for the quarter-finals.

Fils wins first ATP Masters 1000 title as Gauff clinches second Cincinnati crown

Fils wins first ATP Masters 1000 title as Gauff clinches second Cincinnati crown

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Arthur Fils and Coco Gauff have both secured significant victories at the Cincinnati Open, with Fils winning his first ATP Masters 1000 title by defeating Frances Tiafoe, and Gauff claiming her second Cincinnati Open title over Jessica Pegula.

Football icon Gerard Pique invests in Global Chess League franchise

Football icon Gerard Pique invests in Global Chess League franchise

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

World Cup-winning Spanish footballer Gerard Pique has become a strategic shareholder in the Global Chess League franchise American Gambits. Pique, known for his illustrious football career, expressed his long-standing fascination with chess and his ambition to elevate the sport's global appeal. The fourth edition of the Global Chess League, featuring top grandmasters, is scheduled for September 3-13.

F1 Champion Max Verstappen To Race 100 Competitors In Go-Kart Showdown

F1 Champion Max Verstappen To Race 100 Competitors In Go-Kart Showdown

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen is set to participate in the world's biggest go-kart race at Silverstone, where he will attempt to chase down 100 competitors.

Sports Ministry Firm On Asian Games Tennis Selection Criteria

Sports Ministry Firm On Asian Games Tennis Selection Criteria

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Five Indian tennis players were excluded from the Asian Games squad because they did not meet the Sports Ministry's stringent international ranking criteria, a decision that has drawn criticism from veteran players like Rohan Bopanna but is being upheld by authorities to maintain administrative integrity.

Ten-man Lens edge PSG to win Trophee des Champions crown

Ten-man Lens edge PSG to win Trophee des Champions crown

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Ten-man Lens secured their first Trophee des Champions title, defeating Paris St Germain 1-0 at the Bollaert-Delelis Stadium, 28 years after their last appearance in the season-opening fixture.

Jurel reveals why his century celebration was special

Jurel reveals why his century celebration was special

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Dhruv Jurel's unbeaten 115 against Sri Lanka, inspired by his 'Mamba Mentality' motto, showcased his disciplined approach to Test cricket, contrasting with Rishabh Pant's aggressive style while building a crucial 112-run partnership.

US Court Dismisses Adani Criminal Case; Gautam Adani Says 'Truth Prevailed'

US Court Dismisses Adani Criminal Case; Gautam Adani Says 'Truth Prevailed'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

A US federal judge has permanently dismissed the criminal securities-fraud case against Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar, closing nearly two years of prosecution without a trial. Gautam Adani stated, "Truth has prevailed," in response to the ruling.

Ayush Shetty exits; Treesa-Gayatri enter quarterfinals at Badminton Worlds

Ayush Shetty exits; Treesa-Gayatri enter quarterfinals at Badminton Worlds

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Ayush Shetty's impressive run at the World Championships ended in the pre-quarterfinals against Alwi Farhan, concluding India's men's singles challenge. Meanwhile, the women's doubles pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand advanced to the quarterfinals with a dominant win, continuing their strong comeback after Treesa's injury.

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The upcoming LaLiga season promises an intense battle as Barcelona defends its title against a revamped Real Madrid, led by returning manager Jose Mourinho, and a turbulent Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid has made significant signings and brought back Mourinho after two trophyless seasons, while Barcelona relies on continuity and its World Cup-winning core. Atletico Madrid faces pressure on manager Diego Simeone and a potential transfer saga involving Julian Alvarez, setting the stage for a dramatic season.