News for 'FIFA World Cup 2026'

Haaland scores twice as Norway shock Brazil to make World Cup quarter-finals

Haaland scores twice as Norway shock Brazil to make World Cup quarter-finals

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Erling Haaland scored two crucial late goals to lead Norway to a stunning 2-1 victory over five-times champions Brazil in the World Cup Round of 16, securing their place in the quarter-finals. Neymar's late penalty was not enough for Brazil, who also missed an earlier spot-kick.

Bosnia beat Qatar, keep World Cup knock-out hopes alive

Bosnia beat Qatar, keep World Cup knock-out hopes alive

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Bosnia and Herzegovina kept their World Cup hopes alive thanks to a stunning goal from teenager Kerim Alajbegovic, which powered them towards a tense 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday and secured third place in Group B to eliminate their opponents.

Trossard double fires Belgium into World Cup knockouts with 5-1 rout of New Zealand

Trossard double fires Belgium into World Cup knockouts with 5-1 rout of New Zealand

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Belgium secured top spot in Group G and a place in the World Cup round of 32 after a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand.

Norway rout Italy, qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Norway rout Italy, qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com17 Nov 2025

Norway registered a thumping 4-1 win as Italy, who have missed out on the last two editions of the World Cup, were condemned to the playoffs.

Top seeds to be kept apart in FIFA World Cup '26 draw

Top seeds to be kept apart in FIFA World Cup '26 draw

Rediff.com26 Nov 2025

Spain cannot meet Argentina and France will not face England before the World Cup final - provided they win their groups - after FIFA on Tuesday announced the draw procedure.

Ibra hails defending champs: 'This is why the world fears Argentina'

Ibra hails defending champs: 'This is why the world fears Argentina'

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

'That's not just a football victory -- that's the heartbeat of an entire nation'

Jordan Henderson Backs Jude Bellingham As England's X-Factor For World Cup

Jordan Henderson Backs Jude Bellingham As England's X-Factor For World Cup

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

England midfielder Jordan Henderson has publicly defended teammate Jude Bellingham, highlighting his crucial role and 'X-factor' for the team despite media scrutiny. Henderson also discussed his own controversial selection for his fourth World Cup and the challenge of facing Luka Modric.

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Australia's coach Tony Popovic expresses confidence in his team's ability to challenge favourites Turkey in their World Cup opener in Vancouver, despite being considered underdogs. He also confirmed the squad is fully fit, including Mohamed Toure.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic steps down after nine years in charge

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic steps down after nine years in charge

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic has stepped down after nine years in charge, the Croatian Football Federation said on Wednesday, less than a week after his side's exit from the 2026 World Cup following a 2-1 loss to Portugal in the Round of 32.

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.com4 days ago

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.

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed various issues ahead of the World Cup, defending the body's handling of visa challenges, stressing its inability to override government decisions, and highlighting efforts to ensure participation from all nations, including Iran. He also defended ticket pricing and expressed optimism for a competitive tournament focused on unity.

Guess How Messi Celebrated His 39th Birthday

Guess How Messi Celebrated His 39th Birthday

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi, on the eve of his 39th birthday, demonstrated his unwavering commitment to Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign by engaging in an intense gym session. The football legend, who is already the FIFA World Cup's all-time top goalscorer, is leading Argentina into the Round of 16 and continues to break records with his exceptional performance.

Haaland scores twice as Norway whip Iraq on World Cup return

Haaland scores twice as Norway whip Iraq on World Cup return

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Norway's prolific striker Erling Haaland wasted no time in opening his World Cup account as he found the net twice in a 4-1 defeat of Iraq in Group I on Tuesday that sent a warning to defenders in the rest of the tournament.

Portugal overcome Croatia in thriller to make World Cup last 16

Portugal overcome Croatia in thriller to make World Cup last 16

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic World Cup match, with Goncalo Ramos scoring the winning goal in stoppage time after Cristiano Ronaldo had equalised from a penalty. The victory ends Luka Modric's fifth World Cup bid, and Portugal now advances to face Spain in the round of 16.

Munoz strike sends Colombia into World Cup Round of 32

Munoz strike sends Colombia into World Cup Round of 32

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Daniel Munoz fired Colombia into the World Cup Round of 32 on Tuesday, sealing a 1-0 win over DR Congo in Group K.

Morocco edge Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup last 16

Morocco edge Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup last 16

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Morocco triumphed over the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout to advance in the World Cup after a drama-filled 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 clash on Monday.

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.

Bellingham defends England teammates after Tuchel's 'lucky' win remarks

Bellingham defends England teammates after Tuchel's 'lucky' win remarks

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

England midfielder Jude Bellingham defended his teammates after head coach Thomas Tuchel criticised their performance despite a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, with Tuchel stating England were 'lucky' to progress.

Italy rejects Trump envoy's suggestion to replace Iran at World Cup

Italy rejects Trump envoy's suggestion to replace Iran at World Cup

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Italy rejects a proposal by Trump envoy Paolo Zampolli to replace Iran at the FIFA World Cup 2026, as officials insist qualification must be earned on merit.

Kylian Mbappe's penalty takes France into World Cup quarter-finals

Kylian Mbappe's penalty takes France into World Cup quarter-finals

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe scored a penalty in the 70th minute to give France a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the World Cup last 16, setting up a quarter-final clash with Morocco. The goal also brought Mbappe level with Lionel Messi as the tournament's top scorer.

Wissa's double propels DR Congo into World Cup knockouts

Wissa's double propels DR Congo into World Cup knockouts

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo secured a spot in the World Cup knockout stage after a thrilling 3-1 comeback victory against Uzbekistan. Yoane Wissa scored twice, including a crucial penalty, and Fiston Mayele added another goal to seal their progression. This win marks DR Congo's return to the World Cup knockouts after 52 years, setting up a clash with England.

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Alexis MacAllister has puts Argentina ahead in the10th minute.

Hong Kong seizes World Cup fakes worth $20 million

Hong Kong seizes World Cup fakes worth $20 million

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Wayne Chung, senior investigator at the city's Intellectual Property Investigation Bureau, told reporters on Thursday that 230,000 items had been seized.

Australia spoil Turkey's return to World Cup stage with tense win

Australia spoil Turkey's return to World Cup stage with tense win

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Australia defeated Turkey 2-0 in their Group D World Cup opener, with goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe, placing them second in the group.

FIFA WC: Mbappe hugs Dembele as France prepare for Morocco

FIFA WC: Mbappe hugs Dembele as France prepare for Morocco

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele shared a warm embrace in France training ahead of the FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Morocco, easing rumours of tension as Les Bleus chase another semi-final appearance.

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ecuador secured a stunning 2-1 victory over Germany in a crucial World Cup match, ensuring their qualification for the last 32. Despite an early German goal, Ecuador fought back with goals from Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata to clinch the win.

Iran wait on World Cup progress after late goal disallowed in Egypt draw

Iran wait on World Cup progress after late goal disallowed in Egypt draw

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Iran face an anxious wait to see if they will progress to the World Cup knockout stage after they came from behind to hold Egypt to a 1-1 draw.

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

Rediff.com6 days ago

Rodri delivered a midfield masterclass against France, anchoring Spain's 2-0 victory and securing their place in the World Cup final. His performance marked a significant return to his pre-injury form, reminiscent of his dominant displays for Manchester City, as he frustrated France's attacking efforts and dictated play.

Arias takes Colombia past Ghana to World Cup Round of 16

Arias takes Colombia past Ghana to World Cup Round of 16

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Colombia defeated Ghana 1-0 in a crucial World Cup Round-of-32 match, with Jhon Arias scoring the decisive goal in the 14th minute. This victory propels Colombia into the last 16, where they will face Switzerland.

Bellingham Urges England Fans To Maintain Unity

Bellingham Urges England Fans To Maintain Unity

Rediff.com4 days ago

England's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign concluded with a semi-final defeat to Argentina. Star midfielder Jude Bellingham expressed gratitude to supporters for their unwavering backing and called for the unity shown during the tournament to continue. Bellingham was England's top scorer, playing a crucial role in their journey to the semi-finals.

'They showed who is the boss'

'They showed who is the boss'

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Zlatan Ibrahimovic praises Mexico after Ecuador victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match on Tuesday.

Beckham tips Japan to pull off surprise at World Cup

Beckham tips Japan to pull off surprise at World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

David Beckham has tipped Japan as a dark horse for the 2026 FIFA World Cup while backing England to end their 60-year wait for glory. The former captain also highlighted France, Spain, Argentina and Brazil as title contenders.

Argentina sweats over Messi hamstring injury before World Cup

Argentina sweats over Messi hamstring injury before World Cup

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Lionel Messi is dealing with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring less than three weeks before the start of the World Cup, Inter Miami said on Monday after the Argentine forward was forced off in his final club match before the tournament.

Scotland edge past Haiti for first World Cup win in 36 years

Scotland edge past Haiti for first World Cup win in 36 years

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Scotland defeated Haiti 1-0 in a World Cup Group C match, with John McGinn scoring the winning goal. This victory marks Scotland's first win in the tournament since 1990, placing them at the top of their group. Haiti, despite their pace, lacked the finishing touch.

Gueye double keeps five-star Senegal's World Cup hopes alive

Gueye double keeps five-star Senegal's World Cup hopes alive

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Senegal kept their World Cup knockout hopes alive in dominant fashion on Friday with a 5-0 victory over 10-man Iraq, who were eliminated from the tournament.

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.

Ecstacy And Relief After Argentina Pull Off Another Great Escape

Ecstacy And Relief After Argentina Pull Off Another Great Escape

Rediff.com5 days ago

Lionel Messi's Argentina celebrate after their come-from-behind win over England in the FIFA World Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

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.'

FIFA WC 2026: Algeria come from behind to edge Jordan 2-1

FIFA WC 2026: Algeria come from behind to edge Jordan 2-1

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Algeria rallied to eliminate debutants Jordan and keep their Round of 32 hopes alive at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi extended his record by scoring in a ninth straight FIFA World Cup match as Argentina fought back from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 and keep their title defence alive.