News for 'FIFA World Cup 2026'

FIFA WC 2026, Round of 32: Favourites Belgium not taking Senegal lightly

FIFA WC 2026, Round of 32: Favourites Belgium not taking Senegal lightly

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Belgium have their full squad available for the Round of 32 match against Senegal but are not taking Senegal for granted, said coach Rudy Garcia.

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

Rediff.com6 days ago

England's manager Thomas Tuchel has faced heavy criticism following their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, but he attributes the loss to fundamental issues like a lack of 'ball possession DNA' rather than just tactical errors, while acknowledging the unstoppable brilliance of Lionel Messi.

Deschamps thanks Mbappe, France squad for support after mother's death

Deschamps thanks Mbappe, France squad for support after mother's death

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

'Kylian's gesture touched me deeply'

Mexico legend Ochoa closes in on historic sixth World Cup appearance

Mexico legend Ochoa closes in on historic sixth World Cup appearance

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Guillermo Ochoa said he has entered his final Mexico training camp as the veteran goalkeeper closes in on a historic sixth FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026.

Ronaldo Ignores Messi Question After Record-Breaking Night

Ronaldo Ignores Messi Question After Record-Breaking Night

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal to a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan at the FIFA World Cup 2026, scoring two goals. His performance was overshadowed by a viral post-match moment where he appeared to ignore a question about Lionel Messi. Ronaldo also made history by becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups and surpassed Eusebio as Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the tournament.

Dutch stars targeted with racist hate after penalty loss

Dutch stars targeted with racist hate after penalty loss

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Dutch football players Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber, and Crysencio Summerville were subjected to racist, discriminatory, and hateful online abuse after missing penalties in their World Cup shootout defeat to Morocco. The Dutch football association (KNVB) has condemned the abuse, calling it appalling, and plans to file a case with 'Meld Online Discriminatie' which could lead to a criminal investigation. Morocco won the thrilling Round of 32 match 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, advancing to face Canada.

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe admitted VAR confusion distracted him before his missed penalty against Morocco but said France's talented squad still has plenty to prove despite reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a 2-0 victory.

Neymar suffers minor calf injury but expected to join Brazil camp ahead of World Cup

Neymar suffers minor calf injury but expected to join Brazil camp ahead of World Cup

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Neymar has suffered a minor calf injury but is expected to recover in time to join Brazil's camp next week ahead of the World Cup starting on June 11 in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Jude Bellingham: Mexico Win 'Best Night of My England Career'

Jude Bellingham: Mexico Win 'Best Night of My England Career'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England's star midfielder Jude Bellingham described the thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 as the 'best night of his England career', after the Three Lions secured their place in the quarter-finals despite playing much of the second half with 10 men.

France Midfielder Tchouameni Sidelined For Paraguay Match

France Midfielder Tchouameni Sidelined For Paraguay Match

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has been ruled out of the upcoming World Cup last-16 match against Paraguay due to a thigh injury. The 26-year-old, a regular starter, is expected to be replaced by Manu Kone as France continues its knockout stage campaign.

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

Rediff.com5 days ago

Former Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has cautioned the Spanish national team against underestimating Argentina in the upcoming World Cup final, labelling them a "real nuisance" and highlighting their experience and tactical prowess.

Egypt down Australia on penalties for first World Cup knock-out win

Egypt down Australia on penalties for first World Cup knock-out win

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Egypt secured their first-ever World Cup knockout victory, defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in a last-32 match at Dallas Stadium, advancing to the last-16.

Injury-riddled Brazil face Morocco test in World Cup opener

Injury-riddled Brazil face Morocco test in World Cup opener

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Carlos Ancelotti's Brazil commence their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against plucky Morocco, who come into the mega event on the back of some pre-tournament turbulence.

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to the United States, Bay Area soccer clubs and supporters hope the tournament will inspire a new generation of fans and strengthen the region's thriving grassroots football culture.

Mexico to kick-off 2026 World Cup against South Africa

Mexico to kick-off 2026 World Cup against South Africa

Rediff.com6 Dec 2025

The 2026 World Cup will kick off-on June 11 with joint-hosts Mexico playing South Africa at the Azteca Stadium - iconic venue of the 1970 and 1986 finals - followed by South Korea against a play-off winner after the complex draw was made on Friday.

FIFA defends steep prices of World Cup tickets

FIFA defends steep prices of World Cup tickets

Rediff.com29 Dec 2025

'There is football because, and thanks to, these revenues we generate with, and from, the World Cup which we reinvest all over the world.'

Portugal star Ronaldo links up with Drake after Croatia victory

Portugal star Ronaldo links up with Drake after Croatia victory

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo met Canadian music superstar Drake after Portugal's dramatic 2-1 World Cup win over Croatia, with the Portugal captain celebrating his first-ever World Cup knockout goal before a quarter-final clash against Spain.

'This goal belongs to Spain': Torres' historic strike

'This goal belongs to Spain': Torres' historic strike

Rediff.com3 days ago

Spain forward Ferran Torres dedicated his World Cup-winning goal to the entire nation after his extra-time strike secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The 26-year-old's solitary goal of the tournament proved decisive, ending Argentina's hopes of retaining the title and delivering Spain's first World Cup triumph since 2010. The win also extended Spain's unbeaten run to a European-record 38 international matches.

Xavi Simons suffers ACL injury, set to miss World Cup

Xavi Simons suffers ACL injury, set to miss World Cup

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Tottenham Hotspur on Monday confirmed that midfielder Xavi Simons will require surgery on his right knee after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament.

FIFA World Cup qualifiers: Let's support our Indian team!

FIFA World Cup qualifiers: Let's support our Indian team!

Rediff.com21 Nov 2023

India head coach Igor Stimac on Monday stated that his team has a great deal to learn from their Tuesday 2026 FIFA World Cup round 2 qualifying encounter against Asian champions Qatar.

Legendary Defender Paolo Maldini Takes Helm As FIGC Technical Director

Legendary Defender Paolo Maldini Takes Helm As FIGC Technical Director

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Italian Football Federation has appointed legendary former captain Paolo Maldini as its new Technical Director, aiming to leverage his experience to revitalise the national team's international standing after recent World Cup qualification struggles.

PIX: Neymar With Family After Ending Illustrious International Career

PIX: Neymar With Family After Ending Illustrious International Career

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazilian football legend Neymar Jr. has announced his retirement from international football following Brazil's shocking 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The 34-year-old forward, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, confirmed his decision after the match, marking the end of a celebrated career with the national team.

SEE: Inside Belgium's wild dressing room celebrations

SEE: Inside Belgium's wild dressing room celebrations

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Belgium's dressing room erupted in celebration after their dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Senegal, with match-winner Youri Tielemans leading the festivities.

'It destroyed our game' Switzerland coach slams 'unacceptable' VAR rule

'It destroyed our game' Switzerland coach slams 'unacceptable' VAR rule

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin blasted the rule behind Breel Embolo's controversial red card as "unacceptable" after Argentina's 3-1 extra-time victory ended the Swiss team's historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run.

The perfect pitch is the goal for World Cup grass growers

The perfect pitch is the goal for World Cup grass growers

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

From Mexico to Canada, across 16 stadiums in wildly different climates, the continental tournament is putting turf science to its ultimate test. The goal: creating living surfaces that can withstand kicks, studs, tackles and scorching summer heat.

Balogun distances himself from Trump-linked FIFA decision

Balogun distances himself from Trump-linked FIFA decision

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

FIFA has dismissed Belgium's challenge regarding the eligibility of US striker Folarin Balogun, upholding the controversial decision to suspend his one-match ban ahead of the World Cup Round of 16 clash, despite the US ultimately losing 4-1 to Belgium and being eliminated.

Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' match ball awaits new keeper

Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' match ball awaits new keeper

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The match ball from Argentina's 1986 World Cup quarterfinal against England - made famous by Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal - is set to go up for auction with a $2.5-million opening bid, Heritage Auctions said.

Neymar hints at return for Scotland game

Neymar hints at return for Scotland game

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Neymar missed Brazil's first two games of the FIFA 2026 World Cup and his likely to play against Scotland on Thursday.

Indian U17 Women One Win Away From World Cup Spot

Indian U17 Women One Win Away From World Cup Spot

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The Indian U17 women's team is set to play China in the quarter-finals of the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup, with a spot in the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup at stake.

'I Went to the Locker Room and Cried': Neymar on Emotional Brazil Return

'I Went to the Locker Room and Cried': Neymar on Emotional Brazil Return

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Neymar admitted he shed tears after making his first Brazil appearance in 981 days during the World Cup 2026. The Brazil star returned from injury as the Selecao secured a knockout-stage spot with a 3-0 win over Scotland.'

Fake World Cup Jerseys Worth C$3.5m Seized in Canada

Fake World Cup Jerseys Worth C$3.5m Seized in Canada

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Toronto is expecting more than 300,000 visitors during the World Cup with six matches to be played in the city.

France striker Kylian Mbappe diagnosed with hamstring injury ahead of World Cup

France striker Kylian Mbappe diagnosed with hamstring injury ahead of World Cup

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has suffered a hamstring injury, the LaLiga club said on Monday, weeks before the start of the World Cup.

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Rediff.com5 days ago

Businesses across sectors are positioning themselves to capitalise on the expected surge in demand.

Kylian Mbappe's Double Secures France's Easy World Cup Victory Over Iraq Amidst Weather Delays

Kylian Mbappe's Double Secures France's Easy World Cup Victory Over Iraq Amidst Weather Delays

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Kylian Mbappe scored two goals, equalling Miroslav Klose's World Cup record, as France defeated Iraq 3-0 to advance to the last 32. The match was significantly delayed by thunderstorms, but France maintained control with Ousmane Dembele also scoring. Iraq's chances of progressing now depend on their final group match and other results.

Qatar hail first World Cup point after late goal stuns Switzerland

Qatar hail first World Cup point after late goal stuns Switzerland

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Qatar celebrated their first World Cup point after a late own goal forced a 1-1 draw against Switzerland and sent the Gulf nation into jubilation on Saturday.

Ronaldo substituted, Portugal win: Martinez's gamble sparks debate

Ronaldo substituted, Portugal win: Martinez's gamble sparks debate

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest scorer in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, but Portugal coach Roberto Martinez's bold decision to substitute his captain paid off as Goncalo Ramos scored a dramatic late winner against Croatia.

Norway Football Team Gets Royal Welcome

Norway Football Team Gets Royal Welcome

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Norway enjoyed a memorable 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in the tournament before suffering a narrow 2-1 extra-time defeat to England.

Drug lord El Mencho's murder: FIFA monitoring World Cup host city

Drug lord El Mencho's murder: FIFA monitoring World Cup host city

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

Guadalajara violence postpones matches, FIFA monitoring World Cup host city

Talismanic Kane holds key to end England's World Cup woes

Talismanic Kane holds key to end England's World Cup woes

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The challenge for manager Thomas Tuchel has a tough task in a tricky group with Croatia, Ghana and Panama, while ensuring reliance on Harry Kane does not become over-dependence by encouraging tactical flexibility.

Platini Launches Legal Action Against FIFA, Infantino Over 2015 Corruption Allegations

Platini Launches Legal Action Against FIFA, Infantino Over 2015 Corruption Allegations

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Former UEFA president Michel Platini has initiated civil and criminal legal proceedings in France against FIFA and its current president Gianni Infantino.