News for 'FIFA World Cup'

Are FIFA Officials Partial To Messi?

Are FIFA Officials Partial To Messi?

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi broke the FIFA World Cup scoring record, but his achievement was overshadowed by controversial refereeing decisions.

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Nora Fatehi's FIFA Anthem Is A Sensation!

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Nora Fatehi has successfully transitioned to the global stage, with her FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem Siir Siir becoming a viral hit, especially following Morocco's impressive draw against Brazil.

World Cup, Goals and a Baby Boy: Memorable Week for Norway's Ostigard

World Cup, Goals and a Baby Boy: Memorable Week for Norway's Ostigard

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Norway defender Leo Ostigard has become a father during the FIFA World Cup, witnessing the birth of his first child over FaceTime before rejoining teammates ahead of Norway's crucial Group I clash with Senegal.

This Indian dreams of playing in FIFA World Cup, Olympics

This Indian dreams of playing in FIFA World Cup, Olympics

Rediff.com8 Aug 2025

Manisha Kalyan is the only Indian footballer to have played in the UEFA Champions League for women.

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.

Koeman Backs Netherlands To Beat Any Team At World Cup

Koeman Backs Netherlands To Beat Any Team At World Cup

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Ronald Koeman says the Netherlands have the quality to beat any team at the World Cup despite not being favourites, while injury concerns linger over Jurrien Timber and Memphis Depay.

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.

Final 2026 World Cup Teams Confirmed: See Who's In

Final 2026 World Cup Teams Confirmed: See Who's In

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The final teams have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Find out which teams have qualified and their group stage assignments.

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.

Deepika To Unveil FIFA World Cup Trophy

Deepika To Unveil FIFA World Cup Trophy

Rediff.com6 Dec 2022

Deepika will be the first actor to receive such an honour at the world's most-watched sporting event.

Why France are favourites to win the World Cup

Why France are favourites to win the World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

With Kylian Mbappe's depth and experience, economists predict France are tipped to edge Spain to lift World Cup.

Modric undergoes cheekbone surgery ahead of World Cup

Modric undergoes cheekbone surgery ahead of World Cup

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Croatia and AC Milan's Luka Modric sustained the injury following a clash of heads with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli during their Serie A match on Sunday.

Despite Hurdles, World Cup Fans Find Unique Charm In Toronto

Despite Hurdles, World Cup Fans Find Unique Charm In Toronto

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Despite initial challenges like unsold tickets and a rained-out fan festival, visitors are flocking to Toronto for the first-ever World Cup soccer match in Canada. Fans are drawn by factors such as lower drinking age compared to the US, cultural similarities, and Canada's diverse immigrant population, creating a unique and determined atmosphere for the tournament.

Shock omission! Maguire dropped from England's World Cup squad

Shock omission! Maguire dropped from England's World Cup squad

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Harry Maguire was left shocked after being omitted from England's World Cup squad by Thomas Tuchel, while Phil Foden and Cole Palmer were also reportedly dropped ahead of Friday's announcement.

Hospitals Ready as World Cup Organisers Monitor Ebola Concerns

Hospitals Ready as World Cup Organisers Monitor Ebola Concerns

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization have all described the risk of Ebola to World Cup host countries as low, citing measles, COVID-19 and influenza -- which spread when large crowds gather -- as the most likely threats.

How Adidas Is Winning The World Cup Brand War Against Nike

How Adidas Is Winning The World Cup Brand War Against Nike

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Early data from the World Cup indicates that sportswear giant Adidas is currently gaining a significant advantage over rival Nike in brand visibility and sales. Adidas, an official sponsor, is seeing a substantial surge in apparel spending and foot traffic, particularly driven by jersey sales. While Nike's business is also growing, it is being outpaced by Adidas, which appears to have a more resonant product offering. Nike, facing declining market share and intense competition, is relying on the World Cup for a boost, though its footwear presence remains strong.

'Nobody can question us': FIFA refereeing chief hits back at critics

'Nobody can question us': FIFA refereeing chief hits back at critics

Rediff.com7 days ago

FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has staunchly defended the officiating in Argentina's 3-2 World Cup victory over Egypt, dismissing allegations of bias and asserting that match officials operated with complete independence, despite Egypt's complaints about unfair treatment.

Cristiano Ronaldo To Play Sixth World Cup At 41

Cristiano Ronaldo To Play Sixth World Cup At 41

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to participate in his sixth World Cup at the age of 41, as announced by Portugal coach Roberto Martinez.

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

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

Rediff.com4 days ago

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

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

Bieber, BTS, Madonna, Shakira unite for epic FIFA Finale

Bieber, BTS, Madonna, Shakira unite for epic FIFA Finale

Rediff.com7 days ago

FIFA and Global Citizen have announced a star-studded lineup for the World Cup final halftime show, featuring Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, and BTS. The initiative aims to raise $100 million for global education and football opportunities, with $50 million already secured.

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.

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.

Big names, new faces: Who's confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026

Big names, new faces: Who's confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com19 Nov 2025

The teams that have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, to be hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

Historic! Uzbekistan, Jordan qualify for FIFA World Cup

Historic! Uzbekistan, Jordan qualify for FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com6 Jun 2025

Uzbekistan earn first World Cup qualification, Australia, Jordan close in

Cape Verde keeper Vozinha set for emotional World Cup reunion with mom

Cape Verde keeper Vozinha set for emotional World Cup reunion with mom

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Cape Verde's heroic goalkeeper Vozinha will have his mother in the stands when he next takes to the pitch at the World Cup on Sunday, after US officials moved to ensure she could obtain a visa in time.

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.

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.

Messi to play 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Messi to play 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

In a recent interview with El Pais, Suarez was asked whether he and Messi had talked about retirement.

India U-17 Football Team Eye World Cup Spot

India U-17 Football Team Eye World Cup Spot

Rediff.com9 May 2026

India's Under-17 men's team faces Uzbekistan in their final AFC U-17 Asian Cup group match, with a win potentially securing qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

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.

'US visa issues won't affect 2026 FIFA World Cup'

'US visa issues won't affect 2026 FIFA World Cup'

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

France football great Marcel Desailly does not feel that visa issues relating to entering the United States will have any impact on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

World Cup bus set alight as chaotic celebrations erupt in Manhattan after Knicks win

World Cup bus set alight as chaotic celebrations erupt in Manhattan after Knicks win

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A World Cup bus was set alight and a teenager suffered a gunshot wound during chaotic scenes in Midtown Manhattan as thousands of basketball fans poured into the streets late on Saturday to celebrate the New York Knicks' historic win in the NBA Finals.

'I really don't care' if Iran play in World Cup': Trump

'I really don't care' if Iran play in World Cup': Trump

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Amid an escalating regional war, questions deepen over whether Iran's soccer team will compete at this year's FIFA World Cup to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Argentina, Brazil, Germany win friendlies days before World Cup kick-off

Argentina, Brazil, Germany win friendlies days before World Cup kick-off

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Multi-champions Brazil, Argentina and Germany all won their preparatory games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, although by small margins, with former champion England and hopeful Portugal also securing victories.

Iran Coach Criticises Travel Restrictions After 2-2 World Cup Draw

Iran Coach Criticises Travel Restrictions After 2-2 World Cup Draw

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said travel restrictions and visa-related disruptions hampered his team's World Cup preparations after a 2-2 draw with New Zealand, claiming Iran had become the tournament's "most oppressed" side.

Gattuso Resigns As Italy Manager Following World Cup Qualification Failure

Gattuso Resigns As Italy Manager Following World Cup Qualification Failure

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Gennaro Gattuso has resigned as Italy manager after the national team failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.

Mora joins Pele in record books as Mexico march into last 16

Mora joins Pele in record books as Mexico march into last 16

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Mexico teenager Gilberto Mora became the youngest player to start a FIFA World Cup knockout match since Pele as the co-hosts defeated Ecuador 2-0 to end a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory.

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.

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.