News for 'FIFA'

Ghana's defence frustrates England in goalless draw

Ghana's defence frustrates England in goalless draw

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

England played out a 0-0 draw against Ghana in their second World Cup Group L match, a result that leaves both teams well-positioned for the next phase. Despite England dominating possession, Ghana's strong defensive strategy frustrated their attacking efforts, leading to a goalless stalemate.

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

India may not be at FIFA World Cup 2026, but four players with Indian roots will represent their nations on football's biggest stage.

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran footballers faces cheers and jeers in their come-from-behind 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their FIFA World Cup final opener in Los Angeles on Monday.

Vargas, Manzambi strike as Switzerland beat Canada to top Group B

Vargas, Manzambi strike as Switzerland beat Canada to top Group B

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi scored second-half goals as Switzerland beat Canada 2-1 on Wednesday to qualify for the knock-out stage of the World Cup as Group B winners, with the tournament co-hosts also progressing as runners-up.

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Tunisia have sacked coach Sabri Lamouchi and replaced him with fellow Frenchman Herve Renard in the wake of the 5-1 defeat by Sweden in their World Cup opener in Monterrey on Sunday, the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) said.

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.

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.

David Beckham honoured with Walk of Fame star

David Beckham honoured with Walk of Fame star

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Sir David Beckham, the first English player to win league titles in four countries, was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday.

Brazil romp into World Cup knock-outs after Vinicius brace

Brazil romp into World Cup knock-outs after Vinicius brace

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Brazil secured their spot in the World Cup knockout stages with a dominant 3-0 victory over Scotland. Vinicius Jr scored twice, continuing his impressive form, while Neymar made his much-anticipated return to the national team after nearly three years. The win saw Brazil top Group C, with Matheus Cunha also contributing a goal. Scotland's hopes now rest on qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.

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.

Isak-Gyokeres Strike Force Faces Tunisia's Iron Defence in World Cup Opener

Isak-Gyokeres Strike Force Faces Tunisia's Iron Defence in World Cup Opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Sweden's star strike partnership of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres faces a stern challenge against Tunisia's rock-solid defence as the two sides begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F campaign.

The Real Reason Behind Messi's Tearful World Cup Moment

The Real Reason Behind Messi's Tearful World Cup Moment

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi's family has confirmed that his father, Jorge Messi, 68, is receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed health issue. They stated he is recovering well and responding positively to treatment, while also expressing frustration over media speculation and requesting privacy for the family during this time. The statement follows emotional scenes involving Lionel Messi during a recent World Cup match, which he later clarified were unrelated to football but due to difficult personal days.

India Women's Team Suffers Defeat Against Kenya in FIFA Series Semi-final

India Women's Team Suffers Defeat Against Kenya in FIFA Series Semi-final

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The Indian women's football team lost 0-2 to Kenya in the semifinal of the FIFA Series 2026. Martha Emedot and Tereza Obunya scored for Kenya.

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.

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.

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.

Extreme heat poses fresh test for players and fans at 2026 World Cup

Extreme heat poses fresh test for players and fans at 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Extreme heat and humidity could emerge as a major challenge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with several host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico expected to experience soaring temperatures during the tournament.

Japan score late to hold Netherlands in Texas thriller

Japan score late to hold Netherlands in Texas thriller

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Japan showed their battling qualities to eke out a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their World Cup Group F opener on Sunday, as Hajime Moriyasu's side backed up their desire to make an impact at the tournament with a gritty display.

Iran fight back to hold New Zealand in Group G thriller

Iran fight back to hold New Zealand in Group G thriller

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their opening World Cup match on Monday after an end-to-end contest played against the backdrop of Iranian fan protests against the government in Tehran.

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.

Mexico kicks off World Cup countdown with wave record bid

Mexico kicks off World Cup countdown with wave record bid

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Thousands of people flooded one of the world's great urban boulevards on Saturday, attempting to set a world record for the Mexican wave - naturally, in the country that gave the beloved stadium ritual its name.

Iran's World Cup team arrives in Tijuana amid US tensions

Iran's World Cup team arrives in Tijuana amid US tensions

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

For Iran's team, the FIFA World Cup has been marred by fraught politics at home, the war with the US, and tensions over whether they would actually be able to set foot on US soil to play their games.

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.

England not World Cup favourites but can dare to dream

England not World Cup favourites but can dare to dream

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel believes they are in good shape heading into the FIFA World Cup and can "dare to dream" about lifting the trophy.

France rise to top of FIFA rankings after wins over Brazil, Colombia

France rise to top of FIFA rankings after wins over Brazil, Colombia

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

France return to No.1 in FIFA rankings after wins over Brazil and Colombia, while Spain drop to second and Argentina slip to third in the latest standings.

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Iran's national soccer team, currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the US the day before each of their three World Cup matches, the Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday.

US win over Paraguay built on collective approach: Pochettino

US win over Paraguay built on collective approach: Pochettino

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

US coach Mauricio Pochettino praised his team's collective effort after their historic 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their World Cup opener. Folarin Balogun scored two goals, a first for a U.S. player since 1930, though Christian Pulisic's calf injury raised concerns. Pochettino credited extended training time for the team's strong start.

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.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal eye fast start against Congo

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal eye fast start against Congo

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Portugal's latest bid for World Cup glory begins in Houston on Wednesday when they take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in a Group K clash.

Messi milestone as second-string Argentina whip Jordan

Messi milestone as second-string Argentina whip Jordan

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi made history by scoring in his seventh consecutive World Cup match, leading a second-string Argentina to a 3-1 victory over Jordan in their Group J clash in Dallas. Goals from Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro Martinez also contributed to Argentina's win, setting them up for the round of 32.

Qatar's keeper Abunada enjoys 'most beautiful moment' after setbacks

Qatar's keeper Abunada enjoys 'most beautiful moment' after setbacks

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Qatar's resilience against Switzerland owed much to goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada, whose key saves kept them in the game, a remarkable comeback for a player once close to retirement due to a serious back injury.

Cape Verde make history; set up date with Argentina in Round of 32

Cape Verde make history; set up date with Argentina in Round of 32

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Debutants Cape Verde have made history by qualifying for the World Cup round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia. This unexpected achievement sets up a clash with defending champions Argentina. Despite a low-quality match, Cape Verde secured second place in their group, sparking celebrations among players and fans, while Uruguay and Saudi Arabia were eliminated.

Denied US Entry, Somali Referee Gets UEFA Super Cup Role

Denied US Entry, Somali Referee Gets UEFA Super Cup Role

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry to the United States for the World Cup despite a valid visa, has been appointed to officiate the upcoming UEFA Super Cup match between Paris St Germain and Aston Villa. This appointment follows a cooperation agreement between UEFA and CAF.

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.

Amad Diallo strikes late as Ivory Coast stun Ecuador

Amad Diallo strikes late as Ivory Coast stun Ecuador

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Manchester United's Amad Diallo struck in the 90th minute as Ivory Coast stunned Ecuador 1-0 in their World Cup Group E opener on Sunday.

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

'Difficult Situations Bring Out the Best in Us': Iran Eye World Cup History

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Iran's players say adversity has united Team Melli after a resilient 0-0 draw against Belgium kept their World Cup knockout hopes alive. A win over Egypt could secure a historic first-ever place in the last 32.

Kylian Mbappe Faces Immense Pressure Ahead Of World Cup Opener

Kylian Mbappe Faces Immense Pressure Ahead Of World Cup Opener

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Kylian Mbappe is under immense pressure and facing criticism regarding his recent performances and leadership ahead of France's World Cup opener. Despite a trophy-less season with Real Madrid, his teammates Ousmane Dembele and Lucas Hernandez defend him, highlighting his leadership within the French squad and his focus on the tournament. Mbappe has a strong World Cup record and aims to silence critics by performing well in the upcoming matches.

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.

No Room for Complacency: Koeman Eyes Defensive Fixes Before Morocco Tie

No Room for Complacency: Koeman Eyes Defensive Fixes Before Morocco Tie

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has warned against underestimating Morocco despite topping Group F, calling the Round of 32 clash the Dutch side's "real test" while admitting there is still room for defensive improvement.

'Always United': Ronaldo Sends Message as Portugal Back Captain Amid Criticism

'Always United': Ronaldo Sends Message as Portugal Back Captain Amid Criticism

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo called for unity ahead of Portugal's crucial World Cup clash against Uzbekistan, while teammate Ruben Dias dismissed criticism of the veteran forward following a difficult tournament opener.