Meanwhile, Egypt and South Africa also took significant steps towards following the Atlas Lions, moving closer to featuring in the marquee event, which will be played across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Several soccer games in Mexico were postponed due to violence following a military operation and the reported death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, alias "El Mencho."
Kerala, Punjab, Services and Railways enter semifinals of Santosh Trophy
The AIFF defends its preparation for the AFC Women's Asian Cup despite India's group-stage exit, citing extensive overseas exposure and matches. An inquiry has been ordered into a kit controversy.
Former Italy international Pamela Conti was on Sunday named head coach of the Indian women's U-17 team to take charge of the country's AFC Asian Cup campaign later this year, second such appointment of a national side this month made by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
India's women's football team suffered a heavy 0-11 defeat against Japan in their second group match of the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Despite the loss, India still has a chance to qualify for the quarter-finals if they beat Chinese Taipei in their final group match.
England booked their place in next year's World Cup finals as captain Harry Kane scored twice in a 5-0 romp away to Latvia on Tuesday to ensure they will win qualifying Group K.
'Failure to meet this schedule will leave us with no alternative but to refer the matter to the relevant FIFA decision-making body for consideration and decision... including the possibility of suspension.'
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak indicated that Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to be rested for the final Group A match against the Netherlands, despite India having already qualified for the Super 8 stage.
UEFA has provisionally suspended Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni for one match following allegations of a racist slur directed at Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. during a Champions League match.
Cristiano Ronaldo birthday special coverage: Check Cristiano Ronaldo age, stats, total goals, career records, trophies and net worth details.
MLS begins a transformative season with Lionel Messi, Son Heung-min and record transfers as North America prepares to host the World Cup.
India's footballing future was discussed in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday by Congress member Jose K Mani, as he cited tiny Dutch-Caribbean island Curacao's World Cup qualification to ask Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya about the long-term plan for sport in the country that is on a downward spiral.
Japan, South Korea, Australia, Iran, Uzbekistan and Jordan have already taken six of Asia's eight guaranteed spots at next year's 48-team World Cup.
MLS enters its 31st season amid World Cup buzz and Lionel Messi's impact, with Don Garber calling it a defining moment for the league's future.
Real Madrid are football's biggest earners, Liverpool best in Premier League
World Cup matches to have mandatory hydration breaks in each half
US President Donald Trump, who has campaigned aggressively this year for a Nobel Peace Prize, was given FIFA's inaugural peace prize for his efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in some of the world's biggest hotspots.
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.
With two wins from two games, Spain top Group E on six points, while Turkey and Georgia follow with three apiece.
Football giants Italy begin cricket World Cup's maiden campaign against Scotland
Manisha Kalyan is the only Indian footballer to have played in the UEFA Champions League for women.
Amelia Valverde named coach of Indian senior women's football team
Here is the full list of teams that have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
Indian football team drops six places to 142nd in FIFA rankings after 0-1 loss to Bangladesh
Reacting to the developments on his official X handle, John Abraham expressed disappointment at how things have unfolded.
Cheteshwar Pujara's retirement from Indian cricket on Sunday prompted an outpouring of tributes, none more heartfelt than Jaydev Unadkat's.
As per a proposal by stakeholders, the 22-member governing council is likely to be headed by either the president of the AIFF, and it will be the highest supervisor body for the ISL.
"By introducing a structured competition platform ... we aim to ensure consistent access to high-quality matches while addressing logistical and cost-related challenges faced by national teams."
Real Madrid now have 45 points from 19 matches, second behind defending champions Barcelona.
Indian men's football team drops six places to 133rd in FIFA rankings, worst in nine years
Indian football remained in a state of terminal decline after experiencing arguably its darkest phase in a year marked by severe administrative crisis, court hearings, financial issues, absence of domestic leagues, and a steep decline in performance of the senior men's team.
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.
'The only thing I can do is on the pitch -- to give my all. I won't always be technically perfect, but I will always give 100% for the team.'
'If there is one thing that I would request from the athletes all around the world, it would be it is time that we unite together. And it's time that women support other women.'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that India is preparing with full strength to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
India have slumped to 142 in the FIFA rankings -- their lowest in nearly a decade.
FIFA has lifted its suspension on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) after it approved constitutional amendments.
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi on Saturday virtually unveiled his towering 70-foot statue at Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town, Kolkata.
Bengaluru FC owner Parth Jindal on Wednesday called on the players to "make sacrifices" in view of the financial burden the club will shoulder to participate in the delayed Indian Super League.
