News for 'First World'

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, netting a penalty at 41 years and 147 days during Portugal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia. This historic goal, his first in a World Cup knockout stage, helped Portugal advance to the Round of 16, with Ronaldo dismissing speculation about his future focus on the tournament.

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France arrive in Philadelphia as the World Cup's most feared attacking force, but Kylian Mbappe and coach Didier Deschamps have warned that acclaim, records and a seemingly clear path mean little if they fail to stay grounded against Paraguay in Saturday's last-16 clash.

How Free Is India Today?

How Free Is India Today?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

As India's decline continued on global indices, the government first blamed methodology and then motives. This is where we remain today as we wish each other and ourselves a happy Independence Day, points out Aakar Patel.

Faster than Don Bradman: Virat Kohli's Record-Breaking 18 Years For India

Faster than Don Bradman: Virat Kohli's Record-Breaking 18 Years For India

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Virat Kohli, who debuted 18 years ago, has amassed over 28,000 international runs and 85 centuries, establishing himself as one of cricket's all-time greats with numerous unmatched records across all formats.

India Win 1st Test: Where Do They Stand In WTC Race?

India Win 1st Test: Where Do They Stand In WTC Race?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

India secured a comprehensive victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test, improving their World Test Championship points percentage. However, despite the win, their path to the WTC final has become significantly more challenging, requiring them to win almost all their remaining matches due to a tightly packed table and other teams' results.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Trump factor, political heat sour Canada's excitement

FIFA World Cup 2026: Trump factor, political heat sour Canada's excitement

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

US president Donald Trump in recent weeks has renewed threats to make Canada the 51st US state, and said he might not renew the trilateral trade agreement between the US, Canada and Mexico -- the co-hosts of this year's World Cup.

Taekema: India Women Can Emulate China's Paris Olympics Rise

Taekema: India Women Can Emulate China's Paris Olympics Rise

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Dutch hockey legend Taeke Taekema believes the Indian women's hockey team possesses the talent to replicate China's remarkable journey to an Olympic silver medal, provided they focus on fundamental skills and secure qualification for the Los Angeles Olympics.

Salah Stars as Egypt Rewrite History With Maiden World Cup Victory

Salah Stars as Egypt Rewrite History With Maiden World Cup Victory

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Mohamed Salah scored and assisted as Egypt came from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver, securing the country's first-ever FIFA World Cup victory and moving top of Group G.

Giuliano Simeone's Late Goal Rescues 10-Man Atletico in Tense Villarreal Draw

Giuliano Simeone's Late Goal Rescues 10-Man Atletico in Tense Villarreal Draw

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Giuliano Simeone, son of manager Diego Simeone, scored a dramatic late equaliser to secure a 2-2 draw for 10-man Atletico Madrid against Villarreal. The match was marked by fan anger towards striker Julian Alvarez and a contentious red card for Robin Le Normand.

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Atlanta Police Department has significantly increased security measures for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, two nations with a historically fierce football rivalry, deploying additional personnel and resources across the city and stadium.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland goals vs Iraq send shockwaves through Norwegian city

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland goals vs Iraq send shockwaves through Norwegian city

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Erling Haaland's first-half double for Norway in Tuesday's 4-1 World Cup win over Iraq literally shook the Nordic country, with seismology institute NORSAR registering earth tremors in the coastal city of Bergen when he scored on his tournament debut.

A Mom-Son Japanese Odyssey

A Mom-Son Japanese Odyssey

Rediff.com7 days ago

Researching Japan was like going down a rabbit hole. There is just so much to see and do, but I finally decided we would stick to the 'Golden Route' of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, notes Radhika Mittal.

World Champion Gukesh To Clash With Nihal Sarin At Chennai Grand Masters 2026

World Champion Gukesh To Clash With Nihal Sarin At Chennai Grand Masters 2026

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

World champion D Gukesh is set to face Nihal Sarin in a highly anticipated first-round match at the Chennai Grand Masters 2026 chess tournament. The event features eight Grandmasters, including four Indians, competing for a prize purse of Rs 75,00,000 and crucial FIDE Circuit points in a double-round robin format.

Brandon Nakashima Upsets Daniil Medvedev in Cincinnati Open Thriller

Brandon Nakashima Upsets Daniil Medvedev in Cincinnati Open Thriller

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Brandon Nakashima delivered a stunning upset at the Cincinnati Open, defeating fourth seed Daniil Medvedev 6-7(3), 7-6(4), 6-1 in the third round, saving three match points in a remarkable comeback.

FIFA World Cup: Rivalry and revenge -- the long, bitter relationship between England and Argentina

FIFA World Cup: Rivalry and revenge -- the long, bitter relationship between England and Argentina

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Argentina and England are set to clash in a World Cup semi-final, marking their first such encounter, a match deeply rooted in decades of historical and footballing rivalry, including infamous incidents involving Antonio Rattin, Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal, and the Falklands War.

Sharma, Sandhu Battle Challenging Conditions In Scotland

Sharma, Sandhu Battle Challenging Conditions In Scotland

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Indian golfers Shubhankar Sharma and Yuvraj Sandhu had a challenging opening round at the Nexo Championship in Scotland, with Sharma tied 38th and Sandhu tied 62nd amidst strong winds. Sweden's Marcus Kinhult leads the tournament.

Can India Defend Chess Olympiad Double, End Winner's Curse?

Can India Defend Chess Olympiad Double, End Winner's Curse?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

'Being the defending champions certainly gives us confidence, but every Olympiad is a new event and starts from scratch.'

Dronacharya Awardee Parveer Singh's Journey: From Seema Punia To Asian Games Gold

Dronacharya Awardee Parveer Singh's Journey: From Seema Punia To Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Veteran athletics coach Parveer Singh, who guided athletes like Seema Punia, Tajinderpal Singh Toor, and Annu Rani to international medals, has been named for the prestigious Dronacharya Award. The article details his extensive career spanning over two decades, his role as a coach educator, and his academic contributions to sports coaching.

Super-sub Torres stars as Spain down 10-man Argentina to win FIFA World Cup 2026 title

Super-sub Torres stars as Spain down 10-man Argentina to win FIFA World Cup 2026 title

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

It's goalless at half-time in the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain in New York on Sunday.

Will These Celebrities Feature In Bigg Boss 20?

Will These Celebrities Feature In Bigg Boss 20?

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Looking at the unconfirmed list of contestants lining up for the 20th edition of Bigg Boss.

From 1932 to 600 Tests: India's Remarkable Test Evolution

From 1932 to 600 Tests: India's Remarkable Test Evolution

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

India completed their 600th Test with a 165-run win over Sri Lanka. Here's how India evolved from early struggles into a modern Test cricket powerhouse.

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Actor-MP Kangana Ranaut and movie legend Sharmila Tagore are embroiled in a public debate over Vande Mataram.

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A former FIFA referee has questioned the new VAR protocol after fresh controversy involving Argentina, warning that fan confidence in World Cup officiating has been "completely eroded."

Why Indian GM Arjun Erigaisi Doubts Online Chess Ratings For Official FIDE Status

Why Indian GM Arjun Erigaisi Doubts Online Chess Ratings For Official FIDE Status

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi has voiced significant reservations regarding a proposal by World Chess and FIDE to convert online rapid and blitz ratings into official FIDE ratings. He highlights fundamental integrity issues, such as mouse slips and the lack of physical supervision in home-based online play, making it difficult to ensure fair play. Erigaisi also commented on World Champion D Gukesh's recent form and dismissed the idea that AI diminishes creativity in chess.

FIFA World Cup: Ancelotti's surprise gift leaves Norway coach stunned

FIFA World Cup: Ancelotti's surprise gift leaves Norway coach stunned

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Norway's coach Stale Solbakken reflects on their historic 2-1 World Cup last-16 victory over Brazil, revealing a gracious gesture from opposing coach Carlo Ancelotti that resolved a pre-match spat. Solbakken also shared his sleepless night after the win and his team's preparations for the quarter-finals against England.

First Drive: Why the New Tata Sierra Was Born to be an EV

First Drive: Why the New Tata Sierra Was Born to be an EV

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

First Drive: Why the New Tata Sierra Was Born to be an EV

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

Rediff.com8 hours ago

'Improved law and order and transparent governance have helped change UP's investment image.'

Cincinnati Open: Nakashima stuns Fritz to set up Tiafoe semis, Bejlek continues dream run

Cincinnati Open: Nakashima stuns Fritz to set up Tiafoe semis, Bejlek continues dream run

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Frances Tiafoe and Brandon Nakashima have both secured their spots in the Cincinnati Open semi-finals, setting up an all-American showdown.

Brazil rewrite World Cup history with dramatic comeback victory

Brazil rewrite World Cup history with dramatic comeback victory

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, recording their first knockout victory after trailing at half-time since 1978 as Casemiro made history and Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic late winner.

From 'Wonderwall' to K-Pop: The music behind the FIFA World Cup roar

From 'Wonderwall' to K-Pop: The music behind the FIFA World Cup roar

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Watching the World Cup and hearing the music in the stadium may have left you wondering - how is that chosen? Is it just coincidence that "Wonderwall" plays after England matches? Are "Freed from Desire" or "Livin' on a Prayer" always played? And why?

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland target Argentina's weaknesses in last-eight clash

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland target Argentina's weaknesses in last-eight clash

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Switzerland players have heaped praise on Lionel Messi ahead of Saturday's World Cup quarter-final against Argentina, but said they have identified weaknesses in the defending champions and believe they can cause an upset.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

In Peru, there is a wave of new baby Haalands. In Argentina, Lionel has raced up the rankings, and in Mexico a girl was reportedly named after three soccer players. Parents in Latin America are already christening a new generation of babies after the stars of the World Cup.

Dembele 'picking up momentum' as France eye World Cup glory

Dembele 'picking up momentum' as France eye World Cup glory

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Ousmane Dembele expressed his delight after scoring and helping France reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, stating he is gaining confidence and momentum as the tournament progresses and the team remains focused on going all the way.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Dutch coach Koeman labels Morocco tie an early World Cup final

FIFA World Cup 2026: Dutch coach Koeman labels Morocco tie an early World Cup final

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The meeting between Morocco and Netherlands in the last 32 might have come too early at the World Cup, Dutch coach Ronald Koeman suggested on the eve of Monday's clash between the two contenders in Monterrey.

FIFA World Cup: Japan Fans Clean Stadium, Win Hearts

FIFA World Cup: Japan Fans Clean Stadium, Win Hearts

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Japan's fans once again captured the world's admiration after clearing thrash from the stands following their Group F match against the Netherlands on Sunday.

Neeru Dhanda wins women's trap gold in Shotgun World Cup

Neeru Dhanda wins women's trap gold in Shotgun World Cup

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Asian Championships gold medallist Neeru Dhanda has secured her first individual ISSF World Cup title in the women's trap event in Lonato, Italy.

'The Most Valuable Show For Us Is KBC'

'The Most Valuable Show For Us Is KBC'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has seen its revenue grow by over 9 per cent to 7,064 crore, driven by the strong performance of SonyLIV, Sony SAB, and Sony Entertainment Television (SET), said Gaurav Banerjee, head of SPNI.

Ounahi's Double Propels Morocco Into World Cup Last Eight

Ounahi's Double Propels Morocco Into World Cup Last Eight

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Morocco defeated Canada 3-0 in the World Cup last 16, with Azzedine Ounahi scoring two goals, to advance to the quarter-finals for the second consecutive time. The victory ended Canada's tournament run.

Kashmir's Underwater Tiranga Rally

Kashmir's Underwater Tiranga Rally

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Kashmir witnessed its first-ever underwater Tiranga rally, as water sports athletes carried the national flag beneath Pokribal lake ahead of Independence Day.

Arnav Paparkar First Indian In 36 Years To Reach Wimbledon Boys' Singles Quarter-finals

Arnav Paparkar First Indian In 36 Years To Reach Wimbledon Boys' Singles Quarter-finals

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Arnav Paparkar has scripted history at Wimbledon as the 18-year-old became the first Indian player to reach the boys' singles quarter-finals in 36 years.