News for 'Hard Times'

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.

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France captain Kylian Mbappe admitted his side failed both tactically and technically in their 2-0 FIFA World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, ending their hopes of a third successive final appearance.

Kylian Mbappe's penalty takes France into World Cup quarter-finals

Kylian Mbappe's penalty takes France into World Cup quarter-finals

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe scored a penalty in the 70th minute to give France a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the World Cup last 16, setting up a quarter-final clash with Morocco. The goal also brought Mbappe level with Lionel Messi as the tournament's top scorer.

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni lauded his team's ability to 'suffer without losing belief' after their dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in the World Cup quarter-finals, highlighting their growth in navigating challenging situations.

Know Christopher Nolan's Movies Before You Watch Odyssey

Know Christopher Nolan's Movies Before You Watch Odyssey

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

From Following to Oppenheimer, here's why Christopher Nolan remains cinema's greatest modern blockbuster auteur.

Gambhir not to blame? Ex selector makes big claim

Gambhir not to blame? Ex selector makes big claim

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Former India cricketer and ex-chief selector MSK Prasad has questioned the consistent dropping of Sanju Samson from the T20I squad, calling it a 'big mistake' given his strong performances, while also defending head coach Gautam Gambhir against early criticism for recent series losses.

Zverev Eyes Deeper Run At Wimbledon After Strong Showing

Zverev Eyes Deeper Run At Wimbledon After Strong Showing

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Alexander Zverev, the men's second seed, has reached the last 16 at Wimbledon for the fourth time, showing growing confidence on grass. After winning his maiden Grand Slam at the French Open, he defeated Marcos Giron in straight sets and will face Jiri Lehecka next.

'Can't imagine Hindu Rashtra without...': What RSS chief told Muslim delegation

'Can't imagine Hindu Rashtra without...': What RSS chief told Muslim delegation

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi stated, "We thought we'll go to the fountainhead of this hate discourse. This whole hate narrative according to us was being spread by the RSS," explaining the delegation's decision to meet RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in 2022.

Vishal Uppal: Let Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi Evolve Naturally

Vishal Uppal: Let Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi Evolve Naturally

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Asian Games medallist Vishal Uppal has advised against creating excessive hype around young Indian tennis sensation Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi, urging the fraternity to let her develop naturally rather than pressuring her to emulate Sania Mirza. Uppal believes Maaya, a top 20 junior player, has the potential to break into the top 100 in professional tennis if she maintains her hard work and hunger. He also highlighted the challenges of professional tennis and praised another prospect, Dakshineshwar Suresh.

Paolini ends Eala's fairytale run to reach Wimbledon quarters

Paolini ends Eala's fairytale run to reach Wimbledon quarters

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Jasmine Paolini defeated Alexandra Eala in a three-set thriller at Wimbledon, ending Eala's impressive run to reach the quarterfinals. The match, witnessed by Roger Federer, saw Paolini's experience prevail after Eala had previously upset World No. 3 Iga Swiatek.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain oust Belgium, set up semifinal clash with France

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain oust Belgium, set up semifinal clash with France

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Substitute Mikel Merino scored in the 88th minute after goalkeeper Senne Lammens spilled Pau Cubars's long-range effort, restoring Spain's lead and putting the 2010 champions 2-1 ahead of Belgium.

Sourav Ganguly hails Argentina's 'incredible' World Cup comeback

Sourav Ganguly hails Argentina's 'incredible' World Cup comeback

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly expressed his excitement over Argentina's dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, highlighting the team's ability to snatch victory from a 0-2 deficit.

Indian Swimmer Sajan Prakash Targets Podium Finish In Final Commonwealth Games Season

Indian Swimmer Sajan Prakash Targets Podium Finish In Final Commonwealth Games Season

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Ace Indian swimmer Sajan Prakash is set for his final season, targeting a podium finish and a personal best at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Having qualified for both the CWG and Asian Games, Prakash is undergoing intensive training, focusing on recovery and strategic preparation with new coach Sandeep Sejwal, as he aims to make a significant impact in his last major international appearances.

New Liverpool Boss Iraola Demands More Signings For Upcoming Season

New Liverpool Boss Iraola Demands More Signings For Upcoming Season

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has expressed his impatience to secure more player signings to bolster the squad ahead of the upcoming season. Having already signed two players, Iraola emphasised the club's ongoing efforts to bring in additional talent to improve upon last season's fifth-place finish. He also faces the challenge of managing without key player Mo Salah and addressing several long-term injuries.

Paraguayan Senator calls Mbappe 'son of a b****' in fiery outburst

Paraguayan Senator calls Mbappe 'son of a b****' in fiery outburst

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla escalated her feud with French footballer Kylian Mbappe, calling him a "son of a b****" during a Senate speech. This follows an incident where Mbappe allegedly refused to shake goalkeeper Orlando Gill's hand after a FIFA World Cup match. Amarilla also claimed Mbappe called her "despicable," while France coach Didier Deschamps stated the controversy hasn't affected Mbappe's focus.

2026's Biggest Bollywood Flops So Far

2026's Biggest Bollywood Flops So Far

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The first half of 2026 has concluded with a stark reality check for Bollywood, as over 25 films underperformed at the box office.

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

India too can rise to the top if the 1.4 billion Indians back home are given better opportunities to use their innate talent and capacity to work hard, with right incentives in a more meritocratic rules-based system, asserts Ajay Chhibber.

Tulika Maan Eyes Gold At Upcoming Commonwealth Games

Tulika Maan Eyes Gold At Upcoming Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Commonwealth Games silver medallist judoka Tulika Maan is determined to overcome her Paris Olympics disappointment and win a gold medal at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. She is confident about facing her 2022 final opponent, Sarah Adlington, again.

Dan Burn: From Rejection to World Cup Hero at 34

Dan Burn: From Rejection to World Cup Hero at 34

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

England defender Dan Burn, 34, has emerged as an unlikely hero at the World Cup, making crucial clearances and blocks in high-pressure matches against Mexico and Norway, defying a career path that saw him released by Newcastle as a boy and playing in lower divisions.

'I've Seen Aamir Cry'

'I've Seen Aamir Cry'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

'Relationships are never as simple as outsiders imagine, and it's unfair to assume only one person is responsible when a marriage ends.'

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Having governed Odisha for 24 uninterrupted years, the BJD now finds itself in the unfamiliar role of Opposition. Its organisational overhaul following the 2024 defeat has yet to produce a recognisable second line of leadership.

Pujara, Nayar pinpoint reasons for India's T20I series defeat in England

Pujara, Nayar pinpoint reasons for India's T20I series defeat in England

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara and ex-assistant coach Abhishek Nayar have offered critical insights into India's recent T20I series defeat against England, highlighting issues with middle-order depth, all-rounders, poor fielding, and struggles against short balls.

Iyer Reflects On India's T20I Defeat, Calls It A Learning Curve

Iyer Reflects On India's T20I Defeat, Calls It A Learning Curve

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India's new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer reflected on the team's disastrous series losses to Ireland and England, admitting they failed to adapt to English conditions. Despite the setbacks, Iyer views the experience as a crucial learning opportunity for himself as a leader and for the team, especially concerning future overseas tours and World Cup preparations. He highlighted the need for better adaptation, improved fielding, and strategic team combinations.

Vietnam tragedy: 'Boat had gone barely 300 to 400 metres when it capsized'

Vietnam tragedy: 'Boat had gone barely 300 to 400 metres when it capsized'

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

A boat carrying Indian tourists capsized off an island in south Vietnam, killing 15 people. An eyewitness described the incident, stating the boat overturned shortly after leaving the shore, and rescue efforts were launched, though medical teams were reportedly not immediately available.

FIFA World Cup: 'Anyone can beat anyone': Argentina brace for Egypt

FIFA World Cup: 'Anyone can beat anyone': Argentina brace for Egypt

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Argentina's national football team anticipates a challenging last-16 World Cup match against Egypt, following a hard-fought victory over Cape Verde. Players Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina emphasised the increasing competitiveness of international football, highlighting that no easy games remain in the tournament, as they prepare for a stern test from the highly motivated Egyptian side.

The Aurangzeb You Never Knew

The Aurangzeb You Never Knew

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

As a ruler he was a pragmatist and adaptable, and trying all the time to strengthen and perpetuate the empire that he and his forefathers had built.He seldom, if ever, allowed his policies to be determined by his religious beliefs, notes Rudrangshu Mukherjee.

Anbe Diana Review: Breezy Romcom That Plays Safe

Anbe Diana Review: Breezy Romcom That Plays Safe

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Despite a wobbly screenplay and an overstretched runtime, Anbe Diana charms with its light-hearted approach and Ramya Ranganathan's performance.

Wimbledon: Coco Gauff survives scare, Sabalenka cruises

Wimbledon: Coco Gauff survives scare, Sabalenka cruises

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

oco Gauff staved off another early exit from Wimbledon by beating Argentina's Solana Sierra 6-3 3-6 7-6(10-7) with a tiebreak turnaround to reach the third round on Wednesday.

Ten-man England edge out Mexico to enter World Cup last 8

Ten-man England edge out Mexico to enter World Cup last 8

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England defeated Mexico 3-2 in a hard-fought World Cup match to secure their place in the quarter-finals. Despite playing with ten men after Jarell Quansah's red card, goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane ensured England's victory.

Iga Swiatek On Wimbledon Exit: 'Need To Trust The Process'

Iga Swiatek On Wimbledon Exit: 'Need To Trust The Process'

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Defending champion Iga Swiatek was defeated by Filipina Alexandra Eala in the third round of Wimbledon. Swiatek attributed the loss to shortcomings in her game rather than pressure, contrasting it with her French Open exit. She acknowledged a year of inconsistency and stated her intention to "trust the process" and focus on improving her tennis.

Iran War Hits Kerala Tourism Hard

Iran War Hits Kerala Tourism Hard

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

'We have lost 70-80 per cent of our business from foreign guests.'

'Divorced, Single, Unable To Trust Anyone'

'Divorced, Single, Unable To Trust Anyone'

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

'Start with forgiveness,' counsels rediffGURU Archana Deshpande, an image consultant and founder of TransformMe Life Skills Coaching.

Sort of crazy, 'badly' wants deal: Trump on Iran

Sort of crazy, 'badly' wants deal: Trump on Iran

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

United States President Donald Trump claimed Iran 'badly' wants to strike a deal with Washington, DC, but expressed uncertainty over Tehran's willingness to honour any agreement, following US strikes aimed at degrading Iran's ability to threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Argentina manager Scaloni on 'extremely difficult' Cape Verde win

Argentina manager Scaloni on 'extremely difficult' Cape Verde win

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni discussed his team's hard-fought 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in the World Cup last-32, emphasising the unexpected difficulty of the match despite being heavy favourites. He praised his players' resilience and character, acknowledging the physical toll and the need for improvement, while also highlighting the unique "suffering" inherent in being Argentine in football.

The Odyssey: An Evening With Christopher Nolan, Matt Damon Tom Holland

The Odyssey: An Evening With Christopher Nolan, Matt Damon Tom Holland

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Odyssey has begun its journey, and Mumbai was fortunate to be to be among its earliest chapters, Mayur Sanap documents the film's premiere in the city.

Shreyas Iyer calls India's 125-run T20I defeat 'atrocious'

Shreyas Iyer calls India's 125-run T20I defeat 'atrocious'

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer described his team's 125-run defeat against England in the third T20 International as 'atrocious,' criticising the bowling unit and the team's overall performance.

'I've still got a little bit left in the tank': Joshna eyes seventh Asian Games

'I've still got a little bit left in the tank': Joshna eyes seventh Asian Games

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Indian squash veteran Joshna Chinappa, set to become the first Indian to compete in seven Asian Games, reveals she still has 'a little bit left in the tank' to add to her five continental medals and harbours hopes of participating in the sport's Olympic debut in 2028, provided her body holds up.

FIFA World Cup: What France's chess post really means before Morocco

FIFA World Cup: What France's chess post really means before Morocco

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

France is preparing for a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Morocco, a rematch of the 2022 semi-final. Les Bleus, strong favourites with a perfect record and a dangerous attacking unit led by Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, are anticipating a tactical battle. Morocco, unbeaten in their last 10 matches, aims to make history for African football and secure their first-ever win against France.

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

FIFA has transformed its referee preparation for the World Cup, treating officials like elite athletes. This rigorous training includes physical assessments, game-like simulations, and advanced data tracking to ensure referees can perform optimally under challenging conditions like extreme humidity and high altitude, minimising errors due to fatigue.

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Omar's 'If Only!' spoof on Trump support for statehood sparks row

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shared a fabricated social media post attributed to former US President Donald Trump, captioned 'If only!', to highlight his demand for the restoration of J&K's statehood, drawing significant criticism online.