News for 'International Football'

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.

Chhattisgarh Women's Football Team Wins Gold at Khelo India Tribal Games

Chhattisgarh Women's Football Team Wins Gold at Khelo India Tribal Games

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Chhattisgarh women's football team won gold at the Khelo India Tribal Games, defeating Jharkhand 1-0. Other highlights include Jharkhand's Shiv Kumar Soren's double in athletics and Karnataka leading the medal tally.

FIFA World Cup: WAGs Grab Attention

FIFA World Cup: WAGs Grab Attention

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

This year's WAGs include influencers, models, actors, and lifelong companions whose own careers and stories are drawing as much attention as the football itself.

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The San Jose Earthquakes, despite their strong season, are making way for the U.S. national team as California hosts World Cup knockout matches. This event is seen as a significant opportunity to showcase soccer's global appeal and accelerate its growth in the state, which already boasts a thriving football culture driven by its diverse population and numerous professional teams.

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.

India U17 Team Gears Up for AFC U17 Asian Cup with International Friendlies

India U17 Team Gears Up for AFC U17 Asian Cup with International Friendlies

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

The Indian U17 men's football team is set to play friendly matches against Thailand, Indonesia, and Korea Republic in Thailand as part of their preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026.

Alfie Haaland claims Norway 'robbed' in World Cup quarter-final defeat to England

Alfie Haaland claims Norway 'robbed' in World Cup quarter-final defeat to England

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Norway international Alf-Inge 'Alfie' Haaland expressed his disappointment after Norway's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England, claiming the Scandinavian side had been 'robbed' in the contest.

Nepal-born Abneet Bharti Called Up To Indian Football Camp

Nepal-born Abneet Bharti Called Up To Indian Football Camp

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Nepal-born defender Abneet Bharti has joined the Indian senior men's team camp in Kochi ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, pending FIFA clearance.

Iran's football team trains in Turkey ahead of FIFA World Cup warm-ups

Iran's football team trains in Turkey ahead of FIFA World Cup warm-ups

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Iran's national football team is training in Turkey for upcoming friendlies as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup, facing heightened attention due to geopolitical tensions.

Deco to quit international football post World Cup

Deco to quit international football post World Cup

Rediff.com5 Feb 2010

Portugal midfielder Deco has decided to retire from international football after the World Cup finals in South Africa.

'Where is the consistency?': Ex-referee slams FIFA World Cup ban row

'Where is the consistency?': Ex-referee slams FIFA World Cup ban row

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

FIFA is facing renewed scrutiny over its inconsistent handling of two World Cup red-card cases involving England's Jarell Quansah and the USA's Folarin Balogun. While Quansah received a two-match ban, Balogun's one-match suspension was controversially suspended, leading to accusations of external interference and a lack of transparency from the governing body.

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.

Spain's Tactical Brilliance Sets Up FIFA World Cup Final

Spain's Tactical Brilliance Sets Up FIFA World Cup Final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India internationals analyse Spain's dominant performance in the FIFA World Cup, highlighting their tactical discipline and defensive solidity. They also offer divided opinions on the highly anticipated semi-final clash between England and Argentina, discussing key players like Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane, and the tactical approaches both teams might employ.

Smriti Mandhana Named in TIME's 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026

Smriti Mandhana Named in TIME's 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Smriti Mandhana is the only Indian named in TIME's 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026 list, joining global icons such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James after another record-breaking year in cricket.

From War to FIFA World Cup: Iraq Captain's Journey

From War to FIFA World Cup: Iraq Captain's Journey

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

From losing his father to terrorism and watching conflict tear apart his family, to nearly abandoning football before leading Iraq back to the World Cup, Aymen Hussein has overcome obstacles that would have broken many others.

How Xabi Alonso Plans To Get Chelsea Back To The Top

How Xabi Alonso Plans To Get Chelsea Back To The Top

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said he wants to see greater hunger and a desire to improve from his players as he prepares for his first Premier League season in charge.

SAFF Women's Championship: India Drawn With Bangladesh, Maldives

SAFF Women's Championship: India Drawn With Bangladesh, Maldives

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

The Indian women's football team will face Bangladesh and the Maldives in Group B of the SAFF Women's Championship, to be held in Goa from May 25 to June 6.

FIFA World Cup 2026: England open Group L campaign against old foes Croatia

FIFA World Cup 2026: England open Group L campaign against old foes Croatia

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Arlington, Texas on Wednesday, a heavyweight Group L opener that could set the tone for both teams' tournament ambitions.

Protesters in US call on FIFA to kick Iran out of World Cup

Protesters in US call on FIFA to kick Iran out of World Cup

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Instead of pride, many Iranian-Americans feel shame about the Iran team's participation in the World Cup and are demanding that FIFA boots the country out of the competition, protesters said in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

India Defender Rahul Bheke Signs With Mohun Bagan Super Giant

India Defender Rahul Bheke Signs With Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Experienced India international defender Rahul Bheke has signed a one-year contract with Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The versatile 34-year-old, who has previously played for Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, and Kerala Blasters, expressed his excitement about joining the "best club in the country" and aims to win trophies, including the Kolkata derby.

International Women's Day Carnival Promotes Fitness and Empowerment

International Women's Day Carnival Promotes Fitness and Empowerment

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

The Fit India Movement launched a three-day International Women's Day Carnival at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, celebrating women's strength and leadership through fitness activities and sport.

Football Legend I.M. Vijayan Rejects Political Bids, Considers Rajya Sabha Seat

Football Legend I.M. Vijayan Rejects Political Bids, Considers Rajya Sabha Seat

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Former Indian football captain I.M. Vijayan has declined offers from multiple political parties to contest in the upcoming elections, but would consider a Rajya Sabha nomination.

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.

World Cup 2026: Watch Out For These 6 Dark Horses!

World Cup 2026: Watch Out For These 6 Dark Horses!

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Morocco, Norway, Turkey, Colombia, Mexico and Japan are among the leading dark horses for FIFA World Cup 2026, with each side possessing the talent and momentum to challenge football's traditional powers.

'Spain never allowed Mbappe to get into the game'

'Spain never allowed Mbappe to get into the game'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India internationals analyse Spain's dominant performance and tactical discipline that led them to the FIFA World Cup final, highlighting their defensive solidity and adaptability.

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on a High

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on a High

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

India face Hong Kong in their final AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier, with Ryan Williams set to make his debut. Both teams aim to gain FIFA ranking points and build for the future.

Cape Verde dream big after stunning World Cup start

Cape Verde dream big after stunning World Cup start

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut, have defied expectations by drawing with football giants Spain and Uruguay.

Revealed! The True Origin Of Maradona's $9 million 'Hand of God' Jersey

Revealed! The True Origin Of Maradona's $9 million 'Hand of God' Jersey

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Before Diego Maradona's famous blue shirt became a $9.28 million auction item, it may have had a humbler beginning in Tepito, Mexico City's market district.

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Swiss football fans expressed pride in their national team despite a 3-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup quarter-finals, marking the end of an 'exceptional campaign' that captivated the country.

Juergen Klopp, Legends Watch as Germany Break World Cup Opening-Match Jinx

Juergen Klopp, Legends Watch as Germany Break World Cup Opening-Match Jinx

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Germany launched their FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 7-1 victory over Curacao with Klopp, Muller watching from stands.

UNICEF hands Goodwill Ambassador role to Spain's rising star Lamine Yamal

UNICEF hands Goodwill Ambassador role to Spain's rising star Lamine Yamal

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Spain winger Lamine Yamal has been appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, becoming one of the youngest footballers to take on the global role ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Ancelotti Vows Brazil Will Use World Cup Exit As Motivation

Ancelotti Vows Brazil Will Use World Cup Exit As Motivation

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazil's head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed disappointment after the team's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 defeat to Norway, but stated the team would use the exit as motivation for future improvements. He highlighted the need for new midfield talent as key players like Neymar are expected to retire from international football.

Egypt Coach Hossam Hassan Blames 'Unfair' Refereeing for World Cup Elimination

Egypt Coach Hossam Hassan Blames 'Unfair' Refereeing for World Cup Elimination

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Egypt's national football coach, Hossam Hassan, has vehemently blamed 'unfair' refereeing decisions and 'external factors' for his team's dramatic World Cup elimination by Argentina, stating he will no longer watch the tournament.

Canadian League Sees First Goal Under 'Daylight' Off-side Rule

Canadian League Sees First Goal Under 'Daylight' Off-side Rule

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

A goal scored under soccer's experimental 'daylight' offside rule was allowed for the first time in a professional match in the Canadian Premier League.

Platini Launches Legal Action Against FIFA, Infantino Over 2015 Corruption Allegations

Platini Launches Legal Action Against FIFA, Infantino Over 2015 Corruption Allegations

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Former UEFA president Michel Platini has initiated civil and criminal legal proceedings in France against FIFA and its current president Gianni Infantino.

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Germany's 2014 World Cup winner Sami Khedira sees no identity crisis in his brother Rani playing for Tunisia at FIFA World Cup 2026.

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot and Pedro Porro added another goal as Spain advanced to its first World Cup final since winning in 2010 with a 2-0 victory over France on Tuesday.

Sports Ministry Imposes Strict Medal-Focused Criteria For Asian Games Contingent

Sports Ministry Imposes Strict Medal-Focused Criteria For Asian Games Contingent

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry, led by Mansukh Mandaviya, has announced stringent selection criteria for the upcoming Asian Games, capping the contingent at 600 athletes. The policy prioritises medal prospects, stating that the Games are not for "exposure tours" or securing jobs. This includes a "realistic chance of winning a medal" and being in the top six continental rankings. The ministry will scrutinise recommendations from National Sports Federations, with specific cases like equestrian Anush Agarwalla and table tennis player Manika Batra highlighting the new approach.

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.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.