News for 'Martinez'

Coach Martinez steps down after Portugal's ouster from FIFA World Cup 2026

Coach Martinez steps down after Portugal's ouster from FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has officially confirmed the departure of national team coach Roberto Martinez and his coaching staff following the expiry of his contract. Martinez had previously announced his intention to leave after Portugal's World Cup Round of 16 defeat to Spain.

Ronaldo substituted, Portugal win: Martinez's gamble sparks debate

Ronaldo substituted, Portugal win: Martinez's gamble sparks debate

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest scorer in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, but Portugal coach Roberto Martinez's bold decision to substitute his captain paid off as Goncalo Ramos scored a dramatic late winner against Croatia.

Why Croatia's late equaliser was ruled out: Martinez backs VAR decision

Why Croatia's late equaliser was ruled out: Martinez backs VAR decision

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended the VAR decisions that helped his side beat Croatia 2-1, while FIFA explained how Connected Ball Technology confirmed the stoppage-time offside call that ended Croatia's World Cup campaign.

Ronaldo judged on form not age, says head coach Martinez as Portugal weigh World Cup role

Ronaldo judged on form not age, says head coach Martinez as Portugal weigh World Cup role

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo is 41, but Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said age is only a number and that his captain is judged on current form and by the same standards as everyone else.

Ecstacy And Relief After Argentina Pull Off Another Great Escape

Ecstacy And Relief After Argentina Pull Off Another Great Escape

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's Argentina celebrate after their come-from-behind win over England in the FIFA World Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel has made three changes to his starting XI for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, bringing Reece James and Djed Spence into the defence, while Argentina's Lionel Scaloni makes one switch, with Giuliano Simeone replacing Rodrigo De Paul.

FIFA World Cup: Messi's Last Dance? Argentina Boss Breaks Silence

FIFA World Cup: Messi's Last Dance? Argentina Boss Breaks Silence

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Defending champions Argentina are motivated by their passionate fans to win the World Cup again, with manager Lionel Scaloni and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez highlighting the emotional connection with supporters as a key driver ahead of their final clash with Spain.

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.com7 days ago

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

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Alexis MacAllister has puts Argentina ahead in the10th minute.

How Messi's Collective Genius Propelled Argentina To World Cup Final

How Messi's Collective Genius Propelled Argentina To World Cup Final

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's profound influence, marked by crucial assists and strategic play, was instrumental in Argentina's victory over England, securing their spot in a second successive World Cup final. Despite not scoring, his collective contribution and energy preservation were key to the team's success, culminating in two late assists for the equaliser and winning goal.

How Argentina pounced on window of opportunity gifted by England

How Argentina pounced on window of opportunity gifted by England

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Argentina staged a dramatic comeback, scoring two late goals to defeat England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final, with Lionel Messi orchestrating the turnaround after England had taken the lead.

Comeback Kings! Argentina's Great Escapes In FIFA World Cup 2026

Comeback Kings! Argentina's Great Escapes In FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Argentina battled their way into the semis after edging Cape Verde and Switzerland in extra time and coming from 2-0 down to defeat Egypt 3-2.

Bellingham Urges England Fans To Maintain Unity

Bellingham Urges England Fans To Maintain Unity

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

England's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign concluded with a semi-final defeat to Argentina. Star midfielder Jude Bellingham expressed gratitude to supporters for their unwavering backing and called for the unity shown during the tournament to continue. Bellingham was England's top scorer, playing a crucial role in their journey to the semi-finals.

'Total disgrace': Argentina slammed after World Cup

'Total disgrace': Argentina slammed after World Cup

Rediff.com7 days ago

Argentina's conduct after their World Cup final defeat to Spain has come under fire, with players and fans facing criticism for their actions during the trophy presentation and post-match celebrations.

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Argentina's football players displayed a political banner claiming "The Falklands are Argentine" after their World Cup semi-final win against England, potentially violating FIFA's code of conduct.

FIFA World Cup: 'We were treated unfairly' vs Portugal: Croatia coach

FIFA World Cup: 'We were treated unfairly' vs Portugal: Croatia coach

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Croatia's World Cup exit sparked controversy after coach Zlatko Dali launched a furious attack on the refereeing following their 2-1 defeat to Portugal.

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Rediff.com7 days ago

A 13-year-old boy was killed and two others injured in Ciudad Rodrigo, Spain, when a fountain collapsed during celebrations for Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 victory. The tragic incident cast a shadow over nationwide festivities after Spain secured its second World Cup title with a 1-0 win over Argentina.

Late extra-time own goal takes Argentina past Cape Verde

Late extra-time own goal takes Argentina past Cape Verde

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in their World Cup last-32 encounter, which extended into extra time. An own goal in the 111th minute ultimately decided the match, sending the reigning champions into the last 16 where they will face Egypt.

'Spain Will Win FIFA World Cup'

'Spain Will Win FIFA World Cup'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India captain Climax Lawrence has predicted Spain to lift the FIFA World Cup, praising their tactical discipline and fitness.

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.

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Rediff.com7 days ago

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final saw a galaxy of stars on the field and off it.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Vozinha's heroics rewarded with Dream XI berth

FIFA World Cup 2026: Vozinha's heroics rewarded with Dream XI berth

Rediff.com4 days ago

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha and Norway striker Erling Haaland have been named in the fan-voted FIFA World Cup dream team, with both rewarded for standout performances during unexpected runs by their teams.

'It destroyed our game' Switzerland coach slams 'unacceptable' VAR rule

'It destroyed our game' Switzerland coach slams 'unacceptable' VAR rule

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin blasted the rule behind Breel Embolo's controversial red card as "unacceptable" after Argentina's 3-1 extra-time victory ended the Swiss team's historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run.

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.

'We won for Diogo': Ronaldo honours late teammate Jota

'We won for Diogo': Ronaldo honours late teammate Jota

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo led an emotional tribute to his late teammate Diogo Jota after their dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. The team dedicated their win to Jota, who tragically died in a car crash a year prior, posing with his No. 21 jersey and carrying his memory throughout the tournament.

FIFA World Cup: Why Argentina Wanted This Kit Against England

FIFA World Cup: Why Argentina Wanted This Kit Against England

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Argentina will wear their navy-and-black away kit for the World Cup semi-final against England, a decision that has sparked fan interest due to the kit's association with past victories against England, including the 1986 'Hand of God' match and the 1998 penalty shootout win. The team hopes this alternate strip brings them continued success.

FIFA World Cup: 'We Become Friends Again': Mbappe's Emotional Hakimi Message

FIFA World Cup: 'We Become Friends Again': Mbappe's Emotional Hakimi Message

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

After France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, Kylian Mbappe was seen consoling his close friend Achraf Hakimi. This moment of mutual respect between the former Paris Saint-Germain teammates quickly went viral, highlighting that fierce rivals can still share genuine friendship off the pitch, despite Mbappe's insistence on no emotions during the game.

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.

No Messi magic! Spain ends Argentina's dream

No Messi magic! Spain ends Argentina's dream

Rediff.com7 days ago

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in a dramatic World Cup final after extra time, preventing Argentina from staging another of their characteristic comebacks. Lionel Messi, who had been instrumental in previous matches, was effectively neutralised by the Spanish defence, leaving Argentina without an answer and unable to register a shot on target for much of the game.

How Spain Threw a Party for Their World Champions...

How Spain Threw a Party for Their World Champions...

Rediff.com6 days ago

Spain's national football team celebrated their second World Cup victory with a massive parade through Madrid, drawing nearly two million ecstatic fans. The players, fresh from their 1-0 win over Argentina, were also greeted by King Felipe and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who praised their achievement and looked forward to future successes.

'Nobody can question us': FIFA refereeing chief hits back at critics

'Nobody can question us': FIFA refereeing chief hits back at critics

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has staunchly defended the officiating in Argentina's 3-2 World Cup victory over Egypt, dismissing allegations of bias and asserting that match officials operated with complete independence, despite Egypt's complaints about unfair treatment.

The Muppets join Madonna, Shakira, Bieber in World Cup halftime show

The Muppets join Madonna, Shakira, Bieber in World Cup halftime show

Rediff.com7 days ago

Superstars Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, and Shakira delivered a high-energy musical medley during the first-ever halftime show at a World Cup final, a new American-style addition to the tournament.

The Best Player At World Cup 2026 Is... Vote!!!

The Best Player At World Cup 2026 Is... Vote!!!

Rediff.com5 days ago

Nine football superstars, one ultimate honour-vote for the player you believe delivered the most memorable performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Cristiano Ronaldo Cements Lasting Legacy Despite World Cup Exit

Cristiano Ronaldo Cements Lasting Legacy Despite World Cup Exit

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career concluded with tears after Portugal's 1-0 defeat by Spain in the round of 16, marking the end of his sixth attempt to win the coveted trophy.

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin praised Cabo Verde on X, urging fans to "Remember the name" after their spirited performances.

'This goal belongs to Spain': Torres' historic strike

'This goal belongs to Spain': Torres' historic strike

Rediff.com7 days ago

Spain forward Ferran Torres dedicated his World Cup-winning goal to the entire nation after his extra-time strike secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The 26-year-old's solitary goal of the tournament proved decisive, ending Argentina's hopes of retaining the title and delivering Spain's first World Cup triumph since 2010. The win also extended Spain's unbeaten run to a European-record 38 international matches.

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi extended his record by scoring in a ninth straight FIFA World Cup match as Argentina fought back from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 and keep their title defence alive.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina stage stunning fightback to storm into quarterfinals

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina stage stunning fightback to storm into quarterfinals

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Argentina produced a stunning comeback after falling two goals behind, scoring twice in four minutes through Cristian Romero and Lionel Messi to beat Egypt 3-2 in their last 16 clash of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Atlanta on Tuesday.

SEE: GOAT Mohanlal watches GOAT Messi as Argentina beat Switzerland

SEE: GOAT Mohanlal watches GOAT Messi as Argentina beat Switzerland

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

It was a starry-starry evening in Miami and Kansas, as superstar Mohanlal, David Beckham and Mick Jagger watched the FIFA World Cup quarter-final matches from the stands on Saturday.

Haaland scores twice as Norway shock Brazil to make World Cup quarter-finals

Haaland scores twice as Norway shock Brazil to make World Cup quarter-finals

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Erling Haaland scored two crucial late goals to lead Norway to a stunning 2-1 victory over five-times champions Brazil in the World Cup Round of 16, securing their place in the quarter-finals. Neymar's late penalty was not enough for Brazil, who also missed an earlier spot-kick.