News for 'Nations League'

Spain beat Croatia to lift Nations League title

Spain beat Croatia to lift Nations League title

Rediff.com19 Jun 2023

Spain were Nations League runners-up two years ago to France and success will come as a major fillip after a disappointing World Cup in Qatar, where they were upset by Morocco in the last-16.

Sports Ministry Backs Paralympic Stars With Crucial Overseas Training

Sports Ministry Backs Paralympic Stars With Crucial Overseas Training

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The Sports Ministry's Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has sanctioned Rs 35.46 lakh for overseas training stints for Paralympic medallists Ajeet Singh (javelin) and Pranav Soorma (club throw) to prepare them for the upcoming Asian Para-Games in Japan. Both athletes, part of the TOPS core group, will train in Germany and Czechia respectively, with Pranav also participating in multiple championships.

Rafa Mir Convicted: Spanish Footballer Gets 8.5 Years For Sexual Assault

Rafa Mir Convicted: Spanish Footballer Gets 8.5 Years For Sexual Assault

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Spanish footballer Rafa Mir has been sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison after being found guilty of sexual assault and assault causing injury by a court in Valencia. The verdict, which can be appealed, follows a complaint filed in September 2024 and highlights the sensitive issue of women's rights in Spanish sports.

Chopra Receives Top Male Athlete Award At Inaugural Indian Athletics Ceremony

Chopra Receives Top Male Athlete Award At Inaugural Indian Athletics Ceremony

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Ace Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was awarded 'Best Male Athlete of the Year 2025' at the inaugural Indian Athletics Awards. Chopra expressed his emotional connection to the award, given in the presence of multiple generations of athletes. The ceremony also honoured Parul Chaudhary as Best Female Athlete and P T Usha with a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising significant contributions to Indian athletics.

Kiran Pisda: From National Team Full-Back To Goalkeeper At Khelo India Tribal Games

Kiran Pisda: From National Team Full-Back To Goalkeeper At Khelo India Tribal Games

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Kiran Pisda, an Indian footballer with international experience, showcased her versatility by playing as a goalkeeper for Chhattisgarh in the Khelo India Tribal Games.

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board has officially approved the qualification system for cricket at the LA Olympic 2028, marking the sport's return after 128 years. The event will feature men's and women's T20 competitions with six teams each.

Thanks to World Cup, hockey-mad Canada warming up to football

Thanks to World Cup, hockey-mad Canada warming up to football

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

'It's really easy to get into and the kids love it.'

Qatar's keeper Abunada enjoys 'most beautiful moment' after setbacks

Qatar's keeper Abunada enjoys 'most beautiful moment' after setbacks

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Qatar's resilience against Switzerland owed much to goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada, whose key saves kept them in the game, a remarkable comeback for a player once close to retirement due to a serious back injury.

Tharoor calls full Vande Mataram rendition 'unnecessary'; BJP retorts

Tharoor calls full Vande Mataram rendition 'unnecessary'; BJP retorts

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has questioned the necessity of playing all five verses of Vande Mataram at the beginning and end of official events, calling the practice "unnecessary and burdensome". He highlighted the practical difficulties and lack of legal basis for mandating the full version at every function.

PSG celebrate European dominance at French Open

PSG celebrate European dominance at French Open

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Paris St Germain players presented their Champions League trophies to the French Open crowd on Monday, two days after winning Europe's premium club competition for the second time in a row.

India's Myanmar Challenge And Hlaing's Promises

India's Myanmar Challenge And Hlaing's Promises

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

To get its act going in Myanmar, India would need very dynamic diplomacy and not the lazy all-eggs-in-one-basket approach, points out Subir Bhaumik.

New Zealand backs NZ20 league, pushes for women's inclusion

New Zealand backs NZ20 league, pushes for women's inclusion

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

New Zealand Cricket backs the proposed NZ20 private league to replace Super Smash, with a 2027 launch in sight and a strong push to include the women's game.

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.

Ousmane Dembele's Hat-Trick Overshadows Haaland And Mbappe!

Ousmane Dembele's Hat-Trick Overshadows Haaland And Mbappe!

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Ousmane Dembele delivered a sensational first-half hat-trick for France against Norway in their final Group I match, overshadowing the anticipated clash between Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.

Broken jaw, protective mask: Spence ready for FIFA World Cup

Broken jaw, protective mask: Spence ready for FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

England defender Djed Spence will play in the upcoming World Cup wearing a protective mask after sustaining a broken jaw in a recent Premier League match. The Tottenham Hotspur player confirmed he will need to wear the mask for three months.

Goal Fest! Messi, Mbappe, Haaland Light Up FIFA World Cup

Goal Fest! Messi, Mbappe, Haaland Light Up FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe showcased their exceptional talent in recent World Cup matches, each scoring multiple goals. Despite recent dips in form or career stages, these football superstars proved their enduring prowess, with Mbappe becoming France's all-time top scorer and Messi achieving his first World Cup hat-trick.

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Local clubs hope World Cup fuels soccer growth in the United States

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to the United States, Bay Area soccer clubs and supporters hope the tournament will inspire a new generation of fans and strengthen the region's thriving grassroots football culture.

FIFA World Cup: How Messi changed soccer in North America

FIFA World Cup: How Messi changed soccer in North America

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The study, covering audience trends across the three host nations, found that Lionel Messi's debut for Inter Miami CF in the 2023 Leagues Cup drove a 173% leap in linear viewership compared with the tournament average.

Pakistan Hockey Federation Receives Government Funds for Key FIH Events

Pakistan Hockey Federation Receives Government Funds for Key FIH Events

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has confirmed that the government has released funds for the national team's participation in the FIH Nations League and the FIH World Cup. However, player Abdul Hannan Shahid has raised concerns about low daily allowances and lack of financial support for players.

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Despite Pakistan not qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, Karachi is buzzing with excitement as the global event begins. "WC Football" villages have been set up in areas like Malir and Lyari, known for their love of the sport, featuring large screens, decorations, and enthusiastic fans. The city's passion for football is evident, with local clubs and administration organising events for youngsters, highlighting the sport's growing influence beyond cricket.

Playing two Tests a year on average has been the bane for Afghan cricket: Shahidi

Playing two Tests a year on average has been the bane for Afghan cricket: Shahidi

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Afghanistan Test captain Hashmatullah Shahidi addressed Rashid Khan's Test future, stating it's a matter for selectors. Shahidi emphasised the need for Afghanistan to play more Test matches to develop their red-ball team, despite their domestic red-ball structure. He also highlighted the talent beyond T20 leagues and expressed confidence in his team's ability to handle conditions and compete against India.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Set for FIH Nations Cup in New Zealand

Indian Women's Hockey Team Set for FIH Nations Cup in New Zealand

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The Indian women's hockey team will participate in the FIH Hockey Nations Cup in Auckland, New Zealand, from June 15 to 21, following their relegation from the Hockey Pro League.

'Recipe For Disaster': Pakistan hockey players shocked as PHF names new coach

'Recipe For Disaster': Pakistan hockey players shocked as PHF names new coach

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has replaced head coach Colin Batch with Manzoor ul Hasan, a move that has surprised players ahead of the FIH Pro Nations League and the World Cup.

AIFF To Amend Constitution, Discuss ISL Partner At SGM

AIFF To Amend Constitution, Discuss ISL Partner At SGM

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) will hold a Special General Body Meeting to amend its constitution in line with the National Sports Governance Act and discuss the new commercial partner for the Indian Super League.

Why are all-rounders getting injured so often?

Why are all-rounders getting injured so often?

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Batting-order flexibility has become a key factor in modern white-ball cricket, and former India all-rounder Vijay Shankar believes players who can seamlessly adapt to different roles are increasingly valuable in a format driven by situational demands.

Mammootty's 10 Best Roles From This Decade

Mammootty's 10 Best Roles From This Decade

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

From Peranbu to Bramayugam, Padma Bhushan winner Mammootty's recent filmography is proof that legends can keep reinventing themselves, even post 70.

Which ISL Clubs Received AIFF Licensing With Sanctions?

Which ISL Clubs Received AIFF Licensing With Sanctions?

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Seven Indian Super League clubs, including East Bengal, were granted the AIFF Club Licensing Premier 1 licence with sanctions for the 2026-27 season, while applications of several top-flight sides, including Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Kerala Blasters FC, were rejected.

BCCI eyes 94-match IPL, refuses to intervene in foreign player availability disputes

BCCI eyes 94-match IPL, refuses to intervene in foreign player availability disputes

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The BCCI has no plans to act as a bridge between overseas players and their respective teams over their availability for the IPL despite concerns being raised by franchises in the recently concluded edition.

Avesh Khan Eyes India Comeback With Strong Domestic Performances

Avesh Khan Eyes India Comeback With Strong Domestic Performances

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Avesh Khan remains determined for a India comeback, hoping to catch the selectors' attention with strong Ranji Trophy performances this season.

Why Babar Azam is skipping National T20 event

Why Babar Azam is skipping National T20 event

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has withdrawn from the National T20 Championship to work on his batting technique ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

AIFF Approves Governance Act, Postpones ISL Commercial Partner Decision

AIFF Approves Governance Act, Postpones ISL Commercial Partner Decision

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has approved the adoption of the National Sports Governance Act but deferred a decision on picking a new commercial partner for the Indian Super League (ISL) during its Special General Body Meeting.

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

With hot weather due and memories fresh of the scorching 2025 Club World Cup, FIFA has for the first time mandated three-minute hydration breaks in each half for all 104 matches of the World Cup starting this week in the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

Pakistani Hockey Players' Dues Unpaid, Allowance Slashed

Pakistani Hockey Players' Dues Unpaid, Allowance Slashed

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Pakistani hockey players are facing financial difficulties as they await pending dues from the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). Their daily training camp allowance has also been reduced ahead of the FIH World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Germany eye big win against Curacao in opener

FIFA World Cup 2026: Germany eye big win against Curacao in opener

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Germany, aiming to repair its international reputation after two consecutive first-round exits, begins its World Cup campaign against minnows Curacao.

Sairaj Bahutule returns to India team in coaching role

Sairaj Bahutule returns to India team in coaching role

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Former India leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule has been appointed as the spin-bowling coach for the men's national team, commencing with the Test against Afghanistan. He brings extensive coaching experience from domestic cricket and the IPL.

Ranchi Gears Up For Hockey India Sub Junior Women's National Championship

Ranchi Gears Up For Hockey India Sub Junior Women's National Championship

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women's National Championship is set to commence in Ranchi, featuring 29 teams competing across three divisions in a promotion and relegation format.

Bengaluru FC rope in Savio Medeira as Head of Youth Development

Bengaluru FC rope in Savio Medeira as Head of Youth Development

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Bengaluru FC appoint former India coach Savio Medeira as Head of Youth Development, aiming to strengthen its grassroots pathway and nurture local talent.

I-League to be renamed as Indian Football League

I-League to be renamed as Indian Football League

Rediff.com28 Jan 2026

The I-League, the country's second-tier football competition, will be restructured and rechristened as Indian Football League (IFL).

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Two senior Indian volleyball players have quit the national camp in Ahmedabad, citing concerns over incompetent coaches, poor facilities, and politics within the Volleyball Federation of India (VFI).

Shock Defeats Mark 360 One Masters Chess Tournament Start

Shock Defeats Mark 360 One Masters Chess Tournament Start

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The opening round of the Rs 35 lakh 360 One Masters Chess tournament saw several upsets, with higher-rated players, including second and third seeds, suffering defeats. While top seed GM Iniyan Pa secured a win, many Grandmasters faced unexpected challenges from lower-rated opponents and rising stars.