News for 'News Minute'

FIFA World Cup: USA crush Australia to seal last-32 spot

FIFA World Cup: USA crush Australia to seal last-32 spot

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The United States football team secured its place in the World Cup knockout stage with a convincing 2-0 victory over Australia. An early own goal and an Alex Freeman header sealed the win, despite the absence of key player Christian Pulisic. The team's depth was highlighted as they dominated the match, moving to six points in Group D.

Messi returns, scores and sends strong FIFA World Cup warning

Messi returns, scores and sends strong FIFA World Cup warning

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi led Argentina to a dominant 3-0 victory over Iceland in a FIFA World Cup 2026 warm-up friendly, scoring a penalty and contributing to another goal after recovering from muscle fatigue.

IPL 2026 Sets New Viewership Records With 1.2 Billion Reach

IPL 2026 Sets New Viewership Records With 1.2 Billion Reach

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The recently concluded TATA IPL 2026 season achieved a record viewership of 1.2 billion, marking a seven per cent year-on-year growth. The final, where RCB secured their second consecutive title, became the most-watched IPL match ever, contributing to 870 billion minutes of watch-time and significant digital growth across platforms.

Delhi Fires Reveal A Grim Reality

Delhi Fires Reveal A Grim Reality

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

We have built an economy that can deliver everything -- from iPhones to biryani -- to a doorstep in 10 minutes, but it cannot deliver a fire engine through a lane in 20, points out Amit Kapoor.

Mumbai reels under torrential rains, IMD issues 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert

Mumbai reels under torrential rains, IMD issues 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Mumbai and its metropolitan region are experiencing severe monsoon rains, leading to widespread waterlogging, transport disruptions, and the closure of schools and colleges. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert, with some areas receiving nearly 200 mm of rain in 12 hours, prompting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to urge residents to avoid non-essential travel.

Tamil-Origin Star Makes FIFA World Cup Debut

Tamil-Origin Star Makes FIFA World Cup Debut

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Indian-origin forward Nishan Velupillay made his FIFA World Cup debut for Australia on June 14, coming on in the second half of their 2-0 victory over Turkiye. The 25-year-old, whose journey from academy football has been rapid, is considered one of Australia's most exciting attacking prospects. He now has eight international appearances and three goals for the Socceroos.

FIFA World Cup: Mbappe becomes France's record scorer

FIFA World Cup: Mbappe becomes France's record scorer

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

France captain Kylian Mbappe became his country's all-time leading scorer with a double against Senegal at the World Cup on Tuesday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Own goals equal record after Skhiri mishap vs Netherlands

FIFA World Cup 2026: Own goals equal record after Skhiri mishap vs Netherlands

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ellyes Skhiri's own goal in Tunisia's 3-1 defeat to the Netherlands on Thursday took the total number of own goals at the FIFA World Cup 2026 to 12, equalling the record for most in a single tournament.

A Green Banana Adventure

A Green Banana Adventure

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

It took years and years to bump into a green banana and learn how to eat it.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi to start on bench against Jordan

Argentina captain Lionel Messi to start on bench against Jordan

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that star player Lionel Messi will start on the bench for their final World Cup Group F match against Jordan.

Chouhan, Srikanth, Devika Advance To US Open Semifinals

Chouhan, Srikanth, Devika Advance To US Open Semifinals

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Young Indian shuttler Rounak Chouhan continued his impressive run at the US Open badminton tournament, defeating Misha Zilberman to reach his first BWF World Tour Super 300 semifinal. Devika Sihag also advanced by upsetting third seed Riko Gunji, and former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth secured his spot in the semifinals, raising hopes for an all-India final.

Recipe For The Thekuas PM Modi Gifted

Recipe For The Thekuas PM Modi Gifted

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Thekua, a very representative sweet snack of Bihar and Jharkhand, Nepal too, recently gained special attention after it was presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a gift to Richard Rai, speaker of the National Council of the Slovak Republic, when he visited India.

Croatia grab late win to beat Slovenia in World Cup warm-up

Croatia grab late win to beat Slovenia in World Cup warm-up

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Luka Modric scored to put Croatia ahead before they edged Slovenia 2-1 in the international friendly before the World Cup.

Japan Coach Moriyasu Confident Ahead Of Brazil Clash

Japan Coach Moriyasu Confident Ahead Of Brazil Clash

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Japan's coach Hajime Moriyasu expressed confidence ahead of their World Cup last-32 clash against Brazil in Houston, stating his team will not be pushovers. He cited their previous 3-2 victory over Brazil as proof of their progress and readiness to challenge the five-time champions. Japan secured their spot by finishing second in Group F after a 1-1 draw with Sweden, a result Moriyasu strategically preserved. He also highlighted the significance of Japan's advancement for Asian football and the growth of the sport in his country.

Keeper Room's 15 Saves Helps Curacao Earn Historic First World Cup Point

Keeper Room's 15 Saves Helps Curacao Earn Historic First World Cup Point

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Tiny Curacao battled to a 0-0 draw with Ecuador to earn the first World Cup point in the Caribbean island's history on Saturday after an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Eloy Room.

Amad Diallo strikes late as Ivory Coast stun Ecuador

Amad Diallo strikes late as Ivory Coast stun Ecuador

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Manchester United's Amad Diallo struck in the 90th minute as Ivory Coast stunned Ecuador 1-0 in their World Cup Group E opener on Sunday.

World Cup 2026 Set to Shatter All-Time Sports Gambling Records

World Cup 2026 Set to Shatter All-Time Sports Gambling Records

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

World Cup 2026 is on track to become the biggest betting event in history, with global wagers expected to exceed $50 billion as sportsbooks report record-breaking activity driven by the expanded tournament format and growing legal gambling markets.

India's long distance star Gulveer Singh eyes Asian Games glory

India's long distance star Gulveer Singh eyes Asian Games glory

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

India's premier long-distance runner, Gulveer Singh, is confident of improving his bronze medal performance from the 2022 Asian Games in the upcoming edition. Holding national records in multiple events, Singh is preparing for both the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, focusing on strategic training under his US-based coach and utilising advanced sportswear technology.

Morocco edge Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup last 16

Morocco edge Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup last 16

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Morocco triumphed over the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout to advance in the World Cup after a drama-filled 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 clash on Monday.

India down Bangladesh challenge to win SAFF Women's Championship 2026

India down Bangladesh challenge to win SAFF Women's Championship 2026

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

India beat defending champion Bangladesh 3-1 to win their first SAFF title in seven years.

Chaat Recipes: Dahi Bhalla, Banarasi Tamatar Ki Chaat

Chaat Recipes: Dahi Bhalla, Banarasi Tamatar Ki Chaat

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Chaats are among India's most loved street food. The reason is simple: They represent the entire spectrum of much-loved Indian flavours and textures in a single bite -- spicy, tangy, chatpata, khara, meetha. That's what keeps people coming back for more.

What If Unborn Child Is Diagnosed With Down Syndrome?

What If Unborn Child Is Diagnosed With Down Syndrome?

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

'A lot of women in their late 30s have healthy babies and there are prenatal screenings and tests that can help families make informed choices,' says rediffGURU Dr Shakeeb Ahmed Khan.

Gurugram Lift Operator Brutally Attacked After Elevator Snag

Gurugram Lift Operator Brutally Attacked After Elevator Snag

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A lift operator in Gurugram was brutally thrashed by six youths, allegedly rupturing his eye, after four of them were briefly trapped in an elevator. Despite a complaint being lodged, police have reportedly not yet registered a formal case, raising concerns about justice for the severely injured operator.

Unbeaten Iran denied World Cup knockout berth after last-gasp equaliser

Unbeaten Iran denied World Cup knockout berth after last-gasp equaliser

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Iran's bid for a first World Cup knockout stage appearance ended dramatically after Austria's late equaliser against Algeria denied them a spot. Despite remaining unbeaten, the team faced significant logistical challenges and travel restrictions due to their conflict with the U.S., which captain Mehdi Taremi described as a "disaster."

It's Goooooooaaaal!!!! Time!

It's Goooooooaaaal!!!! Time!

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

As the World Cup kicks off, sports enthusiasts are witnessing a fascinating transition from the familiar rhythms of cricket to the exhilarating dynamics of football, bringing with it new terminology, fan reactions, and game rules to master.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti's grit drives Brazil's comeback win over Japan

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti's grit drives Brazil's comeback win over Japan

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Carlo Ancelotti has spent weeks warning that grit and resilience would decide a long, complicated World Cup. On this evidence, Brazil have been listening -- even if, for much of the match against Japan, they seemed determined to test the theory to destruction.

62 shots on goal but no returns: Tearful Turkey crash out of FIFA World Cup 2026

62 shots on goal but no returns: Tearful Turkey crash out of FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Goalless Turkey were ousted from the FIFA World Cup 2026 after losses to Australia and Paraguay in Group D, thwarted by poor finishing and a staunch opposition defence.

England Receive Saka Boost Before High-Stakes World Cup Test Against Ghana

England Receive Saka Boost Before High-Stakes World Cup Test Against Ghana

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

England coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed Bukayo Saka is fully fit and available for the World Cup clash against Ghana, while also voicing concerns that FIFA's mandatory hydration breaks are disrupting the flow and identity of football.

India Seeks To Conclude Dutch Leg Of FIH Pro League On High Note

India Seeks To Conclude Dutch Leg Of FIH Pro League On High Note

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Indian men's hockey team, currently in the Dutch leg of the FIH Pro League, aims to conclude their campaign on a high note against hosts Netherlands. This tournament serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games, with coach Craig Fulton focusing on testing resources and addressing issues like conceding late goals. The team also looks forward to significant matches against England and arch-rivals Pakistan in London.

Mexico keeper Ochoa gets perfect Azteca send-off

Mexico keeper Ochoa gets perfect Azteca send-off

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

If Wednesday's World Cup match marked the last time Guillermo Ochoa appears in Mexico colours, the 40-year-old goalkeeper could not have wished for a better send-off.

FIFA World Cup: Mexico edge South Korea in nervy finish, secure home last-32 tie

FIFA World Cup: Mexico edge South Korea in nervy finish, secure home last-32 tie

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Mexico secured a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea in a Group A football match in Guadalajara. Luis Romo scored the decisive goal following a goalkeeping error, and Mexico's defence, backed by goalkeeper Ral Rangel's late saves, held firm against South Korean pressure.

A Day of Deadlocks: History rewritten at World Cup With Four Draws

A Day of Deadlocks: History rewritten at World Cup With Four Draws

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Four matches, four draws and a slice of World Cup history.

Stokes' final Test ends in heartbreak as New Zealand clinch series

Stokes' final Test ends in heartbreak as New Zealand clinch series

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

New Zealand defeated England by 160 runs at Trent Bridge to clinch the three-Test series 2-1, as Ben Stokes' international career ended in defeat following his surprise retirement announcement during the match.

FIFA World Cup: David's hat-trick sinks 9-man Qatar

FIFA World Cup: David's hat-trick sinks 9-man Qatar

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Canada achieved their first-ever World Cup finals victory, thrashing nine-man Qatar 6-0, with Jonathan David scoring a hat-trick. The win boosts Canada's chances in Group B, despite an injury to midfielder Ismael Kone.

Unheralded G Sindhushree Sets New Pole Vault National Record, Qualifies For Asian Games

Unheralded G Sindhushree Sets New Pole Vault National Record, Qualifies For Asian Games

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Karnataka's G Sindhushree, an unheralded pole vaulter, achieved a new national record of 4.25m at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar. This performance not only secured her a gold medal but also a spot in the Asian Games. Overcoming personal hardships, Sindhushree dedicated her achievement to her late father. The event also saw other athletes like Animesh Kujur, Harshita Bhadra, Manpreet Kaur, Gowthami Jayaraman, Mohammed Afsal, and N Thowfeeq qualify for the Asian Games in various disciplines.

Serena Williams' Return To Wimbledon Ends In Shock First Round Loss

Serena Williams' Return To Wimbledon Ends In Shock First Round Loss

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Tennis legend Serena Williams' highly anticipated return to competitive action at Wimbledon after a four-year hiatus concluded with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-3 defeat to Australian qualifier Maya Joint in the first round. Despite flashes of brilliance and fighting back from a match point, Williams was unable to overcome the 20-year-old, who secured the most significant victory of her career.

India concede late to settle for draw with Tajikistan in second friendly

India concede late to settle for draw with Tajikistan in second friendly

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

India's national football team played out a 1-1 draw against Tajikistan in their second international friendly. Vikram Partap Singh scored for India, but a late penalty conceded by a defensive lapse allowed Tajikistan to equalise. This match, following a 1-3 loss in the first friendly, is part of India's preparations for future international assignments.

Kidambi Srikanth Goes Down Fighting In US Open Badminton Final

Kidambi Srikanth Goes Down Fighting In US Open Badminton Final

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Kidambi Srikanth ended his impressive run with a runner-up finish at the US Open Super 300 badminton tournament after going down fighting in three games to Chinese Taipei's Su Li-yang.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Struggling Spain face another stubborn opponent in Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Struggling Spain face another stubborn opponent in Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Spain arrive into their Group H clash against Saudi Arabia needing a sharper attacking display after being held to a shock 0-0 draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde in their opening match in Atlanta.

'They left my son to die, now they are roaming free': A father's emotional plea

'They left my son to die, now they are roaming free': A father's emotional plea

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The grieving parents of Sarthak Mattoo, who died in an alleged hit-and-run incident in southwest Delhi, have made an emotional video appeal for justice, questioning the pace of the police investigation and demanding strict action against those responsible.