Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said travel restrictions and visa-related disruptions hampered his team's World Cup preparations after a 2-2 draw with New Zealand, claiming Iran had become the tournament's "most oppressed" side.
Rajasthan Police's Anti-Narcotics Task Force dismantled an illegal MD drug manufacturing unit in Jodhpur, arresting six individuals and seizing a large quantity of raw materials.
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 new study projects that by 2100, only 38% of the world's population will reside in large cities, a significant reduction from previous estimates. This revised projection is based on a newly discovered urban life cycle, where the growth rate of large cities slows down as countries become more urbanised, contrasting with the rapid growth seen in less urbanised regions. The research highlights the importance of understanding these dynamics for future infrastructure and climate adaptation planning.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday (local time) announced a US-mediated framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon aimed at achieving "lasting peace and security".
US cricket star Saurabh Netravalkar, who helped defeat Pakistan at the 2024 T20 World Cup while working as a software engineer, is now chasing an Olympic dream ahead of Los Angeles 2028.'
Japan's Yuto Nagatomo made history by becoming the first Asian player to feature in five FIFA World Cups during Japan's 1-1 draw against Sweden. This achievement places him among an elite group of players globally. The draw secured both Japan and Sweden's advancement to the Round of 32 in the 2026 tournament.
Gujarat authorities launched extensive search operations after receiving an email, purportedly from the "Khalistan National Army," threatening to bomb the Chief Minister's Office, Ahmedabad civic body headquarters, and an RSS office. Police are investigating the email's origin, which was routed through the US via VPN.
Iran's World Cup team conducted open training in Tijuana, Mexico, after relocating their base camp due to geopolitical tensions.
US Vice President J D Vance is currently in Switzerland, leading critical technical talks with Iran to advance diplomatic efforts on Iran's nuclear programme and secure a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon, following a recently signed memorandum of understanding aimed at de-escalating West Asian hostilities.
France can secure a more comfortable route through the World Cup when they face Norway in their final Group I match on Friday, though finishing top could leave them facing one of the toughest roads to the trophy.
Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off at the World Cup for violating a new rule against covering mouths during confrontations. His dismissal left Paraguay with 10 men, but they still secured a 1-0 victory over Turkey, keeping their World Cup hopes alive while eliminating Turkey. The incident has sparked debate among coaches about the impact of new rules on the game's essence.
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.
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.
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.
The Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament, will commence on July 25 and conclude on August 23. This edition will feature 24 teams, including two foreign sides, with matches spread across five cities, including debutant host Ranchi. The tournament continues to be a vital platform for Indian football talent.
Nicolas Pepe justified his World Cup selection with two goals on Thursday, coming out of the cold to restore his reputation as a key striker for the Ivory Coast.
Belgian winger Jeremy Doku faces a personal dilemma during the World Cup as his wife is due to give birth to their first child. He hopes to be present for the birth, potentially requiring him to leave the tournament.
Free, customizable "fan bands" have become the unexpected must-have souvenir at the 2026 World Cup, with over 700,000 distributed. Sponsored by Bank of America, these charm wristlets feature subtle branding and have gone viral, even appearing on resale platforms. This marketing strategy offers a counterpoint to the tournament's high ticket and merchandise prices, proving that unique, free items can create significant fan engagement and brand visibility.
Videos circulated online showed Senegal players being screened by airport security before travelling from Raleigh, North Carolina to San Antonio, Texas for a warm-up friendly against Saudi Arabia ahead of the tournament.
Brazil is preparing for their World Cup opener against Morocco without star forward Neymar, who is recovering from a calf injury.
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.
NorthEast United FC secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Inter Kashi in the Indian Super League, thanks to a late winner from substitute Parthib Gogoi.
Thousands of Colombian football fans transformed Mexico City into a vibrant yellow sea, celebrating their national team's 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their World Cup opener. The city's streets and restaurants buzzed with supporters enjoying Colombian food, music, and a strong cultural connection, making the Estadio Azteca feel like a home venue for the victorious team.
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.
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.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the formation of a committee of women legislators to amend laws and ensure effective implementation against harassment and religious conversion in the corporate sector. This decision follows an incident at a TCS unit in Nashik involving alleged exploitation and forced conversion, which is currently under SIT investigation. Probes have also been ordered into similar complaints at a Spanish multinational in Pune and a government ITI in Solapur, highlighting a broader issue of workplace misconduct.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just weeks away, uncertainty over India's broadcast rights continues amid legal intervention and concerns over free-to-air access for football fans.
A champions' mentality, a new generation of fearless players are some of the qualities that will have Saudi Arabia wary of the former champions in their upcoming Group H match on Sunday.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha was not too keen to discuss it on Thursday but finally conceded he was very happy his mother had obtained a U.S. visa and would be able to watch him play against Uruguay in the World Cup this weekend.
The International Cricket Council has suspended Canada over breaches of the national board's membership obligations, weeks after the global governing body's anti-corruption unit launched an investigation into Cricket Canada.
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed that Iran is in a "state of collapse" and has requested the United States to help "open" the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's national soccer team, currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the US the day before each of their three World Cup matches, the Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday.
Brazilian defender Wesley has been ruled out of the World Cup squad due to a left thigh muscle injury sustained during a friendly match.
US Vice President JD Vance on Friday dismissed reports suggesting that Iran would receive financial incentives merely for signing the peace deal between Washington and Tehran aimed at ending the hostilities in West Asia, calling such claims "fake information".
US Vice President JD Vance on Sunday generated significant online traction after making a light-hearted reference to two "very, very important" Indian and Pakistani people in his life - his wife Usha Vance and Pakistani Army chief Asim Munir, on the sidelines of the US-Iran diplomatic deliberations in Switzerland.
Portugal's World Cup squad will wear commemorative wristbands in tribute to their late former teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash last year. Midfielder Vitinha discussed the team's approach to the upcoming tournament, acknowledging logistical challenges and expressing his personal ambition to win the World Cup.
Yan Diomande, a 19-year-old winger from the Ivory Coast, has experienced a meteoric rise in the world of football, going from playing in a Florida high school to representing his country at the World Cup. His journey involved overcoming cultural challenges and excelling in both the United States and Europe, ultimately leading to his selection for the Ivory Coast national team.
At least 32 people have been killed and over 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck western Venezuela, with Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declaring La Guaira a disaster zone and warning the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that he met with United States President Donald Trump, who told him he welcomed Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
