News for 'World Champions'

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Tunisia have sacked coach Sabri Lamouchi and replaced him with fellow Frenchman Herve Renard in the wake of the 5-1 defeat by Sweden in their World Cup opener in Monterrey on Sunday, the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) said.

FIFA opens proceedings against Argentina over Falklands message, post-final brawl

FIFA opens proceedings against Argentina over Falklands message, post-final brawl

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

FIFA have opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina's football association (AFA) and its players for several alleged breaches at the World Cup, including the holding up of a banner asserting sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.

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.

Another boxing medal confirmed! Jadumani powers into CWG semis

Another boxing medal confirmed! Jadumani powers into CWG semis

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Indian boxers Preeti Pawar, Priya Ghanghas, and Jadumani Singh have secured at least bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games by advancing to the semifinals of their respective weight categories. Preeti and Jadumani won their quarterfinal bouts by unanimous decision, while Priya Ghanghas overcame her opponent with a split decision. However, former Asian champion Parveen Hooda was eliminated in her quarterfinal match.

Shreyas Iyer rues middle-overs lapse after shock defeat to Ireland on captaincy debut

Shreyas Iyer rues middle-overs lapse after shock defeat to Ireland on captaincy debut

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

India skipper Shreyas Iyer said his bowlers had the Irish batters on tenterhooks early on but rued the lack of execution in the middle overs after the visitors suffered a shock 34-run defeat in the opening T20I in Belfast on Friday.

Traffic jam delay adds to Team India's woes in Southampton

Traffic jam delay adds to Team India's woes in Southampton

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India's challenging UK tour threw up another obstacle on Saturday when a traffic jam delayed their arrival at Southampton for the fifth and final Twenty20 International against England, which the hosts won by 56 runs.

Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong sidelined with torn knee ligaments

Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong sidelined with torn knee ligaments

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong will be out for several weeks after returning from the World Cup with torn knee ligaments, an injury he played through during the tournament.

Indian GM Praggnanandhaa Leads Rapid Section at St. Louis

Indian GM Praggnanandhaa Leads Rapid Section at St. Louis

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa of India secured the top spot in the rapid section of the St. Louis Rapid and Blitz tournament, scoring 12 out of 18 points.

Punjab Gears Up To Host Asian Champions Trophy Hockey

Punjab Gears Up To Host Asian Champions Trophy Hockey

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Punjab is set to host the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament in October, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann assuring full support to Hockey India for organising the event. The tournament will be played in Jalandhar and Mohali, featuring the top six men's teams from the Asian Games.

Neymar's father begs him not to quit football

Neymar's father begs him not to quit football

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Neymar's father has penned an emotional message urging his son to reconsider his retirement from international football, which followed Brazil's unexpected exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, announced his decision after their Round of 16 defeat to Norway.

FIFA World Cup: How 18-Year-Old Lamine Yamal Changed Everything for Spain

FIFA World Cup: How 18-Year-Old Lamine Yamal Changed Everything for Spain

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Spain returned to winning form with a strong 3-0 victory over Austria, as Lamine Yamal's return from injury proved key in lifting Luis de la Fuente's side back to their best.

Global Chess League Unveils Road2GCL Ahead Of Season 4

Global Chess League Unveils Road2GCL Ahead Of Season 4

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Global Chess League (GCL) has launched Road2GCL, a six-week community engagement initiative, to build excitement for its fourth season in Bengaluru. The programme includes competitions like Road2GCL Contenders, offering aspiring players a chance to compete with GCL stars, alongside activities for clubs, schools, and content creators. Season 4 will feature 36 Grandmasters, including Magnus Carlsen and debutant Divya Deshmukh.

India Falls To China 'B' In Thrilling World Team Snooker Championship Match

India Falls To China 'B' In Thrilling World Team Snooker Championship Match

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Former champions India began their World Team Snooker Championship campaign with a narrow 2-3 defeat to hosts China 'B'. The loss in the opening Group 'B' match means India must win their next game against Turkey to stay in contention. Aditya Mehta lost the deciding frame to Zhou Jinhao after Pankaj Advani had earlier levelled the scores.

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

In one of the biggest upsets ever seen at the World Cup, Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved the efforts of Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade before Jonathan Tah fired over the bar, paving the way for Jose Canale to blast home the decisive spot kick.

Zimbabwe make three changes for India T20I series

Zimbabwe make three changes for India T20I series

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Zimbabwe Cricket has announced a 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against India, featuring three changes from their recent series against Bangladesh, including the return of all-rounder Wessly Madhevere and a maiden T20I call-up for wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga.

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'If I was with the team, I would pick bowlers who I feel can pick wickets and win matches for me with the ball.'

Diana Edulji On India's Tough Road To T20 World Cup Semifinals

Diana Edulji On India's Tough Road To T20 World Cup Semifinals

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Former India captain Diana Edulji believes the Indian women's cricket team faces a significant challenge to qualify for the Women's T20 World Cup semifinals after their recent loss to South Africa. She highlighted the team's need to win their remaining matches against Bangladesh and Australia and discussed the team's T20 playing style.

Yamini's gold dream ended by one costly mistake

Yamini's gold dream ended by one costly mistake

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Indian judoka Yamini Mourya reflects on her 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games silver medal, expressing her belief that a single mistake cost her the gold medal she had envisioned.

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

FMSCI President Arindam Ghosh announced plans to bring Formula 1 back to India by 2030, and a round of the World Rally Championship and MotoGP by 2028, following a meeting with the Sports Ministry. The federation is focused on developing Indian drivers and promoting motorsports in the country.

No Messi magic! Spain ends Argentina's dream

No Messi magic! Spain ends Argentina's dream

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

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.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Can't Be Demoralised By Anyone

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Can't Be Demoralised By Anyone

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has not just won a match. He has led from the front, lifted a struggling side, and announced -- loudly and clearly -- that he is here to stay, applauds R K Nayar.

Norris snatches Hungarian GP pole as Mercedes domination ends

Norris snatches Hungarian GP pole as Mercedes domination ends

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

McLaren's Lando Norris secured pole position for the Hungarian Grand Prix, narrowly beating Lewis Hamilton, who is now under investigation for potentially impeding another driver during qualifying.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

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.

Race To The Oval: Who Will Contest The 2027 WTC Final?

Race To The Oval: Who Will Contest The 2027 WTC Final?

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Oval in London has been confirmed as the venue for the 2027 ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled from June 9-13. This marks the second time The Oval will host the final, having previously done so in 2023. Nine teams are currently competing in the ongoing WTC cycle, with Australia leading the standings, followed by South Africa and New Zealand, as the race intensifies with crucial upcoming series.

Raj Kumar Pal Returns To India's Asian Games Hockey Squad

Raj Kumar Pal Returns To India's Asian Games Hockey Squad

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

India's men's hockey team has announced its 20-member squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, featuring one change with midfielder Raj Kumar Pal replacing Aditya Arjun Lalage. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the team aims for gold and direct qualification for the LA 2028 Olympics.

UTT Season 7: U Mumba beat Dempo Goa Challengers to clinch title

UTT Season 7: U Mumba beat Dempo Goa Challengers to clinch title

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

U Mumba TT produced a stirring comeback to end Dempo Goa Challengers' unbeaten run and successfully defend their Ultimate Table Tennis Season 7 title with an 8-5 victory in a gripping final in Panaji on Sunday.

Antonelli aims to extend F1 lead in Belgium amid Ferrari resurgence

Antonelli aims to extend F1 lead in Belgium amid Ferrari resurgence

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli needs a strong performance at the Belgian Grand Prix to extend his Formula One championship lead, which has shrunk to 25 points over teammate George Russell, as a resurgent Ferrari, with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, poses a significant threat.

How Mirabai Chanu Secured Her Third CWG Gold

How Mirabai Chanu Secured Her Third CWG Gold

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Mirabai Chanu clinched her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal in the women's 48kg category, showcasing her undisputed dominance in Indian weightlifting.

Messi's March Through History Continues With World Cup Goals Record

Messi's March Through History Continues With World Cup Goals Record

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi, nearing 39, has broken the World Cup all-time goal-scoring record with 18 goals, surpassing Marta and Miroslav Klose. This latest achievement adds to his illustrious career, which includes numerous club and international titles, cementing his status as one of football's greatest players.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Beccacece completes dramatic redemption as Ecuador reach last 32

FIFA World Cup 2026: Beccacece completes dramatic redemption as Ecuador reach last 32

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ecuador's World Cup nightmare turned into a dream, as La Tri's once seemingly doomed campaign was resurrected against Germany in a remarkable conclusion to Group E on Thursday.

Preeti Pawar And Priya Ghanghas Guarantee Medals For India

Preeti Pawar And Priya Ghanghas Guarantee Medals For India

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian boxers Preeti Pawar and Priya Ghanghas have secured at least two bronze medals for the nation at the Commonwealth Games by advancing to the semifinals of their respective weight categories. Preeti dominated her 54kg quarterfinal with a unanimous decision, while Priya overcame a tough challenge in the 60kg division with a split decision win. However, Parveen Hooda was eliminated in her 65kg quarterfinal bout.

P V Sindhu Wins Japan Open Super 750 Title, Ends Two-Year Title Drought

P V Sindhu Wins Japan Open Super 750 Title, Ends Two-Year Title Drought

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu secured her maiden Super 750 title at the Japan Open, defeating local favourite Akane Yamaguchi in straight games.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil rally to edge Japan in Round of 32 thriller

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil rally to edge Japan in Round of 32 thriller

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Five-times champions Brazil came back strongly from a one goal deficit to beat Japan 2-1 in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash at the Houston Stadium on Monday.

Ireland coach Heinrich Malan quits after India T20I series sweep

Ireland coach Heinrich Malan quits after India T20I series sweep

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Following a stunning T20I series triumph against World champions India, Ireland coach Heinrich Malan has stepped down from his role.

'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.

Why Hashmatullah Shahidi Resigned As Afghanistan's ODI Captain

Why Hashmatullah Shahidi Resigned As Afghanistan's ODI Captain

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Hashmatullah Shahidi has resigned as Afghanistan's One Day International captain, citing a personal decision, though he will continue to play in the 50-over format.

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.

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe admitted VAR confusion distracted him before his missed penalty against Morocco but said France's talented squad still has plenty to prove despite reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a 2-0 victory.

Top Golfers Hovland And Fox Join DP World India Championship

Top Golfers Hovland And Fox Join DP World India Championship

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

PGA Tour winners Viktor Hovland and Ryan Fox are confirmed to participate in the second DP World India Championship at the Delhi Golf Club from October 15-18. They will join other European Ryder Cup stars like Tommy Fleetwood, Rory McIlroy, and Justin Rose in the USD four million event, which is a key part of the Race to Dubai.

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Rediff.com7 days ago

Japan is deepening its defence relationship with India while simultaneously expanding its economic, infrastructure and security engagement with countries around India -- particularly Bangladesh. The result is an emerging Japanese conception of South Asia in which India remains the strategic anchor, but the geography surrounding India is becoming increasingly important, points out Varun Arya.