News for 'World Cup 2026'

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.

Klose Hails Messi After World Cup Record Is Broken

Klose Hails Messi After World Cup Record Is Broken

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi's record-breaking night draws ultimate praise from former record-holder Miroslav Klose.

FIFA World Cup: What France's chess post really means before Morocco

FIFA World Cup: What France's chess post really means before Morocco

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

France is preparing for a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Morocco, a rematch of the 2022 semi-final. Les Bleus, strong favourites with a perfect record and a dangerous attacking unit led by Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, are anticipating a tactical battle. Morocco, unbeaten in their last 10 matches, aims to make history for African football and secure their first-ever win against France.

No regrets! Tuchel defends costly FIFA World Cup decisions

No regrets! Tuchel defends costly FIFA World Cup decisions

Rediff.com4 days ago

England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his tactical decisions in the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, despite widespread criticism after his team lost 2-1. Tuchel stated he has no regrets, trusting his instincts, and attributed some performance issues to player fatigue and extensive travel. He is now focused on the third-place playoff against France, viewing it as an opportunity for England to prove their standing among top teams.

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

Rediff.com2 days ago

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final joined an exclusive list after Spain edged Argentina 1-0 in extra time. This is the ninth time a Cup final went beyond the stipulated 90 minutes,

Iran blasts US after World Cup travel request denied

Iran blasts US after World Cup travel request denied

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Iran's Football Federation will lodge an official protest with FIFA after the United States reportedly denied the national team's request to travel to Los Angeles two days before their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match against Belgium, citing geopolitical tensions and previous visa issues.

Lego teams up with Messi, Ronaldo for FIFA World Cup 2026

Lego teams up with Messi, Ronaldo for FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Lego is collaborating with football stars Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr. to release new sets ahead of the 2026 World Cup, featuring letter-shaped designs, display models, and a 3D wall art piece of Messi.

FIFA World Cup: Hakimi's heroics leave Dutch fans heartbroken

FIFA World Cup: Hakimi's heroics leave Dutch fans heartbroken

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Morocco achieved a historic victory against the Netherlands in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, winning 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Key players like Achraf Hakimi, Neil El Aynaoui, and Ismael Saibari were instrumental in this sensational upset, with Saibari scoring the decisive penalty.

Kylian Mbappe is World Cup's all-time leading scorer

Kylian Mbappe is World Cup's all-time leading scorer

Rediff.com4 days ago

France striker Kylian Mbappe has become the World Cup's all-time leading scorer with 22 goals, surpassing Lionel Messi's 21 goals, after netting twice in France's third-place play-off match against England.

ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Will India Top Group A?

ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Will India Top Group A?

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

Defending champions India look to do something they have never done in World Cups and retain the trophy.

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, netting a penalty at 41 years and 147 days during Portugal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia. This historic goal, his first in a World Cup knockout stage, helped Portugal advance to the Round of 16, with Ronaldo dismissing speculation about his future focus on the tournament.

Vote! What Do You Think Of Urvashi Rautela's FIFA World Cup Look?

Vote! What Do You Think Of Urvashi Rautela's FIFA World Cup Look?

Rediff.com21 hours ago

While most fans reached for football jerseys, Urvashi Rautela treated the FIFA World Cup 2026 stage like her personal runway, layering couture over sportswear in a look that was bizarre yet bold and unforgettable.

FIFA World Cup: What Yamal Did for Ronaldo After Spain Win

FIFA World Cup: What Yamal Did for Ronaldo After Spain Win

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo's final FIFA World Cup journey concluded with Portugal's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. Following the match, Spain's teenage star Lamine Yamal offered a comforting hug to a tearful Ronaldo, a gesture of sportsmanship that quickly went viral and resonated with fans globally.

Brazil rewrite World Cup history with dramatic comeback victory

Brazil rewrite World Cup history with dramatic comeback victory

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, recording their first knockout victory after trailing at half-time since 1978 as Casemiro made history and Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic late winner.

FIFA World Cup: Who is DR Congo's viral 'statue fan'?

FIFA World Cup: Who is DR Congo's viral 'statue fan'?

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, DR Congo's famous 'statue fan', was seen supporting his team during their 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K clash. Colombia secured their place in the Round of 32 with a hard-fought victory, while DR Congo still has a chance to qualify.

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

FIFA has confirmed that rainbow flags will be permitted at the World Cup match between Egypt and Iran in Seattle, which coincides with the city's Pride weekend. This decision comes despite objections from Egypt and Iran, where homosexuality is criminalised, and FIFA's attempt to distance itself from the "Pride Match" designation, stating it's a local initiative.

Bangladesh, Netherlands qualify for Women's T20 World Cup 2026

Bangladesh, Netherlands qualify for Women's T20 World Cup 2026

Rediff.com28 Jan 2026

Bangladesh and the Netherlands have booked two of the four available spots at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.

FIFA World Cup: Qatar hold Switzerland for first ever World Cup point

FIFA World Cup: Qatar hold Switzerland for first ever World Cup point

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Qatar snatched their first ever World Cup point with a stoppage-time goal to draw 1-1 with Switzerland in an energetic and one-sided Group B opener on Saturday.

Unbeaten Spain eye Italy's all-time record in World Cup semi-final vs France

Unbeaten Spain eye Italy's all-time record in World Cup semi-final vs France

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Spain take a 36-match unbeaten run into their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against France, with Lamine Yamal calling it the biggest match of his career as La Roja chase Italy's all-time record.

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals are set, featuring a diverse lineup of one South American, one African, and six European teams, including defending champions Argentina and France, alongside surprise packages like Morocco and Norway, all vying for football's ultimate prize.

Can Ronaldo finally end his FIFA World Cup knockout drought?

Can Ronaldo finally end his FIFA World Cup knockout drought?

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo, despite his prolific scoring record in six FIFA World Cups, has yet to score in a knockout stage match. As Portugal faces Croatia, the superstar aims to break this drought while also holding records for most World Cup appearances and being Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the tournament.

Brand USA Unveils 'More To Love' Campaign After World Cup

Brand USA Unveils 'More To Love' Campaign After World Cup

Rediff.com2 days ago

Brand USA, the destination marketing organisation for the United States, has launched a new social-first series called 'More to Love'. This campaign aims to thank international fans who visited the US during the FIFA World Cup and encourage them to return to explore more of the country's diverse attractions, including its national parks and landmarks. The campaign is being amplified globally, including in India.

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

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

Rediff.com7 days ago

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.

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.

Klopp's Humorous Chat with Mbappe After World Cup Win

Klopp's Humorous Chat with Mbappe After World Cup Win

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Former Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp shared a humorous exchange with France captain Kylian Mbappe after France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final, joking about Mbappe's prolific scoring and calling him a 'detector'.

FIFA probe begins after Spain-Argentina World Cup final explodes

FIFA probe begins after Spain-Argentina World Cup final explodes

Rediff.com1 days ago

World football's governing body, FIFA, has initiated a disciplinary investigation into the post-match brawl that erupted after Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in a chaotic World Cup final, following tensions that boiled over after a contentious match.

Hollywood Superstar Tom Cruise arrives for FIFA World Cup final

Hollywood Superstar Tom Cruise arrives for FIFA World Cup final

Rediff.com3 days ago

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final sees Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, take on a strong Spanish unit featuring teenage star Lamine Yamal, with Messi aiming for back-to-back titles at a venue holding past painful memories.

France not afraid of Spain ahead of World Cup semi-final, says Konate

France not afraid of Spain ahead of World Cup semi-final, says Konate

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

France defender Ibrahima Konate says Les Bleus fear no one ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Spain, while acknowledging the challenge posed by Lamine Yamal and the tournament's best defence.

Egypt's Pharaohs get heroes' welcome after best-ever World Cup campaign

Egypt's Pharaohs get heroes' welcome after best-ever World Cup campaign

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Thousands of ecstatic supporters welcomed the Egyptian national football team home after their historic World Cup campaign, which saw them reach the last 16 for the first time, despite a heartbreaking defeat to Argentina.

Ancelotti Vows Brazil Will Use World Cup Exit As Motivation

Ancelotti Vows Brazil Will Use World Cup Exit As Motivation

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazil's head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed disappointment after the team's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 defeat to Norway, but stated the team would use the exit as motivation for future improvements. He highlighted the need for new midfield talent as key players like Neymar are expected to retire from international football.

France Sets New FIFA World Cup Scoring Record

France Sets New FIFA World Cup Scoring Record

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

France has become the first team in FIFA World Cup history to score three or more goals in five consecutive matches, a milestone confirmed after their 3-0 victory over Sweden. Captain Kylian Mbappe's double secured their spot in the Round of 16 and set new personal records, surpassing Ronaldo and Leonidas in knockout stage goals and nearing Lionel Messi's overall World Cup goal tally.

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The 2026 World Cup has been marred by widespread controversy surrounding the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, with coaches, players, and fans criticising its application, consistency, and impact on match outcomes, leading to a significant increase in interventions and red cards.

From Cowboy to Viking: Haaland's viral FIFA World Cup moment

From Cowboy to Viking: Haaland's viral FIFA World Cup moment

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Norway's star striker Erling Haaland celebrated his team's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 qualification with viral cowboy and Viking-themed social media posts after scoring a dramatic late winner against Ivory Coast. He also marked becoming the fastest player to score 60 goals for his national team.

FIFA World Cup Final Concern: Can Yamal Be Ready in Time?

FIFA World Cup Final Concern: Can Yamal Be Ready in Time?

Rediff.com6 days ago

Spain's Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro trained separately from the main squad in New Jersey as a precautionary measure ahead of Sunday's World Cup final against Argentina, with both players expected to be available.

Beware of fake FIFA World Cup streaming platforms, warn Kerala Police

Beware of fake FIFA World Cup streaming platforms, warn Kerala Police

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Kerala police have issued a warning about a sophisticated cyber fraud targeting football fans. Scammers are using fake OTT apps and social media advertisements promising free access to FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. These malicious apps gain control of users' phones and illegally withdraw money from bank accounts. The police advise downloading apps only from official stores and being cautious of suspicious permissions.

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

FIFA has transformed its referee preparation for the World Cup, treating officials like elite athletes. This rigorous training includes physical assessments, game-like simulations, and advanced data tracking to ensure referees can perform optimally under challenging conditions like extreme humidity and high altitude, minimising errors due to fatigue.

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

FIFA rejects Norway coach Stale Solbakken's claim of spider-cam interference in Jude Bellingham's equaliser for England.

'Total disgrace': Argentina slammed after World Cup

'Total disgrace': Argentina slammed after World Cup

Rediff.com2 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.

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.

Thierry Henry: Messi 'Not Human' in World Cup Comeback; Beckham, Rivaldo Also Praise Star

Thierry Henry: Messi 'Not Human' in World Cup Comeback; Beckham, Rivaldo Also Praise Star

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Football legends Thierry Henry, David Beckham, and Rivaldo have lauded Lionel Messi's extraordinary performance in Argentina's dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 comeback against Egypt, with Henry stating Messi is 'not human' for his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.