News for 'World Cup 2026'

T20 World Cup 2026: Format, teams, dates revealed!

T20 World Cup 2026: Format, teams, dates revealed!

Rediff.com9 Sep 2025

The 2026 T20 World Cup is likely to be played from February 7 to March 8 with matches spread across at least five venues in India and two in Sri Lanka.

FIFA World Cup: 'Morocco have earned world's respect'

FIFA World Cup: 'Morocco have earned world's respect'

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Morocco's coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed immense pride after his team defeated the Netherlands in a penalty shootout to advance to the World Cup last 16.

FIFA World Cup: 'No more business as usual': Germany vow changes

FIFA World Cup: 'No more business as usual': Germany vow changes

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Germany's national football team has been eliminated from the World Cup in the round of 32, marking their third consecutive early exit from the tournament. The German Football Association (DFB) has announced that changes will be made, with DFB President Bernd Neuendorf stating they will examine the reasons for the team's underperformance. The future of coach Julian Nagelsmann, who wishes to stay, is now uncertain.

Messi's Latest Post Before FIFA World Cup Knockouts Hints Focus

Messi's Latest Post Before FIFA World Cup Knockouts Hints Focus

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi shared insights into Argentina's World Cup preparations in Miami, posting training moments on Instagram. The defending champions are gearing up for their Round of 32 clash against Cabo Verde, with Messi, at 39, remaining a pivotal figure for the team's success.

France boss Deschamps becomes most successful World Cup coach ever

France boss Deschamps becomes most successful World Cup coach ever

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

France head coach Didier Deschamps made World Cup history by becoming the most successful manager in terms of victories after France's dominant 3-0 win over Sweden, with Kylian Mbapp starring once again to send Les Bleus into the Round of 16.

One man threatens England's World Cup dream

One man threatens England's World Cup dream

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

England's national football team is gearing up to face Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals, with their primary challenge being to contain prolific striker Erling Haaland, who has already scored seven goals in the tournament.

Pele's iconic 1958 World Cup final shirt sells for $4.9 million at auction

Pele's iconic 1958 World Cup final shirt sells for $4.9 million at auction

Rediff.com6 days ago

The number 10 shirt worn by Brazil's Pele in the 1958 World Cup final, where he scored twice against Sweden, has been sold for $4.9 million at a Sotheby's auction, making it the most valuable piece of memorabilia linked to the football legend.

Shreyas Iyer's World Cup Heart Beats for Brazil!

Shreyas Iyer's World Cup Heart Beats for Brazil!

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

India's newly appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer has showed his love for football, backing five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.

Dutch Masterclass: How Netherlands Secured A Resounding World Cup Victory

Dutch Masterclass: How Netherlands Secured A Resounding World Cup Victory

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Netherlands secured a dominant 5-1 victory over Sweden in a World Cup match, with Brian Brobbey scoring an early double and Cody Gakpo adding two more in the second half. Crysencio Summerville sealed the rout with a late goal, despite Anthony Elanga pulling one back for Sweden. This win places the Netherlands at the top of Group F.

17-Year-Old vs 43-Year-Old in 2026 FIFA World Cup Face-Off

17-Year-Old vs 43-Year-Old in 2026 FIFA World Cup Face-Off

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to feature a significant generational divide, with players spanning over 25 years in age. Mexico's Gilberto Mora, 17, will be the youngest, while Scotland's Craig Gordon, 43, will be the oldest. The tournament will showcase a mix of emerging talents and seasoned veterans like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, with nations like Panama and Ivory Coast representing the oldest and youngest average squads, respectively.

FIFA World Cup: Can Messi Break More Records Against Austria?

FIFA World Cup: Can Messi Break More Records Against Austria?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi is poised to further cement his legendary status as Argentina faces Austria in a crucial FIFA World Cup Group J match. Following a record-breaking hat-trick against Algeria, Messi is on the verge of equalling or surpassing several all-time World Cup records, including consecutive goals, total goals, and match victories. The football world watches as he leads Argentina against a formidable Austrian side.

Nadal, Alcaraz caught up in Spain's FIFA World Cup Final frenzy

Nadal, Alcaraz caught up in Spain's FIFA World Cup Final frenzy

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Spain's national football team, La Roja, has reached their second World Cup final, sparking widespread celebrations across the country. Tennis stars Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, along with the Spanish Royal Family, extended their congratulations, highlighting the national unity and pride surrounding this historic achievement.

Historic! Messi first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches

Historic! Messi first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has achieved a new World Cup milestone, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive matches.

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

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.

Lionel Messi Breaks World Cup's All-Time Goals Record

Lionel Messi Breaks World Cup's All-Time Goals Record

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi became the all-time leading scorer in men's FIFA World Cup history on Monday, netting his 17th tournament goal during Argentina's match against Austria.

Xavi And Mascherano Reflect On Barcelona's Impact On World Cup Final

Xavi And Mascherano Reflect On Barcelona's Impact On World Cup Final

Rediff.com5 days ago

Barcelona legends Xavi Hernandez and Javier Mascherano discuss the profound influence of their former club on the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. They highlight the impact of La Masia-bred players like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi for Spain, and the enduring brilliance of Lionel Messi for Argentina, all products of Barcelona's footballing philosophy. Both former players express pride in the shared playing style and the quality of the final.

FIFA World Cup: Haaland's 8-Word Message to Messi Goes Viral

FIFA World Cup: Haaland's 8-Word Message to Messi Goes Viral

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has set a new FIFA World Cup record for most goals scored from outside the penalty area, surpassing Brazil's Rivelino. This achievement, alongside his 7th consecutive World Cup goal, prompted a humorous reaction from Norway's Erling Haaland regarding the Golden Boot race.

Tuchel: England must improve despite reaching World Cup semi-finals

Tuchel: England must improve despite reaching World Cup semi-finals

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged Jude Bellingham's 'great shift' in the World Cup quarter-final win over Norway but insisted the team 'can and must improve' their performance, despite reaching the semi-finals.

Jude Bellingham's Heroics Drive England Past Norway into World Cup Semi-Finals

Jude Bellingham's Heroics Drive England Past Norway into World Cup Semi-Finals

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Jude Bellingham delivered an authoritative and relentless performance, scoring two crucial goals to lead England to a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in their World Cup quarter-final, securing their place in the semi-finals.

So close! NZ miss historic first FIFA World Cup win

So close! NZ miss historic first FIFA World Cup win

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

New Zealand's football coach Darren Bazeley lauded his team's performance in a 2-2 draw against Iran at the World Cup, where they came close to securing their first-ever win. Elijah Just scored twice for New Zealand, but Iran equalised late, leaving all Group G teams with one point.

Trump show from start to finish at World Cup 2026 draw

Trump show from start to finish at World Cup 2026 draw

Rediff.com6 Dec 2025

US President Donald Trump, who has campaigned aggressively this year for a Nobel Peace Prize, was given FIFA's inaugural peace prize for his efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in some of the world's biggest hotspots.

Ronaldo Record Broken! Messi Rewrites FIFA World Cup History

Ronaldo Record Broken! Messi Rewrites FIFA World Cup History

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup record fell as Lionel Messi scored a historic hat-trick and reached 16 tournament goals.

Lightning Risk Delays Crucial World Cup Knockout Match

Lightning Risk Delays Crucial World Cup Knockout Match

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The World Cup round-of-32 match between Mexico and Ecuador was delayed by one hour due to adverse weather conditions, including lightning risk, near Estadio Azteca. Both teams are vying for their first knockout stage victory, with Mexico entering after a flawless group stage and Ecuador having a more challenging path.

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.

CM Shivakumar Appeals For Calm During FIFA World Cup Final Screening

CM Shivakumar Appeals For Calm During FIFA World Cup Final Screening

Rediff.com3 days ago

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has urged football fans to maintain peace during the FIFA World Cup final and announced special permissions for hotels and restaurants to screen the match live until 3:30 AM. He is also set to join a public screening event in Koramangala, organised by the KSFA and DYES, to watch the final between Argentina and Spain with other enthusiasts.

SEE: Belgium get Royal backing before Spain FIFA World Cup blockbuster

SEE: Belgium get Royal backing before Spain FIFA World Cup blockbuster

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

King Philippe of the Belgians visited the national football team to offer his support and encouragement ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final match against Spain. He shared a meal, received a signed jersey, and praised their performance, expressing confidence in their victory. Both teams have had strong runs to the quarter-finals, with Belgium overcoming several challenges and Spain maintaining an unbeaten record.

Explained: The controversy behind South Korea's World Cup elimination

Explained: The controversy behind South Korea's World Cup elimination

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

South Korea's World Cup group-stage exit has sparked a nationwide football crisis, with coach Hong Myung-bo resigning, President Lee Jae Myung ordering an investigation, and growing calls for sweeping reforms within the Korea Football Association.

FIFA World Cup: Meet Vozinha, The Goalkeeper Who Frustrated Messi

FIFA World Cup: Meet Vozinha, The Goalkeeper Who Frustrated Messi

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cabo Verde, making their FIFA World Cup debut, delivered a memorable performance, reaching the Round of 32 and pushing defending champions Argentina to extra time. Despite a 3-2 defeat, their campaign was marked by resilience, drawing against European champions Spain and two-time world champions Uruguay, and highlighted by the exceptional goalkeeping of 40-year-old Vozinha.

Mexico's World Cup Duck Meets President Claudia Sheinbaum

Mexico's World Cup Duck Meets President Claudia Sheinbaum

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Merlin, the pet duck in a mini Mexico shirt who has become a viral sensation and an unofficial mascot of the World Cup, met Mexico's president on Monday.

FIFA World Cup: Harry Kane Breaks Silence on Tuchel-Bellingham Rift

FIFA World Cup: Harry Kane Breaks Silence on Tuchel-Bellingham Rift

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

England captain Harry Kane has dismissed suggestions of a rift between manager Thomas Tuchel and midfielder Jude Bellingham, stating that media scrutiny had exaggerated a brief post-match exchange following their World Cup quarter-final victory over Norway.

FIFA World Cup: Gun Gesture Celebration Sparks Controversy

FIFA World Cup: Gun Gesture Celebration Sparks Controversy

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Iranian footballer Mohammad Mohebi's goal celebration during a World Cup match against New Zealand sparked controversy after some interpreted his hand gesture as a 'gun signal'. Mohebi denied any political intent, stating it was a spontaneous reaction.

Like Father, Like Son: Norway Field Three Sons Of 1994 World Cup Stars

Like Father, Like Son: Norway Field Three Sons Of 1994 World Cup Stars

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Norway made history at the FIFA World Cup by fielding three sons of former World Cup players in the same match: Erling Haaland, Alexander Sorloth, and Kristian Thorstvedt. This mirrored a 1994 World Cup match where their fathers played together. Erling Haaland marked his debut with a brace, leading Norway to a 4-1 victory over Iraq.

Brazil's fan mourn yet another early World Cup exit

Brazil's fan mourn yet another early World Cup exit

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazil's national football team, the 'Selecao', suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup last 16, marking their sixth consecutive early exit and extending their title drought to 24 years. Fans criticised missed opportunities and manager Carlo Ancelotti's defensive tactics.

FIFA World Cup: Balls, boots among items stolen from England team vehicle in Kansas City

FIFA World Cup: Balls, boots among items stolen from England team vehicle in Kansas City

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

England have suffered a theft of training equipment ahead of their arrival in Kansas City, local police said, after a vehicle transporting the gear to their World Cup base was broken into.

FIFA World Cup: Haaland Walked Through Times Square and Nobody Recognised Him

FIFA World Cup: Haaland Walked Through Times Square and Nobody Recognised Him

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

After a stellar performance in the World Cup, Norwegian striker Erling Haaland enjoyed an incognito break in New York City with his partner. Despite his global fame, he managed to explore Times Square and Katz's Deli largely unnoticed, attributing his disguise to a baseball cap and sunglasses. His team, Norway, is preparing for an upcoming match against Senegal.

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash against England, Argentina fans are engaging in traditional 'cabalas' or superstitions, including freezing captain Harry Kane's name, to bring their national team good fortune on the pitch.

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

'Two flags, one heart': Khedira's beautiful message on brothers split at World Cup

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Germany's 2014 World Cup winner Sami Khedira sees no identity crisis in his brother Rani playing for Tunisia at FIFA World Cup 2026.

Injury scare! Senegal's Mendy ruled out of FIFA World Cup

Injury scare! Senegal's Mendy ruled out of FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has been ruled out of Friday's World Cup match against Iraq due to a knee injury sustained during a recent loss to Norway. Medical examinations are ongoing to assess the full extent of the ligament issue. Both Senegal and Iraq are entering the Group I game with two losses each.

Iran 'will play' at 2026 World Cup, says Infantino amid concerns

Iran 'will play' at 2026 World Cup, says Infantino amid concerns

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirms Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup despite geopolitical tensions, urging that sport remain separate from politics.

Salah Stars as Egypt Rewrite History With Maiden World Cup Victory

Salah Stars as Egypt Rewrite History With Maiden World Cup Victory

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Mohamed Salah scored and assisted as Egypt came from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver, securing the country's first-ever FIFA World Cup victory and moving top of Group G.