News for 'World Cup Stars'

Irfan Pathan Explains India's World Cup Squad Strategy

Irfan Pathan Explains India's World Cup Squad Strategy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan discusses India's ODI series against Afghanistan as a crucial opportunity to assess squad depth for the upcoming ICC World Cup, highlighting key players and their roles, especially for South African conditions.

Neymar Available For Brazil's Crucial World Cup Match Against Scotland

Neymar Available For Brazil's Crucial World Cup Match Against Scotland

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Brazil's star forward Neymar has been declared available for the upcoming World Cup group match against Scotland, coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Visa cleared, Cape Verde star Vozinha's mother ready for reunion

FIFA World Cup 2026: Visa cleared, Cape Verde star Vozinha's mother ready for reunion

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will finally get to watch her son play at the World Cup after receiving a visa to travel to the United States, following his tearful revelation that she missed his heroics against Spain due to travel issues.

Neymar's heartfelt birthday post for daughter steals the spotlight at World Cup

Neymar's heartfelt birthday post for daughter steals the spotlight at World Cup

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

'May our Heavenly Father guide your paths and grant you lots of health so you can play more and more.'

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

England's manager Thomas Tuchel has faced heavy criticism following their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, but he attributes the loss to fundamental issues like a lack of 'ball possession DNA' rather than just tactical errors, while acknowledging the unstoppable brilliance of Lionel Messi.

FIFA World Cup Opening Just Got Bigger With Shakira

FIFA World Cup Opening Just Got Bigger With Shakira

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Colombian superstar Shakira is set to perform the official World Cup song 'Dai Dai' at the opening ceremony in Mexico City, joined by Burna Boy, J Balvin, and Tyla.

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

India may not be at FIFA World Cup 2026, but four players with Indian roots will represent their nations on football's biggest stage.

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.

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Kolkata's iconic 'FIFA Gully' has transformed a small neighbourhood lane into a colourful World Cup attraction, with murals and giant cut-outs of Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar and other football stars celebrating the city's enduring love for the beautiful game.

FIFA World Cup: 'Now everybody knows where Cabo Verde is'

FIFA World Cup: 'Now everybody knows where Cabo Verde is'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cabo Verde's World Cup dream ended in defeat, but their story had already become one of the tournament's defining moments. After the debutants stretched defending champions Argentina to extra time, football greats Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry saluted the tiny island nation for proving that belief can outweigh size and reputation.

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.

Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali, Mandhana star as India trounce Netherlands by 95 runs

Women's T20 World Cup: Shafali, Mandhana star as India trounce Netherlands by 95 runs

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma sizzled with the bat as India coasted to an emphatic 95-run win over the Netherlands in their Women's T20 World Cup match.

Is This The Save Of The World Cup?

Is This The Save Of The World Cup?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Alireza Beiranvand produced seven saves, including a stunning contender for save of the tournament, as Iran held Belgium to a 0-0 draw at the FIFA World Cup.
The performance capped an extraordinary journey from poverty and homelessness to national hero.

FIFA World Cup: 'If it was Messi, no red card' ex-US star sparks controversy

FIFA World Cup: 'If it was Messi, no red card' ex-US star sparks controversy

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

After the US's win in the round of 32 fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which involved striker Flo Balogun being shown a red card and sent off after a tackle with an opponent, former US footballer Alexi Lalas questioned why Argentina superstar Lionel Messi escaped any notice

Gouramangi Singh predicts FIFA World Cup final will be decided by fine margins

Gouramangi Singh predicts FIFA World Cup final will be decided by fine margins

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India captain Gouramangi Singh offers his expert analysis on the upcoming FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. He highlights Spain's aggressive pressing game and defensive transitions against Argentina's champion's mentality and composure, predicting the match will be decided by small margins. Singh also discusses the individual strengths of both teams and downplays the Messi vs. Yamal narrative.

Cabo Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha's Mother Arrives For World Cup Match

Cabo Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha's Mother Arrives For World Cup Match

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Cabo Verde goalkeeper Josimar 'Vozinha' Dias's mother, Ana Candida Evora, was welcomed by FIFA in Miami, ahead of Cabo Verde's FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H clash against Uruguay. This heartwarming gesture followed Vozinha's emotional revelation about his family's visa issues preventing them from attending his historic 0-0 draw against Spain. US authorities, in coordination with the State Department, the Cape Verde government, and FIFA, facilitated her travel, allowing her to support her son and the 'Blue Sharks' in person.

Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to make World Cup last 8

Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to make World Cup last 8

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Switzerland beat Colombia 4-3 on penalties after the teams were locked goalless at the end of extra-time in the Round of 16 match to enter the World Cup quarter-finals at BC Place, Vancouver, on Tuesday.

Haaland plays the underdog card against England ahead of FIFA World Cup quarter-final clash

Haaland plays the underdog card against England ahead of FIFA World Cup quarter-final clash

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Norway's star striker Erling Haaland is attempting to pile pressure on England ahead of their World Cup quarter-final clash, labelling them 'clear favourites' and urging the media to amplify expectations on the English squad.

From War to FIFA World Cup: Iraq Captain's Journey

From War to FIFA World Cup: Iraq Captain's Journey

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

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.

FIFA World Cup: 'Messi's feats are no longer surprising'

FIFA World Cup: 'Messi's feats are no longer surprising'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

With a dazzling hat-trick against Algeria, Lionel Messi once again defied age, expectations and logic at the World Cup, prompting coach Lionel Scaloni to call his performances "inexplicable" and admit he is simply no longer surprised by the Argentine legend's brilliance.

WPL 2026: UP Warriorz release World Cup star

WPL 2026: UP Warriorz release World Cup star

Rediff.com5 Nov 2025

Harmanpreet, Mandhana, Rodrigues among players retained for WPL 2026: Report

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 23rd FIFA World Cup, to be staged across the Americas from June 11 to July 19, has once again ignited excitement across the globe. India, despite its national football team languishing at 139th in the FIFA rankings, has been swept up in the tournament's magic.

Women's T20 World Cup: Wyatt-Hodge Stars As England Knock Out New Zealand

Women's T20 World Cup: Wyatt-Hodge Stars As England Knock Out New Zealand

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Defending champions New Zealand were knocked out of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 as England triumphed by nine wickets at the Oval in London on Sunday.

Doku leaves Belgium World Cup camp, welcomes baby boy

Doku leaves Belgium World Cup camp, welcomes baby boy

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Manchester City and Belgium footballer Jeremy Doku became a father, welcoming a baby boy named Praise with his wife Shireen. He temporarily left the national team's FIFA World Cup camp in the USA to be present for the birth in London, a decision supported by the Belgian Football Association despite some public criticism.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Vinicius Jr highlights grandmother's sacrifice, vows to fight racism

FIFA World Cup 2026: Vinicius Jr highlights grandmother's sacrifice, vows to fight racism

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

FIFA World Cup 2026: Vinicius Jr speaks on emotional bond with grandmother, racism and WC journey

FIFA World Cup 2026: Kounde answers Yamal as favourite debate fuels war of words

FIFA World Cup 2026: Kounde answers Yamal as favourite debate fuels war of words

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France defender Jules Kounde has brushed aside Spain star Lamine Yamal's comments that Les Bleus are not favourites ahead of La Roja at the FIFA World Cup 2026, saying the remarks do not bother him.

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.

World Cup: Spain And Portugal Set For Iberian Derby In Texas

World Cup: Spain And Portugal Set For Iberian Derby In Texas

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Spain and Portugal are set to clash in the World Cup Round of 16 in Texas, a rematch of last year's Nations League final. The match features a generational battle between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal, with Spain entering unbeaten in 34 matches and Portugal looking to overcome recent struggles.

World Cup 2026: Watch Out For These 6 Dark Horses!

World Cup 2026: Watch Out For These 6 Dark Horses!

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Morocco, Norway, Turkey, Colombia, Mexico and Japan are among the leading dark horses for FIFA World Cup 2026, with each side possessing the talent and momentum to challenge football's traditional powers.

Japan vs Tunisia marks 1,000th FIFA World Cup match

Japan vs Tunisia marks 1,000th FIFA World Cup match

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Japan v Tunisia marks 1,000th FIFA World Cup match

World Cup Sees First Red Card Under Controversial Rule

World Cup Sees First Red Card Under Controversial Rule

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Prestianni Law enforced for the first time at FIFA World Cup as Almiron sees red.

England and Ghana eye knockout round in crucial World Cup clash

England and Ghana eye knockout round in crucial World Cup clash

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

England and Ghana, both coming off opening wins, are set to clash in a crucial Group L World Cup match in Boston.

Online abuse surges to record levels at FIFA World Cup 2026

Online abuse surges to record levels at FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

FIFA's digital watchdogs uncovered 89,000 abusive posts on social media during the group stage of the World Cup, marking a 13-fold increase from the 2022 edition in Qatar, world soccer's governing body said on Wednesday.

India Vs Pakistan Match Creates History At Women's T20 World Cup!

India Vs Pakistan Match Creates History At Women's T20 World Cup!

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The India vs Pakistan match in the Women's T20 World Cup created a new record as the most-attended group-stage game in the history of the ICC Women's World Cup.

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Taunted With 'Messi' Chants

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Taunted With 'Messi' Chants

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener. Ronaldo had a quiet game, failing to score, and was met with "Messi" chants from fans after the match, raising questions about the team's early performance.

Why France are favourites to win the World Cup

Why France are favourites to win the World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

With Kylian Mbappe's depth and experience, economists predict France are tipped to edge Spain to lift World Cup.

'Argentina is in the heart. Argentina in the final': Kerala's Leaders Enjoy FIFA World Cup

'Argentina is in the heart. Argentina in the final': Kerala's Leaders Enjoy FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Ministers and political leaders in Kerala are openly expressing their excitement and support for their favourite teams, particularly Argentina, ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Trump factor, political heat sour Canada's excitement

FIFA World Cup 2026: Trump factor, political heat sour Canada's excitement

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

US president Donald Trump in recent weeks has renewed threats to make Canada the 51st US state, and said he might not renew the trilateral trade agreement between the US, Canada and Mexico -- the co-hosts of this year's World Cup.

FIFA World Cup: Raul Jimenez Writes His Story in Tears

FIFA World Cup: Raul Jimenez Writes His Story in Tears

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

>Mexican star Raul Jimenez delivered a powerful and emotional performance in the 2026 World Cup opener, scoring a crucial goal against South Africa.

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Australia's coach Tony Popovic expresses confidence in his team's ability to challenge favourites Turkey in their World Cup opener in Vancouver, despite being considered underdogs. He also confirmed the squad is fully fit, including Mohamed Toure.