News for 'World Cups'

R Ashwin Wants Bhuvneshwar Kumar in India's 2027 ODI World Cup Squad

R Ashwin Wants Bhuvneshwar Kumar in India's 2027 ODI World Cup Squad

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Ashwin wants Bhuvneshwar Kumar in India's 2027 World Cup squad, saying the veteran seamer's swing bowling could be crucial in South African conditions.

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.

'India are favourites for T20 World Cup': Jemimah

'India are favourites for T20 World Cup': Jemimah

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

India are not lacking in self-belief after their historic women's ODI World Cup triumph last year and they are the "favourites" to win the upcoming T20 World Cup in England, says star batter Jemimah Rodrigues.

Hockey World Cup: Captain Harmanpreet wants India to cut defensive lapses before next test

Hockey World Cup: Captain Harmanpreet wants India to cut defensive lapses before next test

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

India secured a 5-3 victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in a high-octane FIH World Cup match. Despite the win, captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed concerns about defensive lapses and the team's inability to retain possession, urging improvements before facing top teams. Coach Craig Fulton praised the team's adherence to the game plan under pressure, while Pakistan acknowledged their mistakes.

Three red cards! FIFA World Cup opener makes history

Three red cards! FIFA World Cup opener makes history

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Mexico's national football team secured a significant 2-0 victory over South Africa in their World Cup opening match at the Azteca Stadium. Midfielder Erik Lira expressed confidence, stating 'the sky is the limit' for the team, despite the emotionally challenging game which saw a record three red cards.

Can Senegal pull off a miracle FIFA World Cup escape?

Can Senegal pull off a miracle FIFA World Cup escape?

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Senegal's coach Pape Bouna Thiaw insists his team's World Cup hopes are not over despite two consecutive defeats to France and Norway. The team needs to beat Iraq in their final group game to have a chance at qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.

FIFA World Cup: 'Anyone can beat anyone': Argentina brace for Egypt

FIFA World Cup: 'Anyone can beat anyone': Argentina brace for Egypt

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Argentina's national football team anticipates a challenging last-16 World Cup match against Egypt, following a hard-fought victory over Cape Verde. Players Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina emphasised the increasing competitiveness of international football, highlighting that no easy games remain in the tournament, as they prepare for a stern test from the highly motivated Egyptian side.

Indian Recurve Mixed Pair Misses Bronze At Archery World Cup

Indian Recurve Mixed Pair Misses Bronze At Archery World Cup

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India's recurve mixed pair of Dhiraj Bommadevara and Kirti Sharma lost 3-5 to Italy, missing out on the bronze medal at the Archery World Cup Stage 4 in Madrid. Kirti Sharma also failed to secure a medal in the individual recurve section, resulting in India's recurve archers returning empty-handed from the event. The overall campaign concluded with two medals (one silver, one bronze) from the compound section.

FIFA World Cup: Tears For Two Belgium Goalkeepers After Spain Heartbreak

FIFA World Cup: Tears For Two Belgium Goalkeepers After Spain Heartbreak

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was seen consoling his replacement Senne Lammens, who was blamed for Spain's late winner in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final match on Friday.

Nicolas Pepe's brace earns Ivory Coast World Cup knockout berth

Nicolas Pepe's brace earns Ivory Coast World Cup knockout berth

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Nicolas Pepe scored two goals to lead Ivory Coast to a 2-0 victory over Curacao, securing their first-ever qualification for the World Cup knockout phase. Curacao, the smallest nation to qualify, was eliminated. Ivory Coast will now face the second-place team from Group I (France or Norway) in Arlington, Texas.

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.

We just need to score goals, says Harmanpreet after India's big win in World Cup opener

We just need to score goals, says Harmanpreet after India's big win in World Cup opener

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

India's men's hockey team, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, secured a 3-1 victory over Wales in their Hockey World Cup opener. Harmanpreet, who scored two goals, expressed satisfaction with the win, emphasizing the importance of a strong start. Despite conceding a late goal, the team remains confident and focused on a podium finish.

World Cup Shock: Belgium Furious as FIFA Rejects Appeal

World Cup Shock: Belgium Furious as FIFA Rejects Appeal

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

FIFA has rejected a request from the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) for a copy of the decision that made U.S. striker Folarin Balogun eligible for a World Cup match, treating Belgium's inquiry as an inadmissible appeal. This decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump's personal intervention with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review Balogun's red-card ban.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland ready for high-pressure Colombia encounter

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland ready for high-pressure Colombia encounter

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Switzerland are preparing for a fiery contest on and off the pitch against Colombia as they gear up for what they expect to be their toughest test of the tournament in Tuesday's World Cup round-of-16 clash, midfielder Ardon Jashari said on Sunday.

FIFA World Cup watch party ends in tragedy in Jordan

FIFA World Cup watch party ends in tragedy in Jordan

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

A stampede occurred in central Amman during a crowded gathering of fans watching Jordan's World Cup match against Algeria, resulting in one death and eight injuries. The incident took place at Hashemite Square due to heavy congestion and crowd movement.

Rohit Sharma remains India's first-choice opener for 2027 World Cup: Aakash Chopra

Rohit Sharma remains India's first-choice opener for 2027 World Cup: Aakash Chopra

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Former India batter Aakash Chopra has said Rohit Sharma should remain India's first-choice ODI opener until the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup as long as he is fit, available and continues to score runs.

FIFA World Cup: Messi Magic: When Rivals Become Fans

FIFA World Cup: Messi Magic: When Rivals Become Fans

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's unparalleled influence extends beyond his on-field performance, transforming opponents into admirers. This phenomenon, dubbed the 'Messi effect,' sees rival players expressing awe and seeking mementos after matches, highlighting his profound impact on the current generation of footballers.

These FIFA World Cup Conchas Are Taking Over Social Media

These FIFA World Cup Conchas Are Taking Over Social Media

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

With customers queued up and spilling onto the sidewalk at Cookieteria by Lovely, eager to grab fresh World Cup-themed conchas, baker Erika Lopez is worried about letting some down.

FIFA World Cup: Guess Who Watched Messi Score His Record Goal

FIFA World Cup: Guess Who Watched Messi Score His Record Goal

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi scored twice against Austria to become the FIFA Men's World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer with 18 goals as his family celebrated the historic moment from the stands.

WCA 'concerned' by ICC's World Cup format changes without player consultation

WCA 'concerned' by ICC's World Cup format changes without player consultation

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The World Cricketers' Association (WCA) has expressed 'concern' over the International Cricket Council's (ICC) decision to revise the format of next year's 50-over World Cup without consulting the players, stating that such significant changes deserve genuine consultation and transparency.

Australia's African diaspora takes centre stage at World Cup

Australia's African diaspora takes centre stage at World Cup

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Born in African refugee camps and raised in Australia, Mohamed Toure, Nestory Irankunda and Awer Mabil are carrying the Socceroos' World Cup hopes while showcasing the nation's increasingly diverse football identity.

Guwahati Restaurants To Stay Open Late For FIFA World Cup Matches

Guwahati Restaurants To Stay Open Late For FIFA World Cup Matches

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Assam government has permitted restaurants in Guwahati to remain open until 3:30 am on specific dates, including July 15, 16, 19, and 20, to allow football enthusiasts to watch the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this decision, encouraging responsible enjoyment of the matches, while also allowing other districts to follow suit based on public demand and restaurant associations' requests.

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 final marks full-circle moment for Messi and Yamal

FIFA World Cup final marks full-circle moment for Messi and Yamal

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will face-off as defending champions Argentina meet reigning European champions Spain in the FIFA World Cup final, in New York on Saturday.

FIFA World Cup semis: Tuchel reveals England's plan to stop Messi

FIFA World Cup semis: Tuchel reveals England's plan to stop Messi

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel insists his players are not focusing on the historical rivalry with Argentina ahead of their World Cup semi-final, stating the occasion itself is significant enough and their preparation centres on the game at hand.

2027 Men's ODI World Cup across 12 venues in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia

2027 Men's ODI World Cup across 12 venues in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced 12 venues across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia for the 2027 ODI World Cup, marking the tournament's return to Africa after 24 years, with a new 57-match, three-stage format designed to enhance competitiveness and fan experience.

ICC, UNICEF unite for special Lord's World Cup match 26

ICC, UNICEF unite for special Lord's World Cup match 26

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The International Cricket Council, UNICEF UK, and England and Wales Cricket Board are collaborating to host a special matchday takeover at Lord's during the Women's T20 World Cup 2026. The event, featuring England vs West Indies, aims to raise 100,000 for UNICEF's global children's projects and will include actor Nabhaan Rizwan and former pacer Isa Guha.

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.

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.

Mbappe, Dembele shine as France cruise past Morocco into World Cup semis

Mbappe, Dembele shine as France cruise past Morocco into World Cup semis

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

France and Morocco were goalless at half-time in their World Cup quarter-final. Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty for France, whose early dominance did not translate into goals. Morocco's goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save to deny Mbappe from the spot.

'Right mix of experience and youth': India's Squad For Hockey World Cup

'Right mix of experience and youth': India's Squad For Hockey World Cup

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

India has announced a 20-member squad for the upcoming FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, with Harmanpreet Singh leading the team.

Rohit and Kohli need to have that clarity on World Cup: Yuvraj Singh

Rohit and Kohli need to have that clarity on World Cup: Yuvraj Singh

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has urged the team management and selectors to provide clear communication to senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli regarding their roles and selection for the upcoming ODI World Cup, stressing the importance of backing them fully.

FIFA World Cup: 'We Become Friends Again': Mbappe's Emotional Hakimi Message

FIFA World Cup: 'We Become Friends Again': Mbappe's Emotional Hakimi Message

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

After France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, Kylian Mbappe was seen consoling his close friend Achraf Hakimi. This moment of mutual respect between the former Paris Saint-Germain teammates quickly went viral, highlighting that fierce rivals can still share genuine friendship off the pitch, despite Mbappe's insistence on no emotions during the game.

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.

'Anything is possible': Cape Verde's fairytale run continues at World Cup

'Anything is possible': Cape Verde's fairytale run continues at World Cup

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Cape Verde, a tiny island nation, has made history by advancing to the round of 32 in the FIFA World Cup.

Lightning scare shuts FIFA World Cup party before opener

Lightning scare shuts FIFA World Cup party before opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The FIFA Fan Festival in Toronto was cancelled due to lightning risk, disappointing fans on the eve of Canada's first World Cup game.

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.

Youth Captains To Lead India At Pickleball World Cup

Youth Captains To Lead India At Pickleball World Cup

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Arjun Singh and Veer Shah have been selected as captains for India's U-18 and U-14 pickleball teams, respectively, for the upcoming World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam. The squads were finalised after selection trials in Ahmedabad, with officials expressing confidence in the team's potential to perform well.

Oliver Kahn Calls For Faster VAR Decisions, Questions 48-Team World Cup

Oliver Kahn Calls For Faster VAR Decisions, Questions 48-Team World Cup

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Legendary German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has voiced his opinions on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, advocating for quicker decisions by relying more on Video Operation Room officials rather than on-field referees reviewing screens. He also expressed mixed feelings about the proposed 48-team World Cup format, acknowledging opportunities for smaller nations but warning against potential dilution of quality.

Why World Cup fans are booing FIFA's new breaks

Why World Cup fans are booing FIFA's new breaks

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Fans at the World Cup are vocally protesting FIFA's newly introduced mandatory three-minute hydration breaks, booing the stoppages during matches in Dallas, Toronto, and Boston. Critics argue these breaks disrupt game flow and serve commercial interests, with one match seeing a team concede a goal shortly after a break.