News for 'World Group'

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal eye fast start against Congo

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal eye fast start against Congo

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Portugal's latest bid for World Cup glory begins in Houston on Wednesday when they take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in a Group K clash.

DR Congo Unlikely To Change FIFA World Cup Plans Despite Ebola Warning

DR Congo Unlikely To Change FIFA World Cup Plans Despite Ebola Warning

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo plans to continue its preparations for the 2026 World Cup despite a warning from the United States about a potential Ebola outbreak.

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Prabhsimran Singh credited mentor Yuvraj Singh's tactical guidance and Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting's unwavering faith for his growth, saying both played a pivotal role in earning his maiden India T20I call-up.

Cricket Doesn't Respect Reputation; It Respects Courage

Cricket Doesn't Respect Reputation; It Respects Courage

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

This is not just a historic series sweep for Ireland, but for world cricket itself. To beat India, which hasn't been beaten in 16 series over three years, is truly remarkable.

Heard Shakira's New FIFA World Cup Song Yet?

Heard Shakira's New FIFA World Cup Song Yet?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Colombian singer Shakira has released 'Dai Dai', the official song for the 2026 World Cup, featuring Nigerian singer Burna Boy.

Neymar earns Brazil World Cup recall under Ancelotti

Neymar earns Brazil World Cup recall under Ancelotti

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Carlo Ancelotti has recalled Neymar to Brazil's squad for next month's FIFA World Cup, backing the veteran forward's fitness and experience despite his injury-disrupted recent years.

How India Women's Cricket Secured Olympic Berth For LA28

How India Women's Cricket Secured Olympic Berth For LA28

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Indian women's cricket team has secured a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games as the top-ranked Asian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup. The men's team will need to be the continental leaders in world rankings by the end of 2026 to qualify directly. Cricket is making its return to the Olympics after a century, featuring six teams in both men's and women's competitions, with qualification criteria unveiled by the ICC.

'Dalai Lama Loved Repairing Mechanical Watches'

'Dalai Lama Loved Repairing Mechanical Watches'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

'Only the Dalai Lama could have kept the Tibet issue alive the way he did.'

Indian Gymnasts Fine-Tune Preparations In London For Commonwealth Games

Indian Gymnasts Fine-Tune Preparations In London For Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

India's artistic gymnastics squad is undergoing a three-week training camp in London before heading to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games. The camp, funded by SAI, aims to fine-tune preparations for both men's and women's teams, including Olympian Pranati Nayak. The team will travel directly to Glasgow on July 20.

Sports Ministry Backs Paralympic Stars With Crucial Overseas Training

Sports Ministry Backs Paralympic Stars With Crucial Overseas Training

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The Sports Ministry's Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has sanctioned Rs 35.46 lakh for overseas training stints for Paralympic medallists Ajeet Singh (javelin) and Pranav Soorma (club throw) to prepare them for the upcoming Asian Para-Games in Japan. Both athletes, part of the TOPS core group, will train in Germany and Czechia respectively, with Pranav also participating in multiple championships.

'Tired' Messi savours record night as Argentina march on

'Tired' Messi savours record night as Argentina march on

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has become the most prolific scorer in World Cup history, netting two goals in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria. This achievement, which saw him surpass Brazilian great Marta's record of 17 goals, also secured Argentina's place in the knockout stage with a game to spare. Despite missing a penalty, Messi expressed satisfaction with the team's performance and the crucial win.

Dalot Defends Ronaldo, Claims Portugal Facing Unwanted Negativity

Dalot Defends Ronaldo, Claims Portugal Facing Unwanted Negativity

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Portugal defender Diogo Dalot has defended Cristiano Ronaldo and insisted the squad remains united despite criticism following their World Cup draw with DR Congo, claiming some people are actively hoping Portugal fail.

The H-1 B Visa and the Fading American Dream

The H-1 B Visa and the Fading American Dream

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The H-1B visa once symbolised the American Dream for Indians, but today's students are increasingly asking whether they need America at all. In 1995, the question was: How do I get to America? In 2026, it may be: Do I need to?

'Always United': Ronaldo Sends Message as Portugal Back Captain Amid Criticism

'Always United': Ronaldo Sends Message as Portugal Back Captain Amid Criticism

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo called for unity ahead of Portugal's crucial World Cup clash against Uzbekistan, while teammate Ruben Dias dismissed criticism of the veteran forward following a difficult tournament opener.

No Foden, Palmer as Tuchel unveils bold England World Cup squad

No Foden, Palmer as Tuchel unveils bold England World Cup squad

Rediff.com22 May 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel made several bold selection calls for the World Cup, leaving out Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Harry Maguire while recalling Ivan Toney and backing a new-look squad built on chemistry and trust.

'I am back': Record-breaker Ronaldo silences critics in style!

'I am back': Record-breaker Ronaldo silences critics in style!

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his critics in spectacular fashion, becoming the first player to score in six World Cups.

India women target another World Cup title

India women target another World Cup title

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues discusses the team's motivation and preparation for the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup, highlighting the importance of consistent training and the emergence of key players like Nandani. The team aims to build on their previous success and overcome challenges, including the absence of injured player Amanjot.

Chess Legend Viswanathan Anand Receives Prestigious SJFI Medal

Chess Legend Viswanathan Anand Receives Prestigious SJFI Medal

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Five-time world chess champion Viswanathan Anand was awarded the Sports Journalists' Federation of India (SJFI) medal, joining a distinguished list of Indian sports legends. Anand expressed pride in being a catalyst for chess growth in India.

Raman: Mature Harmanpreet Leading India's Most Complete Women's Team

Raman: Mature Harmanpreet Leading India's Most Complete Women's Team

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former India coach WV Raman believes the current women's team is the strongest in the country's history and has all the ingredients to win a maiden T20 World Cup, provided the pace attack delivers in key moments.

Indian U17 Women One Win Away From World Cup Spot

Indian U17 Women One Win Away From World Cup Spot

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The Indian U17 women's team is set to play China in the quarter-finals of the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup, with a spot in the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup at stake.

India Ready For World Team Table Tennis Championships

India Ready For World Team Table Tennis Championships

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

India's men's and women's table tennis teams are set to compete in the 2026 World Team Table Tennis Championships in London, with both teams aiming for a deeper run than their previous outing.

I feel sad for Imran Khan, he should get the right treatment: Kapil Dev

I feel sad for Imran Khan, he should get the right treatment: Kapil Dev

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Kapil Dev expressed deep sadness for his former rival cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan, who continues to be lodged at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail amid concerns over his deteriorating health.

World Team TT: India women snatch narrow win over Ukraine

World Team TT: India women snatch narrow win over Ukraine

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

India's women's table tennis team secured a 3-2 victory against Ukraine in a closely contested match at the ITTF World Team Championships Finals qualifiers, boosting their chances of topping Group 6.

Major Crackdown On Bishnoi Gang; 24 Arrested In US, Canada, Europe

Major Crackdown On Bishnoi Gang; 24 Arrested In US, Canada, Europe

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A coordinated international operation, 'Operation Hard Ball', led to the arrest of 24 alleged members and associates of three India-based criminal syndicates, including the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, across the US, Canada, and Europe.

Matthew Hayden: ETPL's future lies in developing Europe's next cricket stars

Matthew Hayden: ETPL's future lies in developing Europe's next cricket stars

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Matthew Hayden says the European T20 Premier League can establish itself as a talent-development platform for Europe's associate nations, stressing that ETPL's strength lies in creating pathways to global franchise cricket rather than competing with the IPL.

Can Senegal Stop Haaland? Thiaw Faces Major Selection Dilemma

Can Senegal Stop Haaland? Thiaw Faces Major Selection Dilemma

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Senegal face a major defensive selection dilemma ahead of their World Cup clash with Norway as coach Pape Bouna Thiaw weighs whether to drop Kalidou Koulibaly in a bid to stop Erling Haaland and keep knockout hopes alive.

Why China's Bangladesh Push Should Worry India

Why China's Bangladesh Push Should Worry India

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Beijing clearly intends to extend the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor to Bangladesh as part of its larger Maritime Belt and Road Initiative to boost its Indian Ocean presence.

Argentina's title defence faces first test against fearless Algeria

Argentina's title defence faces first test against fearless Algeria

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Argentina start their bid for back-to-back World Cups on Tuesday with a side full of familiar faces from Qatar 2022, facing an Algerian team buoyed by warm-up wins and featuring a 20-year-old rising star nicknamed after Diego Maradona.

Neymar returns for Brazil but there's a new Junior in town

Neymar returns for Brazil but there's a new Junior in town

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Neymar Junior returned to international football after a 981-day absence, playing 20 minutes as a substitute in Brazil's 3-0 World Cup victory over Scotland.

Top Tennis Players End Wimbledon Media Boycott After Talks

Top Tennis Players End Wimbledon Media Boycott After Talks

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Top tennis players have agreed to resume media duties at Wimbledon after constructive talks with organisers, despite core issues regarding prize money and player welfare remaining unresolved. Players had initially cut short pre-tournament media duties to protest for a larger share of Grand Slam revenue and greater say in decision-making.

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Maxi Araujo scored a late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw for Uruguay in their World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia on Monday, preventing another stunning upset in Group H after Spain's earlier goalless draw with Cape Verde.

Amad Diallo strikes late as Ivory Coast stun Ecuador

Amad Diallo strikes late as Ivory Coast stun Ecuador

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Manchester United's Amad Diallo struck in the 90th minute as Ivory Coast stunned Ecuador 1-0 in their World Cup Group E opener on Sunday.

Indian Boxers Ready To Shine At U-19 And U-23 Asian Championships

Indian Boxers Ready To Shine At U-19 And U-23 Asian Championships

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

India is sending a strong contingent of U-19 and U-23 boxers, including Asian Champion Vishvanath Suresh and World Boxing Futures Cup gold medallist Chandrika Bhoresh Pujari, to the Asian Boxing Championships in Jakarta. The championships will provide a crucial platform for young Indian talent to compete against the best in Asia.

Why Sweden's Yasin Ayari Didn't Celebrate His Goal Against Tunisia

Why Sweden's Yasin Ayari Didn't Celebrate His Goal Against Tunisia

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Yasin Ayari -- the son of a Tunisian father and a Moroccan mother -- chose not to celebrate his opener, briefly raising his hands in acknowledgement rather than joining the jubilant scenes around him.

IMF Lowers India's FY27 Growth Outlook to 6.4% on Higher Energy Costs

IMF Lowers India's FY27 Growth Outlook to 6.4% on Higher Energy Costs

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reduced India's growth forecast for FY27 to 6.4 per cent, citing the potential impact of higher energy prices offsetting the country's economic resilience. Despite this, India remains among the fastest-growing major economies.

Indian Badminton Adopts New 3x15 Scoring System Domestically

Indian Badminton Adopts New 3x15 Scoring System Domestically

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) is implementing the new BWF 3x15 scoring format across all domestic tournaments from this month. This change aims to familiarise Indian shuttlers with the revised system before its international adoption next year, impacting all age groups and national championships.

Coach Dragan Mihailovic's Vision For Indian Volleyball's Future

Coach Dragan Mihailovic's Vision For Indian Volleyball's Future

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India's men's volleyball team achieved an unbeaten run to the AVC Men's Volleyball Cup semi-finals, propelling them to World No. 42. Head coach Dragan Mihailovic attributes this success to discipline and a structured system but stresses the need for consistent international exposure, longer national camps, and a robust development pathway to sustain and build upon this momentum, especially amidst administrative uncertainty in Indian volleyball.

Martin Goodwill Upsets Sourav Kothari At World Billiards

Martin Goodwill Upsets Sourav Kothari At World Billiards

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Martin Goodwill of England defeated reigning champion Sourav Kothari in the IBSF World Billiards Championship, while Pankaj Advani dominated his group. Several other Indian players also advanced to the knockout stage.

Sourav Kothari Advances At World Billiards Championship

Sourav Kothari Advances At World Billiards Championship

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Sourav Kothari survived a scare in his opening match of the IBSF World Billiards Championship, while Pankaj Advani and Dhruv Sitwala registered comfortable wins.

German Footballers Step Up To Cover Fan Travel Costs

German Footballers Step Up To Cover Fan Travel Costs

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

German national team players are reportedly funding bus transport for 600 fans to their final World Cup Group E game against Ecuador in New Jersey, addressing concerns over significantly increased public transport costs during the tournament.