News for 'defense'

England stun France in 10-goal thriller to finish third at World Cup

England stun France in 10-goal thriller to finish third at World Cup

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

England bagged third place at the World Cup after beating France 6-4 on Saturday, while Les Bleus' captain Kylian Mbappe became the tournament's all-time top scorer with 22 goals on coach Didier Deschamps' last game after 14 years in charge.

How Pedro Porro Became Spain's Indispensable Right-Back

How Pedro Porro Became Spain's Indispensable Right-Back

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Pedro Porro has emerged as a pivotal player for Spain in the World Cup, transforming the right-back position into a strength. His exceptional performance against France in the semi-final, where he scored and was named MVP, has solidified his place, drawing parallels to Marc Cucurella's rise. Porro's defensive prowess and attacking contributions have been crucial for Spain's journey to the final against Argentina.

'They thought we would turn up in tuxedos': Mbappe Slams Paraguay's Tactics

'They thought we would turn up in tuxedos': Mbappe Slams Paraguay's Tactics

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe's crucial second-half penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for France over a resilient Paraguay, propelling them into the World Cup quarter-finals where they will face Morocco.

'A spinner bowling no-balls is a crime': Siva questions Bahutule after Bishnoi's horror show

'A spinner bowling no-balls is a crime': Siva questions Bahutule after Bishnoi's horror show

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Former India leg-spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan criticised spin coach Sairaj Bahutule after Ravi Bishnoi's costly no-balls against England, calling it "a crime" for a spinner and urging a return to attacking leg-spin fundamentals.

'A spinner bowling no-balls is a crime': Siva questions Bahutule after Bishnoi's horror show

'A spinner bowling no-balls is a crime': Siva questions Bahutule after Bishnoi's horror show

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Former India leg-spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan criticised spin coach Sairaj Bahutule after Ravi Bishnoi's costly no-balls against England, calling it "a crime" for a spinner and urging a return to attacking leg-spin fundamentals.

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Donald Trump stated that Iran has been given a "last chance" to reach an agreement, revealing that the US paused a planned military strike after receiving requests from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran to pursue diplomacy instead.

US Court Dismisses Adani Criminal Case; Gautam Adani Says 'Truth Prevailed'

US Court Dismisses Adani Criminal Case; Gautam Adani Says 'Truth Prevailed'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

A US federal judge has permanently dismissed the criminal securities-fraud case against Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar, closing nearly two years of prosecution without a trial. Gautam Adani stated, "Truth has prevailed," in response to the ruling.

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia believes Lionel Messi needs to win the 2026 World Cup to truly equal Diego Maradona's legendary status, despite Messi's 2022 triumph. Bhutia rates Maradona higher due to his single-handed 1986 World Cup victory, while also tipping Spain as slight favourites over Argentina in the upcoming final.

Raj Kumar Pal Returns To India's Asian Games Hockey Squad

Raj Kumar Pal Returns To India's Asian Games Hockey Squad

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

India's men's hockey team has announced its 20-member squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, featuring one change with midfielder Raj Kumar Pal replacing Aditya Arjun Lalage. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the team aims for gold and direct qualification for the LA 2028 Olympics.

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'If I was with the team, I would pick bowlers who I feel can pick wickets and win matches for me with the ball.'

Dutch coach Koeman set to quit after Morocco FIFA World Cup shock

Dutch coach Koeman set to quit after Morocco FIFA World Cup shock

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Dutch coach Koeman expected to leave in wake of early World Cup elimination

NZ skipper Santner enjoys fruits of defensive bowling

NZ skipper Santner enjoys fruits of defensive bowling

Rediff.com29 Jan 2026

Mitchell Santner explains his defensive T20I blueprint after a match-winning 3/26 against India in Visakhapatnam, detailing how pressure, match-ups and key wickets powered New Zealand's 50-run win.

Late bloomer Saransh Jain proves perseverance pays with India Test call-up at 33

Late bloomer Saransh Jain proves perseverance pays with India Test call-up at 33

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Age is just a number for uncapped off-spin allrounder Saransh Jain who at 33 years has earned his maiden Test call-up for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour on the back of consistent performances in the domestic circuit and India A.

Grand Chess Tour: Praggnaandhaa ends rapid section as joint-leader

Grand Chess Tour: Praggnaandhaa ends rapid section as joint-leader

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa won three matches in a row on the final day to tie for the first place with Firouzja Alireza of France on 12 points as the rapid section of the Croatian leg of the Grand Chess Tour ended in Zagreb, Croatia on Friday.

Kajal Wins Gold As India Dominates Budapest Wrestling Ranking Series

Kajal Wins Gold As India Dominates Budapest Wrestling Ranking Series

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Indian wrestlers delivered a strong performance at the Budapest Ranking Series, securing a total of 12 medals.

What went wrong for France: 'Technically, we were second best'

What went wrong for France: 'Technically, we were second best'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France's World Cup campaign ended in a 'devastating' 2-0 semi-final defeat to Spain, with coach Didier Deschamps admitting his team was 'technically, second best' and star players like Michael Olise failing to perform.

FIFA World Cup: France's firepower puts Sweden in the firing line

FIFA World Cup: France's firepower puts Sweden in the firing line

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

France's formidable attack has propelled them through the World Cup group stage, but coach Didier Deschamps is focused on resolving issues on the team's left side before their Round of 32 match against Sweden.

India name strong squad for Hockey World Cup; Harmanpreet Singh to lead

India name strong squad for Hockey World Cup; Harmanpreet Singh to lead

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.

Deschamps' golden France era ends in defeat, but legacy intact

Deschamps' golden France era ends in defeat, but legacy intact

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The end of coach Didier Deschamps' Midas-like reign turned into a Tantalus torment as France suffered a comprehensive World Cup semi-final defeat by Spain before losing 6-4 to England in a wild third-place playoff, but those disappointments will not tarnish his legacy.

FIFA World Cup: How 18-Year-Old Lamine Yamal Changed Everything for Spain

FIFA World Cup: How 18-Year-Old Lamine Yamal Changed Everything for Spain

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Spain returned to winning form with a strong 3-0 victory over Austria, as Lamine Yamal's return from injury proved key in lifting Luis de la Fuente's side back to their best.

The Best Player At World Cup 2026 Is... Vote!!!

The Best Player At World Cup 2026 Is... Vote!!!

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Nine football superstars, one ultimate honour-vote for the player you believe delivered the most memorable performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

FIFA World Cup 2026: England's Kane dependence could prove costly in knockout stages

FIFA World Cup 2026: England's Kane dependence could prove costly in knockout stages

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

England's World Cup campaign has increasingly come to rest on the shoulders of Harry Kane, whose goals, link-up play and ability to deliver in decisive moments have repeatedly rescued a side still searching for fluency and conviction.

Kerala Minister's Infidelity Allegations Put Ruling LDF on Defensive

Kerala Minister's Infidelity Allegations Put Ruling LDF on Defensive

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The ruling LDF in Kerala faces criticism after infidelity allegations against Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar surfaced, with the opposition UDF questioning the government's response and commitment to women's safety.

Former India Coach Constantine Weighs In On Messi's Legacy

Former India Coach Constantine Weighs In On Messi's Legacy

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India coach Stephen Constantine shares his views on Lionel Messi, ranking him below Pele, Maradona, and Ronaldinho due to his reliance on teammates for defensive work. He also predicts Spain will win the upcoming final against Argentina, despite acknowledging Argentina's experience and Messi's match-winning ability. Constantine further discusses England's semi-final exit and criticises hydration breaks and refereeing controversies.

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.

'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.

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.

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.

Balanced Indian Women's Hockey Squad Gears Up For World Cup

Balanced Indian Women's Hockey Squad Gears Up For World Cup

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Indian women's hockey squad for the upcoming World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands has been announced, featuring the same 20 players selected for the Asian Games. Led by Salima Tete and coached by Sjoerd Marijne, the team is described as well-balanced, combining experienced players with promising young talent, fresh off an unbeaten victory at the FIH Nations Cup.

Spain Dominates World Cup Awards, Messi Misses Golden Ball

Spain Dominates World Cup Awards, Messi Misses Golden Ball

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Spain's Rodri claimed the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, Unai Simon won the Golden Glove, and Pau Cubarsi was named the Best Young Player, leaving Lionel Messi without another personal honour despite his impressive World Cup performance.

Corporate Earnings, Monsoon to Drive Next Leg of Indian Market Rally: Morgan Stanley

Corporate Earnings, Monsoon to Drive Next Leg of Indian Market Rally: Morgan Stanley

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Morgan Stanley analysts, led by Ridham Desai, predict that the next phase of the Indian market rally will be primarily driven by the April-June quarter (Q1FY27) corporate earnings season and the performance of the monsoon.

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Veteran Indian hockey midfielder Manpreet Singh, despite numerous accolades including Olympic medals, is determined to win a World Cup medal before concluding his illustrious career after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Deschamps' Golden Era Ends in FIFA World Cup Heartbreak

Deschamps' Golden Era Ends in FIFA World Cup Heartbreak

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Didier Deschamps, who led France to their second world title in 2018 and established them as international football's most consistent major-tournament force, will be remembered for his unprecedented legacy despite recent semi-final defeats.

'They showed who is the boss'

'They showed who is the boss'

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Zlatan Ibrahimovic praises Mexico after Ecuador victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match on Tuesday.

Brazil's Defence A Major Worry Ahead Of FIFA World Cup Opener

Brazil's Defence A Major Worry Ahead Of FIFA World Cup Opener

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Brazil is facing significant defensive challenges, particularly at right-back, ahead of their World Cup opener against Morocco.

Manzambi's magic sends Switzerland to first World Cup knockout win in 88 years

Manzambi's magic sends Switzerland to first World Cup knockout win in 88 years

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Johan Manzambi continued his superb FIFA World Cup campaign by setting up Switzerland's opener in a 2-0 win over Algeria, ending the Swiss side's 88-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory and securing a place in the Round of 16.

No regrets! Tuchel defends costly FIFA World Cup decisions

No regrets! Tuchel defends costly FIFA World Cup decisions

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

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.

Paresh Rawal: Modi Never Does Hindu-Muslim Politics

Paresh Rawal: Modi Never Does Hindu-Muslim Politics

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Paresh Rawal has robustly defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi, dismissing claims of divisive politics and asserting that Modi 'never does Hindu-Muslim politics.

Manpreet Singh's Milestone As India Beats Germany 3-1

Manpreet Singh's Milestone As India Beats Germany 3-1

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India secured a 3-1 victory over Germany in the FIH Hockey Pro League, a match where Manpreet Singh became the most capped player for India. Goals from Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Nilakanta Sharma, coupled with a strong defensive performance, ensured the win, with Hardik Singh named Player of the Match.

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.