News for 'fifa'

Indian Men's Football Team Set For Historic New Zealand Tour

Indian Men's Football Team Set For Historic New Zealand Tour

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

The Indian men's football team will embark on its first-ever tour of New Zealand in November for two international friendlies. This historic visit, part of '100 Years of Unity Through Sport' initiatives, marks India's return to an Oceania Football Confederation nation after nearly two decades and offers a valuable challenge against a FIFA World Cup-experienced side.

'End of a dream': Messi fans left heartbroken after World Cup final

'End of a dream': Messi fans left heartbroken after World Cup final

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Argentina's hopes of securing back-to-back World Cup titles were dashed after a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final, leaving fans in Buenos Aires with a "bitter sensation" despite acknowledging Spain's strong performance.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic steps down after nine years in charge

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic steps down after nine years in charge

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic has stepped down after nine years in charge, the Croatian Football Federation said on Wednesday, less than a week after his side's exit from the 2026 World Cup following a 2-1 loss to Portugal in the Round of 32.

FIFA under fire as 2026 World Cup heat risk grows

FIFA under fire as 2026 World Cup heat risk grows

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Football's global players' union has renewed concerns about the potential impact of heat on the 2026 World Cup, following a scientific analysis indicating a high likelihood of dangerous temperatures for both players and fans.

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi extended his record by scoring in a ninth straight FIFA World Cup match as Argentina fought back from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 and keep their title defence alive.

'It destroyed our game' Switzerland coach slams 'unacceptable' VAR rule

'It destroyed our game' Switzerland coach slams 'unacceptable' VAR rule

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin blasted the rule behind Breel Embolo's controversial red card as "unacceptable" after Argentina's 3-1 extra-time victory ended the Swiss team's historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run.

Why Iran moved its FIFA World Cup base days before opener

Why Iran moved its FIFA World Cup base days before opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Iran's World Cup team conducted open training in Tijuana, Mexico, after relocating their base camp due to geopolitical tensions.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Balogun brace as US prove too good for Paraguay

FIFA World Cup 2026: Balogun brace as US prove too good for Paraguay

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The United States men's national team secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their World Cup Group D opener, with Folarin Balogun scoring two goals and Giovanni Reyna adding another.

Dembele 'picking up momentum' as France eye World Cup glory

Dembele 'picking up momentum' as France eye World Cup glory

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Ousmane Dembele expressed his delight after scoring and helping France reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, stating he is gaining confidence and momentum as the tournament progresses and the team remains focused on going all the way.

Iran Football Team Applies For US, Canada Visas Ahead Of FIFA World Cup

Iran Football Team Applies For US, Canada Visas Ahead Of FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Iran's national soccer team attended visa appointments in Ankara, Turkey, applying for Canadian visas and some players also submitting applications for US entry ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Julian Alvarez Lauds Lionel Messi As Argentina Stages Epic World Cup Comeback

Julian Alvarez Lauds Lionel Messi As Argentina Stages Epic World Cup Comeback

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Argentina captain Lionel Messi inspired a dramatic comeback victory over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, prompting teammate Julian Alvarez to hail him as "the best player in the world and in history." Despite missing a penalty, Messi scored a crucial equaliser, leading Argentina to a 3-2 win and a quarter-final clash with Switzerland, keeping their title defence hopes alive.

Mbappe says World Cup exit will hurt despite record-breaking campaign

Mbappe says World Cup exit will hurt despite record-breaking campaign

Rediff.com3 days ago

Kylian Mbappe has admitted France's failure to win the FIFA World Cup 2026 will "hurt for a while", despite finishing as the tournament's top scorer and becoming the competition's all-time leading goalscorer.

Sourav Ganguly hails Argentina's 'incredible' World Cup comeback

Sourav Ganguly hails Argentina's 'incredible' World Cup comeback

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly expressed his excitement over Argentina's dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, highlighting the team's ability to snatch victory from a 0-2 deficit.

Ibra hails defending champs: 'This is why the world fears Argentina'

Ibra hails defending champs: 'This is why the world fears Argentina'

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

'That's not just a football victory -- that's the heartbeat of an entire nation'

Alfie Haaland claims Norway 'robbed' in World Cup quarter-final defeat to England

Alfie Haaland claims Norway 'robbed' in World Cup quarter-final defeat to England

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Norway international Alf-Inge 'Alfie' Haaland expressed his disappointment after Norway's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England, claiming the Scandinavian side had been 'robbed' in the contest.

FIFA World Cup: USA face 'very tough' Paraguay test in opener

FIFA World Cup: USA face 'very tough' Paraguay test in opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Pochettino expects a "very tough game" against Paraguay, praising their aggression and discipline.

Messi's missing rival: Argentina captain finally faces England at World Cup

Messi's missing rival: Argentina captain finally faces England at World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi will face England for the first time in his career when Argentina meet the Three Lions in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, ending a 20-year wait for one of football's most anticipated match-ups.

India Chosen For FIFA Women's Development Programme

India Chosen For FIFA Women's Development Programme

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

FIFA has selected India as one of 12 countries for its Women's Development Programme, aimed at building sustainable models for women's football clubs and preparing them for the upcoming AFC club licensing system.

Jaiswal Goes Viral In Messi Tee At World Cup

Jaiswal Goes Viral In Messi Tee At World Cup

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Yashasvi Jaiswal took a break from his cricketing duties to attend a FIFA World Cup 2026 match between France and Sweden in New York, immersing himself in the vibrant football atmosphere.

What Is Cristiano Ronaldo Hinting With His Emotional Portugal Post?

What Is Cristiano Ronaldo Hinting With His Emotional Portugal Post?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo expressed his unwavering support for Portugal following their heartbreaking FIFA World Cup Round of 16 defeat against Spain. Despite the emotional exit and uncertainty surrounding his international future, Ronaldo shared a poignant message of loyalty, stating he would not make any rash decisions about continuing with the national team.

Neymar's father begs him not to quit football

Neymar's father begs him not to quit football

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Neymar's father has penned an emotional message urging his son to reconsider his retirement from international football, which followed Brazil's unexpected exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, announced his decision after their Round of 16 defeat to Norway.

Haaland, Norway train ahead of England quarter-final showdown

Haaland, Norway train ahead of England quarter-final showdown

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Norway forward Erling Haaland has openly challenged the media to 'put every single pressure on the English lads' ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash against England, following Norway's stunning upset victory over Brazil.

Ibrahimovic Doubts Ronaldo's Future Impact For Portugal

Ibrahimovic Doubts Ronaldo's Future Impact For Portugal

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Legendary footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic has voiced concerns about Cristiano Ronaldo's role in Portugal's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, citing the 41-year-old's physical decline and suggesting his selection is based more on reputation than current performance. This comes as Portugal secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Croatia to advance to the Round of 16.

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final joined an exclusive list after Spain edged Argentina 1-0 in extra time. This is the ninth time a Cup final went beyond the stipulated 90 minutes,

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has cautioned the Spanish national team against underestimating Argentina in the upcoming World Cup final, labelling them a "real nuisance" and highlighting their experience and tactical prowess.

Robertson promises to play for late Jota at FIFA World Cup

Robertson promises to play for late Jota at FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Scotland captain Andy Robertson has announced he will dedicate his performance at the upcoming World Cup to his late former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, following an emotional letter from Jota's widow.

South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies aged 25

South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies aged 25

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

South Africa international midfielder Jayden Adams, who played a key role in his country's 2026 World Cup campaign, has died at the age of 25, with no cause of death immediately provided.

Neymar confirms Brazil retirement weeks after heartbreaking World Cup exit

Neymar confirms Brazil retirement weeks after heartbreaking World Cup exit

Rediff.com1 days ago

Neymar appeared to confirm his retirement from international soccer, saying he no longer wanted to play for Brazil, weeks after suggesting his international career had ended following their World Cup last-16 loss to Norway.

Atlanta Police Brace for High-Risk Argentina-England World Cup Semi-Final

Atlanta Police Brace for High-Risk Argentina-England World Cup Semi-Final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Atlanta Police are implementing enhanced security measures for the World Cup semi-final between Argentina and England, a match deemed high-risk due to the historical animosity between the two nations.

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi is aiming for the Golden Boot and a record third Golden Ball at the World Cup final against Spain.

Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong sidelined with torn knee ligaments

Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong sidelined with torn knee ligaments

Rediff.com6 days ago

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong will be out for several weeks after returning from the World Cup with torn knee ligaments, an injury he played through during the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe is World Cup's all-time leading scorer

Kylian Mbappe is World Cup's all-time leading scorer

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

France striker Kylian Mbappe has become the World Cup's all-time leading scorer with 22 goals, surpassing Lionel Messi's 21 goals, after netting twice in France's third-place play-off match against England.

Ancelotti's Brazil reboot leaves Neymar, Casemiro and Danilo out of future plans

Ancelotti's Brazil reboot leaves Neymar, Casemiro and Danilo out of future plans

Rediff.com4 hours ago

Neymar, Casemiro and Danilo will no longer be in Brazil's plans as they look to build a younger squad for the 2028 Copa America, coach Carlo Ancelotti told Brazilian broadcaster ge.

Khalid Jamil's Heart Says Messi, Mind Says Spain For World Cup Final

Khalid Jamil's Heart Says Messi, Mind Says Spain For World Cup Final

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Indian football team head coach Khalid Jamil shares his predictions for the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, expressing a personal preference for Lionel Messi's Argentina while acknowledging Spain's strong form and tactical advantages. He anticipates a tough and equal match.

Mora joins Pele in record books as Mexico march into last 16

Mora joins Pele in record books as Mexico march into last 16

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Mexico teenager Gilberto Mora became the youngest player to start a FIFA World Cup knockout match since Pele as the co-hosts defeated Ecuador 2-0 to end a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory.

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Atlanta Police Department has significantly increased security measures for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, two nations with a historically fierce football rivalry, deploying additional personnel and resources across the city and stadium.

Jude Bellingham: Mexico Win 'Best Night of My England Career'

Jude Bellingham: Mexico Win 'Best Night of My England Career'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England's star midfielder Jude Bellingham described the thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 as the 'best night of his England career', after the Three Lions secured their place in the quarter-finals despite playing much of the second half with 10 men.

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Senegal's football federation president, Abdoulaye Fall, has claimed the national team's doctor at the recent World Cup in North America was 'trained as a gynaecologist', raising concerns among players about medical support during their disappointing campaign. The Senegalese Association of Sports Medicine has rejected these allegations as 'unfounded and defamatory'.

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.com17 Jul 2026

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.

'Total disgrace': Argentina slammed after World Cup

'Total disgrace': Argentina slammed after World Cup

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Argentina's conduct after their World Cup final defeat to Spain has come under fire, with players and fans facing criticism for their actions during the trophy presentation and post-match celebrations.