News for 'friendly match'

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti banks on Neymar in Japan showdown

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti banks on Neymar in Japan showdown

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Coach Carlo Ancelotti is hopeful he will have Neymar available for more minutes in Monday's World Cup round of 32 fixture against Japan in Houston, and believes his Brazil side are ready for anything in what will be a tough knockout fixture.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Fired-up Mexico aim to extend dream run against England

FIFA World Cup 2026: Fired-up Mexico aim to extend dream run against England

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Mexico will bid to continue their remarkable World Cup run when they face England in the last 16 on Sunday, with Javier Aguirre's side standing one victory away from a first quarter-final appearance in 40 years.

Goa's Chigurupati Ready For India U-19 Battle In Sri Lanka

Goa's Chigurupati Ready For India U-19 Battle In Sri Lanka

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Goa's Venkata Chigurupati has earned his maiden India Under-19 call-up for the Sri Lanka tour after a standout season of 49 wickets and 380 runs, as the fast-bowling all-rounder sets his sights on the U-19 World Cup and a future in India's Test team.

Wimbledon 2026: Muchova topples defending champion, joins Pegula in quarterfinals

Wimbledon 2026: Muchova topples defending champion, joins Pegula in quarterfinals

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Tenth seed Karolina Muchova snuffed out the Wimbledon hopes of friend and 2024 champion Barbora Krejcikova on Sunday, winning 7-5, 5-7, 6-3 in a tight battle for Czech supremacy and a place in the quarterfinals. The 32-year-old Pegula said beforehand she had expected the 18-year-old Jovic to come at her hard and so it proved, but after a scrappy first set, she won 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 to reach the quarterfinal and equal her best Wimbledon run.

India must shed 'underachievers' tag in foreign T20 conditions, says assistant coach

India must shed 'underachievers' tag in foreign T20 conditions, says assistant coach

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has challenged the T20 team to shed its 'underachievers' tag in foreign conditions, emphasising the need for quicker adaptation to varied playing environments after recent series losses.

India U-17 Women's Team Prepares for AFC Asian Cup with Russia Friendlies

India U-17 Women's Team Prepares for AFC Asian Cup with Russia Friendlies

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The Indian U-17 Women's team is set to play a three-match friendly series against Russia in Sochi as part of their preparations for the AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup 2026.

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

'Our biggest opportunity lies with the younger age-group teams.' 'If you look at the senior national team, our chances are about 50-50.' 'The gap becomes smaller as you move down the age groups.' 'At the Under-20 level, it's closer to 60-40.' 'By the Under-17 level, it's around 80-20. That's where I feel we have our best chance.'

Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce's NYC Wedding: All The Details

Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce's NYC Wedding: All The Details

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Singer Taylor Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce are reportedly already married after a private ceremony, with their grand Madison Square Garden celebration now underway.

Harmanpreet Singh Returns To Captain India For FIH Pro League

Harmanpreet Singh Returns To Captain India For FIH Pro League

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Harmanpreet Singh returns to captain a 24-member Indian men's hockey squad for the European leg of the FIH Pro League, a crucial preparatory competition ahead of the World Cup in August.

Bharati Achrekar: 'Today's Actors Won't Find A Guru Like Vijaya Mehta'

Bharati Achrekar: 'Today's Actors Won't Find A Guru Like Vijaya Mehta'

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

'She never held a stick in her hand, but she would encourage us to discover the character on our own.'

Bangkok Love Story... And A Recipe

Bangkok Love Story... And A Recipe

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Bangkok is a fast, 24-hour megapolis, full of joie de vivre and buoyance that you will be instantly smitten, like I was.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Germany eye big win against Curacao in opener

FIFA World Cup 2026: Germany eye big win against Curacao in opener

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Germany, aiming to repair its international reputation after two consecutive first-round exits, begins its World Cup campaign against minnows Curacao.

Spanish police probe Islamophobic chants at Spain-Egypt friendly

Spanish police probe Islamophobic chants at Spain-Egypt friendly

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Spanish police investigate Islamophobic chants during Spain vs Egypt friendly, drawing condemnation from government and football authorities over racism in stadiums.

A genius, a trend setter: Cricket fraternity mourns death of Sir Garfield Sobers

A genius, a trend setter: Cricket fraternity mourns death of Sir Garfield Sobers

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The cricket world paid glorious tribute to West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers who died in Barbados on Friday, describing him as the benchmark of excellence and terming his death an "irreplaceable loss" for the sport.

Brazil vs Japan:FIFA World Cup Blockbuster Awaits

Brazil vs Japan:FIFA World Cup Blockbuster Awaits

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Japan's national football team, the Samurai Blue, faces Brazil in a crucial World Cup last-32 match. This encounter holds deep significance due to Brazil's profound influence on Japanese professional football, particularly through the J-League and the presence of numerous Brazilian players and coaches over the decades. Despite past successes against Brazil, including a recent friendly win, this World Cup clash represents a major test for Japan's ambitions.

Qamar Ahmed: Farewell To Cricket's Voice

Qamar Ahmed: Farewell To Cricket's Voice

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Although the front seat in my car will miss his presence, the echoes he left behind will remain for long. K R Nayar mourns legendary cricket writer Qamar Ahmed.

Wimbledon: Dmitrov overcomes fear and injury to stun young Mensik

Wimbledon: Dmitrov overcomes fear and injury to stun young Mensik

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Grigor Dimitrov, the veteran Bulgarian stylist, defeated rising Czech star Jacub Mensik at Wimbledon, overcoming past injury fears. Dimitrov, who had suffered multiple Grand Slam withdrawals due to injury, showcased a masterclass performance, drawing inspiration from Roger Federer's style, to advance to the third round. He expressed his determination to push limits and compete at the highest level despite his history of injuries.

Ultimate Table Tennis: Indian Players Eye Asian Games Momentum

Ultimate Table Tennis: Indian Players Eye Asian Games Momentum

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The seventh edition of the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) tournament is set to begin in Panaji, featuring top Indian and international players. Indian paddlers like Manav Thakkar, Manush Shah, and Diya Chitale view the tournament as crucial preparation for the upcoming Asian Games, aiming to build momentum and gain competitive experience. The league also introduces an AI-powered review system.

Argentina Prepare For Knockout Stage Amid Squad Rotation

Argentina Prepare For Knockout Stage Amid Squad Rotation

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Argentina, having secured top spot in Group J, will face Jordan in their final group match with an eye on the knockout stage. Coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate the squad, potentially resting Lionel Messi, while Jordan aims to conclude their debut World Cup campaign on a positive note despite early elimination.

Historic! Harmanpreet Kaur First Cricketer To Play 200 T20 Internationals

Historic! Harmanpreet Kaur First Cricketer To Play 200 T20 Internationals

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur has become the first cricketer, male or female, to play 200 T20 Internationals, achieving this milestone during a World Cup clash against South Africa.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ghana witch doctor ends Kane spell after England's goal-less night

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ghana witch doctor ends Kane spell after England's goal-less night

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

A Ghanaian witch doctor says he has "released" England captain Harry Kane from his spell after the striker failed to find the net in Tuesday's goalless draw at the World Cup.

The Great Collapse: How India's Big T20 Shake-Up Failed

The Great Collapse: How India's Big T20 Shake-Up Failed

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Indian team, which looked invincible under Suryakumar Yadav, has suddenly hit rock bottom a few months after winning the T20 World Cup.

India U-23 Football Team Gears Up for Arunachal Pradesh Friendlies

India U-23 Football Team Gears Up for Arunachal Pradesh Friendlies

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Naushad Moosa announces the 24-member India U-23 squad for the upcoming Tri-Nation Friendlies in Arunachal Pradesh, featuring matches against Bhutan and Tajikistan.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo, Modric eye one last act at tournament's tiniest venue

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo, Modric eye one last act at tournament's tiniest venue

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Portugal and Croatia's World Cup last-32 clash on Thursday could be Cristiano Ronaldo or Luka Modric's final game on soccer's biggest stage, and the massive moment will unfold at the tournament's smallest venue.

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.

'I tried to talk him down': McCullum on Stokes' retirement

'I tried to talk him down': McCullum on Stokes' retirement

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

England coach Brendon McCullum revealed he tried to convince Ben Stokes not to retire, calling the Test captain a "leader of men" whose leadership and presence will be impossible to replace as England prepare for a new era.

EPF Scheme 2026: What's Changed for You?

EPF Scheme 2026: What's Changed for You?

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

For members, the message is simple: don't be misled by headlines about '100% withdrawal'. The basic purpose of the EPF remains unchanged -- to help employees build a financial cushion for retirement while allowing limited access to savings for genuine needs during their working lives.

FIFA World Cup: A B De Villiers Salutes South Africa's World Cup March

FIFA World Cup: A B De Villiers Salutes South Africa's World Cup March

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

South Africa reached the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time after a 1-0 win over South Korea.

Messi returns, scores and sends strong FIFA World Cup warning

Messi returns, scores and sends strong FIFA World Cup warning

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi led Argentina to a dominant 3-0 victory over Iceland in a FIFA World Cup 2026 warm-up friendly, scoring a penalty and contributing to another goal after recovering from muscle fatigue.

FIFA World Cup controversy? Senegal explains airport security video

FIFA World Cup controversy? Senegal explains airport security video

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Videos circulated online showed Senegal players being screened by airport security before travelling from Raleigh, North Carolina to San Antonio, Texas for a warm-up friendly against Saudi Arabia ahead of the tournament.

India A's Sri Lanka Tour: Selectors watch closely as Aquib Nabi seeks breakthrough

India A's Sri Lanka Tour: Selectors watch closely as Aquib Nabi seeks breakthrough

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The India A squad is set to tour Sri Lanka for a two-match red-ball series, offering a crucial platform for emerging cricketers like Aquib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar, Sai Sudharsan, and Devdutt Padikkal to impress selectors and stake their claim for a spot in the senior national team. Dhruv Jurel will captain the side.

How England Players Celebrated Their FIFA World Cup Opening Victory

How England Players Celebrated Their FIFA World Cup Opening Victory

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

England's football team kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas. Following the thrilling win, players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham celebrated their success with their wives and girlfriends in the stands, sharing emotional moments with their loved ones.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Moved by Lionel Messi's record-breaking form at the World Cup, Argentines have taken to the streets and social media to sing "Happy Birthday" to their favourite footballer who turned 39 on Wednesday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil eye payback as Japan stand in knockout path

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil eye payback as Japan stand in knockout path

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Brazil's World Cup Round of 32 meeting with Japan on Monday comes with the chance for revenge for Carlo Ancelotti's squad and a test of how far he has taken his team since a Tokyo collapse early in his tenure.

Canada Goes Wild After Historic FIFA World Cup Victory

Canada Goes Wild After Historic FIFA World Cup Victory

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Canadians and tourists at Niagara Falls celebrated Canada's historic first-ever win at the FIFA World Cup against Qatar. The euphoric victory, witnessed by hundreds at a special viewing event, sparked widespread joy and a renewed interest in football across the nation.

From Vacation To World Cup Star: Zico's Rise For Egypt

From Vacation To World Cup Star: Zico's Rise For Egypt

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Mostafa "Zico" Mohamed, initially planning a summer vacation, received an unexpected call-up to the Egyptian national team for the World Cup. He has since become a standout performer, scoring and assisting in Egypt's historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand, their first-ever World Cup win, and is now crucial to their knockout stage aspirations.

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Despite the World Cup returning to their country for the first time in four decades, many in Mexico said they feel excluded, priced out of stadiums, forced to pay for expensive TV subscriptions and constrained by strict licensing rules.

As Drones Hover Overhead, Displaced Gazans Gather to Watch the World Cup

As Drones Hover Overhead, Displaced Gazans Gather to Watch the World Cup

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Displaced Palestinians in Gaza are overcoming power cuts, poor internet and ongoing insecurity to follow the FIFA World Cup, finding brief moments of joy and escape amid the hardships of war and displacement.

Chris Nolan On Why Mumbai Was A Special Stop For The Odyssey

Chris Nolan On Why Mumbai Was A Special Stop For The Odyssey

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

At The Odyssey's Mumbai press conference with Christopher Nolan and the cast.

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.