News for 'opening matches'

Marta Kostyuk downs Mirra Andreeva for Madrid Open crown

Marta Kostyuk downs Mirra Andreeva for Madrid Open crown

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Marta Kostyuk defeated Mirra Andreeva in straight sets to win the Madrid Open title, marking her third singles title.

Stokes' final Test ends in heartbreak as New Zealand clinch series

Stokes' final Test ends in heartbreak as New Zealand clinch series

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

New Zealand defeated England by 160 runs at Trent Bridge to clinch the three-Test series 2-1, as Ben Stokes' international career ended in defeat following his surprise retirement announcement during the match.

Iran thank Los Angeles with locker room note

Iran thank Los Angeles with locker room note

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

'Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality'

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.

Wimbledon steps up heat measures as London temperatures rise

Wimbledon steps up heat measures as London temperatures rise

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

With the temperatures set to rise again in London, Wimbledon chiefs and accommodation organisers are making sure that the fans and players have what they need to keep cool.

'Not the IPL Iyer': Saba Karim questions T20 captaincy

'Not the IPL Iyer': Saba Karim questions T20 captaincy

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim has called for Shreyas Iyer to assert his authority as captain in international cricket, criticising his tactical decisions in recent T20I losses against Ireland and England. Karim also suggested crucial batting order changes, advocating for Sanju Samson and Suryansh Shedge to be included in the playing XI to address India's struggles with English conditions and middle-order scoring.

Like Father, Like Son: Norway Field Three Sons Of 1994 World Cup Stars

Like Father, Like Son: Norway Field Three Sons Of 1994 World Cup Stars

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Norway made history at the FIFA World Cup by fielding three sons of former World Cup players in the same match: Erling Haaland, Alexander Sorloth, and Kristian Thorstvedt. This mirrored a 1994 World Cup match where their fathers played together. Erling Haaland marked his debut with a brace, leading Norway to a 4-1 victory over Iraq.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil's Neymar to miss second group game amid injury recovery

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil's Neymar to miss second group game amid injury recovery

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Brazil forward Neymar will not travel with the squad for their second World Cup group game against Haiti in Philadelphia on Friday as he continues to recover from a calf injury, the Brazilian football association said.

1st unofficial Test: Auqib Nabi 4-fer puts India A in command vs Sri Lanka A

1st unofficial Test: Auqib Nabi 4-fer puts India A in command vs Sri Lanka A

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Jammu and Kashmir seamer Auqib Nabi's impressive four-wicket spell with the second new ball helped India 'A' secure a substantial 122-run first-innings lead against Sri Lanka 'A' on day three of the opening 'Test'. Sri Lanka 'A' were bowled out for 330 after being in a strong position, with India 'A' further consolidating their lead to 170 runs by stumps.

Guess who became the 1st Asian to reach 5 FIFA World Cups

Guess who became the 1st Asian to reach 5 FIFA World Cups

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Japan's Yuto Nagatomo made history by becoming the first Asian player to feature in five FIFA World Cups during Japan's 1-1 draw against Sweden. This achievement places him among an elite group of players globally. The draw secured both Japan and Sweden's advancement to the Round of 32 in the 2026 tournament.

Shafali On Why She Loves Batting With Smriti Mandhana

Shafali On Why She Loves Batting With Smriti Mandhana

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Indian women's team opener Shafali Verma credited vice-captain and opening partner Smriti Mandhana for helping her stay calm at the crease in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

Kriish Tyagi Advances To Pre-Quarters At Karnataka Open

Kriish Tyagi Advances To Pre-Quarters At Karnataka Open

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Wildcard Kriish Tyagi progressed into the pre-quarterfinal of the Karnataka Open ATP Challenger, while Mukund Sasikumar and Manish Sureshkumar also advanced. However, other Indian players faced defeat.

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.

FIFA World Cup PIX: Thousands of Colombia Fans Paint Mexico Yellow

FIFA World Cup PIX: Thousands of Colombia Fans Paint Mexico Yellow

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Thousands of Colombian football fans transformed Mexico City into a vibrant yellow sea, celebrating their national team's 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their World Cup opener. The city's streets and restaurants buzzed with supporters enjoying Colombian food, music, and a strong cultural connection, making the Estadio Azteca feel like a home venue for the victorious team.

FIFA World Cup: Plucky Iran hold 10-man Belgium to goalless draw

FIFA World Cup: Plucky Iran hold 10-man Belgium to goalless draw

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Ten-man Belgium dominated possession but could not break down a disciplined Iranian defence, with goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand producing a string of saves to preserve the result in the Group G encounter.

Budimir earns Croatia first World Cup points in win over Panama

Budimir earns Croatia first World Cup points in win over Panama

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Croatia secured their first points in the World Cup Group L by defeating Panama 1-0, thanks to a second-half goal from substitute Ante Budimir. The victory eliminated Panama from the tournament. The match also saw captain Luka Modric achieve his 200th cap for Croatia.

Pujara, Nayar pinpoint reasons for India's T20I series defeat in England

Pujara, Nayar pinpoint reasons for India's T20I series defeat in England

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara and ex-assistant coach Abhishek Nayar have offered critical insights into India's recent T20I series defeat against England, highlighting issues with middle-order depth, all-rounders, poor fielding, and struggles against short balls.

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi equals World Cup scoring record with hat-trick

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi equals World Cup scoring record with hat-trick

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi equalled the men's World Cup all-time scoring record with a hat-trick in Argentina's Group J opener against Algeria on Tuesday.

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Tunisia sack coach mid-World Cup after heavy defeat

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Tunisia have sacked coach Sabri Lamouchi and replaced him with fellow Frenchman Herve Renard in the wake of the 5-1 defeat by Sweden in their World Cup opener in Monterrey on Sunday, the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) said.

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Alexis MacAllister has puts Argentina ahead in the10th minute.

Bellingham shines as England down Panama to top Group L

Bellingham shines as England down Panama to top Group L

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Jude Bellingham's stellar performance, including a goal and an assist for Harry Kane, propelled England to a 2-0 victory over Panama. This win secured England's top position in Group L of the World Cup, allowing them to avoid a difficult knockout phase route. The match saw England dominate possession and overcome a flat first half, with Kane also breaking Gary Lineker's World Cup goal record for England.

I would say I'm an all-rounder now: Shafali Verma on growing role with ball

I would say I'm an all-rounder now: Shafali Verma on growing role with ball

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

India's explosive opener Shafali Verma says her growing effectiveness with the ball is no accident as meticulous preparation and visualisation have helped her evolve into an all-rounder capable of contributing in multiple roles for the team.

Mexico stay perfect and bounce Czechs out of World Cup

Mexico stay perfect and bounce Czechs out of World Cup

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Mexico continued their perfect start to the World Cup with a 3-0 romp against the Czech Republic on Wednesday, finishing their group-stage campaign with a flourish.

Bishnoi set to be axed! India likely to play extra seamer in crucial 3rd T20I vs England

Bishnoi set to be axed! India likely to play extra seamer in crucial 3rd T20I vs England

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

A struggling Indian team, yet to secure a win on their UK tour, is set to make a crucial change for the third T20 International against England, likely replacing out-of-form leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi with an additional pace bowler to strengthen their attack.

Austria, Algeria in knockouts after thrilling draw; Iran out

Austria, Algeria in knockouts after thrilling draw; Iran out

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Austria and Algeria played out a dramatic 3-3 draw in their final World Cup Group J match, with two stoppage-time goals ensuring both teams progressed to the Round of 32, while eliminating Iran. Argentina topped the group, with Austria finishing second and Algeria advancing as a best third-placed side.

How Satwik-Chirag Overcame Setbacks To Reach Thailand Open Final

How Satwik-Chirag Overcame Setbacks To Reach Thailand Open Final

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty progressed to the Thailand Open Super 500 final after defeating Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin. The Indian duo attributed their success to mental fortitude gained from overcoming injuries and setbacks.

'We deserve more': Players slam French Open pay

'We deserve more': Players slam French Open pay

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) has criticised the French Open's prize money structure, supporting players' demands for a fairer share of revenue and broader structural changes in tennis.

Japan Coach Moriyasu Confident Ahead Of Brazil Clash

Japan Coach Moriyasu Confident Ahead Of Brazil Clash

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Japan's coach Hajime Moriyasu expressed confidence ahead of their World Cup last-32 clash against Brazil in Houston, stating his team will not be pushovers. He cited their previous 3-2 victory over Brazil as proof of their progress and readiness to challenge the five-time champions. Japan secured their spot by finishing second in Group F after a 1-1 draw with Sweden, a result Moriyasu strategically preserved. He also highlighted the significance of Japan's advancement for Asian football and the growth of the sport in his country.

Australia's Socceroos Dismiss US Hype Ahead Of World Cup Showdown

Australia's Socceroos Dismiss US Hype Ahead Of World Cup Showdown

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Australia's assistant coach Hayden Foxe states that the Socceroos are mature enough to handle media hype and social media comments ahead of their World Cup match against co-hosts the United States. Despite being written off by some US commentators, the team is confident after a strong start to the tournament, having defeated Turkey 2-0. Players are focused on the upcoming game, drawing motivation from past criticisms while remaining grounded.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo runs riot as Portugal thrash Uzbekistan

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo runs riot as Portugal thrash Uzbekistan

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in six World Cups and Portugal's all-time leading marksman at the global finals with two goals in Tuesday's emphatic 5-0 Group K win over Uzbekistan in Houston.

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ecuador secured a stunning 2-1 victory over Germany in a crucial World Cup match, ensuring their qualification for the last 32. Despite an early German goal, Ecuador fought back with goals from Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata to clinch the win.

The Odyssey Review: Christopher Nolan's Powerful Statement On War And Love

The Odyssey Review: Christopher Nolan's Powerful Statement On War And Love

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

By taking one of the oldest stories and finding new meaning within it, Christopher Nolan has created the most timely film of his career, asserts Mayur Sanap.

How To Integrate Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Into India's T20 Squad

How To Integrate Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Into India's T20 Squad

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Indian cricket team faces a significant selection challenge regarding the inclusion of 15-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, especially after recent losses to Ireland. The article explores various scenarios and opinions, including Sunil Gavaskar's strong recommendation, on how to integrate Sooryavanshi into the playing XI for the upcoming T20 series against England without disrupting the team's balance.

Vlasic's late header earns Croatia second place in Group L

Vlasic's late header earns Croatia second place in Group L

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Nikola Vlasic scored a late header from a Luka Modric corner to give Croatia a 2-1 victory over Ghana, securing second place in World Cup Group L and a spot in the last 32. Petar Susic had opened the scoring for Croatia, while Derrick Luckassen equalised for Ghana before Vlasic's decisive goal.

Third Test: England respond in style after Latham-Conway onslaught

Third Test: England respond in style after Latham-Conway onslaught

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ben Duckett led England's reply with a brisk counterattack as the hosts reached 73 for 1 at tea on Day 2 of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge on Friday, responding to the tourists' 438.

Suthar shines for Warwickshire with three-wicket haul against Yorkshire

Suthar shines for Warwickshire with three-wicket haul against Yorkshire

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Fresh from a memorable Test debut for India, left-arm spinner Manav Suthar made an immediate impact in county cricket, claiming two wickets on his Warwickshire debut against Yorkshire on day one of the County Championship Division One in Scarborough.

India U-18 Hockey Teams Draw, Lose Against Australia

India U-18 Hockey Teams Draw, Lose Against Australia

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The India U-18 men's hockey team drew with Australia, while the women's team lost their opener in a closely contested match.

Disciplinary Woes Mount At 2026 FIFA World Cup

Disciplinary Woes Mount At 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already seen eight red cards, matching the combined total of the 2018 and 2022 tournaments. This surge in dismissals, including six straight red cards, highlights a significant increase in disciplinary actions compared to recent editions, with Belgium's Nathan Ngoy being the latest player sent off.

Ecuador Stuns Germany In World Cup Thriller, Exposing Defensive Flaws

Ecuador Stuns Germany In World Cup Thriller, Exposing Defensive Flaws

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Four-time champions Germany suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in a FIFA World Cup group stage match, marking a historic upset. This loss highlighted Germany's persistent defensive issues, as they have now failed to keep a clean sheet in their last nine World Cup games. Despite an early lead, Germany succumbed to Ecuador's determined comeback, which secured Ecuador's progression to the round of 32.

India Aim to Seal Series While Testing New Combinations Against Afghanistan

India Aim to Seal Series While Testing New Combinations Against Afghanistan

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

India will look to seal the ODI series against Afghanistan while continuing to test combinations for the 2027 World Cup, with Kuldeep Yadav and Yashasvi Jaiswal among those pushing for opportunities in the second match.