News for 'portugal'

'This Is My Last World Cup': Cristiano Ronaldo

'This Is My Last World Cup': Cristiano Ronaldo

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the current World Cup will be his last, expressing no regrets about his illustrious career.

Veteran Midfielder Luka Modric Signs AC Milan Extension

Veteran Midfielder Luka Modric Signs AC Milan Extension

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric has signed a contract extension, committing his future to the Serie A club until June 2027. The 40-year-old Croatian international, who joined Milan last year, has made 37 appearances and scored two goals.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule/Results

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule/Results

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The complete schedule and all the results of FIFA World Cup 2026 in IST.

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Cape Verde's fairytale run, VAR controversies and unforgettable fan moments, relive the memories that made the 2026 FIFA World Cup the biggest and most dramatic tournament in history.

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

FIFA rejects Norway coach Stale Solbakken's claim of spider-cam interference in Jude Bellingham's equaliser for England.

Ronaldo Ignores Messi Question After Record-Breaking Night

Ronaldo Ignores Messi Question After Record-Breaking Night

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal to a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan at the FIFA World Cup 2026, scoring two goals. His performance was overshadowed by a viral post-match moment where he appeared to ignore a question about Lionel Messi. Ronaldo also made history by becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups and surpassed Eusebio as Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the tournament.

'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.

Big change? FIFA plans 64-team for 2030 World Cup

Big change? FIFA plans 64-team for 2030 World Cup

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced that the governing body will discuss expanding the World Cup to 64 teams for the 2030 edition, following the already planned increase to 48 teams in 2026. Infantino believes a larger tournament encourages smaller nations and highlights the success of previous expansions, with the 2030 event already set to be hosted across six nations on three continents.

Ronaldo injury shock: Portugal friendlies in doubt

Ronaldo injury shock: Portugal friendlies in doubt

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo will travel to Spain for rehabilitation after sustaining a hamstring injury, according to Al-Nassr's coach Jorge Jesus.

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Taunted With 'Messi' Chants

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Taunted With 'Messi' Chants

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener. Ronaldo had a quiet game, failing to score, and was met with "Messi" chants from fans after the match, raising questions about the team's early performance.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain's smooth machine faces Belgium's thunder in last-eight clash

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain's smooth machine faces Belgium's thunder in last-eight clash

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Spain face Belgium on Friday in a World Cup quarterfinal that pits one of the tournament's smoothest operators against a side emboldened by a thunderous 4-1 win over the United States that followed one of football's most bizarre political interventions.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ruben Dias backs Cristiano Ronaldo amid growing scrutiny

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ruben Dias backs Cristiano Ronaldo amid growing scrutiny

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Portugal squad are shutting out criticism of the team and captain Cristiano Ronaldo following an underwhelming draw in their World Cup opener against Democratic Republic of Congo, defender Ruben Dias said on Friday.

Why Siraj's Ronaldo Post Has Fans Emotional

Why Siraj's Ronaldo Post Has Fans Emotional

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj shared an emotional tribute to football icon Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal's exit from the FIFA World Cup. Siraj, a long-time admirer, stated that Ronaldo's greatness transcends a single game and thanked him for inspiring millions globally, including himself, often using Ronaldo's mindset and celebration as motivation.

Confident Belgium Plot Spain Upset In FIFA World Cup Quarter-Final

Confident Belgium Plot Spain Upset In FIFA World Cup Quarter-Final

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Thibaut Courtois, Belgium's goalkeeper, expresses confidence in his team's ability to surprise Spain in the upcoming World Cup quarter-final. Despite a shaky group stage, Belgium has shown improved form, and Courtois believes they have the qualities to challenge the European champions. He acknowledges Spain's strengths but highlights Belgium's potential for an upset, drawing on his personal experience playing in Spain.

How Spain Threw a Party for Their World Champions...

How Spain Threw a Party for Their World Champions...

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Spain's national football team celebrated their second World Cup victory with a massive parade through Madrid, drawing nearly two million ecstatic fans. The players, fresh from their 1-0 win over Argentina, were also greeted by King Felipe and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who praised their achievement and looked forward to future successes.

Indian Goalkeeper Reflects On Ronaldo And Neymar's World Cup Heartbreak

Indian Goalkeeper Reflects On Ronaldo And Neymar's World Cup Heartbreak

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Legendary Indian goalkeeper Brahmananda Sankhwalkar reflects on the emotional FIFA World Cup exits of Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Junior. He discusses their unfulfilled World Cup dreams, their rivalry with Lionel Messi, and the circumstances of their respective team's eliminations, highlighting their enduring legacy despite the absence of a World Cup trophy.

How super-sub Merino delivers when Spain needs him most...

How super-sub Merino delivers when Spain needs him most...

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Mikel Merino, the Arsenal midfielder, has once again proven to be Spain's late-game hero, scoring an 88th-minute winner against Belgium to send his team into the World Cup semi-finals. This follows his stoppage-time goal against Portugal in the last 16. Merino attributes his consistent clutch performances to thorough preparation, embodying the collective spirit praised by coach Luis de la Fuente.

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Kolkata's iconic 'FIFA Gully' has transformed a small neighbourhood lane into a colourful World Cup attraction, with murals and giant cut-outs of Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar and other football stars celebrating the city's enduring love for the beautiful game.

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

A 13-year-old boy was killed and two others injured in Ciudad Rodrigo, Spain, when a fountain collapsed during celebrations for Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 victory. The tragic incident cast a shadow over nationwide festivities after Spain secured its second World Cup title with a 1-0 win over Argentina.

'We have to accept this defeat': Morocco coach reacts

'We have to accept this defeat': Morocco coach reacts

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Morocco's coach Mohamed Ouahbi expressed disappointment after their 2-0 World Cup quarter-final loss to France, acknowledging they faced a better team but stressing the need for self-criticism and progress despite leaving a 'good image'.

Wimbledon: Jannik Sinner Eases Past Borges To Reach Round 3

Wimbledon: Jannik Sinner Eases Past Borges To Reach Round 3

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Defending Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner secured a relatively straightforward victory against Nuno Borges in the second round, winning 7-6(4), 7-6(2), 6-4.

FIFA World Cup: 'Team Must Score, Not You': Henry Blasts Ronaldo

FIFA World Cup: 'Team Must Score, Not You': Henry Blasts Ronaldo

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo had a quiet start to the FIFA World Cup 2026 as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening Group K match.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Kounde answers Yamal as favourite debate fuels war of words

FIFA World Cup 2026: Kounde answers Yamal as favourite debate fuels war of words

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France defender Jules Kounde has brushed aside Spain star Lamine Yamal's comments that Les Bleus are not favourites ahead of La Roja at the FIFA World Cup 2026, saying the remarks do not bother him.

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Football superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have taken to social media to share their preparations for crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage matches. Messi, fresh off a hat-trick, is fine-tuning for Argentina's clash against Austria, while Ronaldo, after a frustrating draw, is refocusing for Portugal's game against Uzbekistan.

Hollywood Superstar Tom Cruise arrives for FIFA World Cup final

Hollywood Superstar Tom Cruise arrives for FIFA World Cup final

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final sees Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, take on a strong Spanish unit featuring teenage star Lamine Yamal, with Messi aiming for back-to-back titles at a venue holding past painful memories.

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 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.

Munoz strike sends Colombia into World Cup Round of 32

Munoz strike sends Colombia into World Cup Round of 32

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Daniel Munoz fired Colombia into the World Cup Round of 32 on Tuesday, sealing a 1-0 win over DR Congo in Group K.

Spain Vs Argentina FIFA World Cup Final Shatters US Viewership Records

Spain Vs Argentina FIFA World Cup Final Shatters US Viewership Records

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina garnered nearly 63 million viewers in the United States, setting new viewership records and highlighting football's increasing popularity in the country.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland, Messi mania hits Peru as parents name babies after stars

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

In Peru, there is a wave of new baby Haalands. In Argentina, Lionel has raced up the rankings, and in Mexico a girl was reportedly named after three soccer players. Parents in Latin America are already christening a new generation of babies after the stars of the World Cup.

Historic! DR Congo Qualify for FIFA World Cup Knockouts After 52 Years

Historic! DR Congo Qualify for FIFA World Cup Knockouts After 52 Years

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo has made a historic return to the World Cup knockout stages, 52 years after a disastrous debut.

I Celebrated My Birthday With Messi. No, Really.

I Celebrated My Birthday With Messi. No, Really.

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

When I planned my 27th birthday trip to Kerala, I had a very clear vision in mind. There would be beaches. There would be the backwaters. There would be long boat rides, cute cafs and perhaps a fancy dinner overlooking the water. What I did not anticipate was celebrating my birthday with Lionel Messi.

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.

Oyarzabal double powers Spain past Austria to World Cup last 16

Oyarzabal double powers Spain past Austria to World Cup last 16

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Spain secured their spot in the World Cup Round of 16 with a convincing 3-0 win over Austria, featuring two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal. The dominant performance saw Spain maintain their perfect defensive record, setting up a clash with either Portugal or Croatia in the next stage.

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could significantly alter the sport's economics and logistics, despite opposition from major confederations like UEFA and AFC.

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Argentina, one of football's most successful teams, is also one of its most polarising, inspiring both devotion and irritation due to its history, iconic players like Maradona and Messi, and a national identity often perceived as arrogant by rivals.

Unbeaten Spain eye Italy's all-time record in World Cup semi-final vs France

Unbeaten Spain eye Italy's all-time record in World Cup semi-final vs France

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Spain take a 36-match unbeaten run into their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against France, with Lamine Yamal calling it the biggest match of his career as La Roja chase Italy's all-time record.

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: Uzbekistan dream crushed by Colombia's late surge

FIFA World Cup: Uzbekistan dream crushed by Colombia's late surge

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Colombia began their World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over debutants Uzbekistan in a Group K encounter at the Azteca Stadium. Luis Diaz was instrumental, assisting the opening goal and scoring another, as Colombia secured three points to top their group.

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.