News for 'semi-final'

Anahat Singh Ends India's 18-Year Wait, Reaches World Junior Squash Final

Anahat Singh Ends India's 18-Year Wait, Reaches World Junior Squash Final

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Indian squash sensation Anahat Singh has made history by becoming the first Indian since Joshna Chinappa in 2005 to reach the World Junior Squash Championship final.

Yamal's Viral Post Fires Up Spain's Final Dream

Yamal's Viral Post Fires Up Spain's Final Dream

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Spain, led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, defeated France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, securing their place in the final. Yamal, who played a crucial role in the victory, has already expressed his team's readiness for the title clash in New York. This marks Spain's first World Cup final appearance since their 2010 triumph.

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

After England's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final win over Norway, midfielder Jude Bellingham pushed back against manager Thomas Tuchel's "sloppy" performance assessment, highlighting the team's resilience and the challenging conditions. Despite the friction, Bellingham's two goals were crucial in securing England's semi-final spot, underscoring his vital role in the tournament.

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.

World No. 1 Sabalenka knocked out of Canadian Open by Alexandrova

World No. 1 Sabalenka knocked out of Canadian Open by Alexandrova

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

World number one Aryna Sabalenka was defeated 7-6(3), 4-6, 6-4 by Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova in the fourth round of the Canadian Open, a significant setback in her U.S. Open preparations.

'Spain Will Win FIFA World Cup'

'Spain Will Win FIFA World Cup'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India captain Climax Lawrence has predicted Spain to lift the FIFA World Cup, praising their tactical discipline and fitness.

FIFA World Cup: 'We were second best': France coach's honest verdict

FIFA World Cup: 'We were second best': France coach's honest verdict

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France coach Didier Deschamps conceded his side were 'outclassed' by Spain in their 2-0 World Cup semi-final defeat, highlighting technical, tactical, and physical shortcomings that ended their quest for a third title.

Season best sends Animesh Kujur into CWG 200m semis

Season best sends Animesh Kujur into CWG 200m semis

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Indian national record holder Animesh Kujur has qualified for the 200m semifinals at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, clocking his season-best time of 20.46 seconds. He won his heat and finished seventh overall among the qualifiers.

28 years on, Pritam hopes son Yashdeep can realise her unfulfilled World Cup dream

28 years on, Pritam hopes son Yashdeep can realise her unfulfilled World Cup dream

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Former India hockey star Pritam Siwach will watch son Yashdeep make his World Cup debut in the Netherlands, 28 years after her own World Cup appearance.

FIFA WC 2026: Will injured Mbappe miss semis vs Spain?

FIFA WC 2026: Will injured Mbappe miss semis vs Spain?

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

France captain Kylian Mbappe sustained a minor ankle injury during the World Cup quarter-final win against Morocco but is expected to play in Tuesday's semi-final against Spain, with coach Didier Deschamps confirming he is 'fine'.

After Deschamps, Can Zidane Unlock France's Golden Generation?

After Deschamps, Can Zidane Unlock France's Golden Generation?

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain marks the end of Didier Deschamps' 14-year reign, with Zinedine Zidane widely expected to take over and lead a new generation of gifted players towards future global titles.

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.

U Mumba TT secure dominant 8-3 victory over Kolkata ThunderBlades to reach UTT final

U Mumba TT secure dominant 8-3 victory over Kolkata ThunderBlades to reach UTT final

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Defending champions U Mumba TT, led by captain Manush Shah and Anna Hursey, secured an emphatic 8-3 victory over HVR Kolkata ThunderBlades in the second semi-final of Butterfly Ultimate Table Tennis Season 7, setting up a final clash with Dempo Goa Challengers.

FIFA World Cup: Why Argentina Wanted This Kit Against England

FIFA World Cup: Why Argentina Wanted This Kit Against England

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Argentina will wear their navy-and-black away kit for the World Cup semi-final against England, a decision that has sparked fan interest due to the kit's association with past victories against England, including the 1986 'Hand of God' match and the 1998 penalty shootout win. The team hopes this alternate strip brings them continued success.

2027 Men's ODI World Cup across 12 venues in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia

2027 Men's ODI World Cup across 12 venues in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced 12 venues across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia for the 2027 ODI World Cup, marking the tournament's return to Africa after 24 years, with a new 57-match, three-stage format designed to enhance competitiveness and fan experience.

FIFA World Cup semis: Tuchel reveals England's plan to stop Messi

FIFA World Cup semis: Tuchel reveals England's plan to stop Messi

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel insists his players are not focusing on the historical rivalry with Argentina ahead of their World Cup semi-final, stating the occasion itself is significant enough and their preparation centres on the game at hand.

Cricket Scotland, KNCB Slam ICC's 'Setback' World Cup Qualification Changes

Cricket Scotland, KNCB Slam ICC's 'Setback' World Cup Qualification Changes

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) have jointly criticised the International Cricket Council's (ICC) significant structural changes to the Men's 50-over World Cup qualification pathway, calling it a 'setback to Associate Member cricket' and expressing disappointment over the lack of consultation.

Defending Champions U Mumba TT Secure Spot In Ultimate Table Tennis Final

Defending Champions U Mumba TT Secure Spot In Ultimate Table Tennis Final

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Defending champions U Mumba TT, led by Captain Manush Shah and Anna Hursey, secured a commanding 8-3 victory over Kolkata ThunderBlades in the Ultimate Table Tennis semi-final. This win sets up a title clash against Dempo Goa Challengers, marking U Mumba TT's second successive UTT final appearance.

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 shining at CWG: Judo Golds, Javelin Double, Boxers Blaze

India shining at CWG: Judo Golds, Javelin Double, Boxers Blaze

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

India celebrated a remarkable day at the Commonwealth Games, securing its first-ever judo gold medals through Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh, achieving a javelin throw double podium with Neeraj Chopra and Yashvir Singh, and seeing 10 boxers advance to their respective finals.

FIFA World Cup: Spain's perfect defence faces France's biggest test

FIFA World Cup: Spain's perfect defence faces France's biggest test

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

France's defender Ibrahima Konate states the team is not afraid of Spain ahead of their World Cup semi-final, despite acknowledging Spain's exceptional quality and formidable defence. Having lost to Spain in previous tournaments, France is preparing thoroughly, focusing on containing individual talents like Lamine Yamal while aiming for their fifth World Cup final appearance.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Finishes Second In Youth Asian Championship

Indian Women's Hockey Team Finishes Second In Youth Asian Championship

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The Indian women's hockey team secured a spot in the FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup despite finishing as runner-up in the Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship in Muscat, losing 2-4 to China in the final. The team had previously defeated Kazakhstan 8-1 in the semi-final.

CWG 2026 Glasgow: India's Full Schedule Here

CWG 2026 Glasgow: India's Full Schedule Here

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

India's top athletes are ready for the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. Here is the complete schedule, key events and timings for the Indian contingent.

How Messi's Collective Genius Propelled Argentina To World Cup Final

How Messi's Collective Genius Propelled Argentina To World Cup Final

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's profound influence, marked by crucial assists and strategic play, was instrumental in Argentina's victory over England, securing their spot in a second successive World Cup final. Despite not scoring, his collective contribution and energy preservation were key to the team's success, culminating in two late assists for the equaliser and winning goal.

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France captain Kylian Mbappe admitted his side failed both tactically and technically in their 2-0 FIFA World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, ending their hopes of a third successive final appearance.

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.

India Women's Tour to South Africa Expanded with T20Is

India Women's Tour to South Africa Expanded with T20Is

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Cricket South Africa has revised the India women's team tour schedule to include three T20Is, a Test, and three ODIs, extending the tour until December 30.

Sarin, Erigaisi secure quarter-final berths at Esports World Cup Chess

Sarin, Erigaisi secure quarter-final berths at Esports World Cup Chess

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Indian Grandmasters Nihal Sarin and Arjun Erigaisi have successfully navigated the lower bracket of the Esports World Cup chess tournament in Paris, securing their spots in the quarter-finals. The duo will now compete in the knockout stage, aiming for the US$1.5 million prize pool.

BCCI Secretary To Meet VVS Laxman Over Player Injuries

BCCI Secretary To Meet VVS Laxman Over Player Injuries

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is set to meet Head Of Cricket VVS Laxman to review the rehabilitation management programme at the Centre of Excellence (COE) following a spate of injuries to key Indian players. The meeting aims to address concerns regarding player fitness and the effectiveness of the COE's injury management protocols.

Spain's Lamine Yamal: Football Is About Integration, Not Division

Spain's Lamine Yamal: Football Is About Integration, Not Division

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Spain's young football star Lamine Yamal, celebrating his 19th birthday, spoke about football's power to foster integration and unity ahead of the World Cup semi-final against France, while also sharing light-hearted moments about his family and personal milestones.

Jadumani returns home with CWG silver, eyes Asian Games gold

Jadumani returns home with CWG silver, eyes Asian Games gold

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Indian boxer Jadumani Singh, a Commonwealth Games 2026 silver medalist, expressed his happiness over his achievement while admitting he had aimed for gold, dedicating his medal to India and vowing to work harder for a stronger performance at the upcoming Asian Games.

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

'I let myself get distracted': Mbappe blames VAR confusion for penalty miss

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe admitted VAR confusion distracted him before his missed penalty against Morocco but said France's talented squad still has plenty to prove despite reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a 2-0 victory.

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash against England, Argentina fans are engaging in traditional 'cabalas' or superstitions, including freezing captain Harry Kane's name, to bring their national team good fortune on the pitch.

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The upcoming LaLiga season promises an intense battle as Barcelona defends its title against a revamped Real Madrid, led by returning manager Jose Mourinho, and a turbulent Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid has made significant signings and brought back Mourinho after two trophyless seasons, while Barcelona relies on continuity and its World Cup-winning core. Atletico Madrid faces pressure on manager Diego Simeone and a potential transfer saga involving Julian Alvarez, setting the stage for a dramatic season.

India U20 secure SAFF Championship semi-final spot after draw with Bangladesh

India U20 secure SAFF Championship semi-final spot after draw with Bangladesh

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

The Indian U20 men's team played out a 1-1 draw against Bangladesh in their second match of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026, securing their place as Group B toppers and advancing to the semi-finals.

Afghanistan secure 2027 World Cup spot, West Indies to play qualifiers

Afghanistan secure 2027 World Cup spot, West Indies to play qualifiers

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Afghanistan has secured automatic qualification for the 2027 Cricket World Cup after defeating Ireland, while the West Indies, ranked 10th, will once again have to navigate qualifiers for the third consecutive edition of the tournament.

T20 World Cup: India Keeps Semi-Final Dreams Alive

T20 World Cup: India Keeps Semi-Final Dreams Alive

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

For India, a win against the West Indies will guarantee a semifinal spot, with four points making net run rate a non-issue.

Abhinav Tejrana: Goa's Lone Cricketer in South Zone Duleep Trophy Squad

Abhinav Tejrana: Goa's Lone Cricketer in South Zone Duleep Trophy Squad

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Goa's Abhinav Tejrana has been named in the South Zone squad for the prestigious Duleep Trophy, making him the only cricketer from Goa to achieve this distinction this year, a selection attributed to his consistent high-scoring performances in recent seasons.

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

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

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

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.

Nithyashree Mani: UTT Offers Invaluable Experience Against Top-50 Talent

Nithyashree Mani: UTT Offers Invaluable Experience Against Top-50 Talent

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Indian paddler Nithyashree Mani believes competing against high-calibre international opponents in Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) Season 7 provides invaluable experience for domestic players, helping them showcase their skills against world-class talent and prepare for future challenges.