The Economic Times

Through five days and 16 matches of soccer's biggest extravaganza ever, the underdogs are proving to be very tough to beat. All four matches on Monday ended in ties - the most in a single day of men's World Cup play since 1958 - and all of them technically could be considered upsets as well. The biggest win (that wasn't a win) of all saw Cape Verde - ranked No. 67 and in its World Cup debut - hold No. 2 Spain, a favorite to win the whole thing, 0-0 in what easily has been the biggest shocker of

Ronaldo recently won his first Saudi Pro League title with AlNassr, leading his club with 28 goals on the season. His abundant experience and leadership are qualities some supporters say cannot be replicated. Hes not going to shy away from those moments when its the World Cup on the line, Rob Stickle said.

Formula 1 is focusing on India as a key market. The sport's chief executive sees potential for a return to India. Adani Group is actively working to bring Formula 1 back. This effort aims to showcase India's heritage beyond just a sporting event. A race is not expected in the immediate future, but a long-term view is being taken.

France vs Senegal India live streaming: France, seeking redemption after a 2022 final loss, kicks off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Senegal at MetLife Stadium. Led by stars like Kylian Mbappe, the French are strong contenders. Senegal, aiming for an early upset, hopes to build on their previous World Cup performance and advance deeper into the tournament.

Gurnoor Brar impressed on his international debut. The young pacer delivered speeds of 148 kmph. He took three wickets in his first spell. This performance justified the selectors' belief in his talent. Brar's journey included overcoming a stress fracture and significant technical changes. His coach believes he can bowl even faster.

A renowned World Cup prediction model, which accurately forecast the last three winners, suggests Argentina's reign as champions will end in the 2026 quarter-finals. Despite Lionel Messi's expected decisive role against Turkey, the model predicts Portugal's deeper squad will overcome the defending champions in a blockbuster clash.

Serena Williams is set to make her Wimbledon return after a four-year hiatus, having been granted a wildcard for the women's doubles. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion recently played doubles at the Queen's Club Championships and will now partner with her sister Venus at the prestigious tournament.

Australia captain Mitchell Marsh is backing his revamped side in the three-match T20 series against Bangladesh after the visitors suffered a bitter 2-1 defeat in their one-day internationals. Australia struggled against Bangladesh's pace-heavy attack in the ODIs, losing the first two matches before salvaging some pride with a narrow win in the final match in Mirpur.

India faces Netherlands in the Women's T20 World Cup. The team seeks better batting consistency after a mixed performance against Pakistan. Key players like Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh showed form. India's bowlers, especially spinners Deepti Sharma and Shree Charani, performed well. Netherlands lost their opening match and needs improvement.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became a global star after an incredible World Cup performance against Spain. He made numerous saves, frustrating the Spanish team. His Instagram followers surged from thousands to millions. Vozinha's journey from a small island nation to football's biggest stage is a remarkable underdog story. This event brought immense pride to Cape Verde.

Tehran residents gathered in cafes to watch Iran's World Cup match against New Zealand. Despite the early morning kick-off, fans showed excitement for their team. The game unfolded amidst political tensions and a recent agreement between Iran and the United States. The team's performance, marked by a draw, brought cheers. Preparation challenges for the team were also highlighted.

Cape Verde's Vozinha became a global sensation after a remarkable goalkeeping display against Spain. The 40-year old goal keeper made seven crucial saves to secure a historic 0-0 draw against Spain. This achievement marked a significant moment for the small island nation on the world's biggest football stage. Vozinha's journey from street football to this global spotlight is an inspiring tale of resilience and belief.

Pacer Ashok Sharma joins the India A squad for the ongoing tri-series in Sri Lanka. He replaces Yudhvir Singh who suffered a shoulder injury. Sharma impressed with his pace during the IPL. India A has lost its last two matches in the series. The updated squad includes Tilak Varma as captain and Ruturaj Gaikwad as vice-captain.

US President Donald Trump will present the World Cup trophy. FIFA has approved his participation in the ceremony. This follows his role at the Club World Cup. Officials from Mexico and Canada will also attend. Trump is expected at the World Cup final on July 19. He will join the winners on the podium.

In an intense kickoff to the World Cup, Uruguay battled to a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia. Maximiliano Araujo struck a crucial equalizer in the 80th minute, rescuing a point for his team. Despite dominating possession and outshooting their opponents, Uruguay found themselves trailing at halftime. Both squads now sit on one point in the competitive Group H.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran fought back twice to lock in a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their World Cup debut, demonstrating grit in the face of social unrest. The match, charged with emotion, saw both teams overcoming hurdles in preparation for this grand stage.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil faces the prospect of Neymar missing the entire World Cup group stage as medical staff prioritize his fitness for later rounds. The veteran forward is recovering from a calf injury and is unlikely to feature against Haiti or Scotland. The team aims for his return in the knockout stages, with his availability dependent on his recovery and Brazil's performance.

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni and defender Nicolas Otamendi emphasized Lionel Messi's crucial role ahead of their World Cup opener. Scaloni stated that everyone wants to see the icon play, dismissing concerns about his fitness. Otamendi described Messi as the est player in history and a competitive animal who inspires the team.

Egypt's bid for a first World Cup win was thwarted by Belgium. Emam Ashour scored early for Egypt. Romelu Lukaku came on and immediately forced an own goal to level the score. The match ended in a 1-1 draw. Mohamed Salah made a World Cup goal involvement on his birthday.

As Japan takes the stage in the World Cup, their journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for football that captivates fans worldwide. Their recent duel with the Netherlands highlighted a blend of technical finesse and strategic gameplay. This impressive showing is rooted in a vibrant athletic culture that thrives at schools and universities.

India has announced its wrestling squad for the upcoming U-17 World Wrestling Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan. The selection followed rigorous national trials. India's women's wrestling team has achieved significant success in recent championships. The contingent aims for a historic third consecutive title. Athletes from various states have secured their spots across different weight categories and disciplines.

A FIFA discrimination monitor has demanded the removal of a video review official. The official reportedly made a hand gesture resembling a white supremacist sign during Germany's World Cup match. The gesture, known as the 'OK' sign, has been designated a hate symbol. The monitor stated the official should have no further role in the tournament.

The 24-year-old Dhiraj stunned Olympic bronze medallist Lee Woo-seok of South Korea 7-3 in the men's individual recurve final to claim his maiden Archery World Cup gold medal. It was also India's first men's individual recurve gold at a World Cup stage since Atanu Das achieved the feat in 2021.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Despite concerns over heat, transportation, and high ticket prices, the World Cup's opening days saw enthusiastic fan engagement, particularly with host nations performing well. However, empty seats at some matches and fears over immigration enforcement cast a shadow, while expanded tournament format offered opportunities for long-absent teams.

Iran's World Cup journey is proving difficult. Captain Mehdi Taremi highlights disruptions caused by the ongoing war with co-host United States. The team faced relocation and visa issues. Coach Amir Ghalenoei notes these conditions impact focus. Despite challenges, the team aims to bring joy to all Iranians.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Japan fought back twice to secure a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their World Cup opener. Daichi Kamada scored the late equalizer after Koki Ogawa's header. The Netherlands had taken the lead twice through Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville. Japan's Keito Nakamura had earlier leveled the score. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made key saves for Japan.

Curacao achieved a historic World Cup debut, scoring its first tournament goal against Germany. Despite a strong first half, the team lost 7-1. Coach Dick Advocaat expressed pride in the team's performance and the joy it brought to their nation. The experience gained will be crucial for their upcoming matches against Ecuador.

Four-time winners Germany thrashed World Cup debutants Curacao 7-1 in their first group game on Sunday. Kai Havertz got two goals and Nico Schlotterbeck, Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav also scored in Houston to secure Germany's first opening-match win at a World Cup since their successful 2014 campaign in Brazil, after Livano Comenencia had briefly cancelled out Felix Nmecha's opener. nf/gj

Lionel Messi is set to make history. He will become the first player to participate in six World Cups. This marks a remarkable achievement for the legendary Argentine forward. Messi confirmed his participation for the upcoming tournament. He continues to enjoy playing football. His presence promises an exciting event for fans worldwide.

Dhiraj Bommadevara secured two gold medals at the Archery World Cup Stage 3 in Antalya. He defeated South Korea in both the recurve mixed team and individual events. This historic achievement marks a significant moment for Indian archery. His parents' sacrifices were instrumental in his journey. This win fuels his motivation for future competitions.

India secured a dominant 64-run victory over Pakistan in their ICC Women's T20 World Cup debut. Deepti Sharma's exceptional bowling performance, taking five wickets, was key. Smriti Mandhana's strong batting contributed significantly to India's total. Pakistan was bowled out while chasing India's score. The Indian spinners proved too strong for the Pakistan batters.

Germany will target a winning start to their FIFA World Cup campaign, something they have not achieved since 2014, against tournament debutants Curacao in Houston. While Germany are expected to start with a victory, manager Julian Nagelsmann sees Curacao as dangerous since they are not heading into the 2026 World Cup as favourites.

Somali referee Omar Artan will receive his full World Cup fee despite being denied entry to the United States. Artan, a top official, was deemed inadmissible due to vetting concerns upon arrival. FIFA stated it does not handle immigration processes. UEFA has shown respect for Artan's skills, appointing him to the Super Cup.

India posted a competitive 170 for 6 against Pakistan in their Women's T20 World Cup debut. Smriti Mandhana starred with a brilliant 68. Richa Ghosh provided a quickfire cameo, scoring 34 off just 17 balls. Their efforts helped India set a challenging target for their arch-rivals in the opening encounter.

Lewis Hamilton achieved a historic victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, marking his first win with Ferrari. At 41, he is now Formula One's oldest race winner since 1970. This triumph ended Kimi Antonelli's winning streak. George Russell secured second place for Mercedes, with Lando Norris finishing third for McLaren. Hamilton's remarkable career continues to break records.

Dhiraj Bommadevara achieved a significant Archery World Cup victory in Antalya. He secured his first individual gold medal by defeating South Korea's Lee Woo Seok. This triumph followed his earlier win in the recurve mixed team event with Kumkum Mohod. Bommadevara displayed composure under pressure throughout the competition. His performance marks a career breakthrough.

Harmanpreet Kaur, India's women's cricket captain, followed a policy of not shaking hands with Pakistan's Fatima Sana at the T20 World Cup toss. This practice began after a terror attack. Both players focused solely on cricket during pre-match discussions. The teams had previously avoided handshakes in other matches. The focus remains on the game itself.

Turkey's World Cup journey began with a disappointing 2-0 loss to Australia. Coach Vincenzo Montella acknowledged a slow start from his team. Despite dominating possession, Turkey struggled to penetrate Australia's defense. The team now faces Paraguay needing a win to advance. Turkey's return to the World Cup after 2002 did not start as planned.

India's athletics team for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is announced. The 32-member squad includes star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. Athletes like Tejas Shirse, who set a new national record, are also part of the team. The women's contingent features strong contenders in various track and field events. This team aims for glory in Glasgow.

India and Pakistan are set to face off in a marquee ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 clash at Edgbaston in Birmingham. While rain is not expected to significantly impact the contest, weather conditions could influence playing conditions early in the match. Check the latest Birmingham weather forecast, pitch report, probable playing XIs, head-to-head record, match timings and other key details ahead of the high-profile encounter.

Iran's national soccer team, Team Melli, is training in Tijuana, Mexico for the World Cup. This unusual choice comes amid visa challenges with the United States. The small Iranian community in Tijuana reflects broader diaspora divisions, particularly over national symbols. Despite political differences, support for the team remains strong as they prepare for their upcoming matches.

India's Dhiraj Bommadevara and Kumkum Mohod secured a stunning recurve mixed team gold at the Archery World Cup Stage 3. They defeated reigning Olympic champions South Korea in straight sets. This marks a significant achievement for the young Indian duo. Dhiraj's precision in the final moments secured the victory. Kumkum also contributed to a previous gold medal win for India.

A Mexican trade association leader has lost his job. This happened after a video showed him making a racist gesture at a South Korean influencer during a FIFA World Cup match. The incident sparked widespread criticism online. The leader's actions were condemned as perpetuating harmful stereotypes. This led to his dismissal from the Jalisco Association of Surveyors and Geomatics Engineers.

Pakistan's top table tennis players are reportedly shocked after the Pakistan Table Tennis Federation (PTTF) informed them they must fund their own participation in the Asian Games in Japan. Players were told they would receive no allowances for national trials and must arrange their own air tickets and daily foreign currency for the Games.

Manu Bhaker's father, Ram Kishan, fondly recalls coach Jaspal Rana's impact. Rana instilled discipline and a results-oriented approach in Manu, shaping her into a champion shooter. He was a strict but good-hearted mentor. Despite a past rift, Rana returned to coach Manu for the Paris Olympics, where she excelled. His guidance was instrumental in her achievements.

Australia defeated Turkey 2-0 in their World Cup Group D opener, with goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe. Irankunda opened the scoring in the 27th minute, and Metcalfe sealed the victory in the 75th. The win places Australia second in the group.