The Times of India

Fresh footage shows Lionel Messi urging Argentina to forget everything before the World Cup final. The team delivered a subdued performance and ultimately lost the match to Spain. Messi's repeated message has fueled speculation among fans and observers. Coach Lionel Scaloni also hinted at pre-match issues without elaboration. The viral videos continue to deepen the mystery surrounding the team's mindset.

India's boxing contingent faces luggage delays before the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Several boxers and coaches arrived in Glasgow without essential training equipment and attire. This marks the second baggage issue encountered during their recent travel. Despite these challenges, the team aims for a strong medal performance. Indian boxing legend MC Mary Kom expressed confidence in the team's medal potential.

Lionel Messi returned to his hometown of Rosario for rest after Argentina's World Cup final defeat. Hundreds of supporters gathered early hoping to see their captain, but he did not make a public appearance. Messi's SUV was glimpsed as it departed the airport for his family's residence. He also plans to reunite with his father who was undergoing medical treatment.

GM M Pranesh defeated world champion D Gukesh for a second time. GM Nihal Sarin secured a crucial victory against Arjun Erigaisi in Round 6. French Grandmaster Alireza Firouzja moved into sole lead after drawing his game. Erigaisi's defeat left him tied with Abdusattorov on 3.5 points. The elite tournament features top grandmasters and carries significant prize money.

Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter criticised the 2026 World Cup's credibility. He urged fans and associations to reclaim football from political influence. Spain defeated Argentina to win the expanded 48-team tournament. FIFA president Gianni Infantino highlighted record attendance and viewership figures. Despite controversies, the tournament saw strong on-field performances and high viewership.

New footage shows an alleged attempt to influence the referee after Enzo Fernandez's red card. Argentina full-back Nicolas Tagliafico appeared to feign injury moments after the foul occurred. Lionel Messi then rushed towards the referee, pointing to the fallen Tagliafico. This effort did not change the referee's decision regarding Fernandez's dismissal. The match concluded with Spain winning their second World Cup title.

Murali Sreeshankar is preparing for upcoming athletic events after a serious injury. He aims to improve upon his previous silver medal performance. Sreeshankar is currently training in Poland to adapt to track conditions. He is focusing on recovery and peaking at the right times. The long jumper is optimistic about achieving a significant jump in major championships.

Emiliano Martinez suggested his international career might be ending after Argentina's World Cup final defeat. He expressed deep regret and the need for reflection on his future with the team. Martinez delivered an exceptional performance despite playing with a broken finger. His remarkable 11 saves set a new record for a World Cup final match. Spain ultimately secured a 1-0 victory in extra time after a hard-fought contest.

Tilak Varma addressed criticism regarding his strike rate during recent T20I tours. He stated he bats according to team requirements and match situations. India's top-order collapses often necessitated rebuilding innings for the middle order. As vice-captain, Varma prioritizes fulfilling team management's specific responsibilities. He emphasized playing for the country involves significant responsibilities.

Tilak Varma discussed India's recent T20I series losses against Ireland and England. He cited adapting to overseas conditions as a significant challenge for the team. Varma emphasized the importance of staying calm and fostering a positive team environment. The team has learned valuable lessons from these difficult overseas campaigns. India aims to regain momentum by executing these learnings in upcoming matches.

England all-rounder Jacob Bethell will miss The Hundred tournament. He sustained a right knee injury during the recent ODI series against India. Bethell was retained by Birmingham Phoenix and named team captain. He will begin his rehabilitation program immediately after the diagnosis. Despite some low scores, he showed flashes of brilliance.

Leandro Paredes addressed the World Cup final chaos without apology. FIFA has initiated a disciplinary investigation into the post-match incidents. Television footage showed Paredes involved in altercations with Spanish players. Argentina's team also faced criticism for their actions after the match. The investigation could lead to retrospective sanctions for those involved.

Former Australia coach Justin Langer has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Brendon McCullum as England's Test coach. While the ECB hopes to make an appointment before next month's Pakistan series, former India coaches Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid are not part of the recruitment process.

England's Jacob Bethell shared his unforgettable experience opening the batting with Virat Kohli. The young player felt overwhelmed by the intense atmosphere at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. He described Kohli as a very chilled individual off the cricket field. Bethell's time with Royal Challengers Bengaluru was a significant career highlight. He gained valuable experience and improved his game during his tenure.

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi can become a generational talent. He urged patience for the 15-year-old after his challenging debut series. Raza highlighted the importance of proper management for the young cricketer's development. Zimbabwe anticipates an entertaining T20I series against India. Both teams are in transition, making the contest more evenly balanced.

PV Sindhu received crucial guidance from Virat Kohli during a difficult career period. This conversation helped her overcome a serious injury and focus on rehabilitation. Her husband facilitated her recovery away from public scrutiny in Atlanta. Sindhu then achieved a historic Japan Open women's singles title win. This victory marked a remarkable comeback after her extensive recovery process.

Fast bowler Ashok Sharma received his maiden senior national team call-up. He hopes to make his international debut during the upcoming T20I series. Sharma aims to take wickets and play as many matches as possible. He also dreams of representing India in Test cricket soon. Dale Steyn remains his biggest inspiration for fast bowling.

The BWF World Championships return to India after seventeen years. Five reigning champions arrive in New Delhi with pressure to defend their titles. Shi Yu Qi and Akane Yamaguchi aim to retain their singles crowns. Kim Won Ho/Seo Seung Jae and Liu Sheng Shu/Tan Ning also defend doubles titles. Chen Tang Jie/Toh Ee Wei seek to prove their mixed doubles win was just the start.

India suffered a disappointing start at the China Masters as Devika Sihag and HS Prannoy exited in the opening round. Devika fought hard before losing a three-game battle to Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan, while Prannoy went down in straight games to Malaysia's Leong Jun Hao. PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen and Ayush Shetty begin their campaigns on Wednesday.

Sanju Samson initially doubted Rohit Sharma's encouraging words during the T20 World Cup. He admitted to not believing his captain's reassurances at that difficult time. Samson then focused on self-reflection and rediscovering his purpose as a cricketer. This introspection helped him regain his confidence and mental strength. He eventually delivered a significant performance against the West Indies.

Enzo Fernandez expressed pride in representing Argentina after their World Cup final defeat. He highlighted the team's commitment and effort over the final result. The midfielder thanked fans for their unwavering support throughout the tournament. He stated that wearing his country's shirt is the greatest honor. Fernandez pledged to continue giving his all for Argentina.

India's injury list is growing: Nitish Kumar Reddy injured himself during the ODI series against Afghanistan last month, Hardik Pandya has yet to feature in an ODI for India since the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in March 2025. Harshit Rana has suffered two injury setbacks in the last six months. Washington Sundar has had a couple of breakdowns in the same period. Varun Chakravarthy suffered a hairline fracture before a Grade 2 hamstring injury ruled him out of action.

Argentina's players declined all homecoming celebrations after losing 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final, President Javier Milei revealed. He backed Lionel Messi's decision not to return with the squad, calling him he best player of all time. Milei also praised Argentina's fighting spirit, claimed the team suffered refereeing injustice, and hailed Spain as a formidable opponent.

Spain celebrated their 2026 FIFA World Cup victory by cutting down goal nets. This tradition was borrowed from American basketball championship celebrations. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time against Argentina. Spain secured their second World Cup title after a dominant performance. The players took pieces of the net as souvenirs of their triumph.

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza believes his team has an equal chance of beating India in the upcoming three-match T20I series. Citing recent wins over Australia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Raza said both teams are in transition and expects a competitive contest. India enter the series after T20I losses to Ireland and England and an ODI defeat.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Instagram account liked a post alleging FIFA aided Argentina's World Cup final journey. This incident adds to existing tournament controversies and questions about FIFA's integrity. Argentina's path to the final involved several close matches and dramatic comebacks. They ultimately lost the World Cup final to Spain after extra time. Ronaldo has not publicly commented on his social media activity.

The Calcutta High Court has directed police to arrest Delhi Capitals cricketer Abishek Porel in a rape case and seize his electronic devices to prevent the alleged circulation of sensitive material. Porel faces charges including rape and criminal intimidation after a woman accused him of establishing a physical relationship on the promise of marriage. Investigation is ongoing.

Spain's World Cup triumph sparked an emotional tribute from Inaki Williams to his brother Nico, praising him for inspiring millions of immigrant families. After Spain's 1-0 win over Argentina, Inaki hailed Nico's achievement, while coach Luis de la Fuente and Thierry Henry credited Spain's long-term football system, unity and youth development for the nation's continued global dominance.

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth criticised the team management's decision. KL Rahul batted at number six during a crucial chase at Lord's. Srikkanth felt this was an injustice to the player's proven abilities. He compared this handling to previous instances with other players. India lost the ODI series and faced other defeats recently.

The All India Chess Federation has awarded quarterly stipends worth Rs 42.3 lakh to 42 top junior players across the Under-7 to Under-19 categories. Selected based on their 2024 National Championship performances, each receives Rs 60,000-Rs 1.5 lakh to support coaching and travel. AICF says the historic initiative aims to remove financial barriers and strengthen India's grassroots chess ecosystem.

India's selectors are set to pick the squad for the two-Test tour of Sri Lanka, with Washington Sundar's hamstring injury the biggest selection concern. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to return, while decisions on Sundar's replacement and the all-rounder balance remain pending. India need a strong series to boost their World Test Championship qualification hopes.

Two geniuses, two completely different characters, yet so similar in their endeavour to defend the ultimate glory their professional lives had to offer. Messi could easily have walked away after the Qatar high. Not many would have questioned Maradona either if Argentina didnt match the dizzying heights of 1986 four years on.

Spain's football empire has returned, built on collective strength and developmental strategy. Coach Luis de la Fuente nurtured players from youth teams, fostering deep bonds. This approach abandoned sterile possession for speed, verticality, and athleticism in their game. Spain's Euro 2024 victory laid the foundation for their World Cup triumph. The team's success highlights ideas over individual icons in modern football.

Spain secured their World Cup title with a late extra-time goal from Ferran Torres. This victory mirrored Andres Iniesta's decisive strike from sixteen years prior. Argentina's performance lacked intensity and suffered from disciplinary issues throughout the match. Spain's methodical and dynamic play contrasted sharply with Argentina's struggles. The event concluded with a poignant moment between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

Dipa Karmakar recalls her 2014 Commonwealth Games bronze medal win. She is now coaching and supports Pranati Nayak for a podium finish. Karmakar hopes for India to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and 2036 Olympics. She believes hosting major events will transform the country's sporting ecosystem. Gymnasts should focus on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after upcoming games.

Cricket Australia announced a thirteen-member squad for the upcoming Bangladesh Test series. Key players Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon are returning after recovering from injuries. Australia enters the series in excellent form, currently leading the World Test Championship standings. The Bangladesh series marks the beginning of a busy twelve-month schedule for the team. The first Test begins on August 13 in Darwin, followed by the second in Mackay.

Ravichandran Ashwin supports Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's continued selection for India. He cited their extensive career achievements and significant fan support as key factors. Ashwin noted that bowlers do not receive the same level of public backing. Rohit Sharma recently silenced retirement speculation with a century against England. The captain stated that external criticism has always been part of his career.

FIFA has launched an investigation into post-match clashes following Argentina's World Cup final loss. Several Argentina players were involved in confrontations with Spanish counterparts after the game. FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has appointed a prosecutor to examine these potential breaches. Players found guilty of violent conduct face a minimum three-match suspension. The Argentine Football Association could also face disciplinary action and fines.

Spain defeated Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after extra time. Lionel Messi shared an emotional message acknowledging the immense pain of the loss. He expressed pride in the team's achievement of reaching consecutive World Cup finals. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of the match. The defeat ended Argentina's hopes of defending their title successfully.

Marc Cucurellas unusual act of burying a coin in the pitch before Spains World Cup final has been explained as a lucky ritual dating back to the nations 2010 triumph. Former defender Joan Capdevila revealed he asked Cucurella to continue the superstition, with Spain again lifting the trophy after a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina.

Donald Trump reportedly repeated the same congratulatory message to every Spain and Argentina player during the FIFA World Cup 2026 medal ceremony, according to a professional lip reader. The US President allegedly told each player, You are a champ and Amazing player while presenting medals following Spains 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final.

English football icon Kevin Keegan has passed away at seventy-five years old. He was a two-time Ballon d'Or winner and a Liverpool European Cup champion. Keegan also enjoyed a successful managerial career with Newcastle United and England. His influence extended beyond football into popular culture during the 1970s. He leaves behind a significant legacy as a player and manager.

Kevin Keegan, who died at 75 after battling stage four cancer, was one of English football's defining figures. A two-time Ballon d'Or winner, he starred for Liverpool and Hamburg before managing Newcastle, England, Fulham, and Manchester City. His greatest legacy remains transforming Newcastle United into The Entertainers in the mid-1990s. Tributes poured in from clubs and players, with Alan Shearer and Newcastle United among those paying moving homage to a man who shaped the modern game in Brit

Spain defeated Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after extra time. Lionel Messi experienced a rare off day, failing to create any chances for teammates. Spain's defensive strategy successfully contained the legendary Argentine forward throughout the match. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal, securing Spain's second World Cup title. This victory extended Spain's impressive unbeaten international run to thirty-eight games.

The BCCI will implement Marylebone Cricket Club rule changes for the upcoming domestic season. The final over of the day must now be completed even after a wicket falls. Bowlers deliberately bowling front-foot no-balls will be suspended for the entire match. Declaration and forfeiture are no longer permitted in the match's final innings. New playing conditions will also address gendered language and other relevant changes.

Spain's national football team returned home after winning the FIFA World Cup 2026. The team landed in Madrid and will celebrate with supporters on July 20. Spain secured their second World Cup title by defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time after a cross from Pedro Porro. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made a record eleven saves for Argentina during the match.

Argentina faced criticism for their behavior after losing the World Cup final. Players did not remain on the podium during Spain's trophy presentation. This action drew condemnation from many football community members. Earlier, a confrontation occurred between players from both teams on the field. The team's overall tournament performance also faced scrutiny from some observers.

Ravichandran Ashwin stated dropping Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is nearly impossible. Their extraordinary achievements and immense fan following make them undroppable players. Ashwin highlighted the disparity in how batters and bowlers are perceived in Indian cricket. Bowlers receive less public backing and face limited criticism when dropped. This contrasts sharply with the potential uproar from dropping batting icons.

Argentina's Ambassador expressed gratitude to Indian football fans for their support. The Albiceleste reached the FIFA World Cup final but lost to Spain. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time for Spain. Emiliano Martinez made several crucial saves for the Argentine team. This gesture highlights the strong connection between India and Argentine football.