The Times of India

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.

Rodri achieved a rare football honour by winning the World Cup 2026 with Spain. He joined legends Gerd Mller, Franz Beckenbauer, and Zinedine Zidane with this achievement. Rodri also secured the World Cup Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. His exceptional passing and defensive contributions were vital for Spain's victory. This win cements Rodri's status among football's all-time great midfielders.

Ravi Shastri supports Rohit Sharma, urging management to let him play as long as desired. Sharma silenced critics with a historic century at Lord's in the third ODI. He stated external noise does not affect his focus on team success. Sharma's performance came amid speculation about his future international career. The veteran opener continues to represent India and contribute to team achievements.

Mohammad Kaif backs Rohit Sharma amid speculation about his international cricket future. Kaif insists retirement is a personal choice, not dictated by public opinion. Rohit recently scored a historic century at Lord's, silencing critics effectively. He believes team management support would greatly benefit the veteran opener. Kaif hopes for an end to unnecessary noise, allowing Rohit to play peacefully.

Spain secured the FIFA World Cup 2026 title after a hard-fought extra-time victory over Argentina. The Spanish team formed a guard of honour for Lionel Messi and his teammates. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal which handed La Roja their second World Cup. Messi's quest for a second World Cup title ended as Argentina's reign concluded. Spain's disciplined defence successfully contained the legendary Argentine captain throughout the match.

Brendon McCullum press conference: Comeback win, Joe Root and World Cup plans

Spain and Argentina fought for the sport's biggest prize right down to the very last kick of extra time, watched by a global audience that dwarfed anything politics could ever hope to command. In the end, the football did what it has always done best, it brought people together, across borders and languages and passports, no matter what was happening outside the stadium gates. That, more than any scoreline, is why this World Cup will be remembered as the biggest and perhaps one of the best ever

Spain defender Marc Cucurella lauded captain Rodri's Golden Ball award. Rodri was recognized for his exceptional performances during Spain's World Cup 2026 victory. He controlled the midfield and organized the team throughout the entire tournament. Cucurella emphasized Rodri's invaluable contribution beyond mere goals and assists. Rodri's midfield mastery earned him the prestigious award over other stars.

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after extra time. Lionel Messi's final World Cup match ended in heartbreak for the legendary player. Thousands of Argentine fans showed unwavering support for Messi despite the disappointing loss. Spain's disciplined performance denied Messi opportunities to influence the crucial match. The defeat concluded Argentina's bid to defend their World Cup title successfully.

A tragic incident occurred during Spain's World Cup victory celebrations in Ciudad Rodrigo. Part of a historic fountain collapsed, killing a thirteen-year-old boy. Two other individuals sustained injuries in the unfortunate event. The town hall expressed deep sorrow for the heartbreaking loss. What should have been a joyous occasion turned into a somber moment.

Spain midfielder Pedri celebrated their FIFA World Cup 2026 victory with a mysterious social media post. He had shared a cryptic number sequence over a year prior to the triumph. This sequence was interpreted by fans as the date of the final match. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to secure their second title. Pedri played a vital role throughout the team's successful campaign.

In the lead-up to the third ODI between India and England at Lord's, more focus was on Rohit Sharma than the series decider itself. With India's ODI World Cup plans underway, Rohit's form came under fire, and retirement rumours gathered momentum. With Virat Kohli batting at the other end in a monstrous 388-run chase, he decided to shut them down by becoming the first Indian to score a ton at the Home of Cricket.

Rohit Sharma scored a century in the third ODI against England. He spoke about his strong partnership with Virat Kohli after the match. The duo has now scored over 8,000 runs together in ODIs. They also became the first Indian pair to play 400 international matches. The team aims to improve collectively after the series loss.

Rohit Sharma silenced retirement rumors with a century against England at Lord's. He scored 138 runs, nearly guiding India to a record chase. Sharma stated his focus remains on contributing to the team's success. He pays no attention to outside noise and its presence. His performance keeps him in contention for future matches.

New Zealand held their nerve to beat West Indies by one wicket in a low-scoring contest, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match ODI series.

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, ending Argentina's reign. Lionel Messi's future remains his personal decision, according to coach Lionel Scaloni. Spain completed an unbeaten tournament, conceding only one goal throughout their campaign. This victory marked Spain's first World Cup win since their triumph in 2010.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir will board the flight from London having won just one match on a white-ball tour which also includes suffering a T20I whitewash at the hands of Ireland. Shubman Gill is yet to win a series since he took over the captaincy from Rohit last October.

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in extra time. They became the fourth team to win without trailing and the first to concede just one goal. Ferran Torres scored the decisive winning goal in the 106th minute of the match. Spain's journey included a surprising draw and several hard-fought victories throughout the tournament.

Messi, head bowed, hands on his hips, watched 19-year-old Lamine Yamal embrace Torres after the winning goal. Moments later, with tears running down his cheeks, he collected his runners-up medal while Spain celebrated amid confetti and fireworks.

Spains 2026 World Cup triumph delivered a historic financial reward, with each player reportedly set to receive around $883,000 from the teams winners bonus. FIFA awarded the Spanish federation a record $51 million prize after their 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina. The expanded tournament prize fund saw record payments distributed across all participating nations.

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni expressed deep sadness after their World Cup final loss to Spain. He cited unexpected injuries and immense player weariness as contributing factors to the defeat. Scaloni is now contemplating his future with the national team after his contract expires. He plans to discuss his decision with Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia soon. Building another successful team again presents a significant challenge for the coach.

From London: How India lost another ODI series | The Rohit Sharma retirement buzz and more

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time. Youngster Lamine Yamal shared a memorable moment with Lionel Messi on the pitch. The Spanish team completed a dominant performance throughout the entire match. This victory marked Spain's second time lifting the prestigious World Cup trophy.

Messis World Cup final frustration sparked controversy after he appealed for action against Marc Cucurellas mouth-covering exchange during Argentinas defeat to Spain. While no punishment followed, pundits criticised the reaction as unsportsmanlike. Spain ultimately prevailed through Ferran Torres extra-time winner, ending Argentinas title defence and leaving Messis final World Cup appearance marked by disappointment.

Spain secured their second World Cup title by defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time. US President Donald Trump stood with the Spanish players during the trophy presentation ceremony. Boos were heard around the stadium as Trump and Infantino walked onto the field. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of the match. Trump had previously intervened in a red card controversy during the tournament.

England dominated the third ODI against India at Lord's, amassing a record 387/3, led by a huge opening partnership between Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett. India's bowlers, missing Jasprit Bumrah, struggled with discipline and conceded many extras. Poor middle-over planning further exposed India's bowling vulnerabilities, raising concerns for their 2027 ODI World Cup preparations.

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, etching his name in history. He became the second substitute to score a World Cup final winner, matching a feat from 2014. Spain controlled possession and created numerous chances throughout the match. The victory ended Argentina's reign as defending world champions.

Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time for Spain's World Cup victory. He admitted disbelief after his decisive strike secured the historic championship. Torres dedicated his crucial goal to the entire Spanish population of forty-seven million. Spain's disciplined performance concluded an unbeaten tournament campaign for the team. This triumph marked Spain's second FIFA World Cup title after their 2010 win.