Norway's remarkable FIFA World Cup 2026 journey ended with a narrow 2-1 quarter-final defeat to England, but the team's historic campaign sparked nationwide celebrations. Thousands of supporters packed the streets of Oslo to welcome the players home, applauding their unexpected run to the last eight and their victories over Brazil and Ivory Coast. Captain Martin Ødegaard and star striker Erling Haaland thanked fans for their unwavering support, calling the tournament a turning point for Norwegian football. Despite the disappointment of elimination, the squad's performances have reignited optimism and inspired a new generation of football fans across the country.

France captain Kylian Mbappé openly criticised his team's performance following their 2-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final. Mbappé admitted France failed both tactically and technically, allowing Spain to control possession and dictate the pace of the match. He highlighted France's inability to press effectively and stop Spain's dominant midfield led by Rodri and Fabián Ruiz. Despite questions over refereeing decisions raised by coach Didier Deschamps, both acknowledged Spain were the superior side on the night. The loss ends France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final, leaving them to compete in the third-place playoff. (PC: Reuters)

Lionel Messi is set to face England for the first time in his illustrious international career as Argentina prepare for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. The clash is being billed as more than a football match, with Messi's experience, composure and leadership expected to test England's youthful squad and tactical discipline. Argentina will rely on their captain's ability to inspire in decisive moments, while England aim to end their long wait for World Cup glory. The semifinal promises an intense contest of skill, mentality and legacy, with a place in the World Cup final at stake. (PC: PA)

The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified after Washington launched fresh military strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure and reimposed a naval blockade. Iran responded with attacks on US-linked targets and reiterated its stance over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route. President Donald Trump abandoned a proposed transit toll in favor of pursuing trade and investment agreements with Gulf nations while maintaining pressure on Tehran. The renewed hostilities have raised fears of wider regional instability, disrupted energy markets, and increased concerns over global oil supplies and diplomatic efforts to restore peace. (PC: X)

Spain showcased their trademark teamwork with a breathtaking passing move that ended in Pedro Porro's clinical finish during a 2-0 FIFA World Cup semifinal victory over France. The move exposed France's defensive weaknesses and underlined Spain's tactical superiority throughout the match. Mikel Oyarzabal had earlier given Spain the lead from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal won a foul. France, led by Kylian Mbappé, struggled to cope with Spain's disciplined defence and fluid attacking play. The victory sends Spain to their first World Cup final since 2010, where they will face the winner of England vs Argentina.

A bipartisan group of US senators has introduced a revised Russia sanctions bill that could allow tariffs of up to 100% on countries, including India, that continue purchasing Russian oil. The proposal, backed by President Donald Trump, reduces the earlier proposed 500% tariff while maintaining pressure on Moscow by targeting its major energy buyers. The bill also expands sanctions on Russian officials, banks, energy projects and the shadow oil fleet. Although it still requires congressional approval, the proposal has raised concerns over India-US trade relations and the future of bilateral economic cooperation. (PC: X)

Spain produced a dominant display to defeat France 2-0 in the first semifinal of the FIFA World Cup 2026, securing their place in the final. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal won a foul, before Pedro Porro doubled Spain's advantage with a well-worked second-half goal. France, led by Kylian Mbappé, struggled to break down Spain's disciplined defence despite creating a few late opportunities. The victory marks Spain's first World Cup final appearance since 2010. They will now face the winner of the England vs Argentina semifinal in the title clash, while France will play the third-place playoff. (PC: Reuters)

Spain took a 1-0 lead against France in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final after Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot. The penalty was awarded when Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the box. Oyarzabal calmly beat goalkeeper Mike Maignan to give Spain the advantage. France created chances through Kylian Mbappe but could not score. Spain also looked dangerous in attack and controlled much of the early play. France suffered another setback when defender William Saliba picked up a back injury and was forced off. The winner of the match will advance to the World Cup final.

US President Donald Trump has backed a proposed Russia sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 500% on countries buying Russian oil, including India. The bill would allow the US President to penalise imports from nations trading with Russia's energy sector. Trump said the proposal has a good chance of becoming law. The White House confirmed his support for the bill. India is one of Russia's biggest oil buyers, though imports have fallen in recent months. If the bill is passed, it could affect India-US trade and increase pressure on countries to reduce purchases of Russian energy.

Indian-origin NASA astronaut Anil Menon has arrived at the International Space Station after the Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft successfully docked. He travelled with Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina. The crew will spend about eight months on the station before returning to Earth in April 2027. Menon will carry out scientific research on human health, artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing and medical technology in microgravity. The mission will also include experiments in biology, physics, materials science and Earth observation. Scientists hope the research will support future Moon and Mars missions while also improving healthcare and technology on Earth. (PC: NASA)