France booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay, as captain Kylian Mbappe described the tense knockout win in four words: “A day at work.” Mbappe scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 66th minute after substitute Désiré Doué was fouled inside the box. Paraguay frustrated France throughout with disciplined defending, while tempers flared in the first half following Mbappe’s clash with Andrés Cubas. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill produced several crucial saves, but France held firm to secure a quarter-final clash against Morocco and continue their pursuit of a third World Cup title. (PC: AFP)

Mass protests swept across Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Sunday as thousands demonstrated against the alleged siege, demanding restoration of communication services, uninterrupted food and medicine supplies, release of detained leaders and implementation of a 38-point agreement. Violence erupted in the Anb area, where protesters alleged police and Rangers used tear gas and opened fire, killing one person, identified as Muhammad Yakub, and injuring several others. Demonstrations were reported across Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Mirpur, Dadyal and other towns. Protesters also sought the return of bodies to families and the release of Action Committee leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir. Authorities had not issued an official statement, and the claims remain independently unverified.

Motorists staged the first public protest against India's E20 fuel mandate at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar, alleging the ethanol-blending policy has caused engine problems, reduced mileage and expensive repairs. Participants claimed E20 petrol led to stalled engines, choked fuel systems and declining vehicle performance, echoing concerns previously raised on social media. Entrepreneur Tehseen Poonawalla and his advocacy group, Team Bharat, led the demonstration, arguing that the nationwide rollout was implemented too quickly without adequately addressing consumer concerns. Protesters urged the government to review the policy and investigate the alleged impact on vehicles, saying they possessed evidence linking E20 fuel to mechanical issues experienced by motorists. (PC: India Today)

The race for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot is becoming one of the tournament's biggest stories, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe leading the battle for the top scorer's award. Both superstars have scored seven goals, setting up a thrilling contest as Argentina and France advance in the knockout stage. Harry Kane and Erling Haaland remain in contention but trail the leading pair. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has fallen behind after scoring only three goals, leaving him with a difficult task to catch the frontrunners. With the quarter-finals approaching, every goal could decide the prestigious Golden Boot winner.  

Thousands of mourners attending the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, chanted anti-US slogans, with some participants displaying banners and calling for the killing of U.S. President Donald Trump. A performer at the ceremony also delivered remarks urging revenge, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. The funeral reflected intense anger over Khamenei's death, with chants of "Death to America" and demands for retaliation. Iranian authorities have not officially endorsed the crowd's slogans, but the event underscored heightened tensions between Iran and the United States. (PC: AFP)

A 63-year-old man died after a tree collapsed on him during heavy rainfall in Mumbai, taking the city's rain-related death toll to 10. Continuous monsoon showers have caused widespread disruptions, including waterlogging, traffic congestion, and fallen trees across several areas. Civic authorities and emergency teams responded to multiple incidents, clearing debris and assisting affected residents. Officials have urged people to remain indoors during intense rainfall and avoid areas with weakened trees or damaged infrastructure. The India Meteorological Department has forecast more rain, prompting authorities to stay on high alert as the monsoon continues to impact Mumbai and nearby regions. (PC: Times Now)

    The Indian government has directed Meta Platforms to immediately remove Instagram advertisements found promoting or linking to child sexual abuse content. The action followed an investigation that uncovered disturbing ads appearing on the platform, raising serious concerns about online child safety and content moderation. Authorities have sought an explanation from Meta on how such advertisements were approved and displayed despite existing safeguards. The government stressed that digital platforms must comply with Indian laws and strengthen monitoring systems to prevent the spread of illegal and exploitative content, warning that strict action could follow if violations continue. (PC: PTI)

Real Madrid CF have completed the signing of Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan, bolstering their defensive options before the new season. The Dutch right-back, known for his pace, attacking runs and defensive versatility, joins the Spanish giants after several impressive campaigns in Italy. Real Madrid believe Dumfries will add experience and depth to their backline as they compete for domestic and European honours. Inter Milan, meanwhile, bid farewell to one of their key defenders, marking the end of his successful spell at the Serie A club. (PC: X)

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was laid to rest in Tehran, with three of his sons—Mostafa Khamenei, Meysam Khamenei and Masoud Khamenei—attending the funeral ceremonies. However, the absence of Mojtaba Khamenei, widely viewed by observers as a potential successor, drew significant attention and fueled speculation. Iranian authorities offered no explanation for his absence. The funeral was attended by senior political, military and religious leaders, with large crowds gathering to pay their respects. The unexplained absence has intensified public discussion about Iran's future leadership and succession.

England manager Thomas Tuchel laughed off rumours that players were given Viagra to cope with high-altitude conditions before the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico national football team. Tuchel called the speculation "the strangest question" he had faced and insisted the squad was fully focused on preparation. He also revealed that noisy England supporters gathered outside the team's hotel overnight, disrupting players' sleep with chants and celebrations. Despite the unexpected disturbance, Tuchel expressed confidence that England would remain mentally and physically ready for the crucial knockout encounter. (PC: Reuters)