Sidny Lopes Cabral produced one of the standout moments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by scoring a spectacular extra-time equaliser against Argentina national football team before celebrating by climbing into the crowd to hug his girlfriend. The remarkable strike briefly gave underdogs Cape Verde national football team hope of a famous upset, but Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 victory after a late own goal. Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Cape Verde earned worldwide admiration for pushing the defending champions to the brink, with Lopes Cabral's unforgettable goal and celebration becoming defining moments of the tournament. 

Pop superstar Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce married in a lavish ceremony at Madison Square Garden, officiated by Adam Sandler. The couple wore Christian Dior outfits and skipped traditional bridesmaids and groomsmen, with Austin Swift serving as Man of Honour and Jason Kelce as Best Man. Celebrity guests included Hugh Grant, Jason Sudeikis, Benson Boone and Gigi Hadid. Thousands of fans gathered outside as major Midtown Manhattan streets were closed for the high-profile celebration, following an intimate pre-party held the previous day. (PC: BBC)

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for a suicide attack targeting a Pakistani military convoy in Gwadar, alleging that more than 30 security personnel were killed. According to the group, a vehicle-borne suicide bomber struck the convoy before additional fighters launched a coordinated assault. Pakistani authorities have acknowledged the attack but have not confirmed the casualty figures claimed by the BLA. Security forces have launched operations in the area as investigations continue. The incident highlights the persistent insurgency in Balochistan, where separatist groups frequently target security personnel and government infrastructure.

Defending champions Argentina survived a major FIFA World Cup scare, edging World Cup debutants Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling Round of 32 clash. Lionel Messi opened the scoring, but Cabo Verde twice fought back through Deroy Duarte and Sidny Lopes Cabral, showcasing remarkable resilience and fearless football. The decisive moment came in the 111th minute when a Cristian Romero header deflected off Diney Borges for an unfortunate own goal. Despite elimination, the tiny African nation won global admiration for pushing one of football's biggest powers to the brink in one of the tournament's most memorable matches. (PC: India Today)

Colombia booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ghana in a tightly contested knockout match. A disciplined defensive display and a decisive goal proved enough to eliminate the African side, who created several chances but failed to find an equaliser. Colombia controlled key moments of the game and held firm under late pressure to secure progression. The win sets up an intriguing Round of 16 showdown against Switzerland, with both teams aiming to continue their impressive World Cup campaigns and move one step closer to the quarterfinals. (PC: Reuters)

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were overcome with emotion during the farewell ceremony for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, breaking down in tears as thousands gathered to pay their final respects. The funeral drew massive crowds from across Iran, reflecting the late leader's influence over the country's political and religious landscape. Senior officials, military commanders and mourners attended the solemn event amid heightened regional tensions following recent conflict with the United States. The ceremony marked a significant moment in Iran's history as the nation mourned one of its most powerful and influential leaders.

Argentina advanced to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde, but the match exposed their heavy dependence on Lionel Messi. Despite Messi's goal and decisive influence, Cape Verde repeatedly exploited Argentina's defensive weaknesses and pushed the defending champions to the brink of elimination. The underdogs' fearless performance provided a blueprint for future opponents, showing that disciplined pressing and quick counterattacks can trouble Argentina. While Messi once again delivered in a crucial moment, questions remain over whether Argentina can successfully defend their World Cup title without stronger collective performances. (PC: X)

U.S. President Donald Trump sparked controversy during America's Fourth of July celebrations by saying the United States had "given Iran a week off" during the funeral ceremonies of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Trump used the occasion to underscore U.S. military strength while criticizing Tehran, as Iran held large-scale mourning events attended by millions. The remarks came amid heightened tensions following the recent U.S.-Iran conflict, with Iranian leaders warning against further provocations. The contrasting events—America's Independence Day celebrations and Iran's state funeral—symbolized the deep geopolitical divide between the two nations and their continuing war of words. (PC: Reuters)

India's food safety regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), has issued notices to Red Bull, PepsiCo and several other beverage companies over alleged violations in the labelling and marketing of energy drinks. The regulator is scrutinising claims, ingredient disclosures and compliance with food safety regulations to ensure consumers are not misled. Companies have been asked to clarify their labelling practices and respond to the notices. The move is part of FSSAI's broader crackdown on misleading food and beverage claims, reinforcing stricter regulatory oversight and consumer protection in India's rapidly expanding energy drink market. (PC: PTI)

Egypt's dramatic penalty-shootout victory over Australia in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 sparked celebrations across the Arab world after head coach Hossam Hassan dedicated the historic triumph to the people of Palestine. The emotional gesture resonated widely, with fans in several Arab countries praising Egypt's performance and expressing solidarity with Palestinians. Egypt advanced to the Round of 16 for the first time in the tournament's modern era and will now face defending champions Argentina. The victory was hailed as a landmark moment for Egyptian football, combining sporting success with a message that drew significant regional attention and debate. (PC: Reuters)