Mexico became the first team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 after defeating South Korea 1-0 in Guadalajara. Midfielder Luis Romo scored the decisive goal early in the second half after capitalizing on a goalkeeping error by Kim Seung-Gyu. Goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved the lead with crucial late saves as Javier Aguirre's side secured a second consecutive victory and clinched top spot in Group A. The result guarantees Mexico home advantage for their knockout match in Mexico City on June 30. South Korea still have a chance to advance and will face South Africa in their final group game. (PC: Reuters)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump have instructed officials from both countries to fast-track negotiations for a balanced and commercially meaningful bilateral trade agreement. The decision came during their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, where both leaders reviewed progress on an interim trade pact and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. The talks also covered cooperation in defence, technology, energy and trade. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is expected to visit India next week to push negotiations forward. (PC: HT)

Canada recorded the biggest win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, crushing Qatar 6-0 to move top of Group B. Jonathan David starred with a hat-trick, while Cyle Larin, Nathan Saliba and an own goal completed the scoring. Qatar were reduced to nine men after red cards to Homam Ahmed and Assim Madibo. However, the victory was overshadowed by a serious leg injury to Canadian midfielder Ismaël Koné, who was stretchered off following Madibo's challenge. The emphatic win puts Canada on the brink of qualification for the Round of 32. (PC: Reuters)

NDA-backed Independent candidate Parimal Nathwani secured one of the two Rajya Sabha seats from Jharkhand after unexpected cross-voting altered the electoral arithmetic. Despite the BJP-led NDA lacking sufficient numbers in the 81-member Assembly, Nathwani won with 28 votes, defeating Congress candidate Pranav Jha, who received 20 votes. JMM candidate Baidyanath Ram captured the second seat with 30 votes. Three ballots were declared invalid, including two from BJP legislators and one from Congress. Nathwani's victory exposed cracks within the INDIA bloc and marked his historic fourth term in the Rajya Sabha. (PC: India Today)

Switzerland moved closer to the FIFA World Cup last 32 with a 4-1 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina, powered by substitute Johan Manzambi's late brace. The 20-year-old struck twice after coming on in the 72nd minute, while Ruben Vargas added a goal and an assist. Granit Xhaka converted an injury-time penalty after Bosnia were reduced to 10 men following Tarik Muharemovic's red card. Ermin Mahmic scored a late consolation for Bosnia. Switzerland now lead Group B with four points, while Bosnia sit bottom with one point and a goal difference of minus three.

The White House has postponed Vice President JD Vance’s planned trip to Switzerland, where he was expected to lead talks with Iranian negotiators aimed at advancing a broader diplomatic agreement. Officials cited logistical challenges and uncertainty over the Iranian delegation’s participation. The negotiations, scheduled to follow recent understandings between Washington and Tehran, remain in flux amid regional tensions and concerns surrounding ongoing Israeli military actions. Despite the delay, both sides have indicated that diplomacy remains a priority, and discussions could still take place once arrangements are finalized. Switzerland continues to be the proposed venue for the next phase of negotiations. (PC: Reuters)

South Africa rescued a valuable point with a dramatic late equaliser in a tense FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A encounter against Czechia. Michal Sadílek handed the Czech side an early lead in the sixth minute, but South Africa fought back throughout the match. Their persistence paid off when Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty in the 83rd minute to secure a 1-1 draw. Both teams, having lost their opening matches, earned their first point of the tournament but now face must-win final group games to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive. 

Veteran actor Suhasini Mulay, known for her roles in Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar, has shared her inspiring love story of finding companionship at the age of 60. Having remained single for decades because she wanted an equal and understanding partner, Mulay unexpectedly connected with renowned physicist Atul Gurtu through Facebook. Their conversations, sparked by her curiosity about science, gradually turned into a deep bond. After meeting in person, the couple decided not to delay and tied the knot just 75 days later. Mulay's journey highlights that love and meaningful relationships can blossom at any stage of life. (PC: ABP)

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has criticized both Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal coach Roberto Martinez following Portugal’s disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Schmeichel described the duo as the tournament’s biggest disappointments, questioning Portugal’s tactics and Ronaldo’s overall impact. While acknowledging Ronaldo's stature, the Danish legend argued that the team has failed to meet expectations under Martinez. The criticism comes as pressure mounts on Portugal to improve their performances and revive their World Cup campaign in upcoming matches. (PC: NDTV)

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said that Washington has already permitted at least 12 ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after the signing of the interim peace agreement with Iran. According to Vance, more than 12.5 million barrels of oil moved through the strategic waterway, signaling the beginning of a return to normal shipping operations. The move follows the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade under the deal, which opens a 60-day period for negotiations on a final agreement. Despite the progress, concerns remain over security risks and long-term stability in the region. (PC: AP)