Brazil forward Vinicius Jr said he felt the responsibility to lead his team after scoring the equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Morocco in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener.   The Real Madrid star struggled to make an impact in the first half but changed the game after the break with a superb goal that earned Brazil a point. Reflecting on his performance, Vinicius said he had reached a moment where "enough is enough" and decided to take control of the match.   His reaction came after coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted Brazil must improve despite fighting back to avoid defeat.  

A draft memorandum between the United States and Iran could pave the way for a major diplomatic breakthrough by reopening the Strait of Hormuz, restarting nuclear negotiations and releasing billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets.   According to reports, Iran would commit not to build or acquire nuclear weapons and would avoid expanding its uranium enrichment programme while talks continue. In return, the US could ease sanctions, release around $25 billion in frozen assets and lift its naval blockade on Iranian ports.   However, Iranian officials have said no final agreement has been signed yet, with negotiations expected to continue in the coming days. (PC: X)

A 21-year-old woman died during a bungee jumping activity in Brazil after the crew allegedly failed to attach her safety rope before the jump.   The victim, identified as Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas, was taking part in the adventure sport at the Skeleton Bridge in Limeira, São Paulo. Videos circulating on social media appear to show the rope lying on the ground as she was pushed from the platform.   Emergency teams rushed to the scene but she was declared dead. Police have launched an investigation into the incident, and local reports said six people were detained for questioning over the alleged safety lapse. (PC: HT)

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted his team fell short after a 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C match.   Morocco took the lead through Ismael Saibari before Vinicius Jr produced a brilliant equaliser to rescue a point for Brazil. Reflecting on the performance, Ancelotti said, "We did not play well... we lost several balls and I think we have to do better."   The Italian manager said Brazil looked nervous and unbalanced in the first half but improved after the break following tactical changes. He added, "I am not disappointed by this result and I'm not satisfied either," insisting the team will improve as the tournament progresses. (PC: India Today)

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Sunday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the government's response after three Indian sailors were killed in a US strike on the commercial vessel MT Settebello.   Questioning the Prime Minister's silence, Gandhi said, "A free country would never tolerate such language," referring to the US statement that commercial vessels must "comply immediately with the orders of the US military" and that violations "will not be tolerated."   He also said there was "no remorse, no apology" from the US after the deaths and urged the government to bring back the sailors' mortal remains. Gandhi alleged that the government was failing to defend the country's honour. (PC: The Indian Express)

US President Donald Trump has said a deal aimed at ending hostilities between the United States and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday, though Iran has cast doubt on the timeline.   Trump said the Strait of Hormuz would reopen to global shipping once the agreement is finalised. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the memorandum of understanding would "not be tomorrow", urging caution over reports of an imminent signing.   Pakistan, which has helped mediate the talks, said a deal could be finalised within 24 hours, while a Qatari delegation arrived in Tehran for further discussions. The proposed agreement is expected to address regional tensions, with negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme to follow. (PC: BBC)

A deadly fire that killed three people in Delhi's Tughlakabad Extension was a planned act of arson and not an accident, according to Delhi Police.   Police have arrested three people and detained a 17-year-old girl for allegedly conspiring to set the fire. Investigators said the accused used the minor to ignite the blaze over a personal and financial dispute. The fire broke out in the early hours of June 12 in a five-storey residential building.   Three people — Pankaj, Sushila Devi and Sonia Kumari — died, while several others were injured. Police said CCTV footage and the investigation helped uncover the alleged conspiracy, and further probe is underway.  

Lionel Messi has boosted Argentina's FIFA World Cup title defence with a strong training session ahead of the team's opening match against Algeria.   The 38-year-old was seen working on running drills, spot kicks and overall match fitness during Argentina's latest practice session. The training comes after concerns over the muscle fatigue in his left hamstring that had limited his preparations.   Messi also looked positive after returning to action in Argentina's final warm-up match against Iceland, where he came off the bench and scored a penalty. Reflecting on his recovery, he said he was happy to be back and eager to play without fear.   The Inter Miami star had missed an earlier friendly against Honduras as a precaution after suffering discomfort during an MLS match. However, his latest training session suggests he is ready to lead Argentina when they begin their World Cup campaign against Algeria.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the Bharat Innovates programme serves as a bridge between India's talented youth and European expertise, highlighting the growing partnership between India and France in innovation and technology.   Addressing the Bharat Innovates event in Nice, Modi said collaboration between the two nations can help create solutions for global challenges and promote sustainable development. French President Emmanuel Macron joined the Prime Minister in inaugurating the event.   The programme aims to connect Indian innovators, entrepreneurs and startups with European partners, strengthening cooperation in emerging technologies and expanding opportunities for young talent from both regions.  

An Indian-flagged mechanised sailing vessel with 14 crew members onboard was involved in an incident off the coast of Oman, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation.   The Indian Embassy in Oman said it is closely coordinating with Omani authorities to trace the missing crew and monitor the situation. The vessel, identified as *Virat 1*, reportedly encountered trouble in Omani waters, though the exact cause of the incident has not yet been disclosed.   Officials have not confirmed any casualties, and rescue teams continue to search for the crew members. The incident comes amid growing concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the region. (PC: HT)