Harmanpreet Singh-led India suffered a 3-1 defeat against hosts Netherlands in their opening Pool E match of the second round at the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen on Saturday (Aug 22). The loss has made India’s path to the semi-finals more difficult, while the Netherlands booked their place in the last four with the win.&nbsp;The hosts took control of the match with goals from Duco Telgenkamp, Tjep Hoedemakers and Thijs van Dam. Harmanpreet Singh scored India’s only goal.&nbsp;The Netherlands started strongly, with Telgenkamp opening the scoring and putting pressure on the Indian defence. India created several attacking chances but struggled to turn them into goals.&nbsp;Harmanpreet then equalised to give India hope of a comeback. However, the Dutch team continued to dominate and regained their lead through Hoedemakers before van Dam added another goal to make it 3-1.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-hull-city-stun-manchester-united-2-0-for-first-ever-win-over-red-devils-1787409257588">Premier League: Hull City stun Manchester United 2-0 for first-ever win over Red Devils</a>&nbsp;India tried to fight back in the final stages and created opportunities, but they could not break through the Netherlands defence.&nbsp;Also Read -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/building-momentum-to-get-back-neeraj-chopra-reacts-after-season-best-88-05m-throw-at-diamond-league-1787403126731">'Building momentum to...': Neeraj Chopra reacts after season-best 88.05m throw</a>&nbsp;The victory helped the Netherlands top Pool E and secure a semi-final spot. India are still in the race but will now need favourable results in the remaining matches to keep their hopes alive.&nbsp;India will look to recover in their next game as they continue their World Cup campaign.

Despite a disciplined defensive display and a late penalty-corner goal from captain Harmanpreet Singh, India lost 3-1 to the Netherlands after late goals from Thijs Hoedemakers and Thijs van Dam sealed the Dutch victory.

Harmanpreet Singh-led India suffered a 3-1 defeat against hosts Netherlands in their opening Pool E match of the second round at the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen on Saturday (Aug 22). The loss has made India’s path to the semi-finals more difficult, while the Netherlands booked their place in the last four with the win. The hosts took control of the match with goals from Duco Telgenkamp, Tjep Hoedemakers and Thijs van Dam. Harmanpreet Singh scored India’s only goal. The Netherlands started strongly, with Telgenkamp opening the scoring and putting pressure on the Indian defence. India created several attacking chances but struggled to turn them into goals. Harmanpreet then equalised to give India hope of a comeback. However, the Dutch team continued to dominate and regained their lead through Hoedemakers before van Dam added another goal to make it 3-1. Also Read - Premier League: Hull City stun Manchester United 2-0 for first-ever win over Red Devils India tried to fight back in the final stages and created opportunities, but they could not break through the Netherlands defence. Also Read -'Building momentum to...': Neeraj Chopra reacts after season-best 88.05m throw The victory helped the Netherlands top Pool E and secure a semi-final spot. India are still in the race but will now need favourable results in the remaining matches to keep their hopes alive. India will look to recover in their next game as they continue their World Cup campaign.

Despite a disciplined defensive display and a late penalty-corner goal from captain Harmanpreet Singh, India lost 3-1 to the Netherlands after late goals from Thijs Hoedemakers and Thijs van Dam sealed the Dutch victory.

FIH Hockey World Cup 2026: India suffer 1-3 defeat to Netherlands in second round

FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s position remains under scrutiny on Saturday (Aug 1) despite scrapping plans to allow private investment in the World Cup. UEFA, the European football governing body, led the opposition, also backed by FAs worldwide, saying they would boycott all FIFA competitions, including the showpiece event, should the deal go ahead. While welcoming the proposal’s withdrawal, UEFA claimed that Infantino had lost their and other football family members' ‘confidence’ with his ‘shabby, back-room, opaque deal’.&nbsp;After first revealing the plan to the world on Tuesday, Infantino, whose smooth path to unopposed re-election for a final term next year is being openly questioned, issued a statement backing down following severe global backlash.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-fa-fine-suspended-transfer-ban-points-deduction-appeal-1785511480592">Chelsea escape points deduction but face fine, two-window transfer ban for rule breach</a> &nbsp;"Our purpose has always been -- and will always be -- to unite and improve," Infantino said in a statement. "As a result, this proposal will not proceed." &nbsp;The FIFA president floated the idea of forming a new firm called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to run marquee tournaments like the World Cup and the Club World Cup, and planned to sell some of its shares to private investors to raise $4.2 billion in cash. Infantino’s idea was to convince all 211 FAs to agree to sign up for it, while promising an upfront bonus of a $20 million payout in early 2027.&nbsp; &nbsp;UEFA and other associations slammed this idea, and did not mince their words in holding Infantino to account for the debacle just weeks after he basked in the afterglow of a highly successful World Cup -- the first with 48 teams and hosted in three countries. &nbsp;"The current FIFA leadership has not only lost UEFA's confidence but also that of many other members of the football family," read the statement. &nbsp;UEFA accused the 56-year-old Swiss of breaking promises he made, namely to be "transparent" and that FIFA's money was "your (the member associations) money" and "not the money of the FIFA President." &nbsp;"On both these promises, he has failed to deliver," said UEFA. "The shabby, back-room, opaque deal he hatched and tried to force through were anything but transparent. &nbsp;"And with reserves standing at over $5bn, he has also failed to use associations' money for the benefit of the game." &nbsp;Meanwhile, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), which represents 47 member nations, said that any initiative that may impact global football should be "presented and discussed with the Confederations, the FIFA Council, Member Associations (MAs) and other stakeholders in a timely, transparent and meaningful manner.”&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces a severe crisis as UEFA declares it has lost confidence in his leadership despite his decision to drop a $4.2B World Cup private investment plan.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s position remains under scrutiny on Saturday (Aug 1) despite scrapping plans to allow private investment in the World Cup. UEFA, the European football governing body, led the opposition, also backed by FAs worldwide, saying they would boycott all FIFA competitions, including the showpiece event, should the deal go ahead. While welcoming the proposal’s withdrawal, UEFA claimed that Infantino had lost their and other football family members' ‘confidence’ with his ‘shabby, back-room, opaque deal’. After first revealing the plan to the world on Tuesday, Infantino, whose smooth path to unopposed re-election for a final term next year is being openly questioned, issued a statement backing down following severe global backlash. Also read| Chelsea escape points deduction but face fine, two-window transfer ban for rule breach "Our purpose has always been -- and will always be -- to unite and improve," Infantino said in a statement. "As a result, this proposal will not proceed." The FIFA president floated the idea of forming a new firm called FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to run marquee tournaments like the World Cup and the Club World Cup, and planned to sell some of its shares to private investors to raise $4.2 billion in cash. Infantino’s idea was to convince all 211 FAs to agree to sign up for it, while promising an upfront bonus of a $20 million payout in early 2027. UEFA and other associations slammed this idea, and did not mince their words in holding Infantino to account for the debacle just weeks after he basked in the afterglow of a highly successful World Cup -- the first with 48 teams and hosted in three countries. "The current FIFA leadership has not only lost UEFA's confidence but also that of many other members of the football family," read the statement. UEFA accused the 56-year-old Swiss of breaking promises he made, namely to be "transparent" and that FIFA's money was "your (the member associations) money" and "not the money of the FIFA President." "On both these promises, he has failed to deliver," said UEFA. "The shabby, back-room, opaque deal he hatched and tried to force through were anything but transparent. "And with reserves standing at over $5bn, he has also failed to use associations' money for the benefit of the game." Meanwhile, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), which represents 47 member nations, said that any initiative that may impact global football should be "presented and discussed with the Confederations, the FIFA Council, Member Associations (MAs) and other stakeholders in a timely, transparent and meaningful manner.” (With inputs from AFP)

FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces a severe crisis as UEFA declares it has lost confidence in his leadership despite his decision to drop a $4.2B World Cup private investment plan.

FIFA lose 'UEFA’s confidence' despite shelving World Cup private investment plan


Spain enters the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final on a remarkable 37-match unbeaten run, boasting the tournament's best defensive record. But standing in their way is Lionel Messi, who hopes to end his international career with another World Cup title. Can Spain's disciplined defense and captain Rodri stop the Argentine legend in football's biggest match?

Spain vs Argentina: Can Rodri Stop Lionel Messi in the Final? | Wion News 

Excitement is reaching fever pitch in Argentina as fans in Lionel Messi's hometown of Rosario unveiled a giant jersey in tribute to the football legend ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final against Spain. Thousands gathered to celebrate Messi as Argentina prepares for one of the biggest matches in football history.

Argentina Fans Unveil Giant Messi Jersey Before FIFA World Cup Final Against Spain


The FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot race will be decided in the final as Kylian Mbappé leads the scoring charts after his brace against England in the third-place playoff. Lionel Messi now faces a daunting challenge, needing at least two goals against Spain to draw level and potentially win the Golden Boot on assists. The final could also reshape the all-time World Cup scoring record.

Mbappé one step away from historic Golden Boot record | Messi faces must-win scoring challenge

The FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain is being viewed as more than just a football showdown. While both teams compete for the biggest prize in football, the final has also drawn political attention due to the contrasting positions of both nations on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Argentina’s President Javier Milei has strengthened ties with Israel and received public support from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the final. Meanwhile, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been one of Europe’s strongest critics of Israel’s military actions in Gaza and has supported Palestinian statehood.

Argentina, Spain battle for World Cup Glory amid global political divide | Argentina vs Spain

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly declared his support for Argentina ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final against Spain. During a meeting with Argentina's ambassador to Israel, Netanyahu received an official Argentina football jersey along with a message from Argentine President Javier Milei reaffirming his support for the national team. Netanyahu praised Milei for strengthening relations between Israel and Argentina, calling the South American nation one of Israel's closest friends. His endorsement adds a political dimension to the highly anticipated World Cup final, where Lionel Messi will lead Argentina in pursuit of another historic title.

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu supports Argentina before the FIFA World Cup final against Spain

England and France face off in the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff in Miami, with pride and the Golden Boot still on the line. While both teams missed out on the final, stars like Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and Jude Bellingham remain in contention for the tournament's top scorer award. Thomas Tuchel admitted that both squads would rather be playing in the final, but one last World Cup victory is still up for grabs.

England vs France | FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff | Mbappé vs Kane golden boot race

Bayern Munich's remarkable 44-year streak of having at least one player in every FIFA World Cup final has officially ended after Harry Kane's England and Michael Olise's France were eliminated. Meanwhile, Inter Milan continues its historic run with at least one representative set to feature in a 12th consecutive World Cup final, thanks to Argentina's Lautaro Martínez.


Bayern Munich's 44-year FIFA World Cup final streak ends as inter milan keeps historic run alive

A remarkable chapter in FIFA World Cup history has come to an end as Bayern Munich will have no player in the World Cup final for the first time since 1982. The club's extraordinary 44-year streak, spanning 11 consecutive World Cups, ended after England and Bayern striker Harry Kane were eliminated from the tournament. Meanwhile, Inter Milan continues its impressive record, extending its run of having at least one player feature in the World Cup final for a 12th straight tournament. The historic milestone highlights the lasting influence of Europe's biggest clubs on football's greatest stage.

Bayern Munich's 44-year FIFA World Cup final streak ends | Inter Milan extends historic record

Spain have booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final after a dominant 2-0 victory over France in the semifinal. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro sealed a memorable win as Spain produced another outstanding defensive display. The European champions will now face England or Argentina in the World Cup Final, while France will play in the third-place playoff. Watch the full match highlights, key moments, goals, and post-match analysis from this thrilling semifinal.

Spain beat France 2-0 to reach FIFA World Cup 2026 final | Oyarzabal & Porro seal historic win

Traditional Chinese Yi embroidery has made its debut on the FIFA World Cup stage, marking a major milestone for China's intangible cultural heritage. Artisans from Yunnan Province combined centuries-old embroidery techniques with World Cup-inspired designs to create official cultural products for a global audience. The collaboration highlights how traditional craftsmanship is finding new life through innovation, bringing the beauty of Chinese culture to one of the world's biggest sporting events.

Traditional Chinese Yi embroidery makes historic FIFA World Cup debut 

Is FIFA Favouring Argentina? That is the question being asked after Egypt accused football's world governing body of helping the defending champions stay alive at the World Cup. 

World Cup 2026: Egypt alleges Argentina favouritism 

Thousands of teachers in Mexico have intensified their protests by marching toward a FIFA World Cup venue, drawing international attention ahead of the tournament. The demonstrations are centered on labour rights, wages, and education reforms, while raising concerns about potential disruptions in a country preparing to host football's biggest event.

Mexico Teachers March Towards World Cup Stadium As Protest Movement Grows 

The FIFA World Cup is more than just goals, trophies, and football rivalries—it's also a global celebration of food. From nachos and burgers in North America to tacos in Mexico, poutine in Canada, and football-night favorites around the world, fans are gearing up for a month-long feast alongside the action on the pitch. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the battle for the perfect match-day snack is already underway. So, what's on your World Cup menu?

Which Snacks Will You Be Eating While Watching The FIFA World Cup

For decades, the term "WAGs"—Wives And Girlfriends—has been used to describe the partners of football stars. But at the FIFA World Cup 2026, many of England's footballers' partners are pushing back against the label. From entrepreneurs and lawyers to athletes, influencers, and business leaders, these women are increasingly being recognised for their own achievements rather than their relationships. As the spotlight turns to the women behind the players, a larger conversation is emerging about identity, representation, and the evolving role of partners in modern football culture.

Don't Call Us WAGs, Say Football World Cup Wives & Girlfriends 

Iran has announced it will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to the country’s Sports Minister. The decision comes amid escalating regional tensions and security concerns, making participation in the United States, Mexico, and Canada unsafe for players and officials. Iran’s withdrawal marks a significant development in international football, impacting group stage scheduling and fan expectations. Officials emphasized that the team’s safety and national security were the top priority.

Iran Says ‘Under No Circumstances’ Will It Play in 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup final will be held in New Jersey at the home of the National Football League's New York Giants and New York Jets, world soccer's governing body FIFA announced on Sunday, along with the entire schedule for the global soccer showcase.

The 48-team World Cup, which will conclude on July 19 at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

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The open-air stadium for the final, which has a capacity of 82,500, hosted the Copa America Centenario final in 2016 when Chile denied Lionel Messi's Argentina for a second time in a penalty shootout.

Mexico City's Estadio Azteca will host the opening match of tournament on June 11 when Mexico will become the first nation to stage the World Cup for a third time.

Mexico hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, with the finals of both editions held at Estadio Azteca where Pele's Brazil crushed Italy 4-1 and Diego Maradona's Argentina beat West Germany 3-2.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-cup-2024-jordan-end-tajikistans-fairytale-to-reach-maiden-semi-final-686488">Asian Cup 2024: Jordan end Tajikistan's fairytale to reach maiden semi-final</a>

The first match in Canada, which has never hosted a World Cup game, will be on June 12 in Toronto at the home of the city's Major League Soccer team while the opening game in the United States will be in Los Angeles at the home of the NFL's Rams.

The 2026 World Cup will feature 104 matches instead of the traditional 64 games, including an additional knockout round due to the previously announced decision to expand to 48 teams from 32.

The 2026 World Cup final will be held in New Jersey at the home of the National Football League's New York Giants and New York Jets, world soccer's governing body FIFA announced on Sunday, along with the entire schedule for the global soccer showcase.

The 2026 World Cup final will be held in New Jersey at the home of the National Football League's New York Giants and New York Jets, world soccer's governing body FIFA announced on Sunday, along with the entire schedule for the global soccer showcase. The 48-team World Cup, which will conclude on July 19 at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. ALSO READ | New Brazil coach Dorival Junior promises to turn fortunes after poor 2026 World Cup qualifiers run The open-air stadium for the final, which has a capacity of 82,500, hosted the Copa America Centenario final in 2016 when Chile denied Lionel Messi's Argentina for a second time in a penalty shootout. Mexico City's Estadio Azteca will host the opening match of tournament on June 11 when Mexico will become the first nation to stage the World Cup for a third time. Mexico hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, with the finals of both editions held at Estadio Azteca where Pele's Brazil crushed Italy 4-1 and Diego Maradona's Argentina beat West Germany 3-2. ALSO READ | Asian Cup 2024: Jordan end Tajikistan's fairytale to reach maiden semi-final The first match in Canada, which has never hosted a World Cup game, will be on June 12 in Toronto at the home of the city's Major League Soccer team while the opening game in the United States will be in Los Angeles at the home of the NFL's Rams. The 2026 World Cup will feature 104 matches instead of the traditional 64 games, including an additional knockout round due to the previously announced decision to expand to 48 teams from 32.

New Jersey to host 2026 World Cup final, Mexico gets opener

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has responded regarding his future in the sport. Quizzed by reporters if he will be playing in his 40s, Ronaldo, who recently secured Euro 2024 qualification for his side after a scintillating brace against Slovakia said he had not set any targets.

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has responded regarding his future in the sport. Quizzed by reporters if he will be playing in his 40s, Ronaldo, who recently secured Euro 2024 qualification for his side after a scintillating brace against Slovakia said he had not set any targets. “Things have happened in my life, both on a personal and professional level, that make me think more in the short term nowadays. People say I’m going to play on until I’m 40 or 41 years old. I don’t set these targets. It’s a question of just enjoying the moment, which is a good moment. I feel good," said Ronaldo. "My body is responding to how I’ve treated it over the years. I’m happy both at my club and in the Selecao. I’ve scored plenty of goals, I feel in good shape physically. It’s a question of enjoying the moment," he added. Also read | Cristiano Ronaldo could make his WWE debut ‘in some capacity’ at Crown Jewel show – Reports Ronaldo's 1,000 goal target Last week, Ronaldo scored in Portugal's 3-2 win, which took his goal tally with the national team to 125. After the match, it was revealed that Jorge Nuno Pinto, the president of FC Porto made a bet with Ronaldo to score 1,000 goals which the forward had immediately accepted. "It will be quite difficult, but it’s about my mindset and my motivation. If, physically, my legs treat me as well as I treat them...We'll see, these are small steps. To get to 1,000, you first have to get to 900. I think I will get there," he said during the conversation. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who currently has 857 career goals said it was about enjoying the game and taking small steps at a time if he was to realise his ambitions. "It's about continuing. These are small steps that motivate me to continue playing. I feel very happy about that," said Ronaldo. "For the national team, I wanted to beat the record for goals and international caps. But I just want to keep enjoying it. I don't follow the records; they are the ones that follow me." Ronaldo is enjoying his football with the national team comes after a turbulent time during former manager Fernando Santos' tenure. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Ronaldo was routinely benched by Santos as the Portuguese team made a timid quarterfinal exit at the marquee event. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Will Ronaldo go beyond Euro 2024 and play World Cup 2026? CR7 answers

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Bayern Munich's 44-year FIFA World Cup final streak ends as inter milan keeps historic run alive

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Which Snacks Will You Be Eating While Watching The FIFA World Cup

Don't Call Us WAGs, Say Football World Cup Wives & Girlfriends

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New Jersey to host 2026 World Cup final, Mexico gets opener

Will Ronaldo go beyond Euro 2024 and play World Cup 2026? CR7 answers