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Sports

Iran hold New Zealand 2-2 in dramatic World Cup opener

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Iran

DOHA: Iran marked a resilient start to their FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in a closely contested opening match, played under unusual geopolitical and logistical pressures ahead of the tournament, according to reports.

The tournament reportedly began under unprecedented circumstances, with Iran facing concerns over participation following regional tensions and military developments earlier in the year.

Iran’s preparations were also affected by visa-related issues, forcing the team to shift their training base from the United States to Mexico. Officials said 11 members of the support staff were denied entry into the United States, complicating pre-tournament arrangements.

Despite the challenges, Iran delivered a strong performance in their opening fixture, earning a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in front of a vocal fan presence.

New Zealand took an early lead in the seventh minute through a combined effort involving Chris Wood and Elijah Just. Iran responded in the 32nd minute with a goal from Reza Rezaeian to level the score.

In the second half, just restored New Zealand’s advantage, but Mohammad Mohebi’s headed equaliser brought Iran back into the contest.

Both sides pushed for a winning goal, but the match ended in a draw after a competitive and evenly balanced second half.

Two charged in US over theft of England team gear during World Cup logistics

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Two charged

United States: Two individuals have been charged in connection with the theft of equipment belonging to the England national football team during FIFA World Cup 2026 operations, according to international news reports.

Authorities said Mustafa Salik and Irfan Kamal each face one count of possessing stolen property after the missing items were recovered.

The stolen goods, valued at approximately $18,000, reportedly included England team kits and other training equipment.

Officials stated that the equipment went missing while being transported from the team’s training camp in Florida to its World Cup base in Kansas City.

Under state law, the offense carries a maximum penalty of up to seven years in prison.

Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing turns festive after Japan’s World Cup draw with Netherlands

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Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing

Tokyo: The iconic Shibuya Crossing turned into a sea of celebration after Japan held Netherlands to a thrilling 2–2 draw in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Hundreds of local and international football fans gathered at the famous intersection, waving national flags, chanting slogans and celebrating Japan’s spirited performance in the Group F match.

Despite light rain, enthusiasm remained high as the area transformed into a festive scene shortly after the final whistle.

A widely shared video on social media showed fans briefly stepping onto the road during celebration, but quickly clearing the crossing when the traffic signal turned green, allowing normal traffic flow to resume.

The disciplined behavior of the crowd drew widespread praise online, with users highlighting it as an example of civic responsibility and Japanese cultural discipline.

Earlier, Japan produced a spirited late comeback to secure a 2–2 draw against Netherlands in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F encounter.

The match, played in an intense atmosphere, saw the Netherlands start slightly stronger in the first half, with Daniel Malen creating several chances that forced key saves from Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

The Dutch took the lead in the 51st minute when Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk headed home a precise cross from Ryan Gravenberch.

Japan responded quickly, leveling the score six minutes later through a powerful strike from Keito Nakamura that left the Dutch goalkeeper helpless.

The Netherlands regained the lead in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville finished a brilliant solo effort inside the box.

However, Japan pressed relentlessly in the closing stages and were rewarded just two minutes before full time when Daichi Kamada scored a header to make it 2–2, sparking celebrations among Japanese fans in the stadium.

Both teams earned a point each from the opening Group F fixture, with the match being widely regarded as one of the most exciting early games of the tournament.

Sweden open World Cup campaign with commanding 5–1 win over Tunisia

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Sweden

Sweden: Sweden delivered a dominant performance in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, defeating Tunisia 5–1 in a Group F match played in Monterrey.

Sweden took control early, with Yasin Ayari capitalizing on a defensive error in the 7th minute to give his side the lead. Alexander Isak doubled the advantage in the 30th minute, finishing a precise assist from Viktor Gyökeres.

Tunisia pulled one back before halftime through a header from Omar Rekik, briefly reducing the deficit and keeping the contest alive.

However, Sweden regained full control in the second half, adding two more goals in the 59th and 84th minutes to extend their dominance.

Substitute Swedberg made history by scoring just 12 seconds after coming on, setting a record for the fastest substitute goal in World Cup history.

In stoppage time, Ayari struck again to complete his brace and seal a convincing opening win, sending Sweden to the top of Group F standings.

Japan stage late comeback to hold Netherlands to 2–2 draw in World Cup thriller

Japan produced a spirited late comeback to secure a 2–2 draw against Netherlands in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F encounter.

The match, played in an intense atmosphere, saw the Netherlands start slightly stronger in the first half, with Daniel Malen creating several chances that forced key saves from Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

The Dutch took the lead in the 51st minute when Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk headed home a precise cross from Ryan Gravenberch.

Japan responded quickly, leveling the score six minutes later through a powerful strike from Keito Nakamura that left the Dutch goalkeeper helpless.

The Netherlands regained the lead in the 64th minute when Crysencio Summerville finished a brilliant solo effort inside the box.

However, Japan pressed relentlessly in the closing stages and were rewarded just two minutes before full time when Daichi Kamada scored a header to make it 2–2, sparking celebrations among Japanese fans in the stadium.

Both teams earned a point each from the opening Group F fixture, with the match being widely regarded as one of the most exciting early games of the tournament.

Late Amad Diallo strike gives Ivory Coast 1–0 win over Ecuador in World Cup thriller

Ivory Coast secured a dramatic 1–0 victory over Ecuador in a tense FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E clash, thanks to a last-minute goal from substitute Amad Diallo.

The decisive moment came in the 90th minute when the Manchester United winger finished a swift attacking move with a composed left-foot strike into the corner of the net, sending the stadium into celebration.

The goal was set up following a powerful run from Wilfried Singo, who delivered a precise pass that allowed Diallo to complete the match-winning finish.

The defeat proved particularly painful for Ecuador, ending their 19-match unbeaten run that had lasted nearly two years.

Throughout the match, Ecuador created several clear chances, hitting the crossbar three times through attempts from John Yeboah and Alan Minda in the first half, while experienced striker Enner Valencia also came close after the break.

Ivory Coast also threatened on multiple occasions, with Nice forward Evann Guessand striking the crossbar as well.

Despite Ecuador’s defensive discipline for most of the match, Ivory Coast’s persistence paid off in the dying moments to secure a crucial Group E victory and strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.

United States defeats Paraguay 4–1 in FIFA World Cup match

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United States

LOS ANGELES:  The United States secured a commanding 4–1 victory over Paraguay in a World Cup match played in Los Angeles on Saturday.

The U.S. took control early, leading 3–0 by halftime after a dominant first-half performance.

The opening goal came via an own goal by Paraguay’s Buba Dela, followed by a strike from American midfielder Brenden Aaronson. Just seconds before the halftime whistle, Aaronson scored again to give the U.S. a 3–0 advantage.

Giovanni Reyna added the fourth goal in the closing stages to seal the win for the Americans.

Paraguay managed to pull one goal back in the 73rd minute through Marcio, but it proved only a consolation as the United States maintained control until the final whistle.

The result gives the United States a strong start to its World Cup campaign, while Paraguay will look to regroup ahead of its next fixture.

England team equipment stolen ahead of World Cup opener

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England team

KANSAS CITY, United States: Items belonging to England’s football team were stolen ahead of their World Cup opening match, British media reported.

According to reports, locks on a vehicle transporting the team’s equipment were broken in Kansas City, where items including training boots and footballs may have been taken.

The Football Association is working to determine the full extent of the missing equipment, British media said.

Reports added that the team’s kit and luggage were scheduled to arrive in Kansas City ahead of the squad, with players and coaching staff expected to arrive on Saturday.

Police are investigating the incident in coordination with the Football Association, and two people have reportedly been arrested on suspicion of involvement.

The theft could potentially disrupt England’s preparations ahead of their opening match against Croatia, with the team scheduled to hold its first training session on Sunday.

Pakistan football team invited to inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup

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Pakistan football

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s national football team has been invited to participate in the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup, marking a major milestone for the country’s football development, officials said.

According to sources, FIFA extended a formal invitation to Pakistan, which was subsequently confirmed by the Pakistan Football Federation regarding the national team’s participation.

The tournament is scheduled to be held in Indonesia from Sept. 21 to Oct. 6, where Pakistan will compete in Division One against teams including India, hosts Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.

Officials said this will be a significant opportunity for Pakistan, as it will mark the national team’s first appearance in a FIFA-affiliated competition outside World Cup qualifiers or Asian qualifying events.

Sources added that Pakistan’s inclusion in the tournament was facilitated by PFF President Mohsin Gilani’s engagement and diplomatic contacts with FIFA officials.

Experts say participation in the event could provide Pakistan with valuable international exposure and a chance to assess its football progress on a competitive regional stage.

Unexpected scene at World Cup as fan kisses reporter on Live TV

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Unexpected scene

GUADALAJARA: The FIFA World Cup 2026 has kicked off with high drama on the pitch and unexpected viral moments off it, as colorful scenes from the tournament continue to dominate social media.

Following the opening match marked by three red cards, another unusual incident emerged from Guadalajara, Mexico, where a South Korean journalist was reporting live during pre-match coverage between South Korea and the Czech Republic.

According to footage circulating online, a female fan approached the reporter from behind during the live broadcast, hugged him, and kissed him on the cheek before walking away.

The reporter appeared briefly surprised by the sudden gesture but quickly regained composure, smiling and saying “thank you” in Spanish.

The video has gone viral across social media platforms, with users divided in their reactions. While some have described the moment as a lighthearted reflection of the vibrant and friendly World Cup atmosphere, others have raised questions about consent and suggested that public reaction might have been different if the roles were reversed.

The incident adds another unusual chapter to an already eventful start of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Kane Williamson announces retirement from international cricket

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Kane Williamson

WELLINGTON: New Zealand batting legend and former captain Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a distinguished 16-year career.

According to details, the 35-year-old has decided to retire with immediate effect, ruling himself out of the remaining two Test matches against England. Williamson was currently part of the Kiwi squad for the ongoing three-match Test series.

In his statement, Williamson said he had been considering retirement for some time, but recently felt it was the right moment to step away from international cricket.

He expressed pride in representing New Zealand throughout his career, saying he always gave his best whenever he stepped onto the field.

Williamson retires as one of New Zealand’s most successful Test batters. He scored 9,515 runs in 110 Test matches, along with 7,256 runs in One Day Internationals and 2,575 runs in T20 Internationals.

One of the highlights of his career came in 2021 when he led New Zealand to their first-ever ICC World Test Championship title. As captain, he also guided the team to multiple ICC tournament finals and semi-finals.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter paid tribute to Williamson, calling him not only a world-class cricketer but also an exemplary leader and ambassador of the game, adding that his legacy will continue to shape New Zealand cricket for years to come.

South Korea beat Czech Republic 2–1 in FIFA World Cup 2026 clash

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South Korea

DOHA: South Korea national football team defeated Czech Republic national football team 2–1 in a FIFA World Cup 2026 match on Friday, coming from behind in the second half after a goalless first period.

Both sides struggled to break the deadlock in the opening 45 minutes, with strong defensive setups keeping scoring chances limited.

The Czech Republic took the lead early in the second half, but South Korea responded with two quick goals to turn the match around and secure all three points.

South Korea’s equalizer came through Wang E-bum in the 67th minute, before the Asian side completed their comeback with a second goal later in the half to seal a 2–1 victory in the group-stage encounter of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Earlier, the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicked off with a dramatic and record-breaking opening match as hosts Mexico defeated South Africa 2–0 at the iconic Estadio Azteca.

The opening fixture saw Mexico dominate proceedings against South Africa in a high-intensity contest, securing a comfortable victory in front of a home crowd.

However, the match will be remembered not only for the result but also for a rare disciplinary record in World Cup history. For the first time ever in a World Cup opening match, three red cards were shown.

The referee sent off two South African players and one Mexican player during the game, adding an unexpected twist to the tournament’s curtain-raiser.

According to records, there have been only seven instances in FIFA World Cup history where a single match featured three or more red cards. The highest number remains four red cards, issued during the 2006 World Cup clash between Portugal and the Netherlands.

The dramatic opener has set an intense tone for the rest of the tournament.