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England Faces Cautious DR Congo in World Cup Round of 32 Clash

African nations have delivered excellent performances in the group stage of this World Cup. DR Congo will also aim for the same, looking to surprise strong teams.

Article Summary

Carefully reviewed and prepared editorial.

  • In the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, England will face DR Congo on Wednesday night at 9:45 PM at Atlanta Stadium.
  • This will be the first meeting between the two teams in a World Cup knockout stage, with England aiming to maintain its unbeaten record against African nations.
  • Returning to the World Cup after five decades, DR Congo has reached the knockout stage for the first time in history, while England advances as group winners.

Kathmandu. With the knockout stage of FIFA World Cup 2026 underway, unexpected outcomes and increasing excitement continue to mark the tournament.

Paraguay’s upset over Germany and Morocco’s win against the Netherlands have generated widespread attention.

England, winners of the 1966 World Cup, will play African nation DR Congo on Wednesday in the Round of 32, approaching the match with caution. Given that knockout games often extend to penalty shootouts, anticipation and tension are expected to be high.

The England vs. DR Congo match kicks off at 9:45 PM Nepal time at Atlanta Stadium.

According to FIFA rankings, England is ranked 4th while DR Congo, participating in their second World Cup, is 46th.

African teams have excelled in the group stage, disrupting strong teams, and DR Congo aims to continue this trend.

England remains undefeated against African teams in nine encounters, winning five and drawing four.

England has previously recorded knockout stage victories against African nations twice: beating Cameroon 3-2 in 1990 and Senegal 2-0 in the last 16 in 2022.

Harry Kane, England’s captain, is the team’s all-time World Cup top scorer with 11 goals and aims to increase this tally.

Key defenders for DR Congo include Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, both of whom have played in five different clubs including Manchester United. Forward Joël Bissaka has already scored three goals in this World Cup.

Group Stage Performance

England topped their group with 7 points from 2 wins and 1 draw, while DR Congo secured advancement as one of the best third-placed teams.

England beat Croatia 4-2 in their opener, then played a goalless draw against Ghana, and finally defeated Panama 2-0 to stay unbeaten in the group.

Captain Harry Kane scored three goals in the group stage, supported notably by Jude Bellingham.

DR Congo’s return to the World Cup after 52 years marks their second appearance ever. They made history by reaching the knockout phase for the first time with a group stage record of 1 win, 1 draw, and 1 loss.

They drew 1-1 against title contenders Portugal in their first match, lost 1-0 to Colombia next, but finished strong with a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan, accumulating 4 points.

Though ranked third behind group winner Colombia and runner-up Portugal, DR Congo qualified for the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.

Head-to-Head

This will be the first-ever meeting between England and DR Congo in both the FIFA World Cup and international football overall.

Players to Watch

For England, captain Harry Kane remains the key goal threat, supported by Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, all expected to play significant roles.

Kane carries the responsibility of leading the Three Lions forward; his goals can decisively influence team results. After struggling to score against Ghana, Kane and Bellingham found the net against Panama.

For DR Congo, players active in the English league are central to their performance. Forward Joël Bissaka’s three goals make him a standout player. Defenders Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, with experience in Manchester United and other clubs, are crucial to DR Congo’s defense.

Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Attempt to End Birthright Citizenship

June 30, Kathmandu – The US Supreme Court has rejected former President Donald Trump’s attempt to end birthright citizenship in America through an executive order. The court reaffirmed a century-old legal tradition and constitutional practice that grants automatic US citizenship to children born in the country. Trump had sought to uphold the order he issued on his first day in office. During the oral arguments, he became the first sitting US president to participate in such a proceedings.

Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in the decision, “Citizenship is the right to claim the rights—to partake freely in our political community. The framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended this promise to every person born on this soil. Today, we maintain that promise.” Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, and Samuel Alito dissented from the ruling. Thomas and Gorsuch argued that neither the Constitution nor federal law guarantees automatic citizenship to children born to non-permanent residents in the United States.

The Trump administration had claimed that children born in the US to immigrants living unlawfully, tourists, or foreign students should not qualify for citizenship under the Fourteenth Amendment. This amendment was enacted in 1868 after the Civil War to secure the legal status of former slaves and their descendants. Immigration rights activists and civil liberties groups opposing this policy warned that millions of children born each year to non-citizen parents would be affected and that ending citizenship certification based solely on birth certificates would create significant administrative challenges.

Mbappé Relishes Every Moment of the World Cup Alongside His Stellar Performance

After netting two goals in France’s comfortable victory over Sweden and earning the ‘Player of the Match’ title, Kylian Mbappé expressed that he is thoroughly enjoying every moment of the FIFA World Cup. Following France’s progression into the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, captain Mbappé shared that beyond his excellent performance, he is savoring every experience in the tournament.

With two goals against Sweden securing his ‘Man of the Match’ award, Mbappé stated, “I am currently playing well and truly enjoying every moment of the World Cup.”

Having scored 18 goals across 18 World Cup matches so far, Mbappé is tied with Argentina’s captain Lionel Messi, leading the list of top scorers in this tournament with 6 goals.

On July 2, Kathmandu – Following France’s advancement to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, captain Kylian Mbappé revealed that he is not only delivering excellent performances but also savoring the moments of the World Cup. After scoring two goals in France’s decisive victory over Sweden, Mbappé was named ‘Player of the Match’ and mentioned he has been enjoying every moment of the tournament.

“I always wanted to truly enjoy this World Cup,” he said. “I have enjoyed previous tournaments, but back then I was younger, and my main focus was on my performance.”

Mbappé added, “Now, I feel I can perform well and enjoy the moment at the same time, and I believe I am succeeding in both.”

Currently held across North America, this World Cup has seen Mbappé score 6 goals in 4 matches, sharing the top scorer spot with Argentina’s Lionel Messi. To date, he has played 18 World Cup matches and scored 18 goals in total.

Delhi Government Announces Full Tax Exemption on Electric Vehicle Purchases

June 17, New Delhi – The capital city of India, Delhi, has unveiled a new electric vehicle (EV) policy aimed at controlling air pollution. In response to the serious air quality challenges, the Delhi government has introduced attractive tax exemptions and regulations to encourage the use of electric vehicles. Under the new policy, buyers of electric cars priced up to ₹30 lakh will be exempt from road tax and registration fees. The government has decided to provide a 100% exemption on these charges. Approved by the cabinet, this policy will take effect starting July 1.

The Delhi government has set an ambitious target to make the capital completely pollution-free by March 2030. To achieve this goal, it has committed to investing ₹15,000 crore over the next four years. The policy also proposes the phased phase-out of petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG) powered two-wheelers. From April 2028, the sale and registration of non-electric two-wheelers will be completely banned in Delhi. The government expects this move to significantly reduce the increasing vehicle congestion and associated pollution within the city. It further believes this step will bolster the electric transport ecosystem and ensure cleaner air for Delhi’s residents.

Mexico Secures Historic Win in Knockout Stage at Home After 40 Years

In a match held on Wednesday morning at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico defeated Ecuador 2–0 to secure their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. This victory marks Mexico’s first knockout stage win since 1986, ending a 40-year wait.

Julian Quinones opened the scoring in the 21st minute, giving Mexico the lead, and Raul Jimenez sealed the win with a second goal in the 31st minute. Although Ecuador maintained good ball possession, they were unable to convert any opportunities into goals.

Julian became the second Mexican player to score in three different World Cup matches, following Luis Hernandez, who achieved this feat in 1998. Mexico advanced from the group stage after victories over South Africa, South Korea, and the Czech Republic. The team will now face the winner of the match between England and DR Congo for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Afghanistan Claims Attack on Pakistan Border Area, Tensions Rise Again

A comprehensive report with editorial review. Tensions have escalated once again along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The Taliban government claims that Pakistan’s airstrikes have killed 36 civilians and injured more than 160. The Pakistani military, asserting that four civilian drones were shot down, has warned of an appropriate response to any further provocative activities. Kathmandu, 17 Ashar. The Taliban administration of Afghanistan has reported that it has been attacked in border areas by Pakistan. According to the Taliban, many individuals were injured in the southwestern Balochistan province of Pakistan during the attack. The Pakistani military, alleging that it shot down four non-military drones, also warned that it would respond appropriately to any future provocative actions. Independent verification of both sides’ claims has not been possible.

These incidents followed an airstrike conducted by Pakistan inside Afghanistan on Sunday. According to the United Nations, 28 civilians were killed in Sunday’s strike. However, Afghanistan claims that residential homes were targeted in Pakistan’s attack, resulting in 36 civilian fatalities and over 160 injured. The Afghanistan-Pakistan border, which had been relatively calm for several months, is now witnessing renewed tensions. Both countries had agreed to a ceasefire following several weeks of bloody clashes last October.

Pakistan has long accused Afghanistan of harboring terrorist groups that attack Pakistan from Afghan territory. The Taliban government, however, has consistently denied these allegations.

Netherlands Coach Ronald Koeman Resigns Following FIFA World Cup Exit

Ronald Koeman, head coach of the Netherlands national football team, has resigned after the team was eliminated in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Following the defeat to Morocco in a penalty shootout, three Dutch players were subjected to racist and hateful comments on social media, prompting Koeman to step down. The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) has declared it will take legal action against those abusing players and considers such behavior a criminal offense. Report dated 17 Ashadh, Kathmandu.

The match in Monterey ended 1-1 in regulation and extra time before heading to penalties, where Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber, and Krichencio Summerville missed their attempts. Subsequently, they became targets of racial discrimination, hateful, and offensive remarks on social platforms. The 63-year-old Koeman confirmed the conclusion of his second tenure as Netherlands coach. He expressed deep disappointment on Instagram for not fulfilling his dream of making history at the World Cup. Koeman also reflected that recent years have made him realize other aspects of life are more important than football. His wife, Bartina Koeman, is currently battling breast cancer.

Amid these events, the KNVB announced plans to pursue legal proceedings against individuals responsible for racial abuse directed at players. The association labeled such comments as “extremely hateful” and stated that, upon receiving complaints, its legal team will assess whether these expressions constitute criminal offenses and, if necessary, initiate formal criminal investigations through government prosecution offices. Previously, during the Euro Cup 2021 final, England’s Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, and Jadon Sancho also faced similar racial abuse, which led to imprisonment for two offenders. The KNVB reaffirmed that football is a sport that unites people from diverse communities and that any form of discrimination directly contradicts the fundamental values of the game.

Take a Five-Minute Walk for Workplace Happiness

Whether responding to emails or making calls on Teams, today’s workplace has largely become a place where we sit at desks for long periods. However, this prolonged sitting habit is harmful to our health. Experts warn that remaining stationary for extended durations can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

So, how often should we get up to take a walk around the stairs or nearby areas during productive work hours? The ideal balance is still unclear. A study conducted by Columbia University in the United States suggests that taking a five-minute walking break every hour during work has positive effects on health. This study was recently published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. Lead researcher Keith Diaz highlighted that many adults spend three-quarters of their waking hours sitting in one place.

He said, “Sitting less and moving more is beneficial. However, determining the right amount of movement is necessary.” According to this research, walking for just five minutes every hour improves mood and reduces fatigue. People also find it easy to adopt this habit. The study involved over 11,000 American employees, most of whom worked 8 to 9 hours in office settings.

During the first week, participants recorded details about their daily routines, mood, fatigue, and work engagement. Over the next two weeks, they completed surveys after taking walking breaks every half-hour, hour, or two hours. The results showed that breaks every half hour improved mood and reduced fatigue, though they did not impact overall daily work outcomes. Breaks every two hours were better than not walking at all.

Ultimately, taking a walking break every hour was found to be the most practical and helpful approach, enhancing mood and maintaining alertness during work.

Keith Diaz noted, “Building a habit of walking every hour isn’t easy because many worry about what supervisors and colleagues might think. But the reality is different. Such breaks can improve productivity, make people more alert and energetic, and enhance memory. They also help individuals feel relaxed and refreshed.” Walking comes at no cost and does not require stopping work. Many meetings can be conducted outside the office or while walking, and phone calls can also be handled on the move.

Emily McGrath, senior nurse at the British Heart Foundation, welcomed the study, stating, “Adding short walking habits during daily work has a positive impact on overall health.” However, she also added, “The study was based on self-reported data over a short period, and further research is needed to understand the long-term health effects.”

Gil Raised Family Expenses by Selling His Jersey and Became a World Cup Hero by Defeating Germany

Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gil made a historic impact in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage by saving two penalties in the shootout against Germany, securing victory for his team. The 26-year-old, who had to sell his football gear to cover his family’s medical expenses, delivered a stellar performance and was awarded the ‘Player of the Match.’ Remembering his nephew Alexander, who is receiving treatment in the hospital, Gil said, ‘Alexander, this award is for you. Get well soon. Your godfather is with you, even from afar.’

A few years ago, Gil was compelled to sell his own jersey and football equipment to support his family’s expenses. Now, the Paraguayan goalkeeper has become a hero of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall, Gil saved two penalties in the Round of 32 match shootout against Germany, leading Paraguay to only their second knockout victory in World Cup history. Following his outstanding display, he earned the ‘Player of the Match’ award. Before this, Gil had played only three senior club matches up to January 2025, yet he is now recognized as one of the tournament’s best goalkeepers.

Gil began his career playing for Paraguayan clubs 13 de Junio and the youth side of CS San Lorenzo before earning a place in the national team for the 2019 U-20 South American Championship. Although he debuted with the senior team in 2020, opportunities were limited thereafter. In 2022, Gil’s wife Melissa Avalos became pregnant. When their child was at risk of premature birth, Melissa underwent complex surgery, and their newborn son Lautaro was placed in intensive care. During this difficult period, to meet family medical expenses, Gil sold his football gear, shoes, and even his commemorative jersey from the Paraguayan U-20 team.

About a year after his son’s birth, Argentine top division club San Lorenzo signed Gil on loan. In 2024, he played for the reserve team and, in 2025, became the first-choice goalkeeper. His impressive performances caught the attention of Paraguay’s coach Gustavo Alfaro. Called up to the national team in March and June, Gil made his senior international debut in September during the final World Cup qualifier against Peru. After five friendly matches, he secured the position of first-choice goalkeeper before the World Cup. Though Paraguay lost the opening match to the United States 4–1, Gil conceded just one goal in three matches with extra time, saving 16 of 17 on-target shots faced. His outstanding performance in the penalty shootout against Germany, saving two shots, propelled Paraguay forward and earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award, which he dedicated to his family, especially his nephew Alexander. Reflecting on his family, Gil expressed, ‘Alexander, this award is for you. Get well soon. Your godfather stands with you from afar.’ Having previously been forced to sell all his cherished memories to sustain his family, Gil now shines as Paraguay’s hope on football’s biggest stage.

Balen Government Under Pressure Over Proposed Traffic Fine Increases: What’s Next?

A traffic police officer at work

Image Source, MetroTraffic/facebook

Image Caption, Officials report a shortage of resources for traffic management

The proposed bill to impose significantly higher fines on traffic violations has placed the ruling party under pressure.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development has sent the draft of the bill to the Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs for review.

Krishna Raj Pantha, head of the Infrastructure Construction and Transport Division, stated that the draft is still in its preliminary stage. “Much work remains before the law is finalized,” he said, “There are many provisions regarding fines and offenses; I can’t recall them all at the moment.”

Media reports revealing fines ranging from NPR 500 up to 100,000 for violations involving everyone from street hawkers to drivers have sparked public concern.

Government officials appear to be defensive on the matter, with representatives from the law and infrastructure ministries reluctant to comment extensively.

UEFA Imposes Financial Penalties on Aston Villa, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United

News Summary

Prepared after thorough review.

  • The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has fined Aston Villa 22.5 million euros for financial regulation breaches.
  • Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United have also received fines in varying amounts.
  • Newcastle United has agreed to pay an additional 10 million euros fine related to exceeding football revenue limits.

June 17, Kathmandu – The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has imposed a fine of 22.5 million euros (approximately £19.4 million) on English football club Aston Villa for violations of financial regulations.

Following a conclusion that the club seriously breached UEFA’s squad cost rules in 2025, Aston Villa has been fined and also banned from registering new players for the upcoming Champions League season.

Of the total fine, 15 million euros (£12.9 million) has been conditionally suspended. If the club fails to significantly reduce its squad expenses by 2026, the suspended amount will also have to be paid.

This decision follows up on a previous conditional sanction imposed last year. In July 2025, Villa was fined 11 million euros, with an additional 15 million euros fine subject to cancellation if financial regulations are adhered to within three years.

Other Premier League clubs found in breach of financial rules have also been penalized. Chelsea has been fined 3 million euros, with 2 million euros suspended conditionally.

Nottingham Forest has been fined 2.5 million euros, and Newcastle United 3 million euros.

Additionally, Newcastle United has reached a separate agreement concerning exceeding the football revenue cap, under which it will incur another 10 million euro fine. Of this amount, 7 million euros will be conditionally suspended over the next three years.

-Source: BBC

Haaland: What Happens Now Will Be a Bonus for Us

When Norway secured their first-ever victory in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, striker Erling Haaland described the moment as historic. After reaching the round of 16 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Norway’s striker Haaland called this achievement remarkable and extraordinary. By defeating Ivory Coast 2–1, Norway advanced to the knockout stage for the first time in 28 years and will face Brazil in the next round.

Haaland has already scored five goals in this World Cup, and he said that going forward, they will play freely with no pressure, viewing any further success as a bonus for the team. He stated, “This is history; it feels amazing. After 28 years, we succeeded in qualifying. We managed to get past the group stage, and now we have progressed to face Brazil in New York.”

“This is incredible, so whatever happens next will be a bonus. Now we can play without any pressure and enjoy ourselves because I don’t think we will experience this again,” he added. Norway advanced to the round of 16 by beating Ivory Coast 2–1 in the round of 32. With the score tied 1–1, Haaland scored the decisive goal that secured the team’s victory.

Serena Williams Exits Wimbledon in First Round After Four-Year Hiatus

American tennis legend Serena Williams made her return to Wimbledon after four years but was defeated in the first round. On Tuesday, the 44-year-old Serena lost to 20-year-old Australian player Maya Joint with a scoreline of 6-3, 6-7, 6-3. Reflecting on her comeback experience at Wimbledon, Serena said, “The atmosphere was absolutely amazing, and I fully felt the moment of stepping back onto the court.”

Kathmandu, 17 Ashar – After a sensational return to Wimbledon following four years, American tennis great Serena Williams was eliminated in the opening round. The 44-year-old Serena was defeated by 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint with a score of 6-3, 6-7 (8-6), 6-3 in Tuesday’s first-round match. Having planned to bid a final farewell on Centre Court after her first-round exit in 2022, Serena returned to the Wimbledon courts after 1,462 days.

The seven-time Wimbledon singles champion and six-time women’s doubles champion received a grand welcome from the crowd. During the match, Serena saved a match point and won the second set in a tiebreak, extending the contest to a deciding set. However, in the final set, Maya Joint displayed composed play to secure a historic victory.

Defeating Serena, who is 24 years her senior, Joint admitted to feeling very nervous before the match. “I couldn’t sleep until 2 a.m. last night. When I entered the court, I felt I couldn’t stay fully alert and my legs were shaking. I don’t quite know what just happened,” she said.

On the other hand, Serena expressed her happiness about returning to Wimbledon via a statement, as she was not required to attend the mandatory press conference. “I feel extremely happy to be back at Wimbledon. I had often thought about playing here again. The atmosphere was incredible and I deeply felt the moment I returned to the court,” Serena stated.

Prabhu Bank Donates Digital Board to Tribhuvan University

Summary

  • Prabhu Bank has donated a digital board to the Central Management Department of Tribhuvan University under its corporate social responsibility program.
  • The bank stated that this initiative aims to expand technology access in education, making teaching and learning more tech-friendly and effective.
  • The handover ceremony was attended by Prabhu Bank representatives Dipendra Babu Bisht and Sabin Rana, along with Tribhuvan University officials including Professor Bhawani Shankar Acharya.

June 30, Kathmandu – Prabhu Bank has handed over a digital board to the Central Management Department of Tribhuvan University. This donation is part of the bank’s corporate social responsibility efforts supporting the university.

The bank stated that the digital board aims to broaden access to technology in education, enhancing digital teaching and learning processes to be more interactive, effective, and technology-friendly.

The handover ceremony was attended by Prabhu Bank’s Chief Marketing Manager Dipendra Babu Bisht, Marketing Manager Sabin Rana, and from Tribhuvan University, the Head of the Central Management Department, Professor Bhawani Shankar Acharya, Dr. Sunita Bhandari, along with other officials.

Prabhu Bank has also expressed its commitment to continue social responsibility initiatives in education, health, and community development sectors in the future. Currently, the bank serves approximately 3.6 million customers through its 300 branches, 265 ATMs, and 66 extension counters across the country.