FIFA has announced an unusual initiative to sell pieces of real grass from the 2026 World Cup final field, scheduled for July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium. The football governing body will offer 2,026 limited-edition grass souvenirs preserved in transparent resin, each engraved with the tournament logo, venue, date, and final score. A UK-based company, Keep Stub, will produce the items, each accompanied by a USB drive certifying authenticity. Prices range from 450 to 3,000 US dollars depending on edition and size. If all units sell out, FIFA’s revenue from the grass alone could exceed 11.2 million US dollars, or about 13.5 billion Bangladeshi taka. The items will only be shipped to buyers in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe after the final match concludes and the grass is processed. The premium “Hero Edition” includes additional collectibles such as a gold-engraved metal ticket, a mini replica of the match ball, and a crystal World Cup trophy. The stadium’s turf has faced criticism from players of teams like Brazil and France, who described it as dry and difficult for smooth play.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup ended in controversy as social media erupted with claims that the Portuguese star was sabotaged by his teammates. Following Portugal’s elimination, midfielder Bruno Fernandes became the focus of criticism, accused by some fans of deliberately not passing enough to Ronaldo. Fernandes had posted an emotional message expressing disappointment and gratitude, but later disabled comments after facing intense backlash online. The debate intensified when Ronaldo’s sister, Katia Aveiro, shared a post criticizing Fernandes’ performance, suggesting that Portugal’s midfielders failed to support Ronaldo adequately. Fans accused Fernandes, Vitinha, João Neves, and Pedro Neto of sidelining the 41-year-old forward during matches, particularly after a 1–1 draw against DR Congo. However, others defended the team, arguing that Ronaldo’s age and tight marking limited his effectiveness rather than teammate neglect. Portugal exited the tournament after a 1–0 loss to Spain in the round of 16, marking Ronaldo’s last World Cup appearance. Following the defeat, coach Roberto Martínez resigned, and Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo’s former Al-Nassr coach, was named as his successor.

At a seminar titled 'Post-July Revolution Education Reform and Future Roadmap' held at the National Press Club, speakers emphasized that reforming the education system is essential for restructuring the state. They called for prioritizing moral and religious education to build a generation capable of competing globally. The event was organized by the Ideal Teachers Federation, with Professor Dr. Zubair Muhammad Ehsanul Haque presenting the keynote paper. Former interim government adviser Professor A F M Khalid Hossain criticized past changes in education that, he said, weakened national identity and religious studies. He highlighted Japan’s education model and warned against excessive politicization in universities. Chief guest Mahmudur Rahman, editor of *Amar Desh*, stressed that teachers must free themselves from political influence to ensure merit-based recruitment and uphold the ideals of the July Revolution. He also called for strengthening religious and moral education to build ethical and self-reliant citizens. Speakers including Professor Mujibur Rahman MP urged the government to end partisan appointments and make Quran education mandatory at all levels, arguing that a faith-based, merit-oriented education system is vital for national progress.

Brazil’s hopes of winning a sixth World Cup title ended in disappointment after a dramatic round of 16 defeat to Norway. The South American giants, who entered the tournament with high expectations, were eliminated following two goals from Norwegian striker Erling Haaland. The loss extended Brazil’s wait for another world title to 28 years. The team’s campaign was marred by injuries to key attackers, including Rodrygo, Estevão, Raphinha, and Lucas Paquetá, leaving Vinícius Júnior to shoulder much of the attacking responsibility. Despite scoring four goals and providing one assist in five matches, the Real Madrid forward could not prevent Brazil’s early exit. Four days after the defeat, Vinícius posted an emotional message on Instagram, apologizing to fans for the team’s failure. He described representing Brazil as his greatest pride and expressed deep disappointment at the elimination. He said he had prepared intensely and wanted to win the World Cup for supporters and his family. Vinícius promised to keep fighting to make Brazil world champions again. The post reflected the ongoing frustration of Brazil’s long wait since their last World Cup triumph in 2002, leaving fans hopeful for a future resurgence.

Bangladeshi actress Pori Moni has alleged that her 2021 arrest by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) was carried out unlawfully and to serve the interests of certain influential groups. In a Facebook post published late on July 10, 2026, she recalled being detained from her Banani residence and later charged under the Narcotics Control Act. She stated that the incident severely damaged her personal, social, and professional life, and questioned whether the state could ever restore her lost dignity and peace of mind. In her post, Pori Moni thanked former RAB intelligence chief Lt. Col. (Retd.) Khairul Islam for recently acknowledging certain truths about the operation during an online talk show. She reiterated that she was unjustly arrested under the direction of then RAB chief and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun. The actress emphasized her desire for justice, accountability, and the protection of innocent citizens from similar experiences. Pori Moni expressed hope that the court would soon grant her relief from the case but lamented that the time and respect she lost could never be recovered.

American journalist and political commentator Anna Kasparian has sharply criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as ‘evil behavior.’ In a statement shared on social media, she said Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza have drawn growing international condemnation and outrage. Kasparian claimed that many people around the world are expressing anger and disgust at Israel’s conduct. Her remarks come at a time when Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and its humanitarian consequences are being widely debated internationally. Supporters of Israel emphasize the country’s security and self-defense arguments, while critics continue to voice concern over civilian casualties and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The controversy underscores the deepening global divide over Israel’s military strategy and the humanitarian toll of the conflict, as public discourse intensifies across political and media platforms.

Speakers at a seminar in Dhaka on Friday said that the city’s intellectuals failed to play the expected role during the July Revolution, comparing their inaction to that seen in 1971. The event, titled “July Through Perspectives: Opinions and Differences,” was organized by the Center for Bengal Studies at Sirajul Islam Lecture Hall of Dhaka University. Among the speakers were Faisal Mahmud, Hasan Robayet, Faisal Ahmed, and Mowlobi Ashraf, with Abdullah Al Mahmud delivering the welcome address. Participants described the July Revolution as an expression of collective anger and revolutionary aspiration against a former fascist regime. They emphasized the need to uphold the core spirit of July to continue the struggle against fascism and for state reform. The speakers urged sustained intellectual and political efforts to build an inclusive, just, and discrimination-free society reflecting the revolution’s ideals. Additional remarks were made by researchers and representatives from various organizations, including the National Revolutionary Council and Inquilab Moncho, reinforcing the call for continued engagement with the revolution’s foundational goals.

Bangladesh’s Minister for Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare, Professor Dr. Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain, arrived in Islamabad to attend the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women Affairs, scheduled for July 12–13, 2026. The delegation was received at Islamabad International Airport by Pakistan’s Minister of State for Law and Justice, Barrister Aqil Malik, and Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Md. Iqbal Hossain Khan. The minister was accompanied by his spouse, Dr. Sharifa Karim Swarna, along with Women and Children Affairs Secretary Yasmin Parveen and Private Secretary Dr. Md. Mahmudul Haque. During the visit, the minister inspected Bangladesh’s newly constructed chancery complex in Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave, where embassy officials and staff welcomed him. He exchanged greetings with them and planted a tree in the chancery compound. The visit highlights Bangladesh’s participation in the OIC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation among member states on women’s development and social welfare issues.

Spain reached the 2026 World Cup semifinals after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in Los Angeles, thanks to a late goal from substitute Mikel Merino. The Arsenal midfielder, brought on in the 86th minute, scored just two minutes later after reacting quickest to a rebound from Pau Cubarsí’s shot that slipped through Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens’ hands. The win marked Merino’s second consecutive match-winning goal as a substitute in the knockout stage, following his decisive strike against Portugal in the round of 16. Speaking after the match, Merino described the moment as unbelievable and emotional, especially with his family watching from the stands. He emphasized his readiness to contribute whenever called upon and downplayed personal records, saying the team’s success mattered most. Spain will now face France in the semifinals, a team they have beaten in both Euro 2024 and the Nations League. Merino said Spain are focused on continuing their strong form and are determined to chase their World Cup dream, standing just two wins away from the trophy.

Bollywood singer, composer, and pianist Adnan Sami has released a special four-song musical project dedicated to Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The project, unveiled on Friday, July 10, 2026, has already drawn significant international attention. Each of the four original songs explores themes of leadership, resilience, endurance, and remembrance, marking a distinctive addition to Sami’s extensive musical repertoire. According to the official X handle of the Iranian Embassy in Australia, the Padma Shri award-winning artist created this project as a tribute to Khamenei, with one of the songs titled “Ya Allah” shared through the embassy’s post. Over his three-decade career, Sami has performed across South Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, blending Indian classical, pop, and orchestral styles to build a unique musical identity. The new project is viewed by observers as another exceptional chapter in Adnan Sami’s long artistic journey, further expanding his creative legacy in international music circles.

A political worker named Azhar Mia has been accused of raping a 10-year-old girl in the Bangra Bazar area of Muradnagar upazila, Comilla. The incident allegedly occurred on July 1, when Azhar lured the child into a tin-shed room near his poultry farm and assaulted her. Locals rushed to the scene after hearing the victim’s screams, but the accused fled. The child later described the incident to her family, who filed a written complaint with Bangra Bazar Police Station. A case has been registered, and police confirmed that efforts are underway to arrest the suspect. Local residents claimed Azhar had prior involvement in various criminal activities and used his influence to evade accountability. They also alleged that a local homeopathy doctor treated the victim and was involved in other antisocial acts. Police investigator Anwar Hossain stated that Azhar would be brought under the law regardless of political affiliation, and an SI has been assigned to the case. Political groups mentioned in the report denied formal ties with Azhar, with both Jamaat and NCP representatives asserting that he is not their member.

UNESCO has reported that in 2025, 113 developing countries spent more on foreign debt repayments than on education. The agency’s latest report highlights that sub-Saharan African nations, on average, allocated 3.6 times more funds to debt servicing than to education, undermining education systems and threatening long-term economic growth. The report warns that the situation could worsen as low and lower-middle-income countries have already lost 21 percent of international education aid compared to 2023, with projections of a further 30 percent decline by 2027. Debt Justice, a UK-based campaign group, attributed the growing debt burden to the COVID-19 pandemic, rising energy prices, higher interest rates, and climate-related disasters. In 2024, poor countries’ debt repayments reached a 35-year high, with 56 nations spending about one-fifth of their total government income on debt servicing. UNESCO noted that the funding shortfall has disrupted school operations, delayed teacher salaries, and hindered educational activities. UNESCO called for reforms in global debt restructuring mechanisms and urged the creation of long-term debt-assistance frameworks to help developing countries maintain investment in education and essential public services while managing debt obligations.

At least seven people were killed in a road accident in Bhanga upazila of Faridpur on Saturday evening. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. at the Shuyodi bus stand area on the Bhanga-Bhatiapara highway when a speeding passenger bus ran over several people. The victims included five local residents and the driver and helper of an egg-laden pickup van that had overturned earlier in the rain. Police confirmed that four people died on the spot and three more succumbed to injuries at Faridpur District Medical College Hospital. According to local sources, the pickup lost control and overturned on the road, prompting nearby residents to rush to rescue the trapped driver and helper. During the rescue effort, a bus from Narail Express Paribahan hit those at the scene, causing multiple fatalities. The deceased were identified as Zainal, Arif, Setu, Nurun Nabi, and Shahidul, while the identities of the pickup driver and helper were not immediately known. Following the accident, angry locals blocked the Bhanga-Bhatiapara highway, set fire to five buses, and vandalized several other vehicles, halting long-distance and local traffic until late evening.

A report by The New York Times claims that former U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been exerting significant influence over Venezuela’s state affairs from Washington. Over the past six months, Rubio’s role has reportedly expanded across key areas including the economy, natural resources, government decisions, and sanctions enforcement. The report links this development to a U.S. special forces operation earlier this year that led to the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, after which Rubio began working closely with the country’s interim administration. According to the report, Rubio maintains regular communication with Delcy Rodríguez, recognized by the U.S. as Venezuela’s interim leader, through Spanish-language WhatsApp exchanges. It also claims that most of Venezuela’s export revenues are first deposited in the U.S. Treasury before being released to Venezuelan banks under conditions determined by Rubio’s team. This arrangement is said to have reduced corruption and eased pressure from international creditors while increasing U.S. influence over the interim government. The report further states that Rubio plays a key role in implementing sanctions, reforming Venezuela’s oil sector, and advising on major government appointments. However, the claims have not been independently verified, and neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have issued official responses.

Hasnat Abdullah, Member of Parliament for Comilla-4 and chief organizer of the National Citizens Party (NCP) in the southern region, said that the BNP does not want to end extortion but rather replace existing extortionists with their own. He made the remarks on Saturday at a rally in Chengarchar College field, Matlab North, Chandpur, during the NCP’s ‘July March’ program demanding implementation of a referendum, job creation, and border security. Abdullah emphasized the need for youth participation in national leadership, noting that while senior citizens have responsibilities, social and environmental limitations often restrict their actions. He praised the sacrifices of young people during the 2024 movement and encouraged them to contest in upcoming local government elections for chairman, member, and mayor positions. Criticizing the current political environment, Abdullah called for freeing politics from criminal influence and urged action against those involved in drug trade and price hikes. He stressed the necessity of political reform to ensure citizens’ rights, employment, and security, highlighting the role of the younger generation in shaping the country’s future.