world cup
Everything you need to know about the cutthroat road to the FIFA World Cup; predictions, soccer statistics and World Cup history.
Shahbaz Ahmed: The Maradona of Hockey Who Revived a Nation’s Passion
It was the year 1986 when the Pakistani hockey team’s camp was set up at the famous Minto Park in Lahore in preparation for the hockey series against India. In that camp, a 17-year-old youngster caught the eye of Brigadier Atif, who had brought him into the national camp based on his impressive performance in the national hockey championship. Brigadier Atif, watching the incredible agility and ball control of the young player, remarked to former Olympian Saeed Anwar sitting beside him, "Look at this young man — he’s not even intimidated by experienced full-backs like Qasim Zia and Nasir Ali." This was the first introduction of Shahbaz Ahmed Senior on the national hockey scene — a player who would later be counted among the finest forwards in hockey history. Masterful stick work, lightning speed, stunning body dodges, classical dribbling, incredible ball control, and perfectly timed passes — these qualities earned him nicknames like "The Maradona of Hockey" and "The Man with Electric Heels." Shahbaz Ahmed was the kind of player whose magnetism brought fans back to stadiums at a time when interest in hockey was dwindling. After his retirement, neither did Pakistani hockey witness a revival, nor did another player of his caliber emerge. --- The Last Peak of Pakistani Hockey On December 4, 1994, Pakistan won its fourth and last Hockey World Cup in Sydney, Australia, under the captaincy of Shahbaz Ahmed. The final was against the Netherlands and, after a 1-1 draw in regular time, the match was decided through penalty strokes — a historic moment when the late goalkeeper Mansoor Ahmed blocked Delmée’s stroke, crowning Pakistan as world champions. The year 1994 was particularly memorable for Pakistani hockey because under Shahbaz Ahmed’s leadership, Pakistan also won the Champions Trophy held in Lahore. These were the last two major titles the team won before slipping into a long period of decline. --- "No One Was Willing to Take the Penalty Stroke" Recalling the 1994 World Cup, Shahbaz Ahmed said, “We had defeated Germany in the semi-final on penalty strokes. The same situation arose in the final against the Netherlands, but due to the immense pressure of the match, no one from our team was ready to take the strokes. We couldn’t even find five players to volunteer. Though I had never taken a penalty stroke before and my flick wasn’t great, I stepped forward because I knew if the captain hesitated, the others would lose courage too.” He added, “During that tournament, Tahir Zaman received news of his father’s passing. He was a key player and was devastated, but he said he wouldn’t return home because the team needed him more at the World Cup.” According to Shahbaz, “Tahir Zaman didn’t play in the first match, but after that, he delivered outstanding performances throughout the tournament. In fact, goalkeeper Mansoor Ahmed, Tahir Zaman, Usman, and Kamran Ashraf all performed exceptionally in that World Cup.” --- "Draws Were Held for Shirt Numbers" In the 1994 World Cup, Shahbaz Ahmed wore jersey number 9, though he had usually worn number 10 throughout his career. He said, “The number 10 shirt is traditionally worn by the world’s top players, and I too wore it for 10 years. But in the 1994 World Cup, shirt numbers were assigned by lucky draw, and I got number 9 — which turned out to be lucky for me.” --- "I Didn’t Play Well, That’s Why We Didn’t Win the Olympics" Shahbaz Ahmed represented Pakistan in three Olympic Games, but he regrets not winning gold in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics under his captaincy. He admitted, “That team was the strongest of my career. Everyone believed we could win gold, but I didn’t click in the semi-final. If I had played like I did in the 1994 World Cup and Champions Trophy, we could have reached the final. My poor performance affected the whole team.” --- The Habit of Becoming 'Man of the Tournament' Shahbaz Ahmed scored 92 international goals in his career but assisted in even more, earning him the reputation of being a selfless forward who never played for personal glory. What truly set him apart was how often he was named “Man of the Tournament” — including at the 1987 Indira Gandhi Tournament, 1989 BMW Trophy, 1990 Asian Games, 1990 World Cup, and the 1994 World Cup. He was the first player to be named “Man of the Tournament” in two consecutive World Cups. Shahbaz Ahmed is the only hockey player in Pakistan to be awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz — Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award — an honor shared only with Imran Khan, Jahangir Khan, and Jansher Khan. --- Dhanraj Pillay Was Also a Fan India’s famous forward Dhanraj Pillay, himself admired globally, was a huge admirer of Shahbaz Ahmed. In an interview with BBC Urdu, Dhanraj said, “Before I even entered international hockey, I had already heard of Shahbaz Ahmed from senior players. They spoke of his speed, control, and that if he continued to play like this, he would represent Pakistan for a long time.” He added, “Shahbaz bhai would advance with the ball like a snake and catch defenders off-guard just with eye contact. They couldn’t get close to him. I saw this in him and tried to learn it. His understanding with teammates was amazing. Just by looking at him, they knew where his pass would go.” Dhanraj recounted, “I’ve seen crowds come to stadiums just to watch Shahbaz — both in international and league matches.” He witnessed the iconic moment in the 1994 World Cup when Shahbaz collected the ball in his own half, beat Australia’s Ken Wark with a single dodge, sprinted into the opponent’s D, and passed to Kamran Ashraf for a goal. Dhanraj said, “Shahbaz bhai taught me that to master anything, you need relentless practice. What touched me most was how generously he shared his knowledge, despite Pakistan and India being rivals.” Even though both players have long retired, their friendship remains strong and they still keep in regular contact. --- Practicing on Cement Grounds Shahbaz has often been asked how he developed such speed and ball control. His answer: “I knew that to excel on Astroturf, I had to practice on a surface even faster — so I trained on cement grounds. I’d also hit the ball rapidly against a wall for hours. This sharpened my reflexes so much that Astroturf actually felt slow to me.” --- “Whatever Your Marks, You’ll Join Our College” He recalled, “When I was in eighth grade, people started noticing my game. Some were so pleased they even stuffed money into my pockets. By ninth and tenth grade, teachers from Government College Faisalabad approached me and said, ‘Whatever marks you get in matric, you must join our college’ — because they had seen my potential.” Shahbaz always speaks with great respect for former Olympians Brigadier Atif, Saeed Anwar, and Asad Malik, crediting them for playing a vital role in shaping his career.
By Ikram Ullahabout a year ago in Cleats
Liverpool Retires Diogo Jota’s Jersey Number 20 After Tragic Death
In a heartfelt move that reflects the deep impact one player had on a global football community, Liverpool Football Club has officially retired the jersey number 20 in memory of its late Portuguese striker, Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away earlier this month in a car accident. The football world was left in shock and sorrow when it was confirmed that Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva were killed in a fatal car crash in northern Spain. According to reports, their Lamborghini lost control on a sharp turn and burst into flames. Jota, only 28 years old and a father of three, had married his longtime partner Rute Cardoso just eleven days before the tragic accident. Liverpool’s Emotional Statement On Friday, July 11, 2025, Liverpool FC released an official statement announcing the permanent retirement of Jota’s iconic number 20 jersey across all levels of the club — including the men’s first team, Liverpool Women, and the academy teams. > “After consultation with Diogo’s wife Rute and his family,” the club said in the statement, “Liverpool FC has decided to retire the number 20 jersey as a lasting tribute to a player who inspired with his talent, humility, and character. This decision applies to all levels of the club — men’s, women’s, and youth.” Liverpool CEO Michael Edwards added a moving reflection on the unprecedented nature of the tribute: > “I believe this is the first time in the history of Liverpool Football Club that such a gesture has been made. It is, without a doubt, a unique and heartfelt tribute for an extraordinary human being. Diogo was not only an exceptional player but a truly humble and kind soul. His legacy will endure far beyond the pitch.” A Moment of Silence, A Stadium in Mourning Liverpool will return to the field for the first time since Jota’s death on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a friendly match against English Championship side Preston North End, as part of their pre-season preparations. But the event will be far more than just a game. In what promises to be an emotional ceremony, Liverpool’s legendary anthem, “You’ll Never Walk Alone”, will echo through the stadium before kick-off. Preston’s team is expected to lay a wreath before the away fans in a solemn act of respect. A minute’s silence will follow, during which the stadium’s giant screens and advertising boards will display tributes and photographs of Diogo Jota. Both teams will wear black armbands, symbolizing a united mourning for a player whose sudden passing has left a void in the football world. A Player Remembered for More Than Goals Diogo Jota’s journey to stardom was defined by determination, discipline, and heart. From his early days at Paços de Ferreira, to becoming a star at Wolverhampton Wanderers, and ultimately winning hearts at Liverpool, Jota was known not only for his clinical finishing and tactical intelligence, but for his quiet leadership and humility. Since joining Liverpool in September 2020, Jota scored crucial goals in domestic and European competitions. He quickly became a fan favorite, known for his work ethic and ability to rise to the occasion during high-pressure matches. Under manager Jürgen Klopp, he became a vital part of Liverpool’s high-pressing, fast-paced system. Off the field, he was equally admired for his devotion to his family and his humility despite fame and success. In recent interviews, Jota frequently spoke about his children and his passion for giving back to the community — mentoring young players and participating in charity efforts in both Portugal and England. A Life Cut Short, A Legacy That Will Last The car crash that took Diogo Jota’s life also claimed that of his brother, André Silva — a rising footballer in Portugal's second division. The tragedy came at a time that should have marked a new beginning for Jota, who had just begun a new chapter in life as a husband. The funeral held last Saturday in Portugal was attended by Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot, team captain Virgil van Dijk, and several senior players and staff. Their presence underscored the emotional bond Jota had formed with his teammates and the club’s commitment to honoring his memory. Retiring a Number: A Rare Honor Retiring a player’s jersey number is rare in football, particularly in European clubs where shirt numbers often carry historical importance and tradition. But Liverpool’s decision to retire number 20 is more than a symbolic act; it is a heartfelt acknowledgment of Jota’s influence on and off the pitch. The number 20 jersey will no longer be worn by any Liverpool player — not in the men’s team, the women’s team, or the youth academy. It will remain forever linked to Diogo Jota — a player who gave his all, loved deeply, and left too soon. --- Diogo Jota (1997–2025): More than just a footballer, he was a devoted father, a loving husband, a cherished teammate, and an inspiration to millions. Though the boots are empty, the heart he filled will never be forgotten. You’ll Never Walk Alone.
By Ikram Ullahabout a year ago in Cleats
Top 10 Clubs with Most Points in FIFA Club World Cup History
The FIFA Club World Cup brings together the best football clubs from around the world, competing for the ultimate title. Over the years, some clubs have stood out by earning the most points in FIFA Club World Cup history through consistent performance, wins, and draws. This article highlights the top 10 clubs that have accumulated the highest points in the tournament, showcasing their achievements and impact on the global stage.
By Sports Record and Stats about a year ago in Cleats
Top 5 Clubs with the Most FIFA Club World Cup Titles
Since its inception in 2000, the FIFA Club World Cup has provided a grand stage for champion football clubs from every continent to compete for global dominance. The format may have changed slightly in 2005, but the objective has remained the same: to determine the best club team in the world. While many clubs have tried, only a select few have succeeded multiple times, creating a lasting legacy.
By Sports Record and Stats about a year ago in Cleats
Cristiano Ronaldo's Heartfelt Tribute to Diogo Jota: A Nation Mourns a Fallen Star
Cristiano Ronaldo's Heartfelt Tribute to Diogo Jota: A Nation Mourns a Fallen Star In a moment of profound grief, Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Portugal’s national football team, expressed his sorrow and disbelief following the tragic death of his teammate Diogo Jota. Jota, the 28-year-old Liverpool forward, and his brother André Silva, aged 25, lost their lives in a fatal car crash in Zamora, Spain, on July 3, 2025. The football world stands united in mourning this untimely loss, but perhaps no tribute captured the heartbreak more powerfully than Ronaldo’s emotional message: "It doesn’t make sense." --- The Tragic Accident That Shocked the World The fatal accident occurred on the A-52 highway in the Zamora province of northwestern Spain. According to Spanish police, the car, driven by Jota, suffered a tire blowout while overtaking another vehicle. The Lamborghini lost control, veered off the road, and burst into flames upon impact. Both Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva died instantly at the scene. This tragic incident happened just two weeks after Jota's wedding to his longtime partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three young children. What should have been the happiest chapter of his life was cut heartbreakingly short. --- A Teammate, A Friend, A Brother in Arms Cristiano Ronaldo and Diogo Jota shared countless memorable moments on the football pitch representing Portugal. They were teammates during Portugal's victorious UEFA Nations League campaigns in 2019 and 2025. Most recently, Jota and Ronaldo celebrated Portugal's penalty shootout win over Spain in the UEFA Nations League final, a mere month before the tragedy. Jota, coming off the bench during the second half of extra time, played a role in Portugal’s hard-fought triumph. Ronaldo's reaction to Jota’s passing was immediate and heartfelt. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Ronaldo posted: > “It doesn’t make sense. We were only just in the national team together, you had only just got married. To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you’ll always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre. We’ll all miss you.” Ronaldo’s message was not only a personal expression of grief but also a reflection of the collective heartbreak felt by the Portuguese football community and fans worldwide. --- A Bond Beyond Football The bond between Ronaldo and Jota extended beyond the professional realm. Jota often spoke of his admiration for Ronaldo, describing him as his childhood hero. In his debut match for Portugal on November 14, 2019, during a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifier against Lithuania, Jota replaced Ronaldo as a second-half substitute. After the match, he shared on Instagram: > “That moment… A moment you’ve always dreamed of … debut for @portugal! Made better by the fact that it brought the best in history @cristiano. Forever in the memory.” This mutual respect was evident throughout their time as teammates. Speaking to ESPN UK earlier this year, Jota recalled watching Ronaldo’s spectacular hat-trick against Switzerland in the 2019 UEFA Nations League semifinal: > “I was on the bench. It was a really, really good game. That was the moment I thought, ‘Yeah, I watched this for years when I was a kid, and now I’m watching here in this team.’” Their partnership on the pitch showcased synergy, camaraderie, and a shared determination to elevate Portugal on the world stage. --- Diogo Jota's Remarkable Football Journey Jota's career trajectory was marked by hard work and undeniable talent. Before joining Liverpool in 2020, he made a name for himself at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Atlético Madrid, FC Porto, and Paços de Ferreira. At Liverpool, Jota became a fan favorite, helping the club win the Premier League title in the 2024-25 season, the FA Cup, and the League Cup in 2021-22. He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool, earning praise for his sharp finishing, versatility in attack, and relentless work ethic. His contribution to Portugal’s national team was equally impressive, earning 49 caps and scoring key goals in critical matches. Jota’s recent form was outstanding. He played a vital role in Liverpool’s recent Premier League-winning campaign and in Portugal’s Nations League victory. The loss of such a prolific and beloved player leaves an irreplaceable void in both his club and country. --- The Football World Reacts Ronaldo was not alone in his grief. Across the globe, players, clubs, and fans expressed their condolences. Liverpool FC released a statement expressing "profound sadness" over the passing of their star forward. Manager Jürgen Klopp described Jota as "more than just a player; he was family." Teammates like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and João Cancelo shared their heartbreak on social media. Former clubs Wolves and Porto paid tribute, as did UEFA, FIFA, and the Portuguese Football Federation. Memorials spontaneously appeared outside Anfield and Estádio do Dragão, where fans lit candles, left flowers, and shared heartfelt messages. Football matches around the world observed moments of silence in his memory. --- A Grieving Nation For Portugal, this loss extends beyond the football pitch. Diogo Jota was a national hero, a symbol of hope and perseverance. In recent years, Portugal had seen a renaissance in football talent, with Jota among the brightest stars leading the charge. His death resonates deeply in a nation where football is woven into the cultural fabric. The Portuguese President and Prime Minister issued condolences, and national TV channels aired tribute segments chronicling his career and life. Plans for a national day of mourning and a commemorative match in his honor are underway. --- Ronaldo: The Mourner and the Leader In times of national tragedy, leaders rise to provide comfort and unity. Ronaldo’s tribute reminded the world not just of his greatness as a footballer but of his humanity. Known for his fierce competitiveness on the pitch, Ronaldo showed his vulnerability in this personal loss. Despite his own heartbreak, Ronaldo has reportedly spoken with Jota’s family to offer his personal condolences and support. Sources close to the national team suggest that Ronaldo has vowed to dedicate the remainder of his international career to the memory of Jota and André. --- The Legacy of Diogo Jota Diogo Jota's story is one of inspiration. From humble beginnings in Porto to lifting trophies with Liverpool and Portugal, he exemplified hard work, humility, and passion. His sudden passing leaves an unfinished story, yet the chapters he wrote will be remembered forever. He leaves behind his wife Rute and their three children, his parents, and a younger brother, André, whose own football dreams were cut short. He also leaves behind teammates who loved him, fans who admired him, and a football world forever touched by his brilliance. --- In Ronaldo’s Words: A Legacy of Love and Loss Ronaldo’s farewell message to Jota resonates as a reminder of life’s fragility and the enduring bonds of brotherhood: > "Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre. We’ll all miss you." In the coming months and years, Jota's memory will live on through his teammates’ victories, his family's resilience, and the countless young footballers who will look to his story as proof that dreams are worth chasing. As Portugal prepares to take the field once more, one thing is certain: the legacy of Diogo Jota, forever 28, will echo in every goal, every cheer, and every beating heart that loves the beautiful game.
By Ikram Ullahabout a year ago in Cleats
Top 10 Best Young Female Footballers to Watch in 2025
Women's football is rising fast, and many young players are already standing out. As we head into 2025, some talented teenagers and young adults are making a big impact in clubs and national teams worldwide. These players show great skill, maturity, and promise for the future.
By Sports Record and Stats about a year ago in Cleats
Top 10 Young Stars of the Club World Cup 2025
The Young Stars of the Club World Cup 2025 have taken center stage during this year's tournament, surprising fans and coaches with their skill, maturity, and fearless attitude. These young talents have not only made a mark but also shown glimpses of becoming future global icons. From scoring screamers to providing match-winning assists, the Young Stars of the Club World Cup 2025 are proving they belong on the world stage.
By Sports Record and Stats about a year ago in Cleats
Top 5 European Golden Boot Contenders 2025
The European Golden Boot Contenders 2025 list includes some of the best goal scorers in football today. These players have dominated their respective leagues and shown world-class finishing skills. The European Golden Boot Contenders 2025 have proven that they are consistent, talented, and capable of delivering under pressure. From Serie A to La Liga, these names have thrilled fans across the continent.
By Sports Record and Stats about a year ago in Cleats
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Fixtures Announced: Full Schedule, Groups, Venues & Key Details
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to become the biggest edition in the tournament’s history, with the full fixtures officially announced. Hosted by England, this 10th edition of the prestigious ICC Women’s T20 tournament will take place from June 12 to July 5, 2026. Cricket fans around the world can now gear up for a month of thrilling international action as 12 teams compete across iconic English venues.
By Sneaha Zyniiabout a year ago in Cleats
