News for 'Mike'

Former England captain and Warwickshire legend Mike Smith passes away

Former England captain and Warwickshire legend Mike Smith passes away

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Former England captain Mike Smith, known by his initials "MJK", has died at the age of 92, Warwickshire County Cricket Club said on Monday.

Super-sub Torres stars as Spain down 10-man Argentina to win FIFA World Cup 2026 title

Super-sub Torres stars as Spain down 10-man Argentina to win FIFA World Cup 2026 title

Rediff.com6 days ago

It's goalless at half-time in the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain in New York on Sunday.

FIFA probe begins after Spain-Argentina World Cup final explodes

FIFA probe begins after Spain-Argentina World Cup final explodes

Rediff.com5 days ago

World football's governing body, FIFA, has initiated a disciplinary investigation into the post-match brawl that erupted after Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in a chaotic World Cup final, following tensions that boiled over after a contentious match.

Minor Brawl Erupts After Spain Beats Argentina in World Cup Final

Minor Brawl Erupts After Spain Beats Argentina in World Cup Final

Rediff.com6 days ago

A brief brawl erupted at the final whistle of the World Cup final after Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina, sparked by Argentina's Leandro Paredes shoving Spain's Gavi, leading to intervention from Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni.

How India's Hockey Team Is Gearing Up For World Cup Success

How India's Hockey Team Is Gearing Up For World Cup Success

Rediff.com10 hours ago

The Indian men's hockey team is undertaking a high-intensity mental conditioning camp in Switzerland with coach Paddy Upton, mirroring their successful preparation for the Paris Olympics. This crucial camp aims to build team chemistry and trust ahead of the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games.

FIFA WC FINAL: Singer Post Malone, Robbie Williams headline closing ceremony

FIFA WC FINAL: Singer Post Malone, Robbie Williams headline closing ceremony

Rediff.com7 days ago

The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is set to kick off in New Jersey, with fans flocking to the stadium despite high ticket prices and enhanced security measures, as both teams vie for the coveted title.

Gurnoor Brar receives demerit point for Code Of Conduct breach

Gurnoor Brar receives demerit point for Code Of Conduct breach

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

India pacer Gurnoor Brar received a warning and a demerit point for an "inappropriate and dangerous" throw during the first ODI against England in Birmingham, breaching the ICC Code of Conduct. He admitted the Level 1 offence, which occurred in the eighth over of England's innings.

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot and Pedro Porro added another goal as Spain advanced to its first World Cup final since winning in 2010 with a 2-0 victory over France on Tuesday.

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com6 days ago

The 10 takeaways from the FIFA World Cup, which was co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Spain's 2nd Title in 8 Nations World Cup Club

Spain's 2nd Title in 8 Nations World Cup Club

Rediff.com6 days ago

Since the FIFA World Cup's inaugural tournament in 1930, 23 competitions have occurred up to 2026. Interestingly, only 8 countries have succeeded in claiming the famous trophy and on Sunday, Spain added their second title.

Portugal overcome Croatia in thriller to make World Cup last 16

Portugal overcome Croatia in thriller to make World Cup last 16

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic World Cup match, with Goncalo Ramos scoring the winning goal in stoppage time after Cristiano Ronaldo had equalised from a penalty. The victory ends Luka Modric's fifth World Cup bid, and Portugal now advances to face Spain in the round of 16.

Mbappe, Dembele shine as France cruise past Morocco into World Cup semis

Mbappe, Dembele shine as France cruise past Morocco into World Cup semis

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

France and Morocco were goalless at half-time in their World Cup quarter-final. Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty for France, whose early dominance did not translate into goals. Morocco's goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save to deny Mbappe from the spot.

Deschamps' Farewell And Mbappe's Record Bid In Bronze Match

Deschamps' Farewell And Mbappe's Record Bid In Bronze Match

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

France and England, reeling from World Cup semi-final defeats, will compete in the third-place playoff. The match marks Didier Deschamps' final game as France coach and offers Kylian Mbappe a chance to pursue the Golden Boot and the tournament's all-time scoring record. Both teams are expected to rotate their squads.

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, netting a penalty at 41 years and 147 days during Portugal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia. This historic goal, his first in a World Cup knockout stage, helped Portugal advance to the Round of 16, with Ronaldo dismissing speculation about his future focus on the tournament.

Yamal's Viral Post Fires Up Spain's Final Dream

Yamal's Viral Post Fires Up Spain's Final Dream

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Spain, led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, defeated France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, securing their place in the final. Yamal, who played a crucial role in the victory, has already expressed his team's readiness for the title clash in New York. This marks Spain's first World Cup final appearance since their 2010 triumph.

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com4 days ago

From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Cape Verde's fairytale run, VAR controversies and unforgettable fan moments, relive the memories that made the 2026 FIFA World Cup the biggest and most dramatic tournament in history.

Rahul Dravid in race for England Test coach job?

Rahul Dravid in race for England Test coach job?

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Indian cricket legend Rahul Dravid is reportedly a contender for the England Test coach position, following Brendon McCullum's removal. Dravid, known for his meticulous approach, is considered an attractive candidate despite his stated preference against full-time coaching. Other prominent names like Andy Flower and Richard Dawson are also in consideration for the role.

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Djed Spence, initially a controversial World Cup squad selection and criticised for his early performance, has emerged as a crucial impact substitute for England. His pace, energy, and passion off the bench have silenced critics, playing a vital role in England's progression to the semi-finals despite a broken jaw.

Wildfire Smoke Threat to NYC World Cup Final Recedes with Weekend Rain

Wildfire Smoke Threat to NYC World Cup Final Recedes with Weekend Rain

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Concerns over Canadian wildfire smoke impacting air quality and player health for the World Cup final in New York are easing, with forecasts predicting significant rain and a cold front to clear the haze before Sunday's match, though hot and hazy conditions could still pose risks.

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Mbappe takes blame after France's FIFA World Cup heartbreak

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France captain Kylian Mbappe admitted his side failed both tactically and technically in their 2-0 FIFA World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, ending their hopes of a third successive final appearance.

'They thought we would turn up in tuxedos': Mbappe Slams Paraguay's Tactics

'They thought we would turn up in tuxedos': Mbappe Slams Paraguay's Tactics

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe's crucial second-half penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for France over a resilient Paraguay, propelling them into the World Cup quarter-finals where they will face Morocco.

What went wrong for France: 'Technically, we were second best'

What went wrong for France: 'Technically, we were second best'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France's World Cup campaign ended in a 'devastating' 2-0 semi-final defeat to Spain, with coach Didier Deschamps admitting his team was 'technically, second best' and star players like Michael Olise failing to perform.

8 Weird Football Terms

8 Weird Football Terms

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

As the sport's popularity spread across the world, it developed its own colourful language/expressions. From clever slang to bizarre nicknames, the game's changing culture has thrown up some rather unusual turn of phrase. Here are 8 of the strangest football terms ever used.

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ecuador secured a stunning 2-1 victory over Germany in a crucial World Cup match, ensuring their qualification for the last 32. Despite an early German goal, Ecuador fought back with goals from Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata to clinch the win.

Through to Last 32, Norway Celebrate with Viking Row

Through to Last 32, Norway Celebrate with Viking Row

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The jubilant Norwegians edged Senegal 3-2 to reach the last 32 and then celebrated by taking part in a "Viking row" on the pitch.

Iran's 'revenge list' features Meloni, Macron alongside Trump, Bibi

Iran's 'revenge list' features Meloni, Macron alongside Trump, Bibi

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his son and successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a "revenge list" featuring 13 world leaders, including Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, with a graphic depicting them as targets, amidst escalating regional hostilities and US reports of an Iranian assassination plot against Trump.

Deschamps: No doubt France would advance despite Mbappe's penalty miss

Deschamps: No doubt France would advance despite Mbappe's penalty miss

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

France coach Didier Deschamps expressed unwavering confidence in his team's ability to advance in the World Cup quarter-final against Morocco, even after Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty and several other chances in the first half.

Dembele's quick 'trick' powers France to big win over second-string Norway

Dembele's quick 'trick' powers France to big win over second-string Norway

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Ousmane Dembele scored a first-half hat-trick as France made sure of top spot in World Cup Group I with a ruthless 4-1 win on Friday over a second-string Norway who like the French had already qualified for the next round of the tournament.

'We won for Diogo': Ronaldo honours late teammate Jota

'We won for Diogo': Ronaldo honours late teammate Jota

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo led an emotional tribute to his late teammate Diogo Jota after their dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. The team dedicated their win to Jota, who tragically died in a car crash a year prior, posing with his No. 21 jersey and carrying his memory throughout the tournament.

Ronaldo's sister hints this could be his last World Cup

Ronaldo's sister hints this could be his last World Cup

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo's sister, Katia Aveiro, has indicated that the FIFA World Cup 2026 could be the Portugal captain's final international tournament, referring to it as his "last dance" with the national team. She clarified her comments specifically referred to his Portugal career, not overall retirement.

Deschamps feared Paraguay's players would 'chop' Mbappe down

Deschamps feared Paraguay's players would 'chop' Mbappe down

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

France coach Didier Deschamps said he feared Kylian Mbappe would be "chopped down" as Paraguay turned their World Cup last-16 tie into a bruising battle, with Les Bleus eventually clawing their way into the quarter-finals with a 1-0 win on Saturday.

Jude Bellingham's brace takes England past Norway to World Cup semis

Jude Bellingham's brace takes England past Norway to World Cup semis

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Jude Bellingham scored twice as England fought back to defeat Norway 2-1 in the third World Cup quarter-final at Miami Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida, on Saturday.

Jude Bellingham's Heroics Drive England Past Norway into World Cup Semi-Finals

Jude Bellingham's Heroics Drive England Past Norway into World Cup Semi-Finals

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Jude Bellingham delivered an authoritative and relentless performance, scoring two crucial goals to lead England to a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in their World Cup quarter-final, securing their place in the semi-finals.

Ibrahimovic Doubts Ronaldo's Future Impact For Portugal

Ibrahimovic Doubts Ronaldo's Future Impact For Portugal

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Legendary footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic has voiced concerns about Cristiano Ronaldo's role in Portugal's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, citing the 41-year-old's physical decline and suggesting his selection is based more on reputation than current performance. This comes as Portugal secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Croatia to advance to the Round of 16.

Mbappe scores twice as France rout Sweden to make last 16

Mbappe scores twice as France rout Sweden to make last 16

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe scored two goals, leading France to a dominant 3-0 victory over Sweden in the World Cup Round of 32. This win maintains France's perfect record and sets up a last-16 clash with Paraguay, with Mbappe continuing his impressive World Cup scoring streak.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Beccacece completes dramatic redemption as Ecuador reach last 32

FIFA World Cup 2026: Beccacece completes dramatic redemption as Ecuador reach last 32

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ecuador's World Cup nightmare turned into a dream, as La Tri's once seemingly doomed campaign was resurrected against Germany in a remarkable conclusion to Group E on Thursday.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Scandinavia split over Norway's signature Viking row celebration

FIFA World Cup 2026: Scandinavia split over Norway's signature Viking row celebration

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Norway's success at the World Cup has triggered euphoria at home, but the team's trademark "Viking row" celebration is beginning to test the patience of their Scandinavian neighbours, drawing shrugs from Sweden and envy from Denmark.

Ancelotti Vows Brazil Will Use World Cup Exit As Motivation

Ancelotti Vows Brazil Will Use World Cup Exit As Motivation

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazil's head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed disappointment after the team's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 defeat to Norway, but stated the team would use the exit as motivation for future improvements. He highlighted the need for new midfield talent as key players like Neymar are expected to retire from international football.

Haaland Brace Guides Norway Past Senegal into Last 32

Haaland Brace Guides Norway Past Senegal into Last 32

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Erling Haaland scored two goals, leading Norway to a 3-2 victory over Senegal in a World Cup match. This win puts Norway level on points with France at the top of Group I, setting up a decisive final group game.

Ancelotti arrived with hope, but Brazil's problems ran too deep

Ancelotti arrived with hope, but Brazil's problems ran too deep

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazil's World Cup campaign ended with a 2-1 defeat to Norway as Carlo Ancelotti's gamble on experienced stars backfired, exposing deeper structural issues and leaving the five-time champions facing a long road back to the summit of world football.