SPORT Wednesday 13 June 2018

PAGE | 23 PAGE | 28 England aim Messi the star to reverse Cup attraction as fortunes in Banega trains apart

Champions join World Cup party

AFP “We have a young, hungry team The FIFA world Cup that wants to achieve greatness. We will be played at : Reigning champions want to bring the country together Germany arrived in Russia yesterday and achieve something great,” said 12 in 11 to join the World Cup party as Tottenham forward Alli. cities across the Belgium downplayed an injury scare England’s Group G opponents European portion over star player Eden Hazard in their Belgium showcased their talents in final warm-up match. a 4-1 victory against Costa Rica in Germany's of Russia starting Gareth Southgate’s youthful Brussels on Monday, featuring two tomorrow for a England team also touched down as goals from United Mats Hummels 32-day, 64-match excitement mounts ahead of tomor- forward Romelu Lukaku and a glit- (right) and Thomas Muller championship. row’s opening fixture in Moscow tering performance from Chelsea’s between host nation Russia and Saudi Hazard. disembark from Arabia. Hazard limped off with 20 an aeroplane The Germans are Germany, aiming to join Brazil as minutes to go but coach Roberto Mar- as they arrive five-time winners of the World Cup, tinez brushed off concerns, saying in Moscow with among a select landed near Moscow, ahead of their there was “nothing to worry about”. team-mates group of favourites first match against Mexico on Sunday. “He’s very strong, he just had a yesterday. alongside Spain, The Germans are among a select dead leg towards the end of the group of favourites alongside Spain, match,” he said. France and Brazil. France and Brazil but there are lin- Brazil and attracted an gering questions over their form. army of excited youngsters -- The defending Joachim Loew’s side went five including one who managed to break games without a win before onto the pitch for a selfie -- as they champions open labouring to a 2-1 victory over Saudi held their first training session on their World Cup Arabia in their final warm-up and Russian soil. against Group F first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Around 5,000 locals turned out Neuer has been injured and hardly to watch the relaxed session next to opponents Mexico played since September. the Brazilians’ hotel in the Black Sea in Moscow on But the Germans have made at resort city of Sochi. June 17. least the semi-finals in each of the The €222m ($261m) Paris Saint- past four World Cups and have a Germain forward made his first start habit of finding form when they need on Sunday, against Austria, since Brazil and Neymar it most. undergoing surgery on a foot fracture attracted an The defending champions open at the start of March. army of excited their World Cup against Group F “Neymar is doing great, thanks opponents Mexico in Moscow on June to God,” said goalkeeper Alisson. “I youngsters at 17. They also play Sweden and South think the way the whole process has their first training Korea. been dealt with was perfect. He has session in Russia. Loew warned Germany’s rivals fully recovered.” had all made strides since 2014. But before the action on the pitch England are not among gets under way, today FIFA As soon as the the favourites in Russia members must choose whether final whistle of but the third-youngest to award the 2026 World Cup ThereThTheh will be a high standard Three Lions squad to North America or Morocco. the tournament is to head to a World They will choose of opposition. Spain have blown at Moscow’s Cup boasts between a joint US- improved,imim while Brazil and Luzhniki , Premier Canadian-Mexican bid or Argentina are up there: attention will shift League stars the north Africans to host such as Harry a tournament that will GermanGeGe coach Joachim loew to the 2022 World Kane, Dele Alli feature 48 teams for Cup in Qatar. and Raheem the first time. Sterling.

General view outside the Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi, Russia. 22 SPORT WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE 2018

Moscow urges Eriksen’s Denmark not a locals not to drive ahead of one-man show, says coach Cup opener AFP AFP     MOSCOW: Moscow ANAPA: Tottenham authorities are pleading (pictured Christian Eriksen It’s not quite true with locals not to drive below) is Denmark’s standout       in the runup to tomor- star but the Nordic side are far that Denmark is   row’s World Cup opening from a one-man team, coach Age over-dependent on  !  match to avoid causing Hareide said yesterday. Eriksen We have a gridlock in the city. Nicknamed “King Christian”, team that works for The Russian capital Eriksen is one of the top players of 12 million people is in the and has him but he also works creaking at the seams as been voted Danish Footballer of for us: Age Hareide it starts receiving hun- the Year four times. dreds of thousands vis- The Dane arrived at the itors for the month-long World Cup on a hot streak of Eriksen,” the Norwegian coach football final. international form, with 12 goals said.  Fans from the 32 in 13 games, the latest being a “We have a team that works participating nations will strike against Mexico in Den- for him but he also works for us. "# # almost all either be based mark’s final warm-up match. It’s not a one-man show.” $% in Moscow or fly in and His sensational hat-trick “That is the best combi-  & out of the sprawling and against Ireland in November nation. Christian is a part of the # chronically congested secured his side’s place in Russia. team but he is also a star, a fan-  megalopolis to the other “It’s not quite true that tastic football player,” said   11 host venues. Denmark is over-dependent on Hareide before a training session #$ Moscow officials had in sunny Anapa near the Black &),) $' () *$  insisted for months that Sea coast. #'-# )+#  they had planned every- “He can observe space thing out to make sure   '   quicker than anybody else, that the city functioned like is his key value for the team.” clockwork once the Hareide said Denmark were not Eriksen, 26, who took time off as it would mean less focus on “I saw that T-shirt picture, games begin. alone in having a standout star. from World Cup preparations other creative players who can it’s funny, people have a good They sounded less “Look at with (Cris- earlier this month to attend the create chances. imagination, but hopefully there confident yesterday. tiano) Ronaldo or Argentina with birth of his first child, is modest A picture posted on social will be some other tactic,” he The city’s transpor- (Lionel) Messi,” he said. and discreet, even after stellar media of a World Cup T-shirt on said. tation department said “There are many teams with performances on the pitch. sale in Copenhagen jokingly claims Denmark, in Group C, open some of Moscow’s one outstanding player but that He said if opponents con- that Denmark’s sole tactic in Russia their World Cup against Peru in busiest roads will have to is important in a side. It can sider Denmark a one-man team, will be to keep giving the ball to Saransk on June 16 before facing be closed off to general change the game for everyone.” that could play into their hands Eriksen until he scores. Australia and France. traffic to make way for dignitaries arriving for the opening ceremony. “Due to the high number of events and the arrival of important France ready to outgun any guests, additional road restrictions are possible -- especially in the city centre,” the transpor- opponent, says Griezmann tation department said. The city said traffic cops will also be stopping REUTERS traffic to make room for various FIFA delegations MADRID: France forward and busses shuttling in Antoine Griezmann says his I believe in this group and in the important fans from Moscow’s four country have the firepower to airports. achieve their dream of moments we’ll all be there. In attack we “We strongly urge winning the World Cup in know we can do harm to any team. I city residents to use city Russia. feel comfy in the system and I’m close to transport and to leave And he says he doesn’t manager, . It’s a good their cars at home for the mind how they do it. coming days,” said the “My objective is to win the setup to get us good results: Griezmann transportation World Cup with France and it department. doesn’t matter how we do it “This will make your or our style of play,” he told a and I’m close to (manager, we know they defend well as trips easier to plan.” news conference yesterday. Didier) Deschamps. It’s a good a unit, but right now we’re Russia has inherited Atletico Madrid striker setup to get us good results.” focused on Australia and the Soviet-era practise of Griezmann, linked with a Griezmann is expected to watching videos of how they shutting down roads move to Barcelona, revealed spearhead the attack for the play.” travelled by senior offi- he had also made up his mind 1998 winners, who are among The much-vaunted striker cials or visiting foreign about his personal future but the pre-tournament refused to answer questions dignitaries. said now was not the time to favourites. on his own future amid spec- Parts of Moscow disclose it. “The first game is the most ulation linking him with a crawls to a halt during As France prepared for important one we have, espe- move to Barcelona. morning and evening their opening game against cially as a collective,” he said. “I know there’s a lot of rush hour when Pres- Australia on Saturday, the “We want to win it in people waiting on this, but France’s forward Antoine Griezmann ident Vladimir Putin is 27-year-old said: “I believe in order to get closer to the last today’s not the day for this,” stretches during a training session sped to and from work. this group and in the 16.” he told reporters. at the Glebovets Stadium in Istra, The roads are usually important moments we’ll all He added: “(Fellow Group When pressed on the issue, yesterday. closed from the point of be there. In attack we know C opponents) Peru and Griezmann admitted he had Putin’s departure outside we can do harm to any team.” Denmark are tough oppo- “taken the decision. But it is not Moscow to that of his “I feel comfy in the system nents. We know them well and the day or place to reveal it”. arrival at the Kremlin as an extra precaution. Tunisia forced to reorganise after loss of Msakni AP expected to rely on foreign-born two matches into World Cup highly-praised in the Saudi : The chal- Khaoui are deployed, there may players in a move that could qualifying for his second stint as league. Moez Hassen, who has lenge of filling the void left by be room for just one or perhaps TUNIS: Tunisia will be fielding unsettle a team that went coach after a brief tenure in 2013. seen action in Tunisia’s World Msakni will likely fall on France- no out-and-out strikers. The a team at the World Cup of unbeaten in qualifying. GOALKEEPERS Cup warm-ups, is also an option. born attacking midfielder absence through injury of striker several foreign-born players Tunisia’s squad is a mix of Maaloul’s biggest decision DEFENDERS: Maaloul said . He played for the has after creative forward Youssef players mainly from the Saudi may be the first name on the he was leaning toward starting Tunisia and France youth teams further limited Tunisia’s options Msakni was sidelined with Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, France and sheet. , an the World Cup with the for- before committing to Tunisia up front and the forward line in injury. domestic leagues. 11-year veteran, is beginning to mation used in friendly wins and made the World Cup squad Russia - as with recent games - Msakni carried the team to Here’s a closer look at the show frailties and can no longer over Iran and Costa Rica in despite a recent thigh injury. may be based on the versatility its fifth World Cup, and had a Tunisia team: be certain of his starting spot. March. That would see 22-year- Khazri may be helped in mid- of the 4 attacking midfielders. hat trick in the penultimate COACH: Maaloul was an Maaloul must figure out old French-born , field by and Naim GROUP GAMES: Tunisia qualifier in Guinea, but he assistant under whether to drop the and who made his debut against Iran Sliti. plays England on Monday, then injured his knee while playing when Tunisia won the African sacrifice experience for after a late call-up, start in FORWARDS: Depending on faces Belgium on June 23 before for his Qatari club Al Duhail. So Cup of Nations in 2002. He took 28-year-old Farouk Ben Mus- central defense. Skhiri is an whether and where Khazri, finishing Group G against Tunisia coach Nabil Maaloul is over from Henri Kasperczak tapha, who has been option in central midfield, too. Badri, Sliti and newcomer Panama on June 28. WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE 2018 SPORT 23

Alisson focused England aim to reverse on Brazil quest as transfer talk rumbles Cup fortunes in Russia AFP (pictured) AP SOCHI: Brazil goalkeeper Alisson - look to be England’s starting wing- played down speculation over his club future backs, so it is the center-back com- yesterday as he lives “a boyhood dream” at MANCHESTER: England is bination that will be occupying the World Cup in Russia. attempting to break a cycle of Southgate’s thoughts. “I’ve been waiting for this moment since heartache and humiliation at major Youthful duo John Stones and the start of the season and I don’t want any- tournaments that plunged the birth- Harry Maguire are contenders to thing to mess it up,” the 25-year-old Roma place of football to its lowest ebb. start even though the former is star told journalists at the Brazil team’s A loss to Iceland in the last 16 of fourth choice at Manchester City and training ground in Sochi. the 2016 European Championship has barely played in 2018, while the “I’m focused 100 percent on training here. was perhaps the ultimate embar- latter has just three appearances. My representative is dealing with all ques- rassment. Or maybe that came when Kyle Walker, a fast right back, tions along with Roma.” the English endured their shortest has impressed in recent friendlies as Alisson has enjoyed an outstanding World Cup campaign two years a right-sided center back and looks season with the club, helping them earlier whey they were only in con- set to start the tournament in that reach the semi-finals of the Champions tention for eight days. position. Experience comes from League, where they lost to Liverpool. Before that, there were penalty Gary Cahill and Phil Jones, who both It is the side who have been most shootout losses in 1990, 1996, 1998, finished the season strongly to secure heavily linked with an approach for him this 2004, 2006 and 2012. And before their places. close season, as they step up their search for that, who could forget Diego Mara- MIDFIELDERS: England will a top-class replacement for . dona’s “Hand of God” that play with either two or three central The German’s blunders cost Liverpool denied England in the World Cup midfielders, depending if the team dear in their Champions League final defeat semi-finals in 1986? It’s no surprise is deployed in a 3-5-2 or 3-4-3 for- at the hands of Real Madrid, who have also that the nation’s expectations are low mation, and they are likely to be been linked with an approach for Alisson. heading to Russia. functional, hard-working players. The transfer speculation comes as Alisson England coach Gareth Southgate It’s a far cry from the days when and his national team colleagues prepare for has long been tempering his team’s the country could call upon stars of their opening game at the World Cup against prospects. Defender Kyle Walker the Premier League like Steven Switzerland on Sunday. even acknowledged it would be a Gerrard, and Paul He is set to start in goal, with coach “miracle” if England won football’s Scholes. Instead, Southgate will rely preferring him to Manchester City’s Ederson. biggest prize this year. on selfless players such as Jordan “We need to be focused and try not to England won the 1966 World Henderson, Eric Dier, and Fabian read the news too much, not worry about all Cup, but has only reached the sem- Delph, who will keep their shape and the speculation but focus on what is real, ifinals of a tournament twice since allow the wingbacks and forward although at this moment nothing official has then. What next for one of the under- players to offer a goal threat. arrived,” Alisson said when asked how he achievers of international football? Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is and his Brazil team-mates deal with transfer Encouraging draws in recent injured and Adam Lallana failed to rumours. friendlies against Brazil, Germany prove his fitness, so creative respon- “My focus is here. I have a contract with and Italy show the English are sibilities fall upon Dele Alli, Jesse Roma and I am very happy there in Italian heading in the right direction but Lingard and wildcard inclusion football and in Rome. they have been here before in the Ruben Loftus-Cheek. “But mainly I am happy here with the FORWARDS The most straight- national team, living a boyhood dream and ENGLAND WORLD CUP SQUAD England players arrive at ’s Pulkovo Airport yesterday. forward department for Southgate: working very hard to win the World Cup.” Goalkeepers: Jack Butland (Stoke), Jordan Pick- will start as the central ford (Everton), Nick Pope (Burnley) run-up to tournaments. GOALKEEPERS: Long-time striker, with Jamie Vardy and Marcus Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Here’s a closer look at the starter has lost his place in Rashford as backups. Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Fabian Delph (Manchester England team: the squad after a tough two years on Despite a blip in April after COACH: City), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Harry Southgate was pro- loan at Torino and West Ham from returning from an ankle injury, Kane Maguire (Leicester), Danny Rose (Tottenham Hot- moted from England’s under-21 team Manchester City. Jordan Pickford, finished the Premier League season spur), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trip- to become coach of the senior side Jack Butland and Nick Pope now with 30 goals for Tottenham. in September 2016, with the occupy the three goalkeeping spots. Having found his form with five pier (Tottenham Hotspur), Kyle Walker (Manchester appointment widely viewed with Pickford, whose distribution is goals in his last five appearances for City), Ashley Young (Manchester United) skepticism because of his lack of superior to Butland’s, is expected to club and country, the 24-year-old is Midfielders: Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur), Eric managerial experience in top-level begin the World Cup as first choice England’s most lethal striker and Dier (Tottenham Hotspur), (Liv- soccer. after being handed the No. 1 jersey. arguably most important player. erpool), (Manchester United), Ruben He has made brave selection Pope edged out Hart for the final GROUP GAMES England, which Loftus-Cheek (Chelsea) decisions - dropping Wayne Rooney, spot, having impressed as Burnley is based just outside St. Petersburg, Forwards: Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rash- for starters - and has implemented finished seventh in the English opens Group G against Tunisia in ford (Manchester United), (Man- a bold approach that has seen the Premier League. Volgograd on June 18. The team then

chester City), Jamie Vardy (Leicester), Danny Wel- team adopt a three-man defense and DEFENDERS: Kieran Trippier plays Panama in Nizhny Novgorod beck (Arsenal) play the ball out from the back as and Ashley Young - attacking full- on June 24 and finishes against much as possible. backs with good and energy Belgium in Kaliningrad on June 28.

Australia ready for France        1        test despite team changes     -         AFP Town’s Aaron Mooy in the   centre of midfield. KAZAN: Australia talisman Yet the likely changes, said Tim Cahill may have to settle It’s going to be Hertha Berlin winger Mathew for a World Cup cameo role Leckie, will not shake Aus- 2334 2353 while captain Mile Jedinak a good game, a tralia’s collective resolve. could start on the bench but good test for us. “At the end of the day it  the Socceroos say team It’s 11 versus 11, so comes down to what the   changes will not hurt their we’re not afraid coach wants and what is best   campaign. for the team,” said Leckie, one Bursaspor defender Aziz of anybody: Aziz of only four survivors from  Behich said team selection will Behich Australia’s 2014 World Cup make little difference to a Soc- squad. 2356 ceroos side aiming to punch Marwijk, who led the Neth- “Mile is an idol for all of us above their weight and shock erlands to the 2010 final. and we look up to him... but Group C opponents France at He has shown no fear even if he’s not on the pitch he ./01   !   8 ./71    % 53 Kazan Arena on Saturday. when it comes to shaking up does the same things in the ./02 "  #$ %  9 ./72 +- + & $& : “We’re not here to make the Australia’s established changing room, off the park. up numbers, that’s for sure,” order. He’s a really good professional ./03 &    : ./73  '  4 Bursaspor’s Behich said Aston Villa midfielder and he’s always positive.” yesterday. Jedinak, on the verge of losing Cahill, too, may have to shelve ./41    8 ./36 . /  # 4 “It’s going to be a good the skipper’s armband to his personal aims for the Soc- ./42   '    55 ./35 % & % 4 game, a good test for us. It’s 11 Jiangsu Suning defender Trent ceroos’ cause. versus 11, so we’re not afraid Sainsbury, was an unused Although he is aiming to ./43 (    5; .//1  *    # 4 of anybody.” substitute in a 4-0 friendly find the net for a fourth con- ./56    !   6 .//2 " -    ! 4 While France are among win against the Czech secutive World Cup, the the favourites in Russia, Aus- Republic and came off the 38-year-old striker is )  * * ! 0   *  & tralia’s main objective is to bench in the second half of a expected to be used + ( * "  .//3 *    4 get past the group stage -- a 2-1 win over Hungary. sparingly. &  + # feat they have achieved only After the two training ses- But that does not mean )*  6116 /   8 once, in 2006, under Guus sions in Kazan it appears Cahill will be moping on the   6115   * '  % 9 Hiddink. Queens Park Rangers mid- bench, said Leckie: “Tim The Socceroos are now fielder Massimo Luongo will hasn’t played the two ./55 ,! $ 7 61.1 1    % 9 under the stewardship of get the nod over Jedinak to friendlies but he’s the ultimate another Dutchman, Bert van play alongside Huddersfield professional.”   ###' '   61.2 ( / -+ & 4 24 SPORT WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE 2018 WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE 2018 SPORT 25

Five predators Germany’s players applaud the fans after their international Referees attend a training session friendly match against Saudi Arabia at the BayArena in ‘Favourites’ Brazil to reduce ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2018 at to look out , Germany on Friday. the RZD Arena in Moscow yesterday. for in Russia dependence on ‘star’ Neymar AP Brazil’s striker AFP Neymar greets SAO PAULO: Brazil is still shak- supporters SAINT PETERSBURG: If this year’s Champions League ing off the embarrassment of during a is anything to go by, the upcoming World Cup could losing to Germany 7-1 in its home training session be one of the most goal-gluttonous yet, with a host World Cup. in Sochi of strikers hoping to capitalise on leaky defences in Since Tite took over as coach yesterday. Russia. in 2016, the five-time world The current trend for swarming attacks, led by champions have become a win- speedy forwards and daring full-backs, will have the ning machine again and were the game’s most lethal scorers licking their lips ahead of first to qualify for Russia. the opening match on Thursday. Neymar, who missed the Here, we take a look at five penalty-box preda- humiliating match against Ger- tors likely to do the most damage in the many because of injury, has had tournament. to recover from a broken foot that kept him out for three months before the trip to Russia. Argentina’s Germany were left with a shaped But there isn’t such a reliance hole after he retired from international football in 2014 now on the world’s most expen- but the vacancy looks to have been filled by Werner, sive player. In six games without replaced by Manchester City Pitana to who hit 21 goals for Leipzig last season. With light- Neymar, Brazil still won four defender Danilo. ning pace and a cool head in front of goal, the times, including a friendly against At the pre-World Cup train- 22-year-old will be eager to make a mark at his first Germany in Berlin in March. Skill wise, he (Neymar)ing camp, Tite decided to move officiate in major tournament. “He will be missed by any is already the best PSG central defender Germany seek history by team,” Brazil defender Thiago player in the world. to ’ place. Silva said, “but not having him The three other reserves, right Cup opener Brazil are hardly lacking for talent in forward posi- sometimes helps us consolidate This is his time to shine:back Fagner, defender Pedro Ger- tions but Jesus is expected to lead the line, owing to the style we want.” Brazil great Pele omel and left back Filipe Luis, are his speed, finishing and quickness of thought around Indeed, the Brazilians head clearly lagging behind the the penalty area. A knee injury in January was Man- into the World Cup looking more starters. AP chester City’s loss but could be Brazil’s gain if Jesus winning back-to-back titles balanced and with a range of top could heads into Group E with an extra spring in his step. players available in every posi- sparing him from criticism. But his replace , who MOSCOW: FIFA has Expect him to shine. AP engulfed the 2014 Sochi Winter Olym- tion. They were so dominant in title streak at Corinthians from plays at Chinese club Beijing appointed referee Nestor Iceland and Panama are pics, FIFA’s medical committee chairman '(%#)  South American qualifying that 2011-15 underscores his creden- Guoan and is returning from Pitana of Argentina to handle HARRY KANE MOSCOW: After raising the World Cup said no Russians will be involved in col- they would still have secured first tials for the national team job. injury, as the playmaker. the opening game of the Kane was officially confirmed as England’s cap- eight miles from Copacabana Beach four World Cup debutantes as lection of urine and blood samples, which  ! *%£  place without the points secured Alisson Becker wasn’t a If that happens, Coutinho’s World Cup. ,!'-.) tain last month and he is arguably the only player in years ago, Germany hopes to lift the will be flown to Lausanne, Switzerland,   in six games under before household name in Brazil when position on the left could be filled The Russia-Saudi Arabia Peru are back for the first --. /%& Gareth Southgate’s squad among the world’s very trophy four miles from the Kremlin on for analysis. -  the coach was fired. he started wearing the No. 1 jer- by Chelsea midfielder Willian. match at time since 1982. . ' .0- best in his position. His form for Tottenham in the July 15 and become the first repeat cham- VAR will be the acronym of the # $ Brazil should be even more sey two years ago. Now a starter Fred is also in contention to start in Moscow on Thursday will .'#. !.- Champions League last term, where he scored seven for Roma, the 25-year-old Beck- pion in more than a half-. moment: video assistant referees in soc- '(%#   dangerous in Russia if Neymar, if he recovers from an ankle be the first World Cup game goals in seven games, proves Kane can deliver on the The soccer world gathers at 12 stadi- England will try to end cer-speak, instant replay for most viewers who sustained the injury playing er’s admirers include Italy great injury. A more defensive variation to use video review of highest stage. If England provide the service, Kane ums in 11 cities across the European at home.  for Paris Saint-Germain in Feb- . would see Fernandinho, who decisions. will find the net. portion of Russia starting tomorrow for more than five decades of And as soon as the final whistle of the ruary, is fully fit. Alisson’s skills with both plays with Premier League cham- FIFA chose Massimiliano a 32-day, 64-match championship. Much hurt since winning its only tournament is blown at Moscow’s Luzh- “Skill wise, he is already the hands and feet made Tite relegate pion Manchester City, take Irrati of Italy as the special- has changed since Die Mannschaft humil- niki Stadium, attention will shift to the best player in the world,” Brazil Manchester City goalkeeper Eder- Augusto’s place. While Real ist leading a team of four VR Ronaldo’s days of past hoards of scram- iated the host Selecao 7-1 in the 2014 major title on home soil in 2022 World Cup in Qatar, moved to Nov. great Pele said. “This is his time to son to the bench. He is now being Madrid midfielder offers officials who analyze the bling defenders may be over but the Portugese has semifinals, then left Rio de Janeiro’s Mara- 1966. 21 through Dec. 18 because of summer shine.” linked with a move to a leading protection to the defense, Barce- action for possible clear found a new lease of life for Real Madrid as an out- cana Stadium with a 1-0 extra-time win desert heat and compressed to 28 days In less than two years on the club, including Real Madrid, Liv- lona rival Paulinho is a box-to-box errors and serious incidents and-out striker. Dangerous with both feet and superb over Argentina on Mario Goetze’s 113th- erpool and Chelsea. because it is in the middle of the Euro-   job,j Adenor Leonardo Bachi - bet- player who also provides goals. missed by Pitana’s team on in the air, the 33-year-old heads into this World Cup minute goal. Mexico will try to advance pean club season. Gianni Infantino, who ter known as Tite - has turned The third option is Tite’s most If Neymar isn’t fit for the the field. with 50 goals in 50 games this season. He would love The United States will be missing from past the second round for succeeded the disgraced Sepp Blatter as   %%*1 . Brazil from a flop into a title trusted player in the position, Cor- World Cup, Tite may have to One of the video review to add a Golden Boot to his glittering list of soccer’s showcase after seven straight FIFA president in 2016, has discussed favorite. inthians goalkeeper Cassio. resort to using Willian or Douglas officials, working at a FIFA  $%% ,*- '%%    accolades. appearances. Four-time champion Italy the first time since 1986. increasing the World Cup field from 32 A former pupil of defense- In 12 South American World Costa, who is also returning from control center in the Moscow will be watching from home for the first to 48 in 2022, four years ahead of   -*+ !"#$   minded - the Cup qualifiers under Tite, Brazil injury, in his place. suburbs, specializes in ana- IAGO ASPAS time since 1958, its streak of 14 consecu- schedule.   ,*- %'   2002 World Cup-winning coach conceded only three goals. While Gabriel Jesus was Bra- lyzing offside calls and Diego Costa had been the favourite to lead the tive appearances ended by a playoff loss its only major title on home soil in 1966. Some of the top storylines likely to  $%% -*+ ( " # $ who also presided over the Ger- The coach would have pre- zil’s top scorer in qualifying, the another checks their work line for Spain but Aspas is pushing for a start, after a to Sweden. The Netherlands, which lost Mexico will try to advance past the sec- dominate play in Russia: many match - Tite has grown into ferred to play with a solid back Man City player faces competition for errors.  &  )*- %' &$  brilliant season for Celta Vigo and scoring the winner the 2010 final to Spain, missed out after ond round for the first time since 1986, and Cristiano Ronaldo a fan of and his four featuring Paris Saint-Ger- from Liverpool striker Roberto Pitana is working at his in a friendly against Tunisia last weekend. Quick in slumping to third in its qualifying group. but El Tri opens against Germany and its have split the last 10 FIFA Player of the   0*- /&% &  well-balanced teams. The two main duo and Firmino. second World Cup. He han- behind and clinical around the box, Aspas can offer And Chile failed to qualify after consec- likely second-round opponent is Brazil. Year awards, and this is likely their last   )*+ !"#$  have exchanged ideas since 2014. Marquinhos, ’s Miranda Tite lacks an old-fashioned dled four games in Brazil Spain a more direct approach when their possession utive Copa America titles. There also has been a generational chance to win a World Cup. Messi turns    ,*-%  %    Detractors say Tite’s teams are and Real Madrid’s Marcelo. But center forward, so he chose a four years ago. game meets resistance. If given the chance, Aspas IcelanIcelandnda and d Panamaaa a aeWare WorldodC Cupupp change withiwithinn FIFAFIFA.. 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The members of France’s national team at the 1998 World Cup (from Left) , , , , , , , , and Sabri Lamouchi pose for photographers inSaint Denis, Paris yesterday, during an event marking the 20th anniversary of France’s 1998 World Cup victory. 26 SPORT WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE 2018 Aspire Academy’s athletes shine at Asian Junior meet

THE PENINSULA A B C challengesD and demands of travel, performing in unfamiliar DOHA: Qatar’s up and coming environments, weather condi- athletes came in sixth place at tions and adapting to different the recent 2018 Asian Junior cultures.” He added: “Our success Athletics Championships for in Aspire Academy is reflected Under-20s, which concluded in in the placement of Aspire’s Japan on Monday. student-athletes, past and Qatar’s national athletics present, on Qatar senior national team, which was made up mostly teams. The Sports Department of Aspire Academy graduates at Aspire Academy is responsible and current student-athletes, for the comprehensive athletic snatched three golds and three development of all Aspire Acad- silvers at the competition which emy’s student-athletes, and it saw more than 437 athletes rep- aims to prepare young athletes resent 35 countries. by focusing on their technical, Seven Aspire Academy ath- tactical, physical, psychological letes participated in the tour- and behavioural development. nament as part of the Qatar The results we’ve seen at the national athletics team and Championships attest to the hard brought home all six medals that Aspire Academy’s graduate Bassem Hemeida (A), silver medal winner at the 2018 Asian Junior Athletics Championships in Japan. Qatar’s Muhand Saifeldin (B), winner placed Qatar among the top six of two gold medals in 1,500m and 3,000m steeplechase celebrates on the podium. Moaaz Mohamed Saber Ibrahim (C), won gold in shot put and silver in discuss, while Asian countries in the tournament. Nuh Andu (D) won a silver medal in high jump. Two of them; Muhand Saifeldin and Nuh Andu have some remarkable talents that throw (with a recorded distance 110m hurdle race in 13.85 of Athletics at Aspire Academy, efforts of everyone involved.” already graduated. ensured further achievements, of 61.50m). Qatar’s other silver seconds, Owaab Barrow, who said: “We’re very proud of our Established in 2004, Aspire Saifeldin won two gold such as obtaining a world junior medal was secured by teammate finished the 110m hurdle race young athletes for their great Academy seeks to identify and medals in the 1,500m and qualification standard, and new Bassem Hemeida for finishing in 13.89 seconds, earning him results at the Championships. transform talented young ath- 3,000m steeplechase races, personal best records. the 400m hurdles in 50.55 a World Junior Qualifying The competition element of letes with real potential into whilst Andu won a silver medal Student-athlete Moaaz seconds. Other Aspire Standard, and Rashid Abdulla Aspire Academy’s training pro- world-renowned champions in high jump after clearing an Mohamed Saber Ibrahim, who’s Academy student-athletes R Al Suwaidi who recorded gramme is not only helpful for who represent Qatar in national impressive 2.14m on the final day due to graduate by the end of representing the national a great long jump of 7.12 the athletes’ continued per- teams across a wide range of of the competition. June, won gold at the shot put team included Saoud metres. formance development, it also sports, including athletics, gym- Currently enrolled student- (with a recorded distance of Abdulaziz Al Humaidi, who Commenting on the athletes’ allows them to gain experience nastics, football, table tennis and athletes have also showcased 18.57m) and silver at the discus came fourth for finishing the achievements, Tom Crick, Head and become accustomed to the refereeing.

No break Mickelson running out of for Super Rugby in time for a US Open victory 2019 AFP AP Yes, and I was home Friday night.” Mickelson hasn’t had a SYDNEY: The Super Rugby NEW YORK: Phil Mickelson is chance since his sixth runner-up season will kick off earlier running out of time. finish in 2013 at Merion, where next year and run without a Mickelson doesn’t need to be he twice made bogey with a break for 21 weeks, organ- reminded that this is his 27th wedge in his hand over the last isers said yesterday as they appearance in the US Open, six holes. This is the longest retained the current 15-team, more than any of the 156 players Phil Mickelson hits stretch - three US Opens - that three[conference format. at Shinnecock Hills. He wouldn’t his tee shot on the he has failed to even feature on Governing body want to be reminded that 65 13th hole during the weekend. SANZAAR said the compe- players - including the last four the first round The oldest player to win the tition would start on February major champions - were not of the FedEx St. US Open was Hale Irwin, who 15 -- a week earlier than this even born when Mickelson was Jude Classic golf was 45 when he won at Medinah year -- when the Chiefs host low amateur in his first US Open tournament at in 1990 - Mickelson’s first major. the Highlanders in New in 1990 at Medinah. TPC Southwind “That’s the marvelous thing Zealand. “I just can’t believe that time in Memphis, about Phil Mickelson. You don’t The season will run unin- has flown by so fast,” he said Tenessee, US last put anything beyond his talents,” terrupted until the final on Monday. week. said David Duval, who has com- July 6. This is because there The desire hasn’t changed, peted against Mickelson since are no June Tests due to the only the emphasis. college. World Cup being held in Mickelson didn’t win a major In the last few weeks, Mick- Japan from September to until he was 33 and in his 12th elson has said he doesn’t want November. full year on the PGA Tour. Back to get too wrapped up in how the Aside from these tweaks, then, any major would have suf- strong history at Shinnecock “If I played that hole even, I repeating the process Friday. It’s golf course sets up, other than the format remains the same ficed. A year after he won the Hills, which he refers to as one could have won,” Mickelson said. a message he delivered on four he think it’s the best ever for a with three conferences 2004 Masters, he added a PGA of his favorite courses. This is not a time for Mick- separate occasions during his US Open. The fairways are involving 15 teams, with each Championship. And then in 2013 He had a one-shot lead with elson, who turns 48 on Saturday, interviews. slightly wider, which should playing 16 games. at Muirfield, he surprised even two holes to play in 2004 when to be looking behind. “These three (courses) help. Most of the rough around The finals series is also himself by capturing the British Retief Goosen made a 12-foot He doesn’t want to look provide me a great opportunity the green has been shaved down, unchanged with eight quali- Open. birdie putt in the group behind forward, either. to finish out this final leg,” he playing to another of his strength fying from the three con- One to go for the career him on the par-5 16th, and then Never mind that Mickelson said. “Certainly, with the way I’ve because he has such a wide ference winners, along with Grand Slam, the one that has Mickelson put his tee shot in the has played well on the next three been playing this year and at the variety of short-game shots five wildcards. vexed him the most. bunker on the par-3 17th, blasted US.Open courses - Shinnecock consistent level, as well as at a instead of just hacking out of SANZAAR, which released He has more runner-up fin- out to 5 feet and took all the air Hills, Pebble Beach and Winged much higher level than I’ve thick grass. the schedule three months ishes in the US Open than the out of the Hamptons when he Foot. Or that with a victory played the last few years, it gives “I feel as though the luck of earlier than usual, is currently other three majors combined. So three-putted for double bogey. earlier this year at the Mexico me a great opportunity. But the a courses has been taken out as conducting a review to when Mickelson was asked if he In his first US Open at Shin- Championship that his confi- last thing I’m thinking about right much as possible to where skill determine Super Rugby’s had unfinished business at Shin- necock Hills in 1995, he was one dence level is higher than the now is trying to win. I’m trying is the primary factor,” Mickelson future up to 2030. There necock Hills, he paused briefly shot out of the lead going into four previous years when he to get myself in position for the said. “I think we’re going to have were reports last month that before delivering an obvious the final round, closed with a 74 didn’t win at all. weekend. Because when you try a great leaderboard and a great three more South African answer. and finished four shots behind. Mickelson only cares about to go out and win a US Open, you tournament.” All he cares about teams could leave to play in “I can say that a few times in More than a tough final round posting a score in the opening will lose it quick.” Asked if he had is being part of that leaderboard Europe, disillusioned with this tournament,” he said. was playing the par-5 16th hole round Thursday that will keep ever tried to win a US Open on on the weekend, and then take competing in time zones It helps that Mickelson has a in 6 over for the week. him in the mix, and then Thursday, he replied, “ his chances from there. spread across the globe. Red Sox edge struggling Orioles 2-0 in 12 innings AP Bradley followed with a fly ball from Matt Albers (3-2) for a tow- MARINERS 5, ANGELS Mariners starter Wade Pittsburgh. The Pirates led 5-0 to score Rafael Devers, who had ering shot that snapped a 2-all Nelson Cruz homered twice LeBlanc (2-0) allowed two runs behind Joe Musgrove until the BALTIMORE: Brock Holt and doubled. tie. The Cubs scored four more and surprising Seattle overcame and four hits in five innings. He right-hander opened the seventh Jackie Bradley Jr each delivered Heath Hembree (3-1) struck runs in the inning with two outs, Mike Trout’s two home runs in a loaded the bases in the fifth but by hitting Chris Owings with the a sacrifice fly in the 12th inning, out the side in the 11th and Craig including a two-run double by win over Los Angeles. struck out Justin Upton to escape first pitch - possibly as retaliation and the Boston Red Sox limited Kimbrel got three outs for his 21st Jason Heyward. He had three hits Ryon Healy hit a two-run unscathed. for Josh Harrison being plunked the Baltimore Orioles to five hits save. and three RBIs, including a tying shot for the Mariners, who Cruz drove in three runs and in the top half. Nick Ahmed hit a in a 2-0 victory Monday night. It was the fifth straight loss single in the eighth off lefty chased Andrew Heaney (3-5) Edwin Diaz pitched a clean ninth run-scoring single, Daniel Des- A pitching duel between for the Orioles, who have been reliever Josh Hader. early and won for the ninth time for his major league-best 24th calso had another off Edgar Dylan Bundy and Steven Wright shut out seven times this season. Trailing 2-1 most of the night, in 11 games. Seattle sits atop the save in 27 chances. Santana and Lamb tied it at 5 was ultimately decided long after CUBS 7, BREWERS 2, the Cubs scored six times over AL West by a half-game over the DIAMONDBACKS 9, with a three-run homer to left both starters departed. Anthony Rizzo homered the last four innings against the World Series champion Houston PIRATES 5 field. Xander Bogaerts led off the down the right-field line on the Brewers’ normally lights-out Astros. Arizona scored two runs on Ketel Marte singled off Kyle 12th with a single against Mychal first pitch of a five-run 11th bullpen. Chicago took a half- Trout tied Boston slugger J.D. wild pitches in the eighth inning, Crick (0-1) leading off the eighth, Givens (0-3), and the Red Sox inning to help Chicago beat Mil- game lead in the division and Martinez for the major league Jake Lamb hit a tying, three-run moved to second on a walk and went on to load the bases before waukee and jump into first place won its seventh straight over Mil- lead with 21 homers. Albert homer in the seventh and the raced to third after a pickoff Holt broke the scoreless in the NL Central. waukee. Randy Rosario (3-0) Pujols also went deep for the Diamondbacks took advantage attempt at second base by deadlock with a fly to center. Rizzo turned on a fastball retired all six batters he faced. Angels. of a hit by pitch to rally past catcher Elias Diaz. Marte scored. WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE 2018 SPORT 27 Bairstow says England can cope with No.1 tag AFP explained. “You get to number one and in the ball-tampering scandal in Cape people are going to want to beat you, but Town in March -- but Australia are also LONDON: Jonny Bairstow has insisted you want to be number one in the world. without their injured Ashes-winning fast- England can cope with the pressure of “We set our stall out to be number one trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins being the world’s top-ranked one-day in the world and that’s where we are, and Josh Hazlewood. international side as they head into a five- whether we were number one in this game “It’s a completely different challenge match series against Australia on the back or not, Scotland would still be delighted to and a completely different team that we of a shock six-run defeat by Scotland. win, it’s not just because we are number will be playing,” said Bairstow. Sunday’s stunning reverse in Edin- one,” the Yorkshireman added. “It’s a team that has a lot of new burgh was England’s first match since England though will not have long to guys in, without Starc, Hazlewood, rising to the top of the global ODI rankings. absorb the lessons of that loss, with the Cummins, Warner, Smith, so there are But despite Bairstow becoming the first first ODI against Australia at The Oval guys wanting to compete for places and England batsman to score ODI hundreds today. we know just how dangerous that can in three successive innings, England failed It is a match that pits 2019 World Cup be when people are pushing for a per- Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman bowls in the nets during a to chase down a target of 372 after a superb hosts England against title-holders manent place.” practice session at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru yesterday. 140 by Calum MacLeod laid the Australia. Australia will hope Marcus Stoinis and platform for Scotland’s stunning win. England enjoyed a 4-1 series win over Travis Head, both of whom made hundreds Defeat raised questions about the Australia ‘Down Under’ earlier this year in warm-up games, can continue their ability of England, who have never lifted but will be confronted by a new-look side good form, with pacemen Kane Rich- A Test of nerves for the World Cup, to win ‘one-off’ clashes but in London. ardson, Jhye Richardson, Billy Stanlake and Bairstow said Eoin Morgan’s men could Not only have former Australia captain Michael Neser all looking to feature in a handle everything that came with being Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner side captained by -keeper Tim Afghanistan in top of the rankings. -- two of the world’s best one-day batsmen Paine. “It’s part and parcel of the game,” he -- been given year-long bans for their role Australia will hope Ashton Agar to provide a degree of control in the field fol- debut against India lowing three straight ODI series losses and the spinner was keen they take advantage AFP of any uncertainty among the England side in the limited-overs formats, following their defeat by a Scotland side Afghanistan must prove they can who are 13th in the ODI rankings. BENGALURU, INDIA: Shaken by stand the stresses of a five-day “It’s great England didn’t win (on the horrors of war, Afghanistan will match. Sunday) because you always like to start take a mighty step in history Conditions in India are unlikely with a win,” Agar said. when captain Asghar Stanikzai to surprise them, though: the team “At the end, England didn’t really finish leads his team out for their first have been training in the country the job,” he added. ever Test match against India since 2015 because of poor security “They’re a really dangerous side, tomorrow. at home. though, and you can’t ever take a side like Conflict has scarred virtually Afghan players got a new that lightly. We need to bring our A-game every member of the team and they reminder of the horrors in their and be ready to go.” are impoverished compared with country last month when an attack Warner may not be playing but the their opponents, the world’s on a cricket match in Khan’s home banned batsman will join Australian wealthiest cricket nation. city of Jalalabad killed eight people broadcaster Channel Nine’s commentary But Stanikzai said they are and wounded 45. team from the second ODI in Cardiff on determined to show their rise to a “Cricket has been a source of Saturday onwards. Test nation less than two decades happiness and pride for all “Personally I think it’s a great thing for after being recognised by the Inter- Afghans,” said Afghanistan Cricket Australia’s Tim Paine (left) and England’s Eoin Morgan pose with the trophy ahead of him to be back around cricket,” said Agar national Cricket Council in 2001 is Board chief Atif Mashal at the time. the ODI series at Kia Oval, in London, Britain, yesterday. of Warner’s new role. merited. “These attacks are against peace, “It’s a great moment for us as unity and humanity.” But growing we embark on our Test journey,” up in a tough environment where said Stanikzai, who has been a such militant attacks were common Pakistan beat Scotland by 48 runs member of the Afghanistan side did not deter spin sensation Khan. since they gained one-day inter- “The terror in our home area national status in 2009. meant we did not have access to an AFP his four overs. Having set a SCOREBOARD “To be competing against the education while growing up. My steady rate in the early stages, Pakistan Scotland best on the Test rankings table is parents even forbid my siblings and EDINBURGH: Pakistan halted Pakistan put their foot on the Fakhar Zaman c Cross b Evans ...... 21 c AAli b Nawaz ...... 31 something to be proud of and we I to play cricket outside our home,” Scotland’s giant-killing heroics gas in the final five overs. Ahmed Shehzad c Berrington b Evans ...... 14 b Khan ...... 3 will try to do our best in whatever Khan, one of 12 children, said in a with a 48-run victory over the Captain Sarfraz Ahmed led Hussain Talat c Tahir b Berrington ...... 18 Calum MacLeod lbw b Khan ...... 12 chances we get and exhibit the recent interview with Afghan minnows in a clash the way as he racked up an Sarfraz Ahmed (not out) ...... 89 Dylan Budge c Ashraf b Amir ...... 24 skills the players possess individ- media. in Edinburgh yesterday. impressive unbeaten 89 from Shoaib Malik c Leask b Evans ...... 53 (not out) ...... 38 ually as well as collectively as a “But no amount of war stopped Having taken out the just 49 balls, with Shoaib Malik Asif Ali (not out) ...... 1 Matthew Cross c Malik b HAli ...... 13 team.” me from sneaking out to play Extras: (4LB, 4W)...... 8 (not out) ...... 3 world’s top one-day interna- hitting 53 from 27 deliveries. Total: (for 4 wkts) ...... 204 Extras: (4LB, 1NB, 2W) ...... 7 Afghan cricket grew out of the cricket with my brothers.” tional side with a historic win That left the Scots Did not bat: Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, Mo- Total: (for 6 ) ...... 156 refugee camps in Pakistan where over England on Sunday, the requiring a repeat of the big- hammad Nawaz, Mohammad Amir, Hasan Ali. Did not bat: Mark Watt, , Hamza Ta- many families were based after Scots were looking to com- hitting which saw them run Fall of wickets: 1-33, 2-46, 3-87, 4-183. hir. they fled the Afghan conflict in the plete a stunning double by top- up a tally of 371 for five Bowling: Safyaan Sharif 4-0-43-0, Mark Watt Fall of wickets: 1-53, 2-63, 3-69, 4-82, 5-107, 1980s and 1990s. pling a Pakistan team rated as against England. 4-0-42-0, Hamza Tahir 4-0-57-0, Alasdair Evans 6-150. Now the country is producing the top Twenty20 nation. George Munsey and Kyle 4-0-23-3, Michael Leask 1-0-6-0, Richie Ber- Bowling: Mohammad Nawaz 4-0-22-1, Moham- world-beaters like 19-year-old rington 3-0-29-1. mad Amir 4-0-45-1, Hasan Ali 4-0-33-2, Faheem But ’s side Coetzer made a decent start in George Munsey c Ahmed b HAli 25 Ashraf 3-0-23-0, Shadab Khan 4-0-25-2, Hussain spinner Rashid Khan. were unable to emulate their reply, notching 50 runs from Talat 1-0-4-0. In March, the teenager became epic success thanks to solid the first five overs. the fastest bowler to reach 100 Pakistan display. But the introduction of one-day international wickets, and The hosts’ run chase went Hasan Ali to the Pakistan is currently the world’s top-ranked flat as Scotland finished on 156 attack provided the injection Twenty20 bowler. for six in response to Paki- of pace they were looking for Khan was one of a handful of stan’s 204 for four at the and when he removed Afghan players in this year’s Indian Grange. Munsey for 25, the Scots Premier League and proved one of Scotland had made a looked in trouble. its most dangerous bowlers. He bright start, with Ali Evans dis- With Calum MacLeod, took 21 wickets for runners-up missing Ahmed Shehzad (14) Sunday’s star of the show with Sunrisers Hyderabad, who paid $1.4 and Fakhar Zaman (21) before his 140 not out knock, trapped million for his services. Richie Berrington removed lbw by Shadab Khan for just “In my opinion we have better Hussain Talat (18). 12, the fight quickly drifted out spinners than India,” Stanikzai told But they could have done of the hosts’ showing. Indian media, highlighting the likes India’s Ishant Sharma prepares with debutant spinner Hamza Scotland will have a of Khan, , to bowl in the nets during the Pakistan’s Sarfraz Ahmed (second right) celebrates with team- Tahir was given a bruising second chance to shock Mohammad Nabi, Rahmat Shah team’s practice session at the M. mates Shoaib Malik (right) and Shadab Khan against Scotland introduction as he was Pakistan when the teams meet and Zahir Khan. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, in Edinburgh, Scotland, yesterday. smashed for 57 costly runs off again today. After impressive performances yesterday. Federer wary of slim margins on grasscourt return REUTERS Last year 20-times Grand Slam a three-match losing streak at a single champion Federer lost his opener in tournament. STUTTGART: Roger Federer can return Stuttgart to close friend Tommy Haas. Losing to Haas did not dent his con- to the top of the ATP rankings this week “Having lost here last year in the first fidence too much last year, however, as in Stuttgart but knows all too well the round, for me, it resets the goals as well, he went on to win the Halle title and an dangers lurking on grass as he comes back and just take it one at a time and don’t eighth Wimbledon without dropping a from his mid-season break. think too far ahead,” Federer told the ATP set. The 36-year-old Swiss skipped the website. “I came back very strong and my claycourt season, including the French “Not that I did that last year, but on reaction was very good after losing here Open, to concentrate on retaining his grass, margins are very slim. It’s not so against Tommy,” Federer said. Wimbledon crown and kicks off his prep- simple, especially when you haven’t “I didn’t drop a set for the rest of the aration on the German city’s slick lawns. played in three months.” Federer will grasscourt season, which I was very happy Switzerland’s Roger Federer He will play German serve-and-vol- overhaul Rafael Nadal at the top of the about. So I just hope I can find my rhythm attends a press conference leyer Mischa Zverev in his first match in rankings if he reaches the final on Sunday. and range a bit earlier. Stuttgart today - a tricky test especially That defeat by Haas last year together “I’m motivated. It’s been a while, I prior the ATP Cup tennis as he has not played a competitive match with his semi-final loss the year before haven’t played matches. Obviously I don’t tournament in Stuttgart, since a surprise loss to Australian against Dominic Thiem means Federer is want to be on a three-match losing southwestern Germany, youngster Thanasi Kokkinakis in March. in the unusual position of trying to avoid streak... I want to break that as well.” yesterday. WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE 2018 SPORT 28 Neymar is doing great, thanks Brazilian goalkeeper to God. I think the way the Alisson says Neymar is fit CRICKET CRICKET whole process has been dealt to fancy Brazil chances at with was perfect. He has fully World Cup. First ODI: Australia vs LIVE ON Second T20: Pakistan vs England in London recovered. TUBE Scotland in Edinburgh

Lionel Messi takes part in a training session on Monday. Messi the star attraction as Banega trains apart

AFP Injury had already struck stopped to sign autographs. Argentina on the eve of their Ernesto Lagorio, Argentina’s BRONNITSY: Around 400 eager departure for the tournament, ambassador to Russia, was at the fans turned out at Argentina’s with West Ham midfielder session at the sprawling training World Cup base camp to catch Manuel Lanzini ruled out with a centre, used by several Russian A particularly a glimpse of Lionel Messi and his serious knee injury. national sports teams, on the team-mates at an open training Enzo Perez was summoned banks of the River Moscow. affectionate session. as a replacement for Lanzini, “We came to see our national welcome was A particularly affectionate although the status of Ever team, it’s the first acquaintance welcome was reserved for the Banega for Argentina’s first with them, it’s been great,” reserved for the Barcelona forward, as hordes of group game against Iceland on Lagorio said. Barcelona forward, adoring young supporters June 16 remains uncertain after “We’ve already been to chanted “Messi, Messi” on his the Sevilla midfielder trained Bronnitsy several times, we’ve as hordes of adoring way out for an hour-long alone. worked a lot with the authorities young supporters practice on Monday. The odd Messi mask was and the mayor.” After several days of chilly spotted in the crowd, while “He’s helped us a lot, it’s chanted “Messi, temperatures in the Russian others waved Barcelona flags, as been in the works for several Messi” on his way capital, overcast skies gave way well as those of Argentina. months,” he added. to sunshine, with excited locals The five-time Ballon d’Or Asked whether he would be out for an hour-long packing a temporary stand in winner was then mobbed by attending matches, he replied: practice. Bronnitsy, southeast of Moscow, dozens of youngsters at the end “I hope to show up until the final to follow the action. of the session as players match in July.”

Salah still Spain coach Lopetegui to doubtful for opener take Real job after Cup REUTERS MOSCOW: Egyptian forward AFP remains a Portugal,” added the federation’s doubt to face Uruguay in their statement. Lopetegui was World Cup opener on Friday, MADRID: Real Madrid yesterday appointed as Spain coach in the the country’s football associ- announced the appointment of wake of their poor showing at ation has said. Spain’s Julen Lopetegui as their Euro 2016 in France when they The Liverpool player, coach from next season, stunning were eliminated in the last 16, who sustained a shoulder the national team ahead of the losing 2-0 to Italy. injury in the Champions start of the World Cup. Zidane quit Real after a League final against Real “Real Madrid announce that remarkable two and a half years Madrid last month, took part Julen Lopetegui will be the coach in charge during which he led the in light training on Monday of the first team during the next club to three consecutive Cham- but the Egyptian FA’s man- three seasons,” the Champions pions League titles, as well as one aging director Ehab Lehita League winners said in a crown. said it was too early to say statement, adding that the However, Real finished third whether he would play 51-year-old “will join the club in La Liga in the season just fin- against the South after Spain’s participation in the ished, 17 points behind cham- Americans. World Cup”. pions Barcelona, and Zidane had “He is gradually getting Lopetegui will replace Zin- admitted that he was unsure of better. However, I cannot edine Zidane as coach at the his ability to oversee more confirm today that he will Santiago Bernabeu, after the success in the future. play in the first match,” Lehita Frenchman quit on May 31 in the As a player, Basque-born said of the 25-year-old, who wake of their Champions League Lopetegui was a goalkeeper on scored 44 goals for Liverpool final win over Liverpool in Kiev. In this file photo taken on September 01, 2017 Spain’s coach Julen Lopetegui (centre) poses with Real’s books early in his career, last season. The news comes as a jolt for and he returned for a spell in Former Egypt interna- Spain’s defender (left) and Spain’s midfielder Andres Iniesta prior to giving a press Spain, just three days before their charge of their second team a tional Mido said he expects conference at the Royal Spanish Football Federation’s “Ciudad del Futbol” in Madrid on the eve of opening game at the Russian decade ago. Salah to play in the opening their World Cup 2018 qualifying match against Italy. World Cup against Iberian neigh- He also briefly played for match in Yekaterinburg. bours Portugal in Sochi. Barcelona and later led Spain’s “We heard that he is Lopetegui and the Spain He only signed an extension conference at Spain’s Russian Lopetegui’s national squad under-21 side to the European doing alright so it’s a question squad are currently at their to his deal until 2020 last month. training base yesterday. includes six Real players in Dani Championship title in 2013. of whether he will start the training base in the southern “The RFEF will receive Spain are among the Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Nacho He went on to coach Porto game or whether he will be Russian city of Krasnodar. payment of the release clause favourites to win the World Cup Fernandez, Marco Asensio, Isco before succeeding Vicente del kept for the second half,” The Spanish Football Feder- so that the current national after an almost flawless quali- and Lucas Vazquez. Bosque, who had overseen Mido, who earned 51 caps, ation (RFEF) confirmed that coach can join Real Madrid,” fying campaign, and he will be “The RFEF requests the Spain’s triumphs at the 2010 told Sky Sports. Madrid will pay compensation read a statement, adding that hoping that the announcement maximum respect in order to World Cup and Euro 2012 but Egypt will also face con- to get Lopetegui out of the two Lopetegui would appear does not overly unsettle his maintain normality in the had also been in charge for the tinental rivals Saudi Arabia years he has remaining on his alongside federation president squad just before the compe- national team camp ahead of our disappointing group-stage exit and Cup hosts Russia in contract with the national team. Luis Rubiales at a press tition gets under way. debut in the tournament against at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Group A. VAR at World Cup will not be perfect, warns FIFA refereeing chief

REUTERS The VAR system was and the FA Cup in England -- be craving. “If we say now yes problem 100 percent. In front But I’m sure and convinced approved for use at the tour- concerns have been raised to (having VAR in) this World of a video, we will always have that the scandals that we MOSCOW: Video Assistant nament for the first time in about the system’s readiness for Cup, it’s because we think we a human person who is making remember from the past we will Referees (VARs) will be making March. the World Cup. are ready,” he said. an interpretation. It’s not goal- not see any more.” their debut at the World Cup in But although it has been Busacca told a news con- “But don’t think that it will line technology with a Argentine referee Nestor Russia this month but the tech- used in domestic competitions ference FIFA had full confi- be perfect. We are looking to vibration.” Pitana will take charge of nology will not be perfect, FIFA’s across Europe in the past year dence in the VAR technology have an incredible uniformity “No, it’s an interpretation. It tomorrow’s opening World Cup director of refereeing, Massimo -- including in top division of but that it might not provide and consistency, but don’t think can be yes, it can be no. We can match between hosts Russia and Busacca, warned yesterday. the German and Italian leagues the degree of clarity some may that technology solves the discuss after the game, always. Saudi Arabia in Moscow.