Sport

TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER 2020 WeW have no room for complacency: ItI requires us to make more efforts because all matches are ddifficult. We have to continue with this level. We are doing everythinge the right way and now we have no room for ccomplacency. All matches are difficult as I mentioned and we hhave to win the three points (against ).

Al Sadd coach Xavi Hernandez Sport | 10

AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: EAST ZONE 2 - 0 Shanghai SIPG, Yokohama F. Marinos 2 - 3 New World Cup stadium: ready to welcome fans for Amir Cup final RIZWAN REHMAT THE PENINSULA

Qatar is ready for the biggest fan attendance at a top regional sports final this year when it inaugurates the fourth venue of the 2022 FIFA World Cup on December 18. The brand new venue will reach 50 percent capacity when fans turn up to watch Doha giants Al Sadd take on popular side Al Arabi in the 2020 Amir Cup final at Al Rayyan Venue. This was confirmed at a press conference addressed by Khalid Al Kuwari, Director of Khalid Al Kuwari, Director of Marketing & Communications, QFA, Dr Abdul Wahab Al Musleh, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Clinical Marketing & Communications Information Systems, Hamad Medical Corporation, and Khalid Al Naama, Digital Media Manager at SC and Deputy Communications at Qatar Football Association Director, Amir Cup LOC, are seen during a press conference held in Doha yesterday. (QFA), and Dr Abdul Wahab Al Musleh, Deputy Chief An aerial view of the Qatar 2022 World Medical Officer for Clinical Cup venue at Al Rayyan. Information Systems, Hamad Al Kuwari yesterday said Medical Corporation. pre-booking for the final has Khalid Al Naama, Digital already commenced with Media Manager at the huge demand for tickets Supreme Committee for witnessed. Delivery & Legacy and Deputy “We are looking forward Communications Director, to a great atmosphere at Al Amir Cup Local Organising Rayyan Venue on 18 Committee (LOC). also December. Our priority is to addressed the media. ensure everyone’s safety, in This will be the fourth line with the measures imple- World Cup venue to be inau- mented by the Supreme Com- gurated by Qatar after the mittee for Crisis Management. unveiling of the iconic Khalifa We have adopted a new tick- International Stadium (May eting process, which includes 2017), (May testing everyone for COVID-19 2019) and the Education City before they are allowed to Stadium (June 2020). enter the stadium. A good Earlier this year, it was number of people have announced the new stadium already claimed their tickets would host seven matches and we are looking forward during Qatar 2022. to a great occasion on Qatar “Before I speak about the National Day.” details of the final, I would like Al Naama said: “It’s an to say that Qatar now occupies This can be considered a great social distancing will be honour to have the new 2022 a unique position on the global success,” he said. We had 40,000 fans last year for the Amir Cup final. During the strictly implemented. Only FIFA World Cup stadium to sports map. This is the first “The Amir Cup final will be pandemic, we have to take different steps. We have examined the half of the stadium will be full be inaugurated with the time in the world that we will held at a 2022 FIFA World Cup which means fans will sit with 2020 Amir Cup final just like see preparations for a sports venue. It is a venue with a matter of fan attendance very closely. Only 30 percent fans have gaps. Fans will have to show when the Khalifa Interna- final with a big fan attendance. 40,000-seat capacity. The Al been allowed at sports events so far but we can go further than their Ehteraz app prior to tional Stadium and Al Janoub A big attendance in times of Rayyan Venue will reach this and go 50 percent. This can be considered a great success: entering the stadium. Sanitiser Stadium were pandemic is a huge deal,” Dr approximately 50 percent Dr Abdul Wahab Almusleh, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for bottles will be easily acces- inaugurated.” Al Musleh said yesterday. capacity when it hosts the Amir Clinical Information Systems, Hamad Medical Corporation sible at the stadium,” he said. He added: “The stadium “We had 40,000 fans last Cup final. No other country has “This will be a real has unique characters and it year for the Amir Cup final. been bold enough and coura- achievement for Qatar while it will be future headquarters of During the pandemic, we have geous enough to take this step,” hosts sports events at this time. Al Rayyan club. The stadium to take different steps. We Dr Al Musleh said. members of the Local Organ- “This process will guar- This is the example that we fol- is fully ready as it is hosting have examined the matter of “We decided that everyone izing Committee, people like antee all fans attending the lowed while hosting the AFC giants of . We fan attendance very closely. attending the match has to the TV crew, the match ref- final will be COVID-free. Eve- Champions League matches in look forward to hosting the Only 30 percent fans have undergo a PCR test. Everyone erees and assistants and the ryone will be tested two days the East and West Zones. We fans. SC ambassador like Aus- been allowed at sports events associated with the match like medical staff will have to test before the event,” Dr Al have presented our feedback tralian football star Tim Cahill so far but we can go further the players, coaching staff, the negative,” Dr Al Musleh Musleh said. to FIFA officials to show how will be there to celebrate the than this and go 50 percent. staff at the venue, the explained. “Mind you, at the stadium, we are doing,” he said. inauguration.” TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER 2020 SPORTSPORT 11 Hosts Qatar eye spectacular World Cup after vaccines

AP – DOHA forward to hosting the fans and “We hope that remains the having a normal and successful Three of the eight stadiums same that they will have a Qatar is now planning for a World Cup.” (which will host FIFA World Cup break in the summer (of “complete normal” World Cup in European nations yesterday dis- 2022).” 2022 after the rapid progress in covered their path to securing one Qatar 2022 matches) have been Last week marked 10 producing vaccines for the corona- of 13 spots in the tournament when completed and a fourth at Al years since Qatar won the virus, the tournament CEO said the qualifying draw was staged at Rayyan is due to be ready to stage right to host the World ahead of the European qualifying FIFA HQ in Zurich. the domestic Amir Cup on Dec 18, Cup. Qatar has spent of draw held yesterday. The pandemic has prevented the which is Qatar’s National Day and billions of dollars to Early in the pandemic that forced event being staged in the host nation build hotels, a new the cancellation of the European as would usually happen before a when the World Cup final is due to transport system and Championship and Olympics this World Cup. be played in two years. lavish stadiums to cope year, the football family at large was “In the post-COVID pandemic with staging one of the concerned about the long-term era, we hope that sports will go back biggest sporting events. impact of COVID-19. to normal as quickly as possible,” Al break in the European seasons in Qatar used the Across the world sports have Khater said. 2022 to accommodate the World seven-team Club World Cup in Everybody’s looking forward to going resumed in front of limited or no The tournament isn’t just going Cup. December 2019 that was won by Liv- crowds, but the vaccines have pro- to a new region, but being played at The later tournament gives more erpool to test footballing back to some sort of normalcy in life vided hope that crowds can return the end of 2022 rather than the usual breathing space for qualifying to be infrastructure. and especially in sports as well. We’re in large numbers from next year. June-July slot. completed rather than the tour- This year’s edition, featuring very hopeful and very looking forward “The introduction of the vaccine “When the announcement was nament starting in about 18 months. Bayern Munich as European cham- that, by 2022, hopefully things will and the rollout of the vaccine, it’s made for the World Cup to be played It also should provide a break pions, has been postponed until Feb- definitely good news for everybody,” in November and December, obvi- eventually for players in the summer ruary due to the pandemic. really be back to complete normal and 2022 World Cup Chief Executive ously at that time there was a lot of of 2022 after enduring a long stretch Three of the eight stadiums have looking forward to hosting the fans Nasser Al Khater said in an interview feedback about the disruption to the of games from around June this year been completed and a fourth at Al and having a normal and successful with the AP. different calendars of the leagues,” through rescheduled events, Rayyan is due to be ready to stage the World Cup. In the post-COVID “Everybody’s looking forward to Al Khater said. including the Euros, and next season. domestic Amir Cup on December 18, going back to some sort of normalcy “One thing we learned from the “There was always that which is Qatar’s National Day and pandemic era, we hope that sports in life and especially in sports as well. pandemic is that many leagues were advantage that the World Cup is when the World Cup final is due to be will go back to normal as quickly as “We’re very hopeful and very able to adapt.” taking place mid-season, so players played in two years. possible: Qatar 2022 Chief looking forward that, by 2022, hope- And the months without any are going to be fresh and it would “The rest will be completed by the Executive Nasser Al Khater fully things will really be back to football during the pandemic will put translate into much better football end of the year (2021), beginning of complete normal and looking into a new perspective the necessary on the field of play,” Al Khater said. 2022,” Al Khater said. Al Rayyan Venue set to reach We are looking forward to a great atmosphere at Al Rayyan Venue on 18 December. Our priority is to ensure everyone’s safety, in line with the measures implemented by the 50% capacity for Amir Cup final Supreme Committee for Crisis Management. We have adopted a new ticketing process, which  Al Rayyan Venue will  Priority access to tickets is antibodies test or a Ali Stadium, is adjacent to comprised of patterns includes testing everyone for COVID-19 before become the fourth FIFA granted to fans of both Al negative COVID-19 test the Mall of Qatar and that characterise they are allowed to enter the stadium. A good World Cup stadium to Sadd and Al Arabi – the prior to being allowed within walking distance of different aspects of number of people have already claimed their open in Qatar following two clubs who will contest access to the stadium. Al Riffa Station – on Doha Qatar: the importance tickets and we are looking forward to a great Khalifa International, Al the final. In addition, Metro’s Green Line. of family, the beauty of occasion on Qatar National Day: Khalid Al Janoub and Education City. frontline healthcare  Social distancing the desert, native flora Kuwari, Director of Marketing & workers who helped measures will be  The stadium will host and fauna, and local Communications, QFA  The inauguration and final Qatar battle the COVID-19 implemented within the seven matches during and international trade. will take place December pandemic have also been vicinity of the stadium, Qatar 2022 up to and A fifth shape – a shield – This is the first time Qatar has hosted a match on 18 - Qatar National Day – given priority access to including the fan zone and including the round of 16 brings together all this scale under such exceptional circumstances. exactly two years before purchase tickets. on public transport. stage. the others, representing The Amir Cup Local Organising Committee, under the country hosts the FIFA the strength and unity direction from the MOPH, developed a clear  strategy in order to accommodate spectators World Cup final. Any fan who attends the  The 40,000-capacity  The stadium’s most that is particularly and ensure the safe return of top-level sport in The match will kick off at match must return either stadium, which was built striking feature is a relevant to the city of our country: Dr Abdul Wahab Al Musleh, 7pm. a positive COVID-19 on the site of Ahmed Bin glowing façade, Al Rayyan. Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Clinical Information Systems, Hamad Medical Corporation

We are thrilled to be launching our fourth Qatar 2022 venue by hosting the Amir Cup final – as we did previously for the inaugurations of Khalifa International in 2017 and Al Janoub in 2019. Like other Qatar 2022 stadiums, Al Rayyan Venue has distinct legacy features – including becoming the future home of Al Rayyan Sports Club. Yet again, this match is an opportunity to test readiness ahead of the World Cup by welcoming the fans of two major local clubs: Khalid Al Naama, Digital Media Manager at SC and Deputy Communications Director, Amir Cup LOC An aerial view of the Qatar 2022 World Cup venue at Al Rayyan. Messi, Ronaldo to renew rivalry in Champions League AFP – MADRID phases of their careers, at 35 and 33 showing no signs of slowing down. appearances and two of those from the respectively, but both retain their elite By contrast, Messi is struggling in penalty spot. Lionel Messi’s rivalry with Cristiano status. Spain. Carles Tusquets, president of the Ronaldo has enthralled football for the Messi has six Ballons d’Or to his The Barcelona forward tried to managing board in charge before club better part of a decade, and the pair will name and is the current holder, while escape this summer but his club refused elections in January, said he would have duel for potentially the final time when Ronaldo finished third in the 2019 to let him leave and Messi appears an sold Messi in the summer, economically Barcelona host Juventus in the Cham- awards, boasting five. uncomfortable fit in new coach Ronald speaking. pions League today. He is thriving in ItItaly,aly, hhavingaving ququicklyickly Koeman’sKoeman’s tacticaltactical plans,plans, anandd ffarar fromfrom “Financially,“Financia him leaving would The two titans of the modern game, become key for Juventus,uventus, who pre-pre- hishis decisivedecisive best. beenbeen ggoodood foforr the club,” Tusquets told who split ownership of the Ballon d’Or sented him with a commemorativeommemorative shirtshirt BarcelonaBarcelona aarere Catalunya Radio.Rad TODAY'S FIXTURES between 2008-2017, were the talismans on Saturday to recogniseecognise his 750th enduring their worst “W“We’dWeede be better off because GROUPGR STAGE of Spanish giants Barcelona and Real career goal, aheadd of a 2-1 win over startstart to a lealeaguegue wewe saidsaid that his salarysalary is the LLazioazio 8:55pm Club Brugge Madrid until Ronaldo left the Spanish neighbours Torino.. season forfor 33 years highesthighest in the ZeniZenit 8:55pm Dortmund capital for Juventus in 2018. “Ronaldo is the top plplayerayer for mmen-en- andand Messi’sMessi’s inincon-con- StadeStade RennaisRennais 11:00pm Sevilla FC After the Portuguese forward tality,” his former Juventusuventus coach MaMas-s- sistencysistency is part ooff ChelseChelseaa 11:00pm Krasnodar arrived from Manchester United in similiano Allegri toldld The Times. thethe pproblem,roblem, with DDynamoynamo KieKievv 11:00pm Ferencváros 2009, El Clasico became synonymous “Ronaldo has a ddifferentifferent hheadead to four ggoalsoals in 10 BBarcelonaarcelona 11:00pm Juventus with his rivalry with Barcelona captain everyone. He’s wonn five Ballons d’Or, LeipzigLeipzig 11:00pm Man United Messi. five Champions LeaguesLeagues and one PSGPSG 11:00pm Basaksehir Since Ronaldo’s departure, the European Championshiponship for Por-Por- fixture has lost some of its glamour, tugal, and that is so difficult,difficult, and leaving the football world eager for the it’s always him makingking the dif-dif- world. NothingNothi could be truer.” pair to be pitted against each other ference. Every yearr he has a However,However, the ArgentinaA forward, who again. Those hopes were frustrated new objective.” Ronaldo failedfailed to finfindd tthe net in a dismal 2-1 earlier in the group phase, with Ronaldo netted 21 goals in hhisis debut defeatdefeat byby promotedprom side Cadiz on Sat- missing Barcelona’s 2-0 win in Turin season for Allegri ttoo take urday,urday, remains,remains and the chance to joust after testing positive for Covid-19. Messi Juventus to the title,e, fofol-l- with his old foe Ronaldo may rouse him. scored with a penalty. They are poised lowed by 31 last seasoneason While RonRonaldoa was in Spain he and to meet again this week. under Maurizio Sarrirri as MessiMes drove each other to Both sides have already qualified they lifted the Scudettodetto greatergr and greater for the last 16 from Group G but Juventus for the 36th time. heights,he in what was foot- can overtake Barcelona if they win at With eight goalsls in ball’sbaa greatest rivalry Camp Nou by three goals or more, or six appearances thisthis betweenbetw individuals. On by any two-goal margin other than 2-0. season for Andrearea Tuesday,Tuesday they cross swords once Ronaldo and Messi are in the latter Pirlo, Ronaldo isis again,again, perhaperhapsp as a last encore. 10 SPORT TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER 2020

UEFA QUALIFYING GROUPS World champions France handed FOR FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022

GROUP A Portugal, Serbia, Republic of comfortable draw in 2022 qualifiers Ireland Luxembourg, Azerbaijan AFP – PARIS UEFA Nations League in Italy GROUP B in October next year. Spain, Sweden, Greece, Holders France were handed The European qualifying Georgia an awkward draw in quali- competition to reach the finals Kosovo fying for the 2022 World Cup begins next March, with a total GROUP C yesterday, with Ukraine and of 13 countries from the con- Italy, Switzerland, Northern Bosnia and Herzegovina tinent going through. Ireland standing in their way on the Only the winners of each Bulgaria, Lithuania road to the finals in Qatar, of the 10 groups will qualify GROUP D while England will face Poland automatically for the finals, France, Ukraine, Finland, in their group. which are to take place in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Gareth Southgate’s November and December of Kazakhstan England, semi-finalists at the 2022. GROUP E 2018 tournament in Russia, The 10 runners-up will go Belgium, Wales, Czech will also take on Hungary and into play-offs alongside the Republic, Belarus, Estonia Albania as well as two of the two best Nations League GROUP F minnows of international group winners who miss out Denmark, Austria, Scotland, football, Andorra and San on qualifying via the tradi- Israel, Faroe Islands, Moldova Marino, in Group I. tional path. GROUP G France will also face Those play-offs will Netherlands, Turkey, Norway, Finland -- who recently beat produce three more qualifiers Montenegro, Latvia, Gibraltar Les Bleus in a friendly in Paris in total, with Europe having 13 GROUP H -- in Group D, with Kaza- spots out of the 32 at the finals. Croatia, Slovakia, Russia, khstan completing the group Germany, whose coach Slovenia, Cyprus, Malta that was drawn in a virtual Joachim Loew has been under GROUP I ceremony at FIFA’s head- severe pressure after a run of England, Poland, Hungary, quarters in Zurich due to the poor recent results for the Albania, Andorra, San Marino Covid-19 pandemic. 2014 World Cup winners, will GROUP J They be expected to come through Draw assistant and former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart holds the slip of Bosnia and Germany, Romania, Iceland, are in a group of just five a group in which Romania and Herzegovina next to FIFA’s acting Director of Competitions Jaime Yarza during the UEFA preliminary North Macedonia, Armenia, teams because they will be Iceland appear their main draw for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 in Zurich, yesterday. The qualifiers will start on March 24, 2021. Liechtenstein involved in the finals of the threats. We have no room for complacency, Xavi QSL: Al Duhail tells Al Sadd ahead of Al Wakrah clash eye full points as

FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA Al Sailiya aim high

Trust tough taskmaster Xavi Hernendez, CHINTHANA WASALA the Al Sadd coach, to crank up the pressure THE PENINSULA on his players when needed. Doha football giants Al Sadd have Reigning champions Al Duhail shown a fierce performance on the field in will be looking to consolidate the 2020-21 QNB Stars League so far – their position in the top four in scoring 27 goals from only seven matches. QNB Stars League (QSL) The Wolves are the only unbeaten side standings when they take on Al TODAY in the new season, leading the points Sailiya today in a Round 8 clash Al Duhail VS Al Sailiya standings with six wins and a draw. of the season. At Al Duhail Stadium (5.30pm) Al Wakrah coach Al Sadd coach And yet, coach Xavi, whose prime target The high-octane clash will Marquez Lopez Xavi Hernandez Al Wakrah VS Al Sadd this year is to win the league after their kick off at 5.30pm at the Al At Al Duhail Stadium (7.45pm) heartbreaking exit in the AFC Champions Duhail Stadium. Al Arabi VS Al Rayyan League, wants his ranks to double up their to achieve the target of winning the title. Al Wakrah coach Marquez Lopez hoped Al Duhail, who have started At Al Ahli Stadium (7.45pm) efforts if they want to bring back the “It requires us to make more efforts his team, who defeated Al Sailiya 3-1 in their a new chapter with coach Sabri TOMORROW coveted Falcon Shield at Al Sadd trophy because all matches are difficult. We have previous clash, will give a good per- Lamouchi, are currently fourth Umm Salal VS Al Kharaitiyat cabinet. to continue with this level. We are doing formance in a tough match against Al Sadd. with 12 points after winning four At Al Ahli Stadium (5.30pm) The Wolves will meet sixth-placed Al everything the right way and now we have “We will strive to be on the winning matches and suffering three Al Ahli VS Al Gharafa Wakrah, another side who are having a no room for complacency. All matches are path, which is what we all work for at the defeats in the seven matches. At Al Ahli Stadium (7.45pm) good run of form, in their Week 8 clash at difficult as I mentioned and we have to win club, be it the technical and administrative Al Duhail are just one point Qatar SC VS Al Khor Al Duhail Stadium today. Spain and Bar- the three points (against Al Wakrah),” Xavi staff or the players. I know that all matches above fifth-placed Al Rayyan At Al Duhail Stadium (7.45pm) celona legend Xavi yesterday described Al said yesterday. are difficult in the league. God willing, we and not losing points against Al Wakrah as an ‘in-form team’, which have Seasoned Rodrigo Tabata, will continue to win,” Lopez said Sailiya today will be crucial for overseas. They certainly have one of the best coaches in QSL and profes- formerly with Al Rayyan and the Qatar yesterday. their title bid this season. the ingredients for the big occa- sional players. national side, yesterday said that his team “Al Sadd are a strong team and a dif- Coach Lamouchi yesterday sions,” Trabelsi told media “The clash will be very difficult because is ready to take on Al Wakrah. ficult match awaits us of course, but we will said that it is important to win yesterday. Al Wakrah are coached by Marquez Lopez, “This is an important clash in which we definitely try. At this moment, Khaled the Round 8 match despite “Al Duhail’s performance who is considered as one of the best coaches have to play with high concentration and Muneer and will be absent missing out on two key players has improved a lot under coach in the league now. They also have distin- the players must do their best to win it. The due to their injuries. Hopefully, all others Bassam Al Rawi and Assim Sabri Lamouchi, who is trying guished professional players such as training was strong this week and I hope are ready,” he added. Madibo who also appear for to take the team back to its pre- (Cristian) Ceballos, Isaias (Sanchez), that everyone will show a good level in the Al Wakrah player Abdullah Hussein Al Qatar national team. vious level of dominance and (Mohamed) Benyettou, Ousmane Coulibaly match,” Tabata, 40, said yesterday. Muftah said yesterday: “We are ready to “It is important for us to win therefore we must be ready. and Lucas Mendes. Even their home-grown “We respect Al Wakrah, who is a team collect three points and all we need is to against Al Sailiya to get the Our focus has to be 100 per players have improved greatly and are with high-level players. However, we will follow the coach’s instructions and second victory in a row after we cent so that we do not drop playing well,” Xavi told a pre-match press be stronger considering that the coach has implement them. We know that it is a dif- beat Al Kharaitiyat last week. points,” conference yesterday. more options and I hope the selected ficult match without a doubt, but we hope There is still the absence of Al Sailiya are placed eighth Xavi expressed satisfaction with his players will appear at an ideal level that to succeed.” Bassam Al Rawi and Assim after losing to Al Wakrah 1-3 in team’s form but said consistency is required gets us the win,” he added. The match will kick off at 7:45pm. Madibo despite their return to the previous round, their third the team. The two have not yet defeat in the League this season. reached the match readiness. If They have collected eight points the team stays focused in the so far. They have registered two ACL: Iniesta strikes as Vissel Kobe advance next match, God willing, we will wins with as many draws. achieve victory,” Lamouchi said “We are still trying to return REUTERS – DOHA The Iranian champions advanced to of defenders and hitting a shot that goal- during a press conference to the top position in the League. the decider in October when they emerged keeper Chen Wei failed stop skidding yesterday. I see that our results are not that Andres Iniesta rolled back the years to take from a centralised competition also played under his body. “There is no doubt that bad, but there are mistakes and Vissel Kobe into their first Asian Cham- in Doha for teams from the western half SIPG felt aggrieved to have gone behind facing Al Sailiya is as important we must correct them and not pions League quarter-final as the Spanish of the Asian confederation. after Li Shenglong had seen his effort ruled as other matches in the league. repeat them. I feel Al Sailiya are World Cup-winner opened the scoring in Iniesta kept alive Kobe’s quest for a out for a foul on keeper Daiya Maekawa We will take this match seri- capable of winning over Al the Japanese club’s 2-0 victory over place in the final while Oscar went close with a free kick ously and fight with full force Duhail,” a confident Trabelsi Shanghai SIPG in Doha yesterday. and his own that fizzed just wide. without considering the position said. Iniesta won the battle of high profile ambition of a But the Chinese side’s hopes suffered of the opposing team. Yes, we While Al Duhail miss Qatari foreign players as Vissel downed an SIPG fifth continental a fatal blow five minutes into the second will work hard to achieve internationals Al Rawi and side led by former Chelsea and Brazil club crown - half when stretched to volley victory and look organised,” Madibo, Trabelsi said that his winger Oscar, with Kobe joining Suwon his first in Asia in ’s pass to seal the win Lamouchi, 49, said. team will be without Bluewings, Ulsan Hyundai and Beijing having won for Kobe. Lamouchi’s counterpart Al Mohammed Mudathir, Serigne Guoan in Tuesday’s draw for the next four UEFA The victory came at a price when Sailiya coach feels Mbodji and Ahmed round. Champions Iniesta had to leave the field clutching his his men are capable of defeating Hammoudan. South Korea’s Suwon, twice winners League titles hip 22 minutes from time. Al Duhail which is beginning to A win against Al Duhail will of the Asian title almost two decades ago, with Barcelona Suwon punished a profligate regain familiar momentum increase Al Sailiya’s chances of secured their involvement in the quarter- - when he put the Yokohama side later on Monday when under the new French reaching the top four, but it will finals with a 3-2 come-from-behind win Japanese ahead in Park Kun-ha’s outfit came from a goal tactician. not be an easy task against over Yokohama F Marinos. the 31st minute. behind to knock out the 2019 J-League “Al Duhail have quality ambitious Al Duhail who are The new coronavirus-delayed compe- The 36-year-old champions. players, both national and pushing for another title tilt. tition is being played in a biosecure bubble, received Hotaru Brazilian striker Erik had given Ange with a place in the final on Dec. 19 against Yamaguchi’s pass Postecoglou’s team the lead 20 minutes Persepolis at stake for clubs from the east before turning and into a first half dominated by the Japanese, of the continent. sliding between a pair who squandered several opportunities to add to their advantage. They were to rue those misses as Kim Vissel Kobe’s midfielder Andres Iniesta Tae-hwan levelled from outside the area celebrates after scoring against China’s in the 57th minute and Kim Min-woo Shanghai SIPG yesterday. netted the second in the 82nd following a neat one-two with substitute Kim Gun-hee that tore the Marinos defence open. Han Suk-jong then added a third three Al Duhail coach minutes from time with a long-distance Sabri Lamouchi lob that left keeper Powell Obinna Obi during a training helpless and rendered Ado Onaiwu’s session. added-time header a consolation. TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER 2020 SPORT 09 Qatar International Rally set to Breakdancing gets Olympic launch 2021 MERC in January green light for

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Qatar's Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah is the defending Paris 2024 The Qatar Motor and Motor- regional champion. cycle Federation (QMMF) AFP — LAUSANNE will host the opening round of the 2021 FIA Middle East Breakdancing was one of four new sports Rally Championship (MERC) along with skateboarding, surfing and sport again on January 28-30, climbing to get the Olympic green light 2021. yesterday for inclusion at the 2024 Paris After a 2020 season that Games. was decimated by the global The four sports were included as the COVID-19 situation, which International Olympic Committee (IOC) saw rounds of the regional executive board met to confirm the Paris rally series in Qatar, Jordan 2024 programme. and Lebanon all cancelled, Skateboarding, sport climbing and officials in Doha are surfing have already been added to the delighted to announce that programme for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the Qatar International Rally which will take place in 2021 after being will run again for the first postponed by a year because of the coro- time since March 2019. navirus pandemic. A stalwart in the MERC The introduction of breaking was “one since the series developed of the results of the Olympic Agenda 2020”, from the Gulf Rally Cham- IOC President Thomas Bach said. pionship in 1984, the Qatar “We had a clear priority to introduce event has been one of the sports (that are) particularly popular most popular and among the younger generation and taking demanding rounds of the into consideration the urbanisation of series with its challenging sport.” desert terrain and rigorous Katara on January 28. After managed to seal our Breakdancing, which grew up special stages. the following two days of The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) will host the opening National Baja and Sprint alongside hip hop in the South Bronx of The 2021 event will be desert stages, the post-event round of the 2021 FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC) again on Championship and learnt a New York in the 1970s and is officially based at the Lusail Sports press conference (18.30hrs) lot organising such events at known in sport terms as “breaking”, Arena and features a sealed and podium finish (18.45hrs) January 28-30, 2021. times like these we are going appeared at the 2018 Youth Olympics in surface super special and will be held at Katara on through. Buenos Aires, in the form of head-to-head two subsequent legs of four January 30. After a 2020 season that was decimated by the global COVID-19 At the QMMF, we are “battles”. and six further gravel stages This year’s rally will be situation, which saw rounds of the regional rally series in Qatar, Jordan confident of delivering a Russia’s Sergei Chernyshev, competing in the Qatar deserts. There held under the chairmanship and Lebanon all cancelled, officials in Doha are delighted to announce successful 2021 Qatar under the nickname Bumblebee, won the will be 208.78 competitive of QMMF President Abdul- International Rally,” he first breakdancing gold medal for boys in kilometres in a route of rahman Al Mannai, senior that the Qatar International Rally will run again for the first time since added. that event, while Japan’s Ramu Kawai won 608.17km, pending forth- committee member Abdul- March 2019. Regulations are now the girls’ title. coming route checks. razaq Al Kuwari and the available (subject to FIA “Today is a historic occasion not only The pre-event press con- QMMF’s new Executive approval) and entries close for b-boys and b-girls but for all dancers ference (19.15hrs), ceremonial Director Amro Al Hamad. Rashed Al-Sulaiti. “It’s been said Al Hamad. “We are at reduced rates on around the world,” said Shawn Tay, pres- start (20.15hrs) and the Portugal’s Pedro Almeida a hard year with all the can- coping in this new normal December 31 with the final ident of the World Dance Sport Federation opening super special stage will work as the Clerk of the cellations of motor sport perfectly and taking one date for applications set for (WDSF). (21.30hrs) will take place at Course alongside his deputy, events around the globe,” challenge at a time. We January 13. VIP Padel Qatar ladies event set to kick off on Thursday THE PENINSULA — DOHA The game of padel is a sport that combines the best elements of tennis and squash. A padel As many as 72 players, representing 36 teams court is smaller than a tennis court. will vie for honours at the VIP Padel Qatar Ladies It is one of the most popular sports in the league which will begin on Thursday at Marsa world, especially in Spain. The sport has a great Malaz Kempinski Hotel’s Padel Court. turnout in the Qatari society and the female Due to the increase in female audience prac- component. tising padel in Qatar, Yasmian Events is organ- To provide the highest level of organisation ising its first VIP Padel event for ladies. It is a of the event, the organisers have invited top chance to support female padel community in sponsors to support the competition. Ooredoo, Director of Yasmian Events, Yasmine Ghanem Qatar and help people to stay active, encourage Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Maserati, Sports Corner Yasmian Events is organising its Al Sharshani, also the first Qatari female golfer them to play sports. It follows Qatar Vision 2030 and Blue Salon are among the sponsors of the first VIP Padel event for ladies. came up with an idea of organising the event. and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. tournament. India can bank on Pandya for next five England’s cricket tour of South years, says Kohli Africa abandoned after outbreak

REUTERS — SYDNEY for India too,” Kohli said after AFP — JOHANNESBURG India’s second successive win India captain Virat Kohli has in the three-match series. England’s cricket tour of South identified Hardik Pandya as “Now he realises that this is Africa has been called off after their “bankable” match-winner his time, the next four-five a COVID-19 outbreak in the for the next four to five years years, to become that bankable England touring party, both after the all-rounder dazzled middle-order player that can countries said yesterday. in their series-clinching win you games from The joint announcement Twenty20 International victory anywhere. from the two boards, which over Australia on Sunday. “You need that finisher and alluded to the “mental and India needed 25 runs off the he’s becoming that for us. He’s physical health” of the players, last two overs and Pandya hungry, he’s got to keep getting came after the rearranged first delivered in style, smashing better.” match in the three-match series two sixes in the final over to Pandya, whose 42 not out on Sunday was cancelled after secure a six-wicket victory with off 22 balls earned him the Man two members of the England two balls to spare. of the Match award, showed no touring party tested positive for “He has natural raw talent, signs of nerves even as the the virus. and now he’s quite experienced asking run rate spiralled. England will return home having played quite a bit of T20 “I always believe as a having played all three matches England’s players celebrate during the third T20 against South cricket in the IPL (Indian cricketer you have to improve in the T20 series but none of Africa in Cape Town, in this December 1, 2020 file photo. Premier League) and playing with time and I have taken three scheduled one-day some time but I think internationals. Hardik Pandya celebrates after things are coming “Cricket South Africa (CSA) last week, citing the pressure of environment at the hotel in without any problems before guiding India to win in second pretty well now,” said and the England and Wales living in the bio-secure bubbles. Cape Town where both teams the Covid-19 outbreak. T20 in Sydney on Sunday. the 27-year-old. Cricket Board (ECB) have “The concern over the are staying. England are due to return “Now my biggest agreed to postpone the mental health impact of recent A South African player home on a chartered flight on goal... (is) that I want to remaining matches in the events on all involved is not one tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday. It was not clear finish games where it current One-Day International that we as CSA or the ECB take Friday. Two hotel staff whether any of the touring matters the most.” (ODI) Series,” a joint statement lightly and the decision to members then tested positive party might have to remain in Pandya said he was said. postpone the tour is the most before two members of the quarantine in South Africa happy to bat wherever “The decision was taken responsible and reasonable England touring party returned because of their exposure to the the team need him. jointly by the two Boards to course of action for us,” said what were described as virus. “If time comes ensure the mental and physical CSA acting CEO, Kugandrie “unconfirmed positive tests” on South Africa are due to host when I have to bat health and welfare of players Govender. Sunday. Sri Lanka for two Test matches, number four, I don’t from both teams.” The two governing bodies The series was to have starting in Centurion on mind,” he added. Many of the England players will examine whether the series started in Cape Town on Friday December 26, while Australia “If time comes spent long stretches during the can be played at some point in but that match was cancelled are due to visit for a Test series where I have to finish summer in a bio-secure bubble the future, the statement added. an hour before the players were early in the new year. the game, I have to do and some were also confined “I would like to thank the to take to the field after the Both countries are likely to that job as well, during the Indian Premier ECB for the continued positive South African player’s positive want strong assurances about whatever the team League in the Emirates which relations, and we look forward test. That opener was re- the level of bio-security during requires.” followed. to hosting the England team in scheduled and moved to Paarl their tours. Today’s final Two of the younger the near future,” said on Sunday, but that match was The cancellation of the tour Twenty20 match will members of the squad, Tom Govender. cancelled following the positive marks a major blow for world also be played at the Banton and Tom Curran have The decision to call off the results in the England camp. cricket as it attempts to carry Sydney Cricket pulled out of contracts in Aus- tour followed apparent The teams played three on in the face of the coronavirus Ground. tralia’s Big Bash League in the breaches of the bio-secure Twenty20 internationals pandemic. Sport TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER 2020 08 LeBron, Osaka, Mahomes among SI Sportspersons of the Year AFP — NEW YORK capturing the fourth of his awarded the Muhammad Ali 10,000 poll workers as well as third Grand Slam tennis title at lives. Stewart supported Black career, and became the first Legacy Award for his career register voters in combating this year’s US Open. She took Lives Matter from the start of NBA champion LeBron James, three-time winner of the SI dedication to public service. voter suppression. part in Black Lives Matter pro- the Women’s NBA bubble to the Super Bowl winner Patrick sportspersonn awardaward afterafter 20122012 James spoke out on policepolipolice OsakaOsaka tests this year following the finish, when she helped the Mahomes and Japan’s Naomi and 2016, havinghaving previouslypreviously brutality,brutality, raciaraciall inine-e- won death of George Floyd and wore Seattle Storm claim a fourth title Osaka were among five athletes matched thee two SportspersonSportsperson qualityquality and chacham-m- heherr black masks during her US and winning WNBA Finals MVP honoured by Sports Illustrated awards givenven golfergolfer TigerTiger pionedpioneed a voter rreg-ege - Open run, each with the name honours after recovering from magazine for their off-field Woods in 199696 andand 2000.2000. istrationistration program,program, of an African-American killed an Achilles injury. activism. “With hisis effortsefforts forfor racialracial MoreMoore ThanThan A by police. “If there is brightness in this SI’s annual Sportsperson of justice, educationation rereformform anandd Vote,Vote, tthathat hhelpedelpeed Super Bowl Most Valuable dark year, it’s the leadership -- the Year was The Activist Black communitymunity empoempow-w- signsign up moremore Player Mahomes sparked the and sorely needed optimism -- Athlete and paid tribute to off- erment as wellwell as hishis thant h ann Kansas City Chiefs to the Super shown by some of our nation’s field activities by James, Osaka, voting rightsts cam-cam- Bowl crown, pushed the NFL to top athletes in facing down our Mahomes and his NFL team- paign and variedvaried recognize the Black Lives Matter many challenges,” SI wrote in mate Laurent Duvernay-Tardif charitable work,work, movement and backed the right announcing the winners. and Women’s NBA champion there is nnoo of NFL players to conduct social “The issues and challenges Breanna Stewart. doubt that he protests. of 2020 will no doubt still be The magazine cited “five sets thee Duvernay-Tardif, the there in 2021 and beyond. But men and women who in 2020 standard forr starting right offensive guard for our Sportspersons of the Year set were champions in every sense the modern the Chiefs but also a doctor, an example of how to face and of the word: champions on the socially gave up his NFL uniform for one day fix them. With principle. field, champions for others off conscious doctor’s protective personal With passion. And with an ath- it.” athlete,” SII equipment when the COVID-19 lete’s optimism -- the belief that James sparked the Los said of James,mes, LeBron James Naomi Osaka pandemic struck, joining the no matter the obstacles, better Angeles Lakers to the NBA title, who was also front line of a battle for people’s days are ahead.” Queensland Chiefs, Saints clinch play-off berths, to resume Brisbane Rodgers fastest to 400 touchdowns 2032 Olympic AFP — LOS ANGELES yards on 15 carries for Games bid Tennessee. Patrick Mahomes threw for 318 In Green Bay, Aaron yards and a touchdown and Rodgers threw three touchdown REUTERS — MELBOURNE Harrison Butker kicked five passes, and the Packers held on field goals as the Kansas City to defeat the struggling Phila- Australia’s northeastern Chiefs secured a play-off berth delphia Eagles 30-16. state of Queensland will with a 22-16 win over the Rodgers turned 37 on resume work on Bris- Denver Broncos. Wednesday but is showing no bane’s bid for the 2032 Receiver Travis Kelce signs of slowing down. He Olympics after shelving caught eight passes for 136 reached 400 touchdown passes the project for six yards and the go-ahead in his 193rd regular-season months due to the touchdown in the third quarter game, making him the fastest COVID-19 pandemic, as the Chiefs improved to 11-1 in history to achieve the officials said yesterday. for the second time in franchise milestone. State premier Annas- history. Rodgers did it in 12 fewer tacia Palaszczuk said she “We just keep building,” games than Drew Brees, who would discuss funding said Kelce. “We knew coming was previously the fastest to arrangements for the bid into the season that we have to 400. with Australian Prime rebuild a championship team. He got plenty of help Minister Scott Morrison We had different pieces and we Sunday from Aaron Jones, who at a national cabinet had to put them all together to gained 130 yards on 15 carries. meeting on Friday. make a sound team. I think you Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws a pass Jones’ best moment was a “It’s a partnership, so saw that tonight.” during the first half against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium. 77-yard touchdown run with there was an agreement The Chiefs won their 11th 2:51 to play to seal the victory. that the two govern- straight game against the Davante Adams had a nine- ments would put the Broncos, a streak that dates the division championship if Baker Mayfield threw for four couldn’t hold on to a potential yard touchdown catch for the money into that, so I’m back five years. They will clinch they win any of their four first-half touchdowns as the scoring pass. That led to kicker only points of the third quarter. happy to have those remaining games, including Browns scored on all six first- Cody Parkey’s 27-yard field He finished with 10 catches for further discussions with NFL RESULTS next Sunday’s meeting with the half possessions to beat the goal with just under 11 minutes 121 yards for the Packers, who the Prime Minister,” she Detroit 34 Chicago 30 Miami Dolphins. Tennessee Titans 41-35. to go in the first quarter. improved to 9-3 on the season. told reporters. Cleveland 41 Tennessee 35 They are a half-game The Browns’ six scores led Cleveland improved to 9-3 The Eagles have lost four Palaszczuk added Indianapolis 26 Houston 20 behind the 11-0 Pittsburgh to 38 points, which established on the season, while the Titans straight, and the offense has that the state’s Olympics Steelers in the race for the AFC’s a franchise record for points in fell into a first place tie in the been sputtering under quar- taskforce would Jacksonville 24 Minnesota 27 / OT top playoff seed. the first half. AFC South Division with Indi- terback Carson Wentz. Jaylen reconvene in 2021 to New Orleans 21 Atlanta 16 The Chiefs will also be in the Mayfield completed 25 of anapolis, who beat Houston Hurts replaced Wentz on the work on the bid, which Las Vegas 31 NY Jets 28 postseason for the sixth straight 33 passes for 334 yards. The 26-20. Eagles’ second possession of the is centred on Brisbane Cincinnati 7 Miami 19 season, a team record. only other Browns’ quarterback Titans quarterback Ryan second half. The move seemed but also involves staging N.Y. Giants 17 Seattle 12 Tyrann Mathieu intercepted to throw four touchdowns in the Tannehill finished 29 of 45 for to give them a lift. events on the nearby L.A. Rams 38 Arizona 28 Broncos quarterback Drew first half was Otto Graham in 389 yards with three touch- Philadelphia scored only Gold Coast and Sunshine Philadelphia 16 Green Bay 30 Lock twice, including one pick 1951. downs. He also had an three points in the game’s first Coast.

New England 45 LA Chargers 0 with just 24 seconds left that The Browns had a chance interception. 52 minutes but then scored two A number of coun- Kansas City 22 Denver 16 helped seal the game. to add to their points total, but League rushing leader quick touchdowns in the fourth tries have expressed Cleveland quarterback Donovan Peoples-Jones Derrick Henry was held to 60 quarter to make it interesting. interest in making a bid for 2032, including Germany, Spain, India, Indonesia and a joint bid Stanford’s late charge brings from North and South Korea. “Our bid in com- seventh career LPGA crown parison to the rest of the world is a very strong AFP — WASHINGTON Angela Stanford poses bid,” Australian Olympic with the trophy after Committee boss John Angela Stanford birdied four winning the Volunteers Coates told reporters of the last six holes to win the of America Classic at the yesterday. LPGA Tour’s Volunteers of Old American Golf Club. “Most importantly is America Classic and snap a the support of the three two-year victory drought levels of government, with a two-stroke triumph. good community The 43-year-old Participants pose for a group photo after year-ending event. support, and the fact the American fired a four-under timing is the right oppor- par 67 in the final round to tunity to come out of finish 72 holes at The Colony COVID and to create jobs in suburban Dallas on seven- Fazal, Tasnim Kazi clinch and to create growth. under 277. “It’s a good purpose South Koreans Park that the IOC will be In-bee and Ryu So-yeon and QGL's golf tournament title impressed with.” US teen rookie Yealimi Noh Morrison met with shared second on 279, the THE PENINSULA — DOHA Lobley for “Nearest to Pin on the International Olympic 54-hole co-leaders each Second Shot”, Saad Kazi for Committee chief Thomas shooting 70, with top-ranked In a fun and festive event full of “Longest Drive (mens)”, Arnav Jain Bach in Japan last month Ko Jin-young of South Korea prizes and surprises, Qatar Golf for “Nearest to Pin (mens)”, PK to discuss the Brisbane fifth on 280 after a closing 70. sixth and she shared the lead 10-foot birdie putt at the Lovers (QGL), Qatar’s oldest and Viswanath for “Closest to the bid as well as the Tokyo World number 79 with Ko and Park as the last par-3 16th to restore her two- largest Golf Society, hosted its Rope”, and Sheji Valiyakath for Games, which were Stanford, from nearby Fort group made the turn. stroke advantage. year-ending 197th Golf Tour- “Longest Putt”. postponed to next year. Worth, won a shootout in After stumbling back with nament last weekend at the Doha QGL hosted a prize distribution Paris is hosting the windy conditions. a bogey at the par-3 11th, LPGA SCORES Golf Club. dinner sponsored by Salim Kutty 2024 Games with Los Stanford captured her Stanford caught fire. 277 - Angela Stanford 71-69-70- Evergreen Couple Fazal and of Saad Trading Company. Angeles confirmed for seventh LPGA Tour title and Stanford birdied the par-5 67 Tasnim Kazi teamed up to emerge The highlight of the evening the 2028 quadrennial her first since she won her 13th to match Ko for the lead victorious with a score of 30 in a was an award for the “Most Out- event. 279 - Ryu So-yeon (KOR) 72-72- first major title at the 2018 at 5-under then curled in a tournament played on “Better Ball rageous Golf Outfit” which was 65-70, Park In-bee 72-68-69-70 Evian Championship. 15-footer for birdie at the (pairs)” format. shared by young couple Saad and “After the major, it would par-4 14th to seize command (KOR), Yealimi Noh 72-66-71-70 Snapping at their heels were a Shazia Kazi. have been easy to be sat- as Ko missed the elevated 280 - Ko Jin-young (KOR) 71-69- pair of Bengal Tigers Dr Amitava QGL President Manoj Meg- Australia’s northeastern state isfied, and I was for a while,” 14th green. 70-70 Mitra & Kanchan Ghoshal, who chiani welcomed new member of Queensland will resume Stanford said. Ko’s third shot rolled back 281 - Anna Nordqvist (SWE) 70- finished Runners-up with a score Justin Golfsack, and bid farewell work on Brisbane’s bid for “But I don’t like bad golf. to her feet and she two- 68-73-70, Charley Hull (ENG) 68- of 31 on countback. to a long standing member of 8 the 2032 Olympics after I worked with my coach and putted for double bogey to 74-68-71 Chief Guest, Salim Kutty and years Adrian Lobley to the accom- shelving the project for six then it was fun to be around.” leave Stanford at 6-under, 282 - Lindsey Weaver 71-68-73- QGL Vice President Sanjay Jain paniment of Scottish bagpiper Stanford made a bogey at two atop the pack and three 70, Kristen Gillman 73-71-66-72 gave away special prizes to music. QGL 198 is scheduled for months due to the COVID-19

the par-4 fourth before ahead of Ko. Park birdied the 283 - Madelene Sagstrom (SWE) Rukkaiyya Pachisa for “Nearest to January 8, 2021 and those inter- pandemic. reeling off three consecutive 14th to pull within one but 71-69-71-72 Pin (ladies)”, Cherehzade Pedder ested may inquire on QGL website birdies starting at the par-5 Stanford answered with a for “Longest Drive (ladies)”, Adrian MYQGL.COM