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Tuesday, February 27, 2018 FOOTBALL Jumada II 11, 1439 AH Italy legend Buff on GULF TIMES back for England, Argentina friendlies SPORT Page 2 FOOTBALL Al Rayyan crowned Arab club volleyball champs PSG sweat over Neymar injury

Tunis: Qatar’s Al Rayyan won the 36th The eighteen teams that participated in Arab Club Volleyball Championship in Tunis the championship were Morocco’s FAR, after beating Tunisia’s Esperance 3-0 in the Bahrain’s Al Ahli, Iraq’s Al Shorta, Libya’s final of the tournament. Alahly Benghazi, Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad, Al Rayyan won the game 25-22, 25-18, 25-23. Qatar’s Al Rayyan, Libya’s Asswehly, Alge- as Real loom In the third place play-off, Qatar’s Al Arabi ria’s GS Petroliers, Palestine’s Sngl, Tunisia’s were defeated by Saudi’s Al Hilal 2-3. E.S.Sahel, Qatar’s Al Arabi, Oman’s Al Slam, The world’s most expensive footballer was stretchered off 10 minutes from Al Rayyan defeated Saudi’s Al Hilal 3-0 in Saudi Al Hilal, Tunisia’s Esperance S.T, the semi-final of the tournament. In the Sudan’s Al Amen, Oman’s Al Seeb, Iraq’s Al time at the Parc des Princes as PSG opened up a 14-point lead in Ligue 1 other semi-final, Tunisian Esperance beat Peshmerga, and Algeria’s Bordj Bou Arreridj. Qatar’s Al Arabi 3-0. (QNA) AFP Paris CRICKET aris Saint-Germain coach Unai Emery remains opti- mistic that superstar Ney- Pmar will be fi t to face Real Madrid in their do-or-die Champi- ons League clash on March 6 despite suff ering an ankle injury in Sunday’s Afridi shines as 3-0 victory over Marseille. Neymar, the world’s most expen- sive footballer, was stretchered off 10 minutes from time at the Parc des Princes as PSG opened up a 14-point Karachi beat lead in Ligue 1. The 26-year-old was on his own when he innocuously rolled his ankle and fl opped to the ground in pain. “The fi rst examination in the Lahore in PSL locker room revealed that it was a twist to the ankle. Now we will do a medical examination to fi nd out what this twist is,” said Emery, whose team face Real at home on March 6 in the Champions League last 16 where they need to overturn a 3-1 defi cit. “We will wait for the examination, Neymar grimaces in pain as he receives treatment on the field on Sunday night. we will be optimistic. If I had to say today (whether or not he will face and Lyon a further fi ve adrift. Zidane hopes Neymar overcomes injury to face Real Real) I would rather say yes to being This result was never in doubt optimistic.” and Emery even had the luxury of Madrid: Real Madrid coach have a big influence on the game, PSG skipper Thiago Silva told bringing off Mbappe, 19, after an Zinedine Zidane is hoping Paris St as there will always be someone Canal+: “Neymar already had a hour to give Argentine international Germain forward Neymar recovers who can play instead of him. I was swollen ankle. I’m not a doctor, but Angel Di Maria a half-hour run out. from injury for the return leg of watching the game and I was sad Agencies Zaman put on a 69-run stand for the second I don’t think he’ll be available on PSG were off to a fl ying start their Champions League last-16 tie when he (Neymar) got injured.” Dubai wicket. Wednesday (when PSG face Mar- through Mbappe but Marseille were on March 6. Neymar posted a picture of his However, McCullum’s dismissal for 44 off seille again in the French Cup). He in part the architects of their own “I don’t like to see players get heavily bandaged ankle on Insta- 30 balls started a slide and Qalandars were has to rest.” downfall. injured and I hope he can be back gram on Monday but did not com- an of the match Shahid Afridi eventually all out for 132 in the 19th over. It was an otherwise easy night France midfi elder Adrien Rabiot for the game, I never want a player ment on the extend of the injury. claimed three wickets for a mere Earlier, Karachi skipper Imad Wasim had for the big-spending Parisians as tried to thread a through ball on 10 to miss a game due to injury,” The Brazilian has scored 28 times 19 runs as Karachi Kings defeated won the toss and opted to bat fi rst. Khurram teenager Kylian Mbappe became the minutes to Mbappe, cutting in from Zidane told a news conference and provided 16 assists for PSG Lahore Qalandars by 27 runs in the Manzoor and Joe Denly opened the innings youngest scorer in the French ‘Clas- the right. Former Aston Villa full- MPakistan Super League at the Dubai Interna- and provided them a fl ying start, putting on 36 ahead of his side’s Liga game this season, although he gave a sique’. back Jordan Amavi was in place to against Espanyol today. disappointing display against Real tional Stadium yesterday. in just four overs. Uruguayan goal-machine Ed- intercept the ball but he slipped and “I don’t think it (the injury) will at the Bernabeu two weeks ago. It was Karachi’s third straight win and La- However, they could not carry the momen- inson Cavani was also on the succeeded only helping it onto teen- hore’s third consecutive defeat in the tourna- tum forward for long as Karachi lost three scoresheet while Neymar had a age star Mbappe, who jinked inside ment. wickets back-to-back. After six overs, Kings hand in PSG’s other goal. onto his left foot and dragged a low fending. Layvin Kurzawa slipped goal. The match was as good as over Karachi Kings made a respectable 159 runs, had managed to score 39 runs for the loss of With Monaco drawing 3-3 at shot inside Yohann Pele’s near post. Rabiot into the inside left channel and PSG had barely needed to break with all-rounder Ravi Bopara steadying the three. Bopara and Ingram then steadied the Toulouse on Saturday and Lyon held As expected, the hosts were dic- in the visitors’ box and he picked out sweat. innings with a fi ne knock of 50 not out off 34 ship in the middle overs of the match. Ingram 1-1 at home to local rivals Saint- tating the tempo and dominating Brazilian Neymar with a cut-back. Ten minutes before half time and balls. scored 28 off 29 before falling to Yasir Shah. Etienne earlier on Sunday, it meant the ball, but Neymar was off target The forward’s poked fi nish was the men in blue were already break- Joe Denly and Colin Ingram contributed Bopara remained unbeaten on 50 at the end none of PSG’s three nearest chal- with a header from a Dani Alves heading off target until his com- ing out the showboating tricks and 28 each but none of the other batsmen could of the Kings’ innings. lengers managed to win. cross. The second came before the patriot and Marseille centre-back fl icks, with Rabiot’s backheel set- make signifi cant contributions. Sunil Narine was the pick of bowlers for La- Monaco remain second with half hour mark, though, and again Rolando thrust out a boot and inad- ting up Neymar to curl a long-range In reply, Qalandars lost Sunil Narine early hore Qalandars, as he took two wickets for just Marseille third, two points behind, it owed much to poor Marseille de- vertently directed the ball into the strike just past the post. but skipper Brendan McCullum and Fakhar 18 runs in his quota of four overs.

BOTTOMLINE Shake-up as ITF unveils World Cup of Tennis

Reuters president is Barcelona and Spain soc- not played for Switzerland since 2015 include signifi cant increases in prize pressed interest in hosting the new with matches consisting of two singles London cer player Gerard Pique, ITF President while Rafael Nadal has only played one money for players and ITF member na- event. The plans will be submitted to and one doubles rubber. Ties will be David Haggerty said it would be a game- doubles rubber for Spain in the past two tions, according to the sport’s London- the ITF Annual General Meeting, to be played over one day with matches using changer for tennis. years. In the current format employed based governing body. held in August in Orlando, Florida and a a best-of-three-set format. massive shake-up of the Davis “Our vision is to create a major sea- since 1981, 16 World Group nations take Haggerty said a prize pool of $20mn two-thirds majority will be required for Sixteen World Group nations will au- Cup competition will see the son-ending fi nale that will be a festival part in a knockout competition over would be up for grabs for the 18 qualify- fi nal approval. tomatically qualify for the Finals, with a formation of an 18-nation of tennis and entertainment, featuring three weekends in February, July and ing nations. “Kosmos is thrilled to join in this ex- further two nations to be selected. AWorld Cup of Tennis Finals, the world’s greatest players represent- September before the fi nal in Novem- “This is a complete game-changer for citing partnership with the ITF,” Pique The eight teams failing to qualify for the International Tennis Federation ing their nations to decide the Davis ber. the ITF and for tennis,” he said. said. the quarter-fi nals would then play off (ITF) said yesterday. Cup champions,” he said. Ties are hosted by one or other of the “This new partnership will not only “Together we can elevate Davis against the eight zonal Group One qual- The event played in one location over The new event represents a huge re- competing nations, producing a par- create a true World Cup of Tennis, but Cup by BNP Paribas to new heights by ifi ers to try to qualify for the following seven days in November could start next vamp for the Davis Cup which has been tisan atmosphere which has become a will also unlock record levels of new in- putting on a must-see World Cup of year’s Finals. year, pending approval by the ITF Board. in existence since 1900 but has suff ered popular feature of the Davis Cup. vestment for future generations of ten- Tennis Finals featuring the top nations Zonal Groups I and II home-and- In a statement outlining a 25-year, in recent years with top players not Each tie is best-of-fi ve-matches, nis players and fans.” and top players.” away ties will continue to be played $3bn partnership with investment turning out for their nations. four singles and one doubles. The ITF said several “world-class” The event would be run on a round- during the traditional three weeks of the group Kosmos, whose founder and World number one Roger Federer has The investment from Kosmos will cities from several continents had ex- robin format before a knockout phase calendar. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, February 27, 2018 FOOTBALL

SPOLTIGHT FOCUS UEFA chief will fi ght tooth and nail to Italy legend Buff on restore balance

Reuters store some balance but I can- Bratisalava not claim that this will result in a club such as Steaua Bucharest or Red Star Belgrade being next EFA President Ale- to have their name engraved on back for England, ksander Ceferin will Champions League trophy.” fi ght tooth and nail to Both clubs won the old Euro- restore competitive pean Cup in 1986 and 1991 re- Ubalance to European club foot- spectively. ball, he told the European soccer “UEFA is not a bank, Swit- ruling body’s annual Congress zerland has enough banks al- yesterday. ready.....What is the point in He said, however, that he generating record-breaking rev- Argentina friendlies could not promise a return to the enues, if it is just an accumula- days when teams from Eastern tion of wealth?,” Ceferin said. ‘We’re solid from that point of view, but Gigi’s story doesn’t have to end with that Sweden game’ Europe could dream of winning He also warned of competi- the fl agship Champions League tion from esports. AFP competition. “We face competition from Florence, Italy European club football has be- other sports and other activities come increasingly dominated by that capture the imagination of a handful of elite clubs and the the next generation,” he said. taly legend Gianluigi Buff on Champions League has included “Esports and video games are looks set for a return to inter- some embarrassingly one-sided all our competitors, the world national action in friendlies matches this season. our youngsters inhabit is as vir- against England and Argentina The round of 16 fi rst-leg ties tual as it is global. We would be Iin March, interim national coach played this month featured 5-0 naive not to notice that.” Luigi Di Biagio said yesterday. wins for Bayern Munich and UEFA announced an increase “I spoke to him, he will prob- Liverpool against Besiktas and in appearance and prize money ably be part of the group in Porto respectively and a 4-0 win for the Euro 2020 tournament. March, a player like him can- for Manchester City at Basel. Each for the 24 participants not stop after Sweden,” said Di “We must dare to rethink our will receive 9.25 million euros Biagio. models, in particular to establish ($11.4 million) plus 1.5 million Buff on was inconsolable as he greater competitive balance, one euros for each win and 750,000 announced his retirement after of the greatest challenges facing euros for a draw. Italy’s disastrous 1-0 aggregate the future and present of foot- The teams who reach the play-off defeat to Sweden in ball,” Ceferin said. round of 16 will receive another the San Siro last November, as “The club game still requires two million euros each with a the Azzurri failed to reach the our serious attention. We must further 3.25 million for the eight World Cup for the fi rst time dream big but I cannot promise quarter-fi nalists and 5 mil- since 1958. you the moon because I am not a lion euros more for reaching the The 40-year-old Juventus goal- merchant of dreams and I am not semi-fi nals. keeper had represented the Azzurri a politician. The champions will receive for 20 years, winning the 2006 “I will fi ght tooth and nail to another 10 million euros and the World Cup title, and earning a introduce measures which re- runners-up seven million. record 175 caps in a brilliant career. He had been bidding for a record sixth World Cup appearance. “It’s not fair that his last game UEFA hold off on VAR use in was the one against Sweden, so Champions League amid ‘confusion’ I proposed that he come back for one, two or possibly three UEFA will not introduce Video Assistant Referees (VAR) for next games. Gigi (Buff on) will prob- season’s Champions League because of ongoing “confusion” sur- ably be there in March,” con- rounding its use, Aleksander Ceferin, the president of European tinued Di Biagio of friendlies football’s governing body, said yesterday. “Nobody knows exactly against Argentina and England, how it works yet. There is still a lot of confusion,” Ceferin said at in Manchester and London on UEFA’s Congress in the Slovakian capital Bratislava as he confirmed March 23 and 27. it would not be introduced for next season’s Champions League. “Gianluigi Donnarumma and VAR has been used this season in VARious club competitions, Alex Meret? We’re doing well including in the German Bundesliga and Italy’s Serie A. It looks set with goalkeepers for the next 20 to be used at the World Cup in Russia in June and July, with the years. (Mattia) Perin is there too, International Football Association Board (IFAB) set to confirm that and when Gigi unfortunately decision on March 3. FIFA president Gianni Infantino recently said stops we’ll be well covered. he was “confident and positive” about VAR being introduced. “We’re solid from that point of “I am not at all against it, but it needs to be better explained when view, but Gigi’s story doesn’t have Juventus’s Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buff on catches the ball under heavy snowfall before postponed Italian Serie A match against Ata- it is being used. We will see at the World Cup,” added Ceferin. to end with that Sweden game.” lanta at the Allianz Stadium in Turin. (AFP) “It could be a good project, useful for football, but we must not Di Biagio said he had also been rush to take such decisions.” VAR can only be used for four game- in contact with other members been promoted to the senior role changing situations: after a goal, penalty decisions, after a straight of Italy’s golden generation of for the friendlies and is holding Germany’s World Cup warm up with Spain sold out red card or in cases of mistaken identity. World Cup winners. a training camp at Coverciano However, it has proved controversial especially in Italy’s Serie A “I’ve met with some of the outside Florence. Germany fans have shown an appetite for So far, 65,000 tickets have been sold for the Ber- where there have been cases of penalties being revoked after veterans, because I understood “It’s normal to think about international football ahead of June’s World lin game with around 10,000 still available. a wait of several minutes or goals being disallowed for minor that some of them wanted to what I’ll have to do in the next Cup by snapping up tickets to see the world It will be the first time Germany has played Brazil infringements after similar delays. Critics say it has taken the spon- quit. I talked to Buff on to see if few months, I’ll decide when champions take on key rivals Spain next since Joachim Loew’s side routed the Selecao taneity out of the sport and left fans confused. “We have to base he wanted to continue. the time comes to make the call- month. 7-1 in the semi-finals on their way to winning the decisions on facts and not feelings,” Infantino said on the sidelines As for the other players, ups,” he continued of his squad, The German football Association (DFB) said Mon- 2014 World Cup. of the UEFA Congress. The facts are that from almost 1,000 without going into details I’ve adding he had not yet decided day that all 50,653 tickets for the friendly against Germany will play two more friendlies - away to matches which were tested, the accuracy rate of the referees went spoken to a lot of them. Bar- whether to recall in-form Nice Spain, the 2010 World Cup winners, Austria in Klagenfurt on June 2 and at home to up from 93 percent to 99 percent. If we, or I, can do something to zagli and De Rossi won’t be striker Mario Balotelli. in Duesseldorf on March 23 have been sold. Saudi Arabia in Leverkusen on June 8. make sure that the World Cup is not decided by a referee’s mis- there. Chiellini yes. We want to “I’m not saying now if Balo- The 2014 champions Germany will also prepare The Germans open their Russia 2018 campaign takes, then I think it’s our duty to do it. “Much more time is wasted relaunch the team with enthu- telli will come or not, I follow for the Russia 2018 finals by then facing Brazil against Mexico in Moscow on June 17 and also on throw-ins or free kicks, rather than on correcting a potentially siasm.” him like everyone else, and no four days later at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium. face South Korea and Sweden in Group F. wrong decision with VAR, so I’m still very positive.” Under-21 boss Di Biagio has doors are closed,” said Di Biagio.

ANNOUNCEMENT SERIE A Brown calls time on Scotland career Benitez rues Newcastle’s AFP lack of experience London Reuters til the game ends but you have Rome to stay calm and make the right eltic skipper Scott Brown announced his retirement decisions,” Benitez told British from international football with Scotland for a sec- media. ond time yesterday. ewcastle United man- “This is what can hap- The midfi elder, 32, won 55 caps for his country ager Rafa Benitez pen when you play at this level Cacross two spells after reversing an initial decision to retire in bemoaned the lack of against very good players. Our August 2016. However, he has decided against making himself experience in his young team is a young team and we available for new Scotland manager Alex McLeish in his sec- Nsquad as the club battle for Pre- need a bit more experience to ond spell in charge of the national team. mier League survival. manage situations like this. “I have spoken to Alex McLeish over the weekend. I really The league’s second youngest “We have a situation where we wanted to tell Alex fi rst what I was thinking about things,” Brown team let a two-goal lead slip in are creating chances but miss- said in a statement posted on Celtic’s website. “Given the de- the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth ing a little bit this experience or mands which are increasing all the time in football and at this last weekend to drop back into quality.” stage of my career, I wasn’t able to give both my club and country the relegation scrap and are just The draw was a sobering ex- my best and I needed to focus purely on Celtic at this time. two points above 18th-placed perience after Newcastle’s shock “The football calendar is more and more demanding now, Swansea City. 1-0 win over Manchester Unit- and in terms of looking after my own body and in interests of The Spanish boss said his team ed earlier this month and Be- my family, I felt now is the right time to take this decision.” needed more experience to help nitez will be eager for his side to Brown was reportedly unhappy with Scotland’s summer them through tough situations. bounce back when they travel to schedule of friendlies in Peru on May 29 and Mexico four days “You have to keep going un- Liverpool on Saturday. later with Celtic facing potentially four rounds of qualifi ers to reach next season’s Champions League starting on July 10. “I have known Scott for a long time - I gave him his fi rst competitive Scotland cap - and I know how diffi cult this deci- sion has been for him,” said McLeish. “Scott gave his all every time he represented his nation and his infl uence on the squad is immeasurable - he led by example both on and off the pitch and set the tone amongst the squad.” Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers welcomed the prospect of having Brown fresh for club duty from now on. “For him and his career going forward and for his own fi tness he wants to prolong his career at club level and with the number of games we have here, taking away international football is a real sensible decision,” Rodgers told a press conference ahead of Celtic’s clash with Dundee today. “He’s been a wonderful player for Scotland and a real inspirational captain. It’s great news for Celtic because we have someone who is fresh after international breaks and we’ll benefi t from that.” Gulf Times Tuesday, February 27, 2018 3 FOOTBALL

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT League Cup just the start for City: De Bruyne Can Arsenal save AFP to win the Champions League London for the fi rst time, according to former England captain Alan Shearer. Pep Guardiola’s side anchester City bagged the League Cup on Sun- didn’t get carried day with a 3-0 thumping of Ar- away with their senal and will go 16 points clear League Cup celebra- in the Premier League with 10 season aft er League Mtions, midfi elder Kevin De Bru- games left if they beat them yne revealed, with bigger targets again in Thursday’s re-arranged in their sights for the remainder league clash. of the season. Barring a monumental col- City picked up their fi rst sil- lapse City will win at least two verware of the Pep Guardiola era trophies this season, but Shear- by sweeping aside Arsenal 3-0 at er believes European bragging Wembley on Sunday. However, rights are what the club’s Abu Cup fi nal defeat? a second trophy in the Premier Dhabi owners crave most. League seems merely a mat- “No matter how many domes- ‘I’m finding it diff icult to take because it’s a wonderful club with a great history and tradition, ter of time with City enjoying a tic trophies City win this season, 13-point lead over Manchester they would probably be disap- but at the moment they’re in decline in terms of their performance levels and their standards’ United with a game in hand. pointed if they failed to win the And Guardiola’s men are also Champions League too,” pundit well set to make the Champi- Shearer told the BBC’s website. ons League quarter-fi nals af- “They want to win everything, ter thrashing Basel 4-0 away in but they want the Champions the fi rst leg of their Champions League most of all. It is the tro- League last-16 tie. phy that has eluded them in the “It was quite mellow,” said De 10 years since Sheikh Mansour Bruyne of City’s dressing room bought the club in 2008 and, celebrations just four days ahead ultimately, winning it is what of another meeting with Arsenal Guardiola was hired for.” in the Premier League. City won 4-0 away to Basel in “It is very nice to win but it is just the fi rst leg of their last 16 clash the beginning, we still have a lot to making the Etihad return a for- play for and Thursday is another mality. “They have only got past game. “It is very nice to already the last 16 once before, when they have a title in the bag, we have had reached the semi-fi nals in 2016, a wonderful season until now and I but they are as good as in the think we fully deserved it. quarter-fi nals this time,” he said. “Now we have to go on and “Again, it has been a case of try to win the Premier League so far, so good - but we will not and do well in the Champions truly know how good this City League.” side is until they meet a team Guardiola’s revolution at the like Barcelona, Bayern Munich Etihad Stadium has built a team or whoever comes through the ready to compete for honours Real Madrid versus Paris Saint- for years to come with a host of Germain tie. Those big hitters expensive young recruits like will off er the real test.” Leroy Sane, Gabriel Jesus, Ber- City need a maximum of six nardo Silva, John Stones and Ay- more Premier League wins to meric Laporte. However, it was secure the title and emulate the three of City’s old guard who got team of Manuel Pellegrini who the goals at Wembley as Sergio won the League Cup and Pre- Aguero, Vincent Kompany and mier League double for the club David Silva sealed victory. in 2014. And De Bruyne hopes their But Shearer believes Guardi- experience and that of tasting ola’s side can go to another level trophy success will spur City’s and possibly win the treble. young guns onto greater heights. “They would turn an excellent “I think they help the younger season into an unbelievable one lads to focus on what they have if they were to win the Cham- to do,” added De Bruyne. pions League as well,” Shearer “A lot of young players didn’t said. “Only two English teams win a lot in their career. have ever done a Treble combin- “So it will help them to get the ing the European Cup or Cham- experience of playing this game, pions League, the league title the way you need to handle it, and a domestic cup in a single the way you need to end it, yes it season - Liverpool in 1984 and Fans hold up a banner for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger during League Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium in London. (Reuters) will help them in the end.” Manchester United in 1999. “That shows how just hard it is AFP boss, who signed a new two- couldn’t do anything about it It was a horrible feeling,” he the most lucrative contract in ‘City want Champions to do. As good as City have been, London year contract extension last and so it’s a very diffi cult one,” wrote on Skysports.com. the club’s history to prevent League title the most’ and as strong as their squad is, it year, said he would have to pri- he added. “But I saw things out on that the German World Cup winner Manchester City will end the will be a big ask for them to join oritise the next game - against “Arsene never won this one pitch from Arsenal. I actu- following Alexis Sanchez out of season disappointed if they fail that elite list.” rsenal’s season is in Manchester City in the league before. I’m sure the team and ally called it in the lead up to the club in January. danger of implod- on Thursday - before he could him went there with massive the third goal, where they were Things are also changing ing after a chasten- focus on the Europa League. expectations of winning it. walking back, and walking up, behind the scenes, with a new ing League Cup fi nal “We will of course to take “The league is not going so and walking towards the ball. chief scout arriving from Dort- Ademolition at the hands Pre- the Europa League very seri- well. It would have been amaz- You do not walk on a football mund, Sven Mislintat, and Raul mier League leaders Manches- ously,” he said. “But we have as ing to win the Carabao (League) pitch, that’s the one thing you Sanllehi appointed head of ter City raised fresh questions well to win big games because Cup and then hopefully back- don’t do.” football relations, suggesting about the future of manager Ar- if you want to go far in the Eu- ing that up with winning the “I’m fi nding it diffi cult to take Wenger’s grip on power may be sene Wenger. ropa League you have to win big Europa League. That’s what I because it’s a wonderful foot- weakening. The Gunners, who lost 3-0 games.” would have called a great sea- ball club with a great history Daily Telegraph chief football to Pep Guardiola’s high-fl ying Former Arsenal striker Thi- son. That’s what Man United and tradition, but at the mo- writer Henry Winter suggested team, now fi nd themselves 10 erry Henry said the manner of did last year.” ment they’re in decline in terms time is up for Wenger. points adrift of their north Lon- Arsenal’s capitulation at Wem- of their performance levels and “Arsenal are on the road to don rivals Tottenham Hotspur, bley was shocking. ‘Spineless’ their standards,” he added. nowhere under Arsene Wenger, who occupy the coveted fourth “You can lose games, you Former Manchester United The problems are mounting a situation that has been sadly spot in the Premier League can lose fi nals,” he said on Sky and England defender Gary for Arsenal at a time when the apparent for four to fi ve seasons table. Sports on Monday. “I lost fi - Neville was stinging in his criti- famously parsimonious club but now all but the overly senti- Already out of the FA Cup, nals but it’s how you lose them. cism of the Arsenal players, have fi nally loosened the purse mental can see it,” he wrote. the Europa League could off er When you look at the two fi rst labelling them “spineless” in strings, breaking their transfer Unless something changes salvation - and a Champions goals yesterday, they were goals commentary on Sky Sports on record twice in recent months dramatically, the hand of the Manchester City’s midfielder Kevin De Bruyne (left), striker Sergio League spot - but Italian gi- that you can avoid. It wasn’t Sunday. to sign forwards Pierre-Emer- Arsenal board may be forced at Aguero (second left), defender Vincent Kompany (centre), midfielder ants AC Milan stand between that diffi cult to avoid.” “I played in cup fi nals in Car- ick Aubameyang and Alexandre the end of the season to take the Fernandinho (second right) and midfielder David Silva (right) pose Wenger’s team and a place in “Man City were not that diff where we got beat by Liver- Lacazette. drastic action they have resisted with the trophy after their victory in the League Cup final against the quarter-fi nals. The Arsenal great on the day but Arsenal still pool, where we didn’t play well. Mesut Ozil was also handed for so long. Arsenal at Wembley stadium in London. (AFP)

LA LIGA Bale and Real aiming to sustain momentum Reuters looking to reassert his part in the three- view the ‘fabulous four’ of Lionel Messi, tive victory to follow Sunday’s emphat- Barcelona pronged threat with Cristiano Ronaldo Luis Suarez, Philippe Coutinho and Ous- ic 5-2 win at Sevilla. and Karim Benzema, Real’s traditional mane Dembele. Coutinho, who arrived French forward Antoine Griezmann, ‘BBC’. from Liverpool in January, and Dembele, instrumental as ever, scored a hat-trick. areth Bale and Real Madrid Bale’s place is not secure. He was whose debut season in Spain has been “He is very good, an extraordinary may each have enjoyed a re- left out of the starting line-up against thwarted by fi tness problems, are the new footballer,” Simeone said after the cent revival but their challenge Leganes last week, while Zidane’s pref- additions. match. “Everyone is currently in a bril- now is to maintain momentum erence of Isco in the fi rst leg against They may both be retained against liant run of form. We played good foot- Gahead of next week’s crunch Cham- PSG was vindicated, as his team ran out Las Palmas but it remains to be seen ball and must continue in this way.” pions League clash with Paris Saint- 3-1 winners. The talented Marco Asen- whether coach Ernesto Valverde be- Elsewhere on Wednesday, Valencia, Germain. sio also made a decisive contribution off lieves he can risk the whole quartet in fourth, visit Athletic Bilbao, and Vil- Real travel to Espanyol in La Liga to- the bench. against more established opposition. larreal, in fi fth, travel to eighth-placed day, looking to reduce the gap behind But, at his best, Bale remains a formi- Barca host Atletico Madrid on Sunday Eibar. Sixth-placed Sevilla are away at leaders Barcelona, who visit Las Palmas dable force and Espanyol may well fi nd and then Chelsea in the Champions Malaga. two days later. Second-placed Atletico an opponent this week keen to prove a League next month. Madrid, meanwhile, host Leganes to- point. On Coutinho and Dembele, Val- Fixtures (all times GMT) morrow. But, with Barca 14 points clear “Every day it is much better, it is what verde said: “These are two players who TODAY of Los Blancos and all-but uncatchable we want, we want to see a 100 percent can help us a lot, with diff erent styles. Espanyol v Real Madrid (1900), Girona at the top, the priority for Zinedine Zi- Gareth,” Zidane said yesterday. Coutinho can play more in the hole, he v Celta Vigo (2030) dane’s side is to keep the winning feel- “The other day he played a great is technically comfortable, and Dem- TOMORROW ing after fi ve victories on the bounce. game, scored a goal. The most impor- bele is more of an out-and-out winger.” Athletic Bilbao v Valencia, Getafe v Particularly eager will be Bale, who tant thing is his participation in the Barca’s chief rivals for the title re- Deportivo la Coruna, Malaga v Sevilla has endured an injury-hit season, but game and he has done very well.” main Atletico, who sit seven points (1830), Atletico Madrid v Leganes, Eibar delivered a statement performance, adrift, and this weekend’s meeting will v Villarreal (2030) and a goal, in Saturday’s 4-0 thrash- Barca’s ‘fab four’ off er Diego Simeone’s side a rare chance On Thursday ing of Alaves. With next week’s crunch There is an attacking conundrum to to close the gap. Real Betis v Real Sociedad (1830), Las Champions League second leg against be solved too at Barcelona, where Satur- First, however, they must overcome Palmas v Barcelona (2000), Alaves v Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale (right) celebrate a goal during PSG looming, the Welshman will be day’s 6-1 drubbing of Girona thrust into Leganes and claim an eighth consecu- Levante (2030) their La Liga match against Deportivo Alaves in Madrid on Saturday. (AFP) Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, February 27, 2018 SPORT

Schwartzman beats Verdasco to win Rio Open title TENNIS Kohlschreiber Reuters “I was very patient, solid, intense, I Schwartzman ran away with the match. years old, I probably would have laughed. Rio de Janeiro knew he was very tired as he had played Meanwhile, American wildcard Franc- It’s unbelievable.” both singles and doubles,” Schwartzman es Tiafoe earned a breakthrough 6-1 6-4 Tiafoe, appearing in his fi rst career banishes painful said of his opponent who won the dou- win over Germany’s Peter Gojowczyk at tour-level fi nal, charged through the rgentina’s Diego Schwartz- bles fi nal on Saturday. the Delray Beach Open in Florida on Sun- opening set in 25 minutes and held steady man ended a two-year wait “It’s been two years since I’ve won a day to collect his maiden ATP title. in the second before wrapping up the Dubai memory for his second ATP tour title as tournament so I am very happy. It was a Tiafoe, 20, becomes the youngest match with a second-serve ace on match he overpowered an exhausted perfect week for me.” American to win an ATP World Tour title point. AFernando Verdasco to win the Rio Open Schwartzman broke serve three times since Andy Roddick triumphed at Hou- The victory capped a remarkable two- with opening win 6-2 6-3 on Sunday. in the fi rst set as Verdasco produced a ston in 2002 as a 19-year-old. week run for Tiafoe, who reached the The world number 23 was in com- string of unforced errors. “I just can’t believe it. A lot’s going quarter-fi nals in New York last week manding form against an opponent who Once the Spaniard squandered four through my mind,” said world number 91 and beat world number 10 Juan Martin appeared to run out of puff after reaching break points at 2-2 in the second set, Tiafoe. “If you would have asked me 10 del Potro in the second round at Delray both the singles and doubles fi nals in Rio. he appeared to wilt under pressure and years ago if I was going to win a title at 20 Beach.

SPOTLIGHT Ricciardo leads F1 testing, Alonso ends up on gravel ‘This is a very, very small problem but very graphic, very obvious’

Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany serves the ball to Gleb Sakharov of France during their men’s singles match in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship yesterday.

DPA In 2017, the 34-year-old Dubai Kohlschreiber held seven match points, but could not pull out a win over hilipp Kohlschreiber Andy Murray as the Scot put aside memories of triumphed in their a heartbreaking loss a quarter-fi nal match and Fernando Alonso of McLaren walks away from year ago at the Dubai went on to claim the title ChampionshipsP by advancing his car after a tyre fell off during testing yesterday. into the second round 6-4, 6-2 over qualifi er Gleb Sakharov of served well. Overall I think it was France. a good match.” In 2017, the 34-year-old Spain’s third seed Roberto Kohlschreiber held seven match Bautista Agut beat German Flori- points, but could not pull out an Mayer 6-3, 6-4. Bautista Agut a win over Andy Murray as the took 76 minutes to go through Scot triumphed in their quarter- as he ended a three-match loss fi nal match and went on to claim streak after he won the Auckland the title. title in early January. The loss is one Kohlschreiber Bautista Agut broke fi ve times. won’t be forgetting — as much “I felt great on the court,” he said. as he would like to. “Everyone “He was mixing up all his game, seems to be reminding me of that and playing very aggressive on loss,” the German ranked 33rd the return. said. “I think I did a great job; Here “Losses are tough, they never the ball fl ies after a deep re- feel good. It was a very enter- turn, it wasn’t easy to hold. It’s taining match, with good atmos- a tough switch from indoors to phere, one of the best I’ve ever outdoors. It was good for me to experienced.” have three days of practice be- On this occasion, however, fore this match.” 2016 fi nalist Kohlschreiber could enjoy both Marcos Baghdatis took out Serb the atmosphere and result as he Viktor Troicki 7-5, 6-2 while Reuters a simple wheel nut and said was no big we will make the story of the day.” problems with visibility. came out on top with fi ve aces Greek youngster Stefanos Tsitsi- Barcelona deal, although he lost about three hours Alonso went back out again before the Valtteri Bottas was second fastest for and four breaks of serve in 73 pas overcame Mikhail Kukushkin of track time while the damage was dealt lunch break for a further four laps and Mercedes and completed 58 laps, with a minutes. of Kazakhstan 6-2, 6-7 (5-7), 6-3 with. ended the day with 49 under his belt as time two tenths off Ricciardo’s, before “I know I can play really great Dutchman Robin Haase, whose ed Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo went “So far, so good,” said the double world the rain limited what teams could do. handing over to four times world cham- tennis, especially here in these quarter-fi nal loss to Roger Fe- faster and further than any- champion, whose team are expected to be Ricciardo, whose team use the same pion team mate Lewis Hamilton. conditions, this dry heat,” he derer this month in Rotterdam one else as Formula One started far more competitive since the switch to Renault engines as McLaren even if they The Briton did 25 laps in soggy condi- said. That gives me a lot of confi - gave the Swiss champion a return testing yesterday while Fern- Renault engines. are branded Tag Heuer, set his fastest tions. “It was a solid start,” said Mercedes dence for this year that I [will] do to the number one ranking, de- Rando Alonso ended up in the gravel after “The car was running fi ne, the engine lap of one minute 20.179 seconds in the team principal Toto Wolff . “It’s diffi cult well, I can go deep. I have to fi nd feated French qualifi er Quentin a wheel came off his McLaren. was running fi ne. I think there is a huge morning session. to judge because it is very cold and every- my game to beat the other guys.” Halys 7-5, 2-6, 6-4. Ricciardo completed 103 laps of Bar- potential in the McLaren Renault team,” Red Bull had to play catch up last year body just collects data and sees how they The winner of eight singles ti- celona’s Circuit de Catalunya, the only added Alonso. after a slow start, despite ending up win- get on. tles had few complaints about his 1st rd driver to break into three fi gures on a day Asked what had gone through his mind ning three races, but this time launched “It’s interesting to see there are a cou- current game. Philipp Kohlschreiber (GER x6) that started sunny but ended with rain when the car crashed, he grinned, say- their new car a week earlier than before ple of cars that have been able to post “I’m happy with my perform- bt Gleb Sakharov (FRA) 6-4, 6-2 and plunging temperatures. ing: “That it was a good day for you guys. and hit the ground running. quick times this morning so we are up for ance, I raised my game at the Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x3) Alonso provided the early headlines, I thought exactly that. This is a very, very So too did sister team Toro Rosso, an interesting season,” added the Aus- important moments,” the 2014 bt Florian Mayer (GER) 6-3, 6-4 returning to his home track with a smile small problem but very graphic, very ob- Honda’s new partners, who completed trian. semi-fi nalist, making his ninth Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) bt a year on from a testing nightmare with vious. 93 trouble-free laps with New Zealander Kimi Raikkonen was third fastest for appearance at the Aviation club, Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ) 6-2, 6-7 Honda engines and becoming the imme- “A car in the gravel makes a big thing Brendon Hartley, who ended the day Ferrari, runners-up last year, with Re- said. (5/7), 6-3 diate focus when his car’s right rear wheel and there are six teams in the garage with eighth fastest of the 13 drivers on track. nault’s Nico Hulkenberg fourth. “In the fi rst match, you always Robin Haase (NED) bt Quentin came off . the door closed and the car in pieces but The test was the fi rst since the intro- The season starts in Australia on March adjust a little bit. But I felt com- Halys (FRA) 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 The Spaniard remained cheerful af- nobody sees it. There are a lot of teams duction of the now mandatory ‘halo’ head 25, with McLaren seeking their fi rst win fortable in my game, very solid, Benoit Paire (FRA) bt Yoshihito ter an accident that the team blamed on with big trouble and us with a wheel nut, protection system and drivers reported no since 2012. moved my opponent well and Nishioka (JPN) 5-7, 6-4, 6-1

BOTTOMLINE Force India name change likely by Australia

Reuters na’s Circuit de Catalunya that they had jority of the teams also voting in favour. Roy’s embattled Sahara conglomer- Barcelona The new Force India car. a new name in mind but gave no details. Szafnauer said Force India had yet to ate has been involved in its own long- He said it was “more than likely” to make the formal request. running dispute after being ordered to be changed before the fi rst race of the Force India, who have Mexican driver repay billions of dollars to investors in orce India unveiled their new season in Australia on March 25. The Sergio Perez again partnering French- bonds that were ruled to have been mis- Formula One car yesterday but team had previously said such a change man Esteban Ocon this season, an- sold. kept everyone guessing about could happen before the start of testing. nounced new sponsors in Mexican oil Russian development driver Nikita Fwhat name they will race under “We’re talking to some people that company Pemex and lubricants com- Mazepin gave the pink liveried car its this season. are thinking of perhaps sponsoring pany Ravenol. track debut, with Perez and Ocon test- The Silverstone-based team, who the team and they are keen for a name The team are co-owned by tycoon ing today and tomorrow. have fi nished fourth overall for the last change, but that’s not for 2018, That’s Vijay Mallya and Sahara Group founder Thursday’s plans remained uncertain two years, have been considering drop- for 2019,” Szafnauer added. Subrata Roy, who have both had well- after Canadian reserve Nicholas Latifi ping the India from their name for some “So it could very well be that it goes documented legal problems. withdrew for health reasons. time to make themselves more attrac- until ‘19 but, you know, why wait? Mallya, who is also team principal, is “A serious infection put me in hospi- tive to potential sponsors. That’s why I say it’s probably more like- fi ghting a request to extradite him from tal last week and I’m now recovering at Otmar Szafnauer, the chief operating ly than not that it will happen.” Britain to face fraud charges in India home,” the 22-year-old said on Twitter. offi cer, told Reuters on the fi rst day of Any change of team name has to be related to the collapse of his Kingfi sher “Aiming to be back on track in the next testing with the VJM11 car at Barcelo- approved by Formula One, with a ma- Airlines. four weeks.” (Reporting by Alan Gulf Times Tuesday, February 27, 2018 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Daniel Sedin scores twice in Canucks’ Harden’s 41 points win at Arizona

Reuters ward Max Domi, who has been Arizona the subject of trade speculation, did see action. Meanwhile, Van- couver defenseman Ben Hutton, aniel Sedin scored two a frequent scratch lately, was on guide Rockets past goals, including the the ice, allowing scouts to get winner, as the Vancou- one last look at him before the ver Canucks beat the deadline. ArizonaD Coyotes 3-1 on Sunday Arizona had a goal disallowed night in Glendale, Ariz. 43 seconds into the game as Brad Sedin’s second goal, on a mid- Richardson, a former Canuck, air defl ection of rookie Brock was penalized for goaltender in- Boeser’s shot at 11:43 of the third terference. During the ensuing Nuggets 119-114 period, broke a 1-1 tie. With his power play, Daniel Sedin shoved two goals, Sedin now has nine in Derrick Pouliot’s pass at 2:16. points in the past seven games. Goligoski fi nally put the Coy- ‘This is a really good team, especially with the best player in the world over there’ Canucks winger Darren otes on the scoreboard during a Archibald provided a short- power play at 9:18 of the third handed insurance marker at period as he one-timed Derek 14:08 of the third period. Stepan’s rebound past Mark- Alex Goligoski supplied Ari- strom. However, Daniel Sedin’s zona’s lone goal as the Coyotes second goal minutes later put the took only their second loss in visitors back on top. seven games. Vancouver goal- tender Jacob Markstrom stopped Oilers dump Ducks 41 of 42 shots for his 17th win of in shootout the season. The loss spoiled the Connor McDavid scored in the Arizona debut of goalie Darcy third round of a shootout to give Kuemper, who recorded 24 saves the Edmonton Oilers a wild 6-5 on 27 shots. victory over the host Anaheim Kuemper made his fi rst start Ducks on Sunday. for the Coyotes after joining Anaheim’s Rickard Rakell them Wednesday in a trade from scored a hat trick, including two the Los Angeles Kings. goals in the fi nal 21 seconds to With both teams destined to send the game into overtime. miss the playoff s, the game was Ryan Strome scored two goals, overshadowed by Monday’s NHL McDavid had three assists and trade deadline. Both Vancouver Draisaitl had a goal and an as- and Arizona appear to be sellers sist for Edmonton, which won come Monday as they remain in its third straight game and swept contention for high fi rst-round its back-to-back weekend trip to draft picks. Los Angeles and Anaheim. An- Accordingly, both clubs sat ton Slepyshev and Iiro Pakarinen out key players to avoid the risk also scored goals for the Oilers. of injury before the deadline. Ryan Getzlaf had a goal and Canucks winger Thomas three assists, and Adam Hen- Vanek, who is due to become an rique also scored for Anaheim, unrestricted free agent at the which lost for just the second end of the season, was a healthy time in its past 13 home games scratch. He is expected to be (10-2-1) against the Oilers. Co- dealt for a prospect, a draft pick rey Perry logged three assists. or a combination of both. He ranks among Vancouver’s top RESULTS scorers with 17 goals and 24 as- Nashville ...... 4 St. Louis ...... 0 sists in 61 games. Buff alo ...... 4 Boston ...... 1 Coyotes defenseman Luke Detroit ...... 3 NY Rangers ... 2 Schenn, also a pending unre- Edmonton ...... 6 Anaheim...... 5 stricted free agent, did not play, Minnesota ...... 3 San Jose ...... 2 either. However, Arizona for- Vancouver ...... 3 Arizona ...... 1

Denver Nuggets centre Nikola Jokic (left) defends against Houston Rockets centre Clint Capela (second left) as guard Gary Harris guards guard James Harden (right) in the fourth quarter at the Pepsi Centre. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

pouring in 17 points in the period that’s what it’s about,” James AFP NBA agent Fegan dies in car accident Los Angeles to help Houston to a 13-point ad- said. San Antonio was called for vantage entering the second. He 12 personal fouls – only three in was particularly eff ective down Prominent NBA agent Dan Fegan died Sunday in a car accident the second half – and shot 32 ames Harden scored a the stretch of the period, blitzing near Aspen, Colo. Fegan, 56, was driving an SUV that was struck by free throws compared to 14 for game-high 41 points Denver for 13 points over the fi nal a bus while trying to cross or merge onto Highway 82, Colorado Cleveland. Cleveland dropped and helped close out the two minutes of the frame. State Trooper Gabe Easton told the Aspen Times. to 3-2 since overhauling their Houston Rockets’ 12th Harden followed his four-point Two passengers riding with Fegan, his 5-year-old son and a roster before the all-star break consecutiveJ victory, a 119-114 play at the 2:12 mark with a three- with three trades. 29-year-old California woman, sustained serious injuries and were win over the host Denver Nug- point play the following posses- airlifted to a hospital in Denver, Easton told the newspaper. Dejounte Murray added 13 gets on Sunday at Pepsi Center. sion, victimizing Nuggets guard The bus driver and the one passenger on board reportedly were points and nine rebounds for San After the Nuggets cut what Devin Harris both times. He add- unhurt. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority operates the Antonio, who are playing with- was a 100-83 defi cit earlier in ed a 3-pointer with 1:01 left before commuter bus, which was headed to Glenwood Springs, Colo. out injured star Kawhi Leonard. the fourth quarter to four points, adding three free throws when RFTA chief executive off icer Dan Blankenship told the Aspen Times, Elsewhere, Jrue Holiday Harden sank a pair of free throws Harris fouled him again with 29.3 “The bus didn’t have time to avoid the collision, so it broadsided scored 28 of his 36 points after before drilling a step-back seconds remaining. the other vehicle and knocked it into the median.” halftime to lead the New Orle- jumper over Jamal Murray. Houston extended to an ans Pelicans to a 123-121 over- Harden shot 11 of 20 from 18-point lead early in the sec- time victory over the Milwau- the fi eld, including 6 of 10 on ond quarter before opening the Antonio Spurs beat the Cleve- points, 13 rebounds and nine kee Bucks. 3-point attempts, while add- door for Denver with a fl urry land Cavaliers 110-94 on Sun- assists but that’s not what Holiday chipped in nine re- ing eight rebounds and seven of turnovers. During one six- day. Aldridge fi nished with 27 James wanted to talk about after bounds and six assists for New assists. Chris Paul chipped in possession stretch, the Rock- points and Green chipped in 22 the loss. The reigning All-Star Orleans, who won their season- 23 points and six assists while ets were guilty of fi ve miscues, as the Spurs snapped a four- Game MVP slammed offi cials high fi fth straight game. Trevor Ariza scored 14 for the enabling the Nuggets to cut the game losing skid. after the game, saying they are Milwaukee’s Jason Terry Rockets. Will Barton paced Den- defi cit to 45-38 when Barton Green missed Friday’s loss to not calling enough fouls on him. tossed up a potential game-win- ver with 25 points while Nikola scored in transition. The Rock- Denver with food poisoning but “There’s no reason I should be ning three-pointer but the offi - Jokic had his streak of games ets found stability when Harden on Sunday he delivered the per- going to the line four times in a cials ruled it was after the buzzer. with a triple-double snapped at returned, pushing their lead to fect side dish to Aldridge’s dy- game when I drive 100 times to Anthony Davis added 27 points three, posting 21 points, 14 re- 66-48 before Denver managed namic inside game with his fi ve the paint and I’m getting hit and and 13 rebounds for the Pelicans, bounds and eight assists. the fi nal four points of the half. three-pointers. slapped and grabbed and what- who trailed by 18 early in the sec- Murray scored 19 for the Harden had 27 points on 7-of-12 “Every win is a big one for ever and what not,” James said. ond half but outscored Milwau- Nuggets, who had their fi ve- shooting in the half. us,” Green said. “But this month James thinks the offi cials are pro- kee 38-19 in the third quarter. game home winning streak we’ve had some ups and downs. tecting players that shoot a lot of snapped. Denver produced an Green helps spice up Spurs’ This is a really good team, espe- three-point shots and not calling RESULTS 18-6 run midway through the off ence in win over Cavs cially with the best player in the enough fouls on players like him Wagton ...... 109 Philadelphia . 94 fourth to muster tension yet fell LaMarcus Aldridge led the world over there.” who like to drive to the basket. Denver ...... 114 Houston ...... 119 to 0-3 against the Rockets. off ensive attack in the paint and Indeed, Cavs’ superstar Le- Cleveland ..94 San Antonio 110 Vancouver Canucks left wing Daniel Sedin (Centre) celebrates a goal Harden keyed the Rockets’ Danny Green shot the lights out Bron James fl irted with a tri- ‘Chicks dig long ball’ Milwaukee 121 New Orleans 123 against the Arizona Coyotes with teammates during the first period dominance in the fi rst quarter, from long distance as the San ple double by fi nishing with 33 “Chicks dig the long ball and Charlotte ...114 Detroit ...... 98 of their NHL game at Gila River Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

MLB A-Rod returning to Yankees as special adviser Reuters not take this opportunity for smart of a baseball mind he is, and Ohtani erratic in first start for Angels New York granted,” Rodriguez said in a his ability to communicate that statement. sometimes is really something Japan’s Shohei Ohtani had a rough outing in his spring train- “I am genuinely thankful for the he’s special at, especially with ing debut with the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday, giving up ormer New York Yankees trust the organisation has placed the younger guys, and we hope to a home run and two runs in less than two innings. slugger Alex Rodriguez is in me, and I am looking forward to benefi t from that.” The right-handed pitcher, who is also a strong hitter and returning to the team as a lending whatever support or ex- Rodriguez comes to “Sunday considered a genuine two-way prospect, struck out two and special adviser. pertise is needed of me. I continue Night Baseball” as a replacement walked one in the erratic start against the Milwaukee Brew- FRodriguez, who is ESPN’s new to cherish The Pinstripes, the for Boone, who previously worked ers at Tempe, Arizona. “Sunday Night Baseball” ana- fans and my involvement with the in the booth as an ESPN analyst But the 23-year-old, who signed with the Angels in December, lyst, will join past Yankees Reggie Steinbrenner family, Brian Cash- before he was named the Yankees’ showed potential with his fastball topping 97 miles per hour. Jackson, Hideki Matsui and Nick man, and his world-class staff .” manager in December. He had been scheduled to pitch two full innings, but left with Swisher in advisory positions The 42-year-old Rodriguez is The three-time MVP and 14- one out in the second after throwing 31 pitches, 17 of them this spring training, the team an- expected to arrive at the Yankees’ time All-Star, who retired from for strikes. nounced Sunday. This is Swish- spring training in Tampa, Fla. baseball in 2016 after a 22-year Keon Broxton hit a lead-off home run to open Milwaukee’s er’s fi rst time holding the post. “He has a lot to off er,” Yankees major league career, spent the second innings. Rodriguez had a similar title manager Aaron Boone said. “So 2017 season as a full-time base- Ohtani did not bat and Angels manager Mike Scioscia said he last year. He will report directly to hopefully with him being on board ball analyst for Fox Sports. was likely to play as a designated hitter early next week. general manager Brian Cashman. now, hopefully it’s an opportunity A-Rod’s 696 career home runs He is the first player in nearly 100 years to attempt to play in “These are exciting times for for him to impact our team. are the fourth most in Major the major leagues as a pitcher and hitter. the New York Yankees, and I do Everyone understands how League Baseball history. Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, February 27, 2018 SPORT

ISF WORLD SCHOOLS HANDBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Qatar win; Germany enter semis

By Sports Reporter Doha In the placement match today, Qatar will face Serbia as they seek to finish in top 10. atar boys’ team put in a dominating perform- ance as they outplayed Bulgaria 24-12 during theQ ISF World Schools Handball Championship at the Ali Bin Ha- mad Al Attiyah Arena yesterday. The hosts had fi nished third in Group A and failed to qualify for the quarter-fi nals. Qatar had lost two and won as many matches at the preliminary stage. In the placement matches today, they will face Serbia as they seek to fi nish in top 10. Meanwhile, Germany boys and girls team both made it to the semi-fi nals. The German boys will face Poland, while the girls will take on Brazil. In another semi-fi nal matches, Austria boys meet Israel boys, while Hungary girls team run into Denmark. Action from the girls match between Brazil and Croatia. Organised by the Qatar School Sports Association under the patronage of The International School Sport Federation, the 24th edition of the championship is being held at three venues –Ali bin Hamad al-Attiyah Hall at Al Sadd Club, Aspire Dome and Women’s Sports Hall in Aspire. The tournament for 16-18 year olds will run until Wednesday. For the fi rst time in 24 editions, the championship is taking place outside of Europe and the com- petition is fi erce with 19 girls and 18 boys’ teams from 21 countries across Africa, Asia, Pan America and Europe competing for glory. Qatar beat Bulgaria 24-12 during the ISF World Schools Handball Championship yesterday.

RESULTS Israel bt Turkey 23-21; Belgium bt Brazil bt Germany 28-23; Greece bt 28-20. Boys: Austria bt Croatia 35-16; Georgia 27-19; Denmark bt Slovenia Belgium 28-14; Sweden bt Belgium SEMI-FINAL LINE-UP Serbia bt Denmark 26-23; Poland bt 29-17; Qatar bt Bulgaria 24-12; Czech 30-7; Serbia bt Turkey 39-26; Czech Boys: Austria vs Israel; Poland vs France 27-24; Bulgaria bt Morocco Republic bt Belgium 28-19; Republic bt Israel 23-19; Brazil bt Germany; Girls: Germany vs Brazil; 28-19; Greece bt Romania 25-17; Girls: Hungary bt Romania 24-20; Croatia 25-23; Germany bt Austria Hungary vs Denmark Action from the match between Qatar and Bulgaria.

SPOTLIGHT GOLF WADA says Russia Qatar Duty Free congratulates Pepperell on still not compliant on anti-doping winning Commercial Bank Qatar Masters atar Duty Free (QDF), the Of- AFP Yet in the decision, the IOC fi cial Duty Free partner of the Los Angeles had the gall to claim Russia ‘re- annual Commercial Bank Qatar spected’ its decision on Decem- Masters, has congratulated Ed- ber 5th to institute the suspen- dieQ Pepperell on his victory in the tour- he World Anti-Doping sion. “This, despite Russia’s nament, which took place at the Doha Agency stopped short continued retaliation against the Golf Club from 22-25 February. The tour- on Sunday of endors- IOC’s main witness, Dr. Rod- nament brought talented golfers from ing the International chenkov, and Russia’s litany of around the world to Doha, including top TOlympic Committee’s decision further transgressions, including players Oliver Fisher of England, Dar- to lift Russia’s suspension if no denial and obstruction toward ren Clarke of Northern Ireland and Paul new positive drug tests come to the IOC and WADA. The acri- Lawrie of Scotland. light from the Pyeonchang Win- mony caused by Bach’s misman- English golfer Pepperell walked away ter Olympics. In a statement is- agement should be his undoing.” from the tournament with the top trophy sued Sunday night, WADA said it Russia was formally banned and the coveted prize fund, beating com- “acknowledges” the IOC’s latest in December from taking part patriot Fisher to claim his fi rst European move but pointed out that Russia in the 2018 Olympics follow- Tour title in his 129th event. is still not adhering to the World ing revelations of widespread Head of Qatar Duty Free, Thabet Mu- Anti-Doping Code. drug-cheating, but 168 athletes sleh, said: “Qatar Duty Free is thrilled “It should be clarifi ed that the deemed “clean” were allowed to to have once again sponsored one of the Russian Anti-Doping Agency compete as neutrals. They were world’s most prestigious golf tourna- (RUSADA) remains non-compli- representing “Olympic Athletes ments here in Doha and we are delighted ant with the World Anti-Doping from Russia” under strict guide- to congratulate Eddie Pepperell, winner Code as it has not yet met the lines including a ban on Russia’s of this year’s Commercial Bank Qatar necessary criteria of RUSADA’s fl ag, national colours and the na- Masters. It was an absolute privilege for Roadmap to Compliance, fol- tional anthem. Qatar Duty Free’s Pro-Am Team to be lowing Russia’s proven systemic able to play with and learn from Eddie manipulation of the doping con- NORWAY HAILS Pepperell. We also look forward to an- trol process,” WADA said in a PYEONGCHANG GLORY nouncing the winner of our Instagram statement. The agency said it is Norwegians celebrated becom- photo competition from the Qatar Duty continuing to work with “RUSA- ing the most successful ever Free photobooth in the public village on DA to assist them in rebuilding nation at a Winter Olympics, 14th March.” English golfer Eddie Pepperell (right) claimed his first European Tour title in his 129th event. a credible and sustainable anti- after a triumphant campaign at As an award-winning retailer, QDF doping program.” Pyeongchang, but their Nordic sponsors a number of major sports events (HIA), establishing the retailer as a pre- more than 30 cafes and restaurants off er FIFA, is a leading supporter of major glo- The IOC voted unanimously to reserve was on show too. The in Doha, including the Exxonmobil Open mier shopping and dining destination. a sumptuous selection of global and local bal sporting events, including the 2018 keep Russia’s ban for mass dop- nation of 5.3mn people won 39 ATP tennis tournament and Qatar Total With more than 90 retail outlets off ering cuisine. Qatar Airways proudly supports FIFA World Cup Russia and the FIFA Club ing, meaning Russian athletes medals, 14 of them gold. Open WTA tournament. an unprecedented selection of designer a range of exciting international and lo- World Cup, refl ecting the values of sports were not able to march behind That broke the record of 37 QDF off ers 40,000 square meters of labels, fashion, electronics, gourmet cal initiatives dedicated to enriching the as a means of bringing people together, their fl ag at the Pyeongchang medals won by the United States combined retail, food and beverage fa- foods and much more, QDF at HIA ca- global community that it serves. Qatar something at the core of the airline’s own Olympics closing ceremonies on — whose population is more than cilities at Hamad International Airport ters to all tastes and needs. In addition, Airways, the Offi cial Airline partner of brand message - Going Places Together. Sunday. sixty-times that of Norway’s — But the IOC said the suspen- at Vancouver in 2010. Aksel Lund sion would be lifted — in “a few Svindal became the fi rst Norwe- FOCUS days or a few weeks” — if no gian to win the Olympic men’s new doping cases come out of downhill, the blue riband event the Games, where two Russians of the Alpine skiing programme, tested positive for doping. and Norway took gold in biath- Lexus Qatar sponsors the Emir’s Sword showjumping The vote to maintain the ban lon, ski jumping, speed skating for the time being followed a and freestyle skiing. AB, the main dealer for Murugan added: “Due to the recommendation from the IOC’s But the focus of celebrations Lexus vehicles in Qatar, wisdom and the vision of our be- executive board, which met Sat- was on Marit Bjoergen, who sponsored the HH The loved rulers, our nation has be- urday and early Sunday over stormed to gold in the women’s Emir’s Sword showjump- come one of the fastest growing Russia’s fate. 30km mass start cross-country ingA championship held at QEF last economies in the world and one of The IOC “could have consid- skiing on Sunday to claim her week. R K Murugan Acting Chief the major destination for sports. ered lifting the suspension given 15th Olympic medal. She is now Executive Offi cer said: “We, at We at Abdullah Abdulghani & that the Olympic Athletes from the most decorated Winter Ol- Abdullah Abdulghani & Brothers Brothers Company are proud to be Russia (OAR) had respected the ympian of all time. Company are extremely privileged in the main stream of the Govern- IOC’s decision of December 5,” The front page of Norway’s and honoured to sponsor the HH ment’s developmental activities. IOC president Thomas Bach biggest daily, Aftenposten, The Emir’s Sword Showjumping “On this occasion I would like said. “However, two Russian showed a beaming Bjoergen, with Championship as it is our corpo- to extend my sincere thanks to the athletes tested positive for dop- no text except the newspaper’s rate policy to support major Gov- members of the equestrian federa- ing here in Pyeongchang.” logo, framed by a gold medal. ernment sponsored events be it tion for giving us an opportunity to The IOC decision was Describing what made the sport, social, educational, cultural, sponsor this prestigious event and slammed by the lawyer for Rus- athlete great, Solberg empha- philanthropic or religious. I wish the event all success.” sian whistleblower and former sised qualities held dear in the “Horses has an athleticism, Abdullah Abdulghani and Broth- Moscow drug lab director Grig- majority-Protestant country grace and power similar to cars as ers has established its relationship ory Rodchenkov. “Thomas Bach where Jante’s Law — the Nordic they jump large fences and exhibit with Lexus since 1991. Through the was a drowning man,” lawyer Jim equivalent of Britain’s tall poppy their athletic ability to handle the years AAB philosophy was based on Walden said on the weekend. But syndrome whereby individual sharp turns, bursts of speed neces- customer fi rst which established a fi nally cooler heads within the success is often scorned — holds sary to navigate the most diffi cult trust relation between Lexus and IOC threw him a life preserver. sway. courses.” its customers in Qatar. Gulf Times Tuesday, February 27, 2018 7 SPORT

GOLF Thomas beats List in playoff to win Honda Classic title Tiger Woods fires an even-par 70 in the fourth round for an even-par 280 total to land in 12th place

AFP Woods, the former world number one. Miami Woods fi nished with four birdies, two bogeys and one double bogey on Sunday. He says his game and his prob- merican Justin Thomas rolled lematic back are starting to feel good in a birdie on the fi rst hole of again and the key is to maintain his a playoff to out-duel third rigorous fi tness routine. “I played well round leader Luke List and this week,” he said. “Overall I am very winA the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic pleased with the progress I have made. on Sunday. The 24-year-old Thomas My body feels good. I need to keep it posted his eighth win on the USPGA feeling good. I need to get back in the Tour and his seventh victory in his last gym and keep it strong.” 31 tournaments. Earlier this month, Woods said that “It was another level of diffi culty, not the extended time off , due to injuries, only the amount of people I was trying has given him a new appreciation for to beat, but this golf course,” said Tho- golf fans. “I have been home a lot. I mas. “I am so proud of myself and how haven’t been able to move much the last I played. When you get out of position three months. So many people have just you have to try to salvage par and that’s wished me well,” he said. “I have been what I did. I just stayed patient. I know away from the game for a long enough what to expect, how tough it can be, time that I saw a side of the public I and it feels good to come out on top.” didn’t know.” Thomas closed with a two-under 68 to catch 54-hole leader List, who had a LEADING FINAL ROUND SCORES one-under 69. They both fi nished with (x-won in playoff , par-70): an eight-under 272 total at the PGA Na- 272 — x-Justin Thomas (USA) 67-72-65-68, tional course. Sweden’s Alex Noren shot Luke List (USA) 71-66-66-69 a three-under 67 to fi nish alone in third, 273 — Alexander Noren (SWE) 66-75-65-67 just one stroke back of the leaders. 274 — Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) 70-68- England’s Tommy Fleetwood placed 67-69 fourth after shooting a 69 to reach 276 — Webb Simpson (USA) 66-72-66-72, six-under 274 total, two shots adrift of An Byeong-Hun (KOR) 70-72-69-65 Thomas and List. Tiger Woods fi red an 277 — Jamie Lovemark (USA) 68-69-68-72 even-par 70 in the fourth round for an 278 — Sam Burns (USA) 70-71-69-68, Kelly even-par 280 total to land in 12th place. Kraft (USA) 72-69-66-71, Emiliano Grillo Thomas hit a beautiful approach shot (ARG) 71-72-69-66 on the only hole of the playoff as his ball 279 — Dylan Frittelli (RSA) 71-72-67-69 sailed over a bunker and landed on the Justin Thomas poses with the trophy 280 — Tiger Woods (USA) 70-71-69-70 green giving him a long downhill putt after winning the Honda Classic golf 281 — Dominic Bozzelli (USA) 68-73-71-69, for birdie. His fi rst putt stopped four tournament. (USA TODAY Sports) Derek Fathauer (USA) 73-72-71-65, Adam feet (1.2 metres) short but he made no Scott (AUS) 73-72-67-69, Thomas Pieters mistake on the second putt for the vic- (BEL) 69-70-71-71 tory that will move him into number over the gallery and into the grandstand controversy. He tried to have a specta- feel pretty terrible and uncomfortable. 69 was the fi rst score in the 60s in nine 282 — Greg Chalmers (AUS) 74-71-70- three in the world rankings. fence. He two-putted for a par. “It is tor removed on the 16th tee for heck- Everybody heard that,” Thomas said. rounds this year for the 14-time major 67, Scott Piercy (USA) 70-70-71-71, Tom American List got into trouble off going to sting a little bit,” said List. “In ling him and then had to apologize after Woods followed his 69 in the third winner, who returned to US PGA Tour Lovelady (USA) 75-70-67-70, Lucas Glover the tee as his drive on 18 went right and a playoff , you can’t give Justin a par be- the tournament for using a four-letter round with a 70 on Sunday to fi nish competition late January at Torrey (USA) 70-75-71-66, Jason Dufner (USA) 69- landed in the middle of a small cluster cause he is going to hit birdies.” word on the green at 18 when he made eight shots back of the top spot on the Pines after back problems. “I made a big 72-70-71, Rory Sabbatini (RSA) 69-69-71-73, of trees. His next shot sailed way left Thomas’ fi nal round was not without the winning putt live on television. “I diffi cult Florida golf course. Saturday’s leap this week. I really hit it well,” said Cheng Tsung Pan (TPE) 71-71-71-69

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS South Africa’s Morkel to Bangladesh name Walsh interim quit international cricket coach for Sri Lanka tournament

AFP AFP All-rounder Shakib al-Hasan has been Durban, South Africa Dhaka included despite a niggling fi nger injury that forced him out of the recent Sri Lanka se- ries. Off -spinner Mehedi Hasan will fi ll in as outh African fast bowler angladesh yesterday named back-up. Hassan said Shakib could bowl but Morne Morkel announced West Indies fast bowling great not bat so they would rest him in the lead- yesterday that he would Courtney Walsh as interim coach up to the tournament. retire from international for next month’s tri-nation Twen- “His fi nger was swollen. So we can’t take cricketS after the four-Test series ty20B series in Sri Lanka. Walsh has been any risk with Shakib,” he said. against Australia which starts at Bangladesh’s fast bowling coach since early Fast bowler Mashrafe Mortaza turned Kingsmead on Thursday. 2016 but had never been called on to take down requests from the board to emerge The tall paceman, who has charge of the entire squad. Bangladesh have from Twenty20 retirement to feature in the played in 83 Tests, 117 one-day been without a head coach since October tournament. There are fi ve changes to the internationals and 44 Twenty20 when Chandika Hathurusingha, a former Twenty20 squad against Sri Lanka. Opener internationals, blamed the bur- Sri Lankan batsman, quit after three years at Imrul Kayes, paceman Taskin Ahmed and den of the international schedule the helm to join his struggling home team. wicketkeeper-batsman Nurul Hasan have for his decision. Former skipper Khaled Mahmud fi lled the returned along with Mehedi and regular Morkel, 33, has taken 294 Test void as team director recently, when Bang- skipper Shakib. Mohammad Saifuddin, Ma- wickets and his tally across all ladesh lost a Test and Twenty20 home series hedi Hasan, Zakir Hasan, Afi f Hossain and formats is 529. Morkel said: “It against Sri Lanka. Mohammad Mithun were dropped. was an extremely tough decision “Walsh has vast experience and everyone Squad: Shakib Al Hasan (captain), but I feel the time is right to start respects him as well,” Bangladesh Cricket Mahmudullah Riyad (vice captain), Tamim a new chapter.” Board president Nazmul Hassan told re- Iqbal, Soumya Sarkar, Imrul Kayes, Mushfiqur Morkel’s decision means he porters. Bangladesh named a 16-man squad Rahim, Sabbir Rahman, Mustafizur Rahman, will not be available for the World for the tri-nation Twenty20 against Sri Rubel Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Abu Hider, Cup in England next year. There Lanka starting March 6. India is the other Abu Jayed, Ariful Haque, Nazmul Islam, Nurul were reports last year that Mor- team in the tournament. Hasan, Mehedi Hasan. kel was contemplating playing county cricket in England under the Kolpak regulation, which CRICKET would make him ineligible for national selection. Morkel’s international career has spanned 12 years in which he formed a deadly new-ball part- Windies’ Holder delighted Gayle nership with Dale Steyn, who is currently sidelined with injury. “I have a young family and a foreign wife, and the current demanding playing in World Cup qualifi ers international schedule has put a lot of strain us. I have to put them AFP “I must commend Chris and Marlon, who added. “It is an opportunity for us to grab fi rst and this decision will only Harare have come here with the motivation to do some momentum heading into next year’s benefi t us going forward,” Morkel well for the Windies and give themselves World Cup, get some games under our belt, added. a chance to play another World Cup,” said just fi nalise some combinations, get things “I have loved every minute est Indies captain Jason Holder Holder ahead of his team’s fi rst Group A straightened, and hopefully turn (around) that I have played in the Proteas yesterday praised star batsmen game against the United Arab Emirates on our cricket in terms of the ODI format.” jersey, and I am incredibly grate- Chris Gayle and Marlon Sam- March 6. “We’ve got a well-balanced side, Teenage leg-spin sensation Rashid Khan ful to my team mates, Cricket uels for making themselves quality side with experience. Hopefully, we is set to lead Afghanistan for at least the South Africa, and my family and Wavailable for the upcoming 2019 World Cup could gel together and make things happen early part of their campaign after usual friends for the support over the qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe. The in this tournament. As I said to the group, captain Asghar Stanikzai underwent emer- years. I still feel there is a lot of two-time World Cup winners failed to au- it may be an opportunity for guys to fi nish gency surgery to have his appendix removed cricket left in me and I am excit- tomatically reach next year’s tournament their careers well, it’s also an opportunity yesterday. The 19-year-old Khan, who was ed for what lies ahead. For now, in England and Wales after slipping outside for guys to make a spark in their careers by bought for $1.41mn by Sunrisers Hydera- all of my energy and focus is on South African fast bowler Morne Morkel, who has played in 83 Tests, the top eight in the world one-day interna- playing in the World Cup.” bad in last month’s IPL auction, is the world helping the Proteas win the up- 117 one-day internationals and 44 Twenty20 internationals, blamed tional rankings, leaving them to fi ght it out The Caribbean outfi t, who won the fi rst number one bowler in ODIs and closing coming series against Australia.” the burden of the international schedule for his decision. (AFP) with cricket’s lesser names for one of the two World Cup tournaments in 1975 and in on becoming the fastest-ever to reach Cricket South Africa acting last two spots. 1979, also face Papua New Guinea, Neth- 100 wickets. Afghanistan’s 4-1 series vic- chief executive Thabang Moroe valued contribution he has made his debut as far back as 2006. He The 26-year-old Holder has experienced erlands and Ireland in the group stage, tory over Zimbabwe earlier this month sees praised Morkel’s contribution to South African cricket over the has formed part of the golden era pair Gayle and Samuels at his disposal, de- with the top three sides to progress to the them as favourites to qualify alongside West towards South African cricket. past decade,” said Moroe. of fast bowlers that have made spite the decisions of other key players Dar- Super Six. Holder, though, already has one Indies. Afghanistan open their campaign “On behalf of Cricket South Af- “He has been a regular selec- the South African Test team a ren Bravo, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell and eye on lifting the title next year and be- against Scotland in Bulawayo on Sunday, rica, I would like to thank Morne tion for both the Test and ODI champion outfi t that is respected Kieron Pollard to skip the qualifi ers to play coming only the second three-time world ahead of further Group B matches with Ne- for the tremendous and highly squads since 2008, having made throughout the world.” in the lucrative Pakistan T20 Super League. champions. “We know what is at stake,” he pal, Hong Kong and Zimbabwe.

Tuesday, February 27, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

QNB STARS LEAGUE Al Sadd’s Bounedjah steals the show with four goals The Algerian striker is in devastating form and is compensating for his long, injury-enforced layoff he Week 18 of QNB Stars League was marked by excellent performances from stars that had major impact on their teams’ results. Here is high- Tlights of players who excelled.

BAGHDAD BOUNEDJAH (AL SADD) Baghdad Bounedjah produced yet another brilliant display as he fi red in four goals in Al Sadd’s 5-0 victory over Al Ahli. The Algerian striker was in devastating form. He is com- pensating for his long, injury-enforced lay- off . Bounedjah is very much among goals and had scored four times in Al Sadd’s two AFC Champions League matches recently. His tally is 12 in the top scorers’ chart.

KHALFAN IBRAHIM (AL ARABI) Khalfan Ibrahim played a prominent role as Al Arabi earned three valuable points following their 2-1 victory over Al Kharaitiyat. Khalfan scored the fi rst goal with a free-kick as The Dream Team recorded their third win in the QNB Stars League to move up by one place from 11th in the standings with 15 points.

YANNICK SAGBO (UMM SALAL) Yannick Sagbo one again proved his worth as Umm Salal achieved a crucial 1-0 victory Khalfan Ibrahim (left) played a prominent role as Al Arabi earned three valuable points over Al Sailiya riding on his goal. The Ivorian following their 2-1 victory over Al Kharaitiyat. striker’s goal at the Al Gharafa Stadium made such an impact that The Orange Fortress dis- down by two goals. Aden provided the assist in this season’s competition. Ismail caught placed Al Sailiya from the fourth position in for their fi rst goal scored by Abdelkader Ilyas. the eye with his moves. the standings with the victory as they moved Brazilian Eric de Oliveira added the other two to 27 points, two more than The Peregrines. goals. SAOUD AL-KHATER (AL RAYYAN) Saoud al-Khater has to be credited for keep- ADEN ALI (AL MARKHIYA) ISMAIL MOHAMMED (AL DUHAIL) ing the Al Rayyan citadel intact. The goal- Aden Ali played an infl uential game as Al QNB Stars League table toppers Al Duhail keeper brought out an excellent performance, Markhiya pulled off a coup against formidable have many star performers and Ismail Mo- in the process eff ecting many saves in their Baghdad Bounedjah produced yet another Al Gharafa. He did not score, but was instru- hammed is one among them. He scored the 4-0 win over Qatar SC. brilliant display as he fired in four goals in mental in their 3-2 victory, their only second opening goal in their 4-0 win over Al Khor The one that thwarted Ali Awad, who Al Sadd’s 5-0 victory over Al Ahli. in this season’s QNB Stars League. More im- that took their points tally to 48. The Red found himself unmarked in front of the goal portantly, Al Markhiya achieved it after being Knights thus stayed as the only unbeaten side in the 80th minute, stood out.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Aspire Academy’s U-16 team wins Dominant Duhail Tri-Series football tournament inch closer to title he latest edition of the Tri-Series football tournament organised by Aspire Academy has successfully drawn to a close. Taking place Tbetween 19th – 21st February, the com- petition saw Aspire Academy’s U-18 and U-16 players compete against visiting teams from Shandong Luneng FC (Chi- na), Leeds United FC (England), whilst Aspire Academy’s U-17 team competed against Shandong Luneng FC and Apoel FC (Cyprus). Aspire Academy’s U-16 team domi- nated its group after defeating Shandong Luneng FC 1 – 0 in the opening match and then securing victory over Leeds United FC by a margin of 3 goals to 1 in their sec- ond match. Meanwhile, a 1 – 1 draw against Apoel FC left Aspire Academy’s U17 youth team in second place, losing out on post-match penalties. In their opening match, As- pire’s team impressed during a 3 – 0 win over Shandong Luneng FC, who fi nished Al Duhail maintained their lead position with a 4-0 win over Al Khor. in third place. The Academy’s U-18 team also secured second place in their group he Week 18 of the QNB the disappointment of dropping after defeating Shandong Luneng FC, and Stars League witnessed points in the last two matches. losing 2 – 0 against Leeds United FC, who action aplenty. There Al Rayyan took their points proved to be a tough side to beat. were four high-scoring tally to 39, while Qatar SC stayed Commenting on their participation Tgames. The fi xtures also saw eighth on 18 points. in the tournament, Apoel FC Academy some outstanding individual Umm Salal gained much Manager, Georgios Markides, praised performances. Not a single ground as they barged into the the facilities at Aspire Zone, and Aspire match was drawn and 22 goals top four by scripting a hard- Academy’s hospitality and organisation Aspire Academy’s U-16 team celebrates after winning the title. were scored in all, two more than fought victory over Al Sailiya, saying: “We’re delighted to be invited to in the previous round. with Ivorian striker Yannick take part in the Tri-Series tournament emy to participate in the tournament. Al Duhail maintained their Sagbo netting the all-important and it has been a very good experience for The preceding round of the Tri-Series lead position with a 4-0 win goal. The Orange Fortress have 27 us in Qatar to play against sides from As- tournament featured teams of young over Al Khor. Ismail Moham- points, while Al Sailiya remained pire Academy and Shandong Luneng FC. players from Aspire Academy born in med, Youssef el-Arabi, Youssef on 25. Promoted side Al Markhiya It’s our fi rst time here [in Qatar]. This rich 2003, 2004 and 2005 who competed Msakny and Murad Naji scored pulled off a stunner when they experience will really help our young- against their age mates from Japanese the goals as The Red Knights came from a two-goal defi cit to sters develop further as players. Both As- Club Shonan Bellmare and Red Bull Salz- moved on to 48 points. Al Khor defeat Al Gharafa 3-2. pire and Shandong Luneng played good burg from Austria. remained ninth with 15 points. Star midfi elder Wesley Snei- football and pushed our teams hard. I’m The Tri-Series is an annual year-round Al Sadd kept pace with the jder put Al Gharafa two goals up, pleased with our competitive spirit and series of weekly competitions that fea- leaders by blanking Al Ahli 5-0. only to see Al Markhiya strike delighted that our U-17 side came top of tures youth teams from all over the world Baghdad Bounedjah was the back through Eric de Oliveira and their group. We’re returning home with competing against teams from Aspire star of the show with four goals, Abdelqadir Ilyas. some very positive memories and valu- Academy. Since it was established in while Jugurtha Hamroun com- It was the Brazilian striker’s ables lessons learned.” 2012, the competition has played a vital pleted the scoring. The Briga- two-goal blitz in the space of Meanwhile, Leeds United FC Acad- role in the development of youth teams at diers remained seventh on 19 three minutes in the second half emy Director, Adam Underwood added: Aspire Academy. The Tri-Series provides points despite the defeat. that turned the tide of the match “Our participation is part of our exist- coaches at Aspire Academy with a useful Third-placed Al Rayyan re- in The Oryxes’ favour. The result ing and ongoing partnership with Aspire benchmark against which to evaluate and covered well to defeat Qatar did not have any impact on the Academy. Both our institutions are very compare the Academy’s student-ath- SC 4-0. Abderrazaq Hamdal- teams’ standings as Al Gharafa much focused on youth development letes’ performance. lah contributed two goals, while stayed sixth with 23 points and and we intend to explore further areas of Each season, the Tri-Series attracts Mohsine Moutouali and Rodrigo Al Markhiya last with 12 points. co-operation for our mutual benefi t as club teams, national youth teams and Tabata were the other scorers Al Arabi registered only their we seek to identify and nurture talented other academy teams. The number of for The Lions. Moroccan striker third victory when they beat Al young footballers capable of successfully teams that have visited Aspire Academy Hamdallah took his tally to 15 Kharaitiyat 2-1 and moved from playing at the top level for their clubs and to take part in competitions has grown goals and Tabata 12 in the top- 11th position to 10th. countries.” steadily since it was launched in 2012. thorough evaluation of the standard of student-athletes in competitions against scorers’ chart. Khalfan Ibrahim and Mo- Representatives from Shandong Over 35 foreign clubs and federations youth development programmes in their some of the best teams in the world, giv- Qatar SC, who went into the hamed al-Hamed scored for the Luneng FC, one of the top youth acade- took part in last year’s tournament. own countries as well as their profi le and ing them the opportunity to learn from as game with back-to-back wins, winners before Mahmoud Ab- mies in China, also expressed their grati- Participating teams are carefully se- backgrounds. many diff erent footballing styles and sys- could not do much against the delhalim pulled one back for Al tude for the invitation from Aspire Acad- lected by Aspire Academy based on a Aspire Academy aims to involve their tems as possible. hungry Lions, who put behind Kharaitiyat.