FOOTBALL | Page 2 BASKETBALL | Page 7 Qatar’s ‘beautiful’ Rare double for World Cup will Gasol as Spain be unique, says beat Argentina Samuel Eto’o to win W Cup

Monday, September 16, 2019 MOTORCYCLING Muharram 17, 1441 AH Marquez steals GULF TIMES Rossi thunder in San Marino SPORT Page 6

FOOTBALL/AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QNB STARS LEAGUE Al Sadd exude Al Duhail and Rayyan confi dence as they in thrilling 1-1 draw

By Sports Reporter Al Duhail’s Paulo Edmil- take on Al Nassr son, Ali Afif and Almoez Ali all Doha made attempts at the rival goal. At the other end, Al Rayyan’s : I have confidence in the players’ abilities and looking forward to this match l Duhail and Al Rayyan Abdelaziz Hazaa skied his shot played out an exciting over the bar. 1-1 draw in their much- Al Duhail kept attacking By Sports Reporter It will be a challenging Doha anticipated QNB Stars and Ahmed Yasser provided match, says al-Haydos LeagueA match at the Al Janoub them with the lead in the 66th Stadium yesterday. minute when he headed a free- parks are expected to fl y when l Sadd captain Hassan al-Hay- Both teams missed a pleth- kick by Ali Afif into the top Al Sadd take on Saudi Arabian dos said the match against Al ora of chances before Ahmed right corner of the net, leaving champions Al Nassr in the sec- Nassr today would be chal- Yasser put Al Duhail ahead in goalkeeper Fahd Younis rooted ond leg of their AFC Champions lenging for the team. the 66th minute. But the lead at the goal. LeagueS quarter-fi nal today. The match A was neutralised by new recruit A couple of minutes later, it “We are facing a big game against Al starts at 6.45pm. Nasrr. We respect them but we expect Franck Kom for Al Rayyan in looked Al Duhail would dou- The Wolves are under pressure, having all our players to put their best foot the 76th minute. ble their lead, but Fahd got his lost the fi rst leg 2-1 but they have the ad- forward,” al-Haydos said Al Duhail took their points hand on to a left-footer by Al- vantage of scoring a vital away goal when “We play the game at home and among tally to five and Al Rayyan moez Ali, palming the ball to they clashed in the fi rst leg late last month our fans and this is good for us and we three. Both teams thus main- safety. in Riyadh. should benefit from it.” tained their unbeaten record. Not long after, Al Rayyan But Al Sadd are brimming with confi - The captain added that nothing is Al Duhail had beaten Qa- equalised, Cameroonian Kom dence not just because they are playing at impossible in sport. tar SC 2-1 and drawn 1-1 with banging home a rebound from the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, their home “We have a great chance to compensate Al Arabi, while Al Rayyan had distance off goalkeeper Amine ground, but because they have none other for our defeat in the first leg. We had our drawn 2-2 with Umm Salal and Lecomte after he punched away than Xavi as their coach who is as ambi- chances in that match but we couldn’t goalless with Al Gharafa. a shot from Abdelaziz Hatem, tious as the players themselves. make the most of them. Al Duhail’s Moroccan de- who joined Al Rayyan from Al The Spain and Barcelona legend once ``My message to the Al Sadd fans is to fender Mehdi Benatia made Gharafa this season. again made it clear yesterday that he is not come to the stadium and support us. We his return from injury even as Al Rayyan defender Moham- in Qatar for a picnic but to win trophies for promise them that we will provide all we they missed Tunisian attacking ed Alaaeldin thwarted Ali Afif the club. have in order to make them happy.’’ Yousef Msakni. in stoppage time and Ahmed “My goal is to win the AFC Champi- On the other hand, Al Rayy- Yasser could not be spot-on ons League,” he said. “I came to Qatar to an were without the services of with his header for a second win trophies with Al Sadd as a player and qualifi er against India last week. injured striker Sebastian Soria. time, off the resultant corner coach. I have talked to the players about After failing to make it past the play-off s Al Duhail were dominant in kick. the importance of winning, and I talked in for two consecutive years, Al Sadd put on a first-half play with 65 per cent Al Rayyan had Rodrigo Taba- particular with captain Hassan al-Haydos solid performance in the 2018 AFC Cham- possession (67 per cent in fa- ta’s straight shot to the goal- about our ability to win the Asian Champi- pions League, going as far as the semi-fi - vour of Al Duhail at final whis- keeper to show. Substitutions ons League like what the national team did nals before losing to eventual runners-up tle), but they could not convert did not help the cause either as in the Asian Cup earlier this year,” said Xavi Persepolis. Al Sadd can also take confi dence the opportunities. the deadlock remained. at his pre-match press conference. from their vastly superior history in the “I have confi dence in the players’ abili- competition, compared to their visitors. ties and looking forward to this match and The Qataris have reached the knock-out we hope to succeed in it and qualify for the stages on fi ve occasions and remain the last semi-fi nals,” Xavi added. West Asian side to lift the trophy, back in Al Sadd coach Xavi watches Xavi, a World Cup winner for Spain, said 2011. Meanwhile, the quarter-fi nals are un- his team (below) during a he is pleased with his team’s performances mapped territory for Al Nassr. training session yesterday. in the QNB Stars League so far. While Al Sadd have history to count on, “We started the season well for I am very Al Nassr will be encouraged by their recent happy with the level that the team off ers. results. The Riyadh-based side only lost We have prepared well for this confronta- one of their four away games in the 2019 tion with great ambition and we hope that AFC Champions League. In the Round of we will be successful in achieving our goal, 16, they were held to a 1-1 draw at home which is a victory against Al Nassr.” by UAE’s Al Wahda, but were then able to He added: “There is pressure on every- come away with a 3-2 win from Abu Dhabi. one, but we are ready. We know Al Nassr A concern for Al Nassr, however, is the have strong players like Abderrazak Ham- fact that Al Sadd have won each of their four dallah and Juliano, but we too have excel- home fi xtures in the competition so far, de- lent players who have the skills and charac- feating Persepolis, Pakhtakor and Al Ahli ter to pull it off .” Al Sadd will be boosted by in the group stage, before brushing aside the return of star forward Akram Afi f, who domestic rivals Al Duhail 3-1 in the Round missed Qatar’s World and Asian Cup joint of 16.

Al Rayyan’s Mohamed Alaeddin and Al Duhail’s Ali Hassa Yahya battle for the ball during their QNB Stars League match.

Roglic crowned Vuelta a Espana champion

Madrid: Primoz Roglic became finished 19th in the stage, 17 the first Slovenian to win a seconds ahead of Roglic, who Grand Tour when he was ended the race two minutes 16 crowned Vuelta a Espana cham- seconds ahead of the Spaniard pion by completing Sunday’s overall. processional final stage into Roglic’s compatriot Tadej Madrid. Pogacar took the final position Roglic, 29, successfully on the podium, two minutes 38 defended his sizeable lead seconds back, rounding off a over second-placed Alejandro stunning race for the 20-year- Valverde in the 21st stage of the old, who earned three stage race, a 106.6km ride from Fuen- wins on his Grand Tour debut. labada to the of Madrid Roglic was among the favour- which was won by Dutchman ites to win a Vuelta lacking in Fabio Jakobsen. household names, showing World champion Valverde remarkable consistency. Gulf Times 2 Monday, September 16, 2019 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW Qatar’s ‘beautiful’ Qatargas U-23 League World Cup will be to kick off today unique: Eto’o Al Kass will broadcast the matches and produce a special programme

By Amjad Vanimal Doha

he third edition of the popular Qatargas U-23 League will kick off today, offi cials announced yesterday at a joint press confer- Tence held by The Qatar Football Associa- tion (QFA) and Qatargas at Al Bidda Tow- er. The launch ceremony was attended by Khalid Mubarak al-Kuwari, Director of Marketing and Communications at QFA, Ali Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, Public Relations Manager at Qatargas, along with repre- sentatives from QFA and participating teams. The third edition will feature 12 teams: Al Ahli, Al Sadd, Al Duhail, Al Rayyan, Al Arabi, Al Gharrafa, Qatar, Umm Salal, Al Khor, Al Sailiya, Al Wakrah, and Al Shahania. Speaking at the press confer- ence, al-Kuwari said: “The Qatar Football Association and Qatargas have a long- standing partnership. Qatargas U-23 League is one of the fruitful results of this unique partnership and emphasises the depth of the relationship between the QFA and Qatargas. “Qatargas is the world’s premier liq- uefi ed natural gas company and is one of Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o is an off icial ambassador for the the key sponsors of QFA, having them on Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy. board is an important achievement which we aim it continues for many years ahead ormer Cameroon inter- they arrive in Doha I am confi - as it’s part of the QFA’s 2021 vision.” national and four-time dent they will be happy to fi nd Al Kass will broadcast the matches African Player of the themselves in a country that has and produce a special program focused FYear Samuel Eto’o is one more or less the same climate on covering all aspects and highlights of the most decorated players as ours at certain times of the of the league, featuring interviews with in world football. He has three year. Secondly, they will be in a players, coaches and other club offi cials. UEFA Champions League win- country that has values like us “Preparations for Qatargas U-23 League ners’ medals and won four league Africans – a warm sense of hos- have started after the end of the last sea- QFA’s Director of Marketing and Communications Khalid Mubarak al-Kuwari (left) and Qatargas’ Public Relations Manager titles while playing for Barce- pitality and keenness to welcome son, in which a full-fl edged marketing Ali Ibrahim al-Sulaiti pose at a press conference yesterday. lona and . Having ap- others, wherever they are from in and media plan has been put in place in peared at four FIFA World Cup the world. cooperation with our partners Qatargas I thank the Qatar Football Association for played at 6:15pm in Al Khor, Al Sailiya Al Duhail were crowned champions of tournaments, and after a glitter- It will be an international and Al Kass, to showcase a perfect league. providing us this opportunity to be part and Al Arabi stadiums. Week 1 matches the fi rst and second editions after a long ing career spanning more than 20 gathering with many people I’m I thank Al Kass for its great eff orts in pro- of the State of Qatar’s eff orts to be one of will continue tomorrow with Al Sailiya and deserving battle. It fi nished the sea- years, he announced his retire- sure attending their fi rst ever moting the league and the successful re- the world’s leading sports destinations. vs. Al Sadd and Al Gharrafa vs. Qatar SC, son with a total point of 56 after securing ment in September 2019. World Cup. This is also some- lationship throughout QFA’s matches and We are optimistic that our cooperation and will be played in Al Shamal and Al 22 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. Al Duhail In April 2019 he became an thing that cannot be overlooked, competitions,” al-Kuwari added. with the QFA will ultimately benefi t foot- Gharrafa stadiums at 6:15pm. Week 1 will holds the record of most goals scored af- offi cial ambassador for the Su- it will be very special for many Ali al-Sulaiti, PR Manager at Qatargas ball and the growing talents in this im- conclude with the third match which will ter scoring a total of 96 goals. They also preme Committee for Delivery & thousands of people who previ- said: “Qatargas is delighted to be part of portant game.” see Al Shahania take on Al Wakrah at Al had the strongest defence line, and con- Legacy, the organisation respon- ously have not had the chance to this exciting league that brings together The third edition will kick off today Gharrafa Stadium at 8pm. ceded only 21 goals. sible for delivering tournament attend. some of the most aspiring young foot- evening, and will see three encounters Week 2 and 3 will be played on 23 Sep- The ranking of the team is decided infrastructure for the FIFA World ballers in Qatar. We are hopeful that Qa- in the fi rst week. Umm Salal will play tember and 30 September. All matches based on the number of points collected Cup 2022 and its associated leg- Aside from the action on targas’ support for the league will go a against Al Arabi, while Al Khor will face will be played on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout their matches and the team acy programmes. Exceprts from the pitch, what do you think long way in taking Qatar’s football to new Al Ahli, and defending champions of of every week. Week 4 of the league will that collect the highest number of points Eto’o’s interview with sc.qa. makes for a successful FIFA heights, especially as the country is get- the previous edition and Al Duhail will begin on 21 October and matches will be will be crowned as champions of the World Cup and how confi dent ting ready to host the World Cup in 2022. play against Al Rayyan. Matches will be announced at a later stage. league. We have recently launched the are you Qatar will deliver in Offi cial Emblem for the FIFA this area? World Cup 2022 – a major Of course, for those watching FOCUS BUNDESLIGA milestone in Qatar’s journey at home, a successful World Cup on the road to 2022. From your is mostly linked with the quality experience, what do you think of football. The drama, the pas- fans can expect in 2022? sion, this kind of thing. I’m sure Schalke thrash Paderborn as When fans arrive in Qatar for Qatar’s World Cup will have all FIFA Club World the World Cup they will fi nd of that, but for those who travel themselves in a very beautiful to these tournaments it is about Freiburg leapfrog Bayern country, rich with traditions and the overall experience. What re- Cup draw today culture, and a totally unique set- ally makes a diff erence is what AFP it into the bottom corner. Ahmed Kutucu added ting for the tournament. I can say the fans enjoy away from the By Sports Reporter Berlin a fourth on the counter-attack seven minutes from fi rst-hand experience the stadiums – and I’m sure in Qatar Doha from time, before setting up Harit minutes later temperature at the time of year they will have a very smooth and to complete the rout. the tournament is scheduled for enjoyable experience. They can avid Wagner urged his Schalke side to Earlier yesterday, Freiburg midfi elder Janik will be perfect for watching foot- enjoy the city or the beach, the he draw for the FIFA put the past behind them after they Haberer hailed a “great day” for the Bundesliga ball, for playing football and also desert, the shopping, the restau- Club World Cup, which beat Paderborn 5-1 yesterday, while minnows as they beat neighbours Hoff enheim for relaxing by the beach! So fans rants. Many, many things. Qatar will host for the Freiburg moved up to third in the 3-0 to continue their dream start to the season. will be able to enjoy many things They will really have an op- fi rst time, will be held BundesligaD with a derby win at Hoff enheim. The win leaves Freiburg in third and sees away from the stadiums also, and portunity to ‘live’ a World Cup, todayT at the FIFA headquarters Schalke, who narrowly avoided relegation last them leapfrog perennial champions Bayern spend their holidays in a very and be in the heart of the action in Zurich. The ceremony, which season, tore through Paderborn in a frenzy of Munich, who were held to a 1-1 draw at league beautiful country. from the moment they arrive. I will be streamed live on FIFA. goals at the end of the second half to pick up leaders RB Leipzig on Saturday. understand they can go to more com and YouTube, will begin at their second win of the season and move up to What makes the FIFA World than one game per day too, this 3pm Qatar time. The tournament sixth in the table. GERMAN BUNDESLIGA RESULTS Cup so special to you person- will be something unheard of. ally? You played in the fi rst Something that can only happen will be played from December “It’s a new season, and I can only ask the boys Hoff enheim 0 Freiburg 3 (Guenter 11, Haberer 11-21. to look forward,” said Wagner. Goalkeeper Al- FIFA World Cup in Africa – in Qatar and I am sure that eve- 38, Petersen 59); Paderborn 1 (Cauly 8) Schalke 5 The draw will lay out the tour- exander Nuebel said that new coach Wagner how do you think Qatar will ryone who visits will return with nament and give a glimpse of the had “cleared the heads” of the Schalke players. (Sane 33, Serdar 50, Harit 71, 85, Kutucu 83) stamp its own identity on the a sense of satisfaction. hurdles the top club sides from Cauly gave Paderborn an early lead, pick- Played Saturday: RB Leipzig 1 (Forsberg 45+3- fi rst edition in the Arab world? across the planet will have to ing out the top corner with a looping header to pen) Bayern Munich 1 (Lewandowski 3); Borussia It is true that I was fortunate What is your favourite FIFA overcome if they are to lift the celebrate his 24th birthday with a goal. Schalke Dortmund 4 (Alcacer 28, Reus 50, 90 Guerreiro enough to play in the fi rst World World Cup memory – both as a trophy on December 21. were then denied several times by Paderborn 83) Bayer Leverkusen 0; Mainz 2 (Quaison 40, Cup in Africa. Although we as a player and as a fan? Former England striker keeper Jannik Huth before Salif Sane headed St Juste 88) Hertha Berlin 1 (Grujic 83); Augs- team did not progress as far as we My favourite memory of a Michael Owen will pick the them level on 33 minutes. Suat Serdar complet- burg 2 (Richter 36, Niederlechner 43) Eintracht had hoped, it was a memorable World Cup is my fi rst experi- experience – not just for Cam- ence, in France in 1998. I was just names from the bowl. The former ed the turnaround just after the break, fi ring in Frankfurt 1 (Paciencia 73); Cologne 0 Borussia Liverpool and Real Madrid ace a loose ball at the edge of the area to put Schal- eroon or the hosts South Africa, a kid who discovered this big and Moenchengladbach 1 (Plea 14); Union Berlin 1 will pick the draws to determine ke ahead. English full-back Jonjoe Kenny set but for the whole continent. beautiful football festival – the the match-ups in what will be a up the third with a marauding run from deep, (Andersson 14-pen) Werder Bremen 2 (Klaassen I have always believed foot- biggest in the world. It was of knockout system. eventually cutting the ball back for Harit to slot 5-pen, Fuellkrug 55) ball is a game for everyone, and course my fi rst experience of at- Four participants have already therefore the World Cup should tending a World Cup, and I was been confi rmed: CF Monter- visit every region of the world. doing it as a player representing rey from Mexico (winners of Therefore, I was delighted to see my country. the 2019 Concacaf Champions Former England striker Michael the Middle East given the oppor- I could not have been more League), Hienghene Sport from Owen will pick draw of lots. tunity to host in 2022 – it is an proud and excited. I managed to New Caledonia (winners of the opportunity I know it will make play in the game against Italy, 2019 OFC Champions League), Cup this year – from Liverpool the most of. and although we did not get the Liverpool from England (winners fans, of course, as they will be Qatar is a small country, but result we wanted it was an expe- of the UEFA Champions League) hoping that their team can win it stands out because it is so dif- rience I will never forget. It’s in- and Al Sadd, the domestic cham- this coveted trophy for the fi rst ferent from all others. It’s a great credible to think that was over 20 pions from Qatar. CAF is due to time,” said Owen, to Fifa.com. place to live or to visit, you feel years ago now! confi rm the African participant, “But the tournament in Qatar very safe and the beaches are From a fan’s perspective, my while the representatives from means a lot to the other teams incredible – so as well as all the favourite memory is actually the CONMEBOL and the AFC will be as well – it is the global stage football, people will be able to most recent World Cup in Russia known on November 23 and 24 for club football, and it will also enjoy a holiday too! because this is a beautiful coun- respectively. be the FIFA World Cup stage in try that surpassed all expecta- Al Sadd will be represented at three years’ time. Every single Qatar’s central location tions. It’s a country I used to live the draw by fi rst team manager player will want to shine, and I’m means it is accessible for Af- in and I know they had a chal- Abdullah Breik, who left for Zu- delighted to be helping to draw rican football fans too. What lenge because everyone doubted rich yesterday. This will be Al the path to the fi nal,” he added. would you say to football fans their ability to host a successful Sadd’s second appearance in the The stadiums hosting the there who are considering at- event. But they hosted an incred- tournament, after the bronze- tournament, as well as the kick- tending in 2022? ible tournament. medal winning display at the off times, will be announced in For African fans, it is true, it I see a lot of parallels with Qa- 2011 edition in Japan. due course and followed by the will be great. For many it will be tar’s World Cup and I know that “There is so much excitement relevant ticketing information Schalke’s midfielder Amine Harit (left) celebrates with his teammate Omar Mascarell after scoring one fl ight and for most not too just like Russia did, they will sur- ahead of the FIFA Club World on fi fa.com/tickets. against Paderborn during the Bundesliga match in Paderborn, western Germany. (AFP) many hours travelling. When pass all expectations. Gulf Times Monday, September 16, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE LA LIGA Jordan free-kick Arsenal blow lead fi res Sevilla to top AFP with 16-year-old Ansu Fati scor- Madrid ing inside two minutes. With Lionel Messi still out and watching from the stands at the evilla moved to the top of Camp Nou it was left to Fati take La Liga table yesterday the plaudits. Fati, who became at lowly Watford as Joan Jordan’s brilliant the third youngest scorer in La free-kick helped them Liga history when he came off the sealS a 1-0 win at Alaves. Julen bench to net in a 2-2 draw at Os- Lopetegui’s side continued their asuna this month, scored in the Gunners move level with Manchester United, Tottenham, Chelsea and Leicester excellent start to the campaign, second minute, before providing remaining unbeaten and moving the assist for Frenkie de Jong’s a point clear of Atletico Madrid, seventh minute goal. who lost 2-0 at Real Sociedad on The teenager got a standing Saturday, at the summit. ovation when he came off after Sevilla host Real Madrid next an hour. Barca coach Ernesto Sunday in a meeting of two sides Valverde marvelled at Fati’s yet to taste defeat. “That means composure. “It’s not usual that nothing (being top),” said Sevilla on his fi rst touch he scores, and coach Lopetegui, whose team on his second he sets up a goal,” next face a marathon trip to Baku he said. “To get used to being a to play Qarabag in their Europa Barca player is work for anyone, League opener on Thursday. even more so for a boy so young, “The only thing that (being but he’s a balanced kid, he strikes top) tells me is that the team is me as being at ease.” doing things well. We have to Kevin Gameiro got Valencia keep improving before going to off the mark but a brace from the Baku, where they will make it fi t-again Luis Suarez meant Max very diffi cult for us.” Gomez’s injury time second for It was a fi rst defeat of the sea- the visitors was purely academic. son for Alaves, who slipped to The defeat left Valencia with just 11th in the standings. Lopetegui, four points from four matches, who joined Sevilla for his fi rst job leaving new coach Albert Ce- since being sacked in quick suc- lades — a former Real Madrid cession by both Spain and Real assistant coach — with a huge Madrid, saw one of his close- amount of work to do before the season signings produce the club play their fi rst Champi- game’s defi ning moment. ons League group game against Midfi elder Jordan, who arrived Chelsea tomorrow. at Sevilla from Eibar for a report- ed 14mn euros ($15.62mn), curled SPANISH LA LIGA RESULTS home a wonderful free-kick in Eibar 1 (Ramis 58) Espanyol 2 the 37th minute which fl ew into (Ferreyra 76, Granero 79); Alaves the top corner to give him his 0 Sevilla 1 (Jordan 37); Celta Vigo second goal of the season. The visitors comfortably saw out the 0 Granada 2 (Sanchez 45+6, Her- match to claim their third league rera 54); Valladolid 1 (Hervias 65) win this term, as Alaves failed to Osasuna 1 (Ibanez 81) muster a shot on target. Played Saturday: Real Madrid 3 Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scores against Watford during the Premier League match at Vicarage Road in Watford, Britain. (Reurers) Elsewhere yesterday, Robert (Benzema 25, 31, Casemiro 40) Ibanez’s 81st-minute equaliser Levante 2 (Mayoral 49, Melero 75); AFP inability to fi nd a balance between his gifted possession to Gerard Deulofeu and lished ‘top six’ for a European place, but kept Osasuna unbeaten after a Leganes 0 Villarreal 3 (Gerard 26, London brilliant attack and shoddy defence con- the Spaniard teed up Cleverley to shot will need to improve on the road to do so. 1-1 draw at Valladolid, while Gra- 90+3, Silva 39-og); Real Sociedad tinued. Emery recalled Mesut Ozil to his low past Leno. Ryan Fraser’s driven free-kick restored nada moved up to seventh with 2 (Odegaard 58, Monreal 61) starting line-up for the fi rst time since he Watford were then in the ascendancy Bournemouth’s lead 23 minutes from a 2-0 success at nine-man Celta Atletico Madrid 0; Barcelona 5 uique Sanchez Flores enjoyed and Sead Kolasinac were the victims of a as Deulofeu curled just wide, Ismaila Sarr time via a defl ection off Fabian Delph Vigo and Espanyol won at Eibar. (Fati 2, De Jong 7, Pique 51, Suarez a happy return to Watford as carjacking attack in July. scuff ed a great chance for his fi rst goal in before Wilson’s cool fi nish to lob inter- Real claimed a 3-2 win over 61, 82) Valencia 2 (Gameiro 27, Arsenal blew a 2-0 lead at Vic- Ozil initially struggled to settle as Wat- English football off target and Pereyra’s national teammate Jordan Pickford made Levante at the Santiago Berna- Gómez 90+2) arage Road to draw 2-2 yester- ford started the brighter with Cleverley’s fl icked fi nish fl ashed across goal. They fi - the game safe. beu on Saturday, when reigning day.Q Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang looked rising drive forcing Bernd Leno into a fi ne nally got the equaliser their second-half Everton have now picked up just one champions Barcelona eased to On Friday: Real Mallorca 0 Ath- to have the Gunners well on course for a save before Jose Holebas fi red horribly display deserved nine minutes from time point from three away games this season a 5-2 victory against Valencia, letic Bilbao 0 comfortable three points when he struck off -target with a great chance from the when Pereyra was clipped by Luiz inside after also failing to win at Crystal Palace twice in 11 minutes before the break. edge of the area. the box and the Argentine sent Leno the and Aston Villa. Victory takes Bourne- However, Sanchez Flores, who was ap- However, Watford have now conceded wrong way from the penalty spot. mouth above their opponents on goal dif- pointed as Hornets’ boss for the second 10 goals in their opening fi ve games to Deulofeu sent another eff ort inches ference with both sides on seven points time last week after one point from their the campaign and were opened up far too wide and Cleverley’s fi erce drive was de- from their opening fi ve games. opening four games of the season saw Javi easily to allow Aubameyang to open the fl ected over by Luiz as wave upon wave of Gracia sacked, roused the hosts for an scoring on 21 minutes. The home fans Watford attack continued. ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS impressive second-half fi ghtback. were screaming for a foul as Dani Ceballos But is was Abdoulaye Doucoure who Bournemouth 3 (Wilson 23, 72, Fraser 67) Arsenal played a huge part in their own won back possession, but Watford were squandered the best chance of all for a Everton 1 (Calvert-Lewin 44); Watford 2 downfall too as they gifted possession slow to react as Kolasinac burst down the winner deep into stoppage time when he (Cleverley 53, Pereyra 81-pen) Arsenal 2 away inside their own box for Tom Clev- left and fed Aubameyang, who spun and shot too close to Leno with just the Ger- (Aubameyang 21, 32) erley to pull a goal back before David Luiz fi red low past Ben Foster. man goalkeeper to beat to leave Watford upended Roberto Pereyra, who slotted Ozil was involved as a patient build- still bottom of the Premier League table. Played Saturday: Norwich 3 (McLean 18, home the resulting penalty. up from the visitors doubled their lead Cantwell 28, Pukki 50) Manchester City 2 Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka admitted on 32 minutes. At the end of a 20-pass WILSON HANDS EVERTON MORE (Aguero 45, Rodri 88); Liverpool 3 (Mane the Gunners were lucky to escape with a move, Ozil freed Ainsley Maitland-Niles AWAY DAY BLUES AT BOURNEMOUTH 28, 40, Salah 72) Newcastle 1 (Willems 7); point. “We came out and played such a in behind the Watford defence and the Earlier, Callum Wilson scored twice as Brighton 1 (Maupay 51) Burnley 1 (Hendrick bad second-half. You have to say we are right-back squared for Aubameyang to Bournemouth curbed early season opti- 90+1); Manchester United 1 (Rashford happy to take a point,” said Xhaka. slot home his fi fth goal in as many games mism over Everton’s prospects with a 3-1 8-pen) Leicester 0 Sheff ield United 0 A point sees Arsenal only move level this season. win. The England international took ad- Southampton 1 (Djenepo 66); Tottenham with Manchester United, Tottenham, Twice the visitors escaped gifting Wat- vantage of some sloppy defending from 4 (Son 10, 23, van Aanholt 21-og, Lamela Chelsea and Leicester behind Liverpool ford a way back into the game when Mat- the visitors to head home the opener from 42) Crystal Palace 0; Wolves 2 (Abraham and Manchester City in the early season teo Guendouzi was caught in possession close range, but Everton levelled before 69-og, Cutrone 85) v Chelsea 5 (Tomori 31, battle for a top-four fi nish. on the edge of his own box, trying to play half-time through Dominic Calvert- Abraham 34, 41, 55, Mount 90+6) However, it is Watford who will feel out from the back. But Arsenal did not Lewin. they should even have gone onto win learn their lesson and were fi nally pun- The Toff ees have spent big again this Playing today: Aston Villa v West Ham Sevilla’s midfielder Joan Jordan (right) celebrates with Sergio the game as Arsenal boss Unai Emery’s ished when Sokratis Papastathopoulos summer in a bid to challenge the estab- (1900 GMT) Reguilon after scoring against Deportivo Alaves. (AFP)

SERIE A Bologna go second as coach ignites comeback from hospital

AFP when Genoa’s new defender Cristian The result moves Roma into seventh Milan Zapata fouled his cousin Duvan Zapata. place on fi ve points, four behind leaders But amid the late drama Genoa were Inter Milan, while Sassuolo are 12th af- awarded a controversial penalty after ter taking three points from their open- ologna moved second in Serie Christian Kouame went down easily ing three games. A yesterday after a thrilling 4-3 following a Berat Djimsiti challenge. On Saturday, Inter Milan reclaimed comeback win over promoted Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are now top spot after a 1-0 win over 10-man Brescia inspired by coach Sini- sixth before they travel to Dinamo Za- Udinese. Stefano Sensi’s diving header saB Mihajlovic who gave instructions greb for their fi rst ever Champions was enough to seal a maximum nine from hospital as he undergoes a second League game next week. points for Antonio Conte’s Inter ahead round of chemotherapy for leucaemia. Lazio suff ered their rstfi defeat of their European opener against Slavia “At the end of the fi rst half we heard this season as they sat back following Prague in the San Siro next Tuesday. Mihajlovic’s anger on the phone and Ciro Immobile’s 17th-minute penalty Juventus are trailing two points be- this shook us,” said Bologna forward against SPAL. An Andrea Petagna vol- hind Inter after three games and could Rodrigo Palacio. “We talked to him be- ley just after the hour mark in Ferrara be overtaken by city rivals Torino who fore the game, for us it is very impor- and Jasmin Kurtic’s late winner sealed host promoted Lecce today. tant and we miss him. We play like this all three points for SPAL. Napoli meanwhile warmed up for thanks to his mentality.” The Romans are eighth with four European holders Liverpool on Tues- Yesterday’s game was the fi rst the points from three games. Cagliari day with a Dries Mertens double sealing 50-year-old Mihajlovic has missed de- meanwhile won 3-1 at Parma in a game a 2-0 win over crisis club Sampdoria, to spite his condition. A quick-fi re Alfre- where there were 12 minutes of extra move up to fourth in the table. do Donnarumma double saw Brescia — time following a lengthy VAR review. playing their fi rst home match in eight Meanwhile, Henrikh Mkhitaryan RESULTS scored a debut goal to help Paulo Fon- years — lead after 19 minutes. Genoa 1 (Criscito 90+1-pen) Atalanta 2 Mattia Bani headed Bologna back seca secure his fi rst win as AS Roma (Muriel 64-pen, Zapata 90+5); Brescia 3 into the game on 36 minutes, with the coach in a 4-2 victory over Sassuolo. visitors trailing 3-1 before Brescia were The Armenia international, who (Donnarumma 10, 19, Cistana 42) Bolo- hit by Daniele Dessena’s sending off joined the capital club on loan from Ar- gna 4 (Bani 36, Palacio 56, Denswil 60, for a second yellow card just after the senal on transfer deadline day, scored Orsolini 80); SPAL 2 (Petagna 63, Kurtic break. Bologna came back with goals his side’s third goal as the visitors 90+2) Lazio 1 (Immobile 17-pen); Parma 1 from Palacio on 56 minutes, Stefano were put to the sword in the fi rst half. (Antonio Barilla 58) Cagliari 3 (Ceppitelli Denswil four minutes later and a Ricca- Roma were 4-0 up inside 33 minutes 23, 39, Simeone 77); Roma 4 (Christante rdo Orsolini’s winner ten minutes from Sassuolo’s Vlad Chiriches (right) tackles Roma’s Edin Dzeko during the Italian Serie A match in Rome yesterday. (AFP) thanks to Bryan Cristante’s header, a 12, Dzeko 19, Mkhitaryan 22, Kluivert 33) time. Mihajlovic’s side are now two volley from Edin Dzeko, Mkhitaryan’s Sassuolo 2 (Berardi 53, 72) points behind Inter Milan and ahead of into injury time to rescue a 2-1 win for same scoreline at SPAL. hosts level from the spot four minutes low strike and a composed fi nish from Played Saturday: Fiorentina 0 Juventus champions Juventus on goal diff erence Atalanta over Genoa ahead of his side’s Colombian international Zapata ri- earlier. The side from Bergamo had Justin Kluivert. The visitors rallied in after three games. Champions League debut, as Lazio fell fl ed in on 95 minutes after Genoa cap- been ahead after Colombian substitute the second half through Domenico Be- 0; Napoli 2 (Mertens 13, 67) Sampdoria 0; Elsewhere, Duvan Zapata struck deep to their fi rst defeat of the season by the tain had pulled the Muriel’s 64th-minute penalty awarded rardi’s brace but it was too little too late. Inter Milan 1 (Sensi 44) Udinese 0 Gulf Times 4 Monday, September 16, 2019 SPORT

RUGBY FOCUS England in the ‘right place’ to win Rugby Ireland’s Schmidt World Cup: George

AFP Miyazaki, Japan

eaner, meaner and better wary of threat from prepared than for their disastrous 2015 World Cup, England have the Ltools to capture rugby’s top prize, hooker Jamie George warned yesterday. The English have waited four years to banish the nightmare of Japan, Scotland the last World Cup, and George believes they could go all the way in Japan after being meticulously heat camp in Italy over the sum- ‘They’ve always been really competitive, while we’ve managed to get our nose in front’ prepared by Eddie Jones for mer and part of the reason Jones what looks like being a wide- chose the southern coastal resort AFP open tournament. of Miyazaki for England’s World Makuhari, Japan “He’s not giving us too many Cup base was to further acclima- messages now,” George told re- tise for the humidity that is likely porters at England’s training to have an impact on teams dur- reland may be the number- base in Miyazaki. ing the tournament. one ranked team, but head “The messages have been sort “A lot of acclimatisation hap- coach Joe Schmidt is tak- of drilled into us for the last four pened in Treviso,” said George, ing nothing for granted as years really. When (Jones) fi rst noting England could even play Ihe prepares to face Pool A rivals came in, he said to you and he under a closed roof in Sapporo. Scotland and Japan at the Rugby said to us that we’re here to win “During training here obvi- World Cup. the World Cup in four years,” he ously the humidity is pretty high. The Irish take on Scotland in added.“We’re in that place now, Regardless of whether we play Yokohama next Sunday in a mar- so I think we’re in a good position with the roof on or off , we’re not quee opening fi xture that will go to go out and do that.” too bothered about it.” a long way to determining the England, who in 2015 famously George, whose contribu- fate of the group — and possibly became the fi rst hosts to crash tions at the lineout and as a the whole tournament. out of the World Cup’s group ball-carrier will be key, revealed And while Ireland have had stage, have been drawn alongside that players were dipping balls the better of their Celtic rivals France and Argentina in Pool C. in water buckets to simulate lately, Schmidt told reporters But while they hope to emu- slippery game conditions, but yesterday they had been “a lit- late England’s 2003 vintage, still shrugged: “You’ve just got to tle bit fortuitous” in recent en- the only northern hemisphere make sure you grip it and hope counters. team to lift the Webb Ellis Cup, for the best!” “They’ve always been really George insisted the players were England are still sweating on competitive. While we’ve man- not looking beyond their opening the fi tness of Mako Vunipola aged to get our nose in front, it game against Tonga in Sapporo (hamstring) and Jack Nowell (ap- was a little bit fortuitous last time on September 22. pendix) and will not want to pick we played them,” said Schmidt, “We’ve got a lot of hard work up further injuries against Tonga with Ireland running out 22-13 to go in order for us to get there,” before facing the United States in winners at Murrayfi eld. said the Saracens hooker, who Kobe just four days later. Tonga New Zealander Schmidt has made the number two jersey were smashed 92-7 by world highlighted the danger posed his own over the past season. champions New Zealand in a by Scottish fl y-half Finn Rus- “We’re not thinking too far World Cup warm-up recently, sell who “brings an incredible File photo of Ireland’s coach Joe Schmidt. (AFP) ahead. Everything that we’re fo- but England defence coach John variety to his kicking and pass- cused on is on ourselves, mostly Mitchell predicted the Pacifi c ing game and is a threat with wins against Wales and desper- this week — and we’ll look ahead islanders would bounce back his running as well” as well as ate to advance further than the Former Wales captain Thomas reveals living with HIV to Tonga next week.” strongly. the “electric” full-back Stuart quarter-fi nals for the fi rst time Jones has said he wants his “They’re very hard-working Hogg. ever at the global showpiece. ormer Wales captain players to be ready for North Ko- people and obviously very pas- “You could go right through Captain Rory Best said what Gareth Thomas has rean missiles, earthquakes and sionate when they do play for their team and I think they will set this team apart from previ- revealed he is HIV pos- even bad sushi.England held a Tonga,” he said. look at their personnel and ous Ireland squads was “its col- itive and appealed for our personnel and rate them- lective nature”. supportF to “break the stigma” selves a smashing chance,” said “Potentially there had been around the condition. Schmidt. an over-reliance on one or two The 45-year-old said in a Henshaw injury doubt for The coach will not be taking great players, world-class play- video posted on Twitter that Ireland World Cup opener Japan lightly either, as the hosts ers, to produce something magi- he had been moved to go pub- bid to reach their fi rst ever quar- cal and if that didn’t happen, we lic about his health because he AFP shaw, who also missed the fi rst ter-fi nal. were under pressure,” said the had received emails threaten- Makuhari, Japan two games of the 2015 World He compared the two teams’ Ulster hooker. ing to expose him. Cup through injury. recent performances against “I feel this time, we have “I’m Gareth Thomas and I “It could be a cramp. We’ve England, which Ireland lost by a transferred that load. Yes, we want to share my secret with reland’s World Cup prepa- travelled a lot. We’ve tried to be humiliating 57-15 and the Brave have a few world-class players you. Why? Because it’s mine rations have suff ered a fully rehydrated, fully recov- Blossoms by the narrower mar- in positions but defi nitely our to tell you, not the emails that blow with centre Rob- ered. But if it is more than that gin of 35-15. greatest strength is our collec- make my life hell, threaten- bie Henshaw picking up a and we do leave him out this “I thought their fi rst half in tive and we know how important ing to tell you before I do, and Ihamstring injury likely to keep week, we do feel we’ve got good England at Twickenham was each person is to another,” added because I believe in you and I him out of their opening match cover,” said Schmidt. a lot better than our fi rst half the 37-year-old. trust you,” he said. against Scotland. Ireland have three other in England at Twickenham re- The forecast for Sunday’s “I’m living with HIV. Now Head coach Joe Schmidt told centres to choose from — Hen- cently and that is probably a clash with Scotland is for tor- you have that information, reporters yesterday that the shaw’s Leinster teammate Gar- benchmark for them. I thought rential rain, Schmidt said, ad- that makes me extremely vul- 26-year-old Leinster centre ry Ringrose, Bundee Aki and to lead England 15-10 was a very mitting this could have some nerable but it does not make would have a scan later in the Chris Farrell — but Schmidt impressive eff ort,” he said. impact on selection and tactics. me weak. day. revealed he had requested Will He added that Japan were also “We’ll see how we adapt and “Now even though I’ve been 1995-2007. The utility back to show that everyone lives in “We’d be hopeful it’s not Addison be pulled from Ulster’s “a lot more competitive than the cope with those diff erent condi- forced to tell you this, I choose also played three tests for the fear of people’s reactions and too bad. Is it likely to rule him starting XV as cover, but that he score suggests” in their recent tions,” said the coach. to fi ght, to educate and break British and Irish Lions in 2005. opinions of something about out of this week? Yeah, you’d was not yet on his way to Japan. match against South Africa, However, in the fi nal run-up the stigma around this sub- After his retirement, he came them. But that doesn’t mean have to say it is likely,” admit- “That was precautionary which the Springboks won 41-7 to the tournament, the team will ject.” out as gay in 2009 and has that we should have to hide,” ted Schmidt ahead of Ireland’s just to make sure we have fi t to atone for their shocking de- be training in temperatures up to Thomas was capped 103 been a prominent campaigner he said. clash with Scotland next Sun- and able cover should we need feat in the 2015 World Cup. 32 degrees Celsius, he said. times for Wales in an inter- against homophobia in sport. “To do this, I really, really day in Yokohama. a replacement for Robbie,” said Ireland come into the World “That’s not really Irish tem- national career spanning “I’m asking you to help me need your support.” It’s a case of deja vu for Hen- Schmidt. Cup in Japan off the back of two peratures!”

TENNIS Pliskova beats Martic to win 4th title of the season Reuters seventh seed and win fi ve games in a row. Doi made 14 unforced errors in the open- Beijing Pliskova’s consistency in the baseline ral- ing set alone and did not recover until going lies was a force to reckon with and Martic down 4-0 in the second set. Doi did not go had no answer to her superior court cover- home empty handed, though, as she teamed orld number two Karolina age, eventually conceding the 96-minute up with Hibino to beat Christina McHale Pliskova beat Croatia’s Petra match after saving one championship point. and Valeria Savinykh 3-6, 6-4, 10-4 in the Martic 6-3, 6-2 in the fi nal of doubles fi nal. the inaugural Zhengzhou Open HIBINO BEATS DOI TO CLINCH Wyesterday to win the 15th WTA singles title HIROSHIMA TITLE PETERSON EASES PAST RYBAKINA TO of her career and her fi rst in China. Japan’s Nao Hibino beat compatriot and WIN MAIDEN WTA TITLE IN NANCHANG The title was the Czech’s fourth of the doubles partner Misaki Doi 6-3, 6-2 at the Sweden’s Rebecca Peterson brushed aside season to add to trophies won in Brisbane, Hana-cupid Japan Women’s Open in Hiro- Elena Rybakina 6-2, 6-0 to win her maiden Rome and Eastbourne — moving her ahead shima yesterday to win her fi rst WTA title WTA title at the Jiangxi Open in Nanchang of Australian world number one Ash Barty since 2015. yesterday. and Canadian Bianca Andreescu for most The two unseeded players were playing in Peterson, 24, broke her Kazakh oppo- titles won so far this year. the fi rst all-Japanese WTA Tour fi nal in 22 nent fi ve times and smashed 13 winners in a Pliskova won 74% of her fi rst serv- years and Hibino, who ousted top seed Hsieh match that lasted exactly one hour. ice points, fi red seven aces and broke the Su-Wei in the quarter-fi nals, wrapped up Fatigue seemed to play a part for Ry- Croatian four times in a rain-interrupted the contest in 68 minutes. bakina, who was involved in three-setters match that was initially delayed by more Although Doi broke early twice in the in both her quarter-fi nal and semi-fi nal than fi ve hours due to heavy rain. opening set to take a 3-1 lead, Hibino matches that fi nished late. Martic, who held a superior 4-1 head-to- stormed back into the tie to win the next The 20-year-old made 11 unforced errors head record against Pliskova and also beat nine games to swing the momentum her and won only 48% of her fi rst service points her at Roland Garros earlier this year, took a way. in the fi nal. In contrast, Peterson won 83% 2-0 lead in the fi rst set when she broke the “I was so nervous today, so much more of her fi rst service points. top seed in the opening game. than the semi-fi nals,” Hibino said. “But Peterson was also aided by Rybakina’s However, that was the only time Pliskova because I experienced being nervous in the double fault in the opening game of the fi rst conceded a break of serve and she soon took semi-fi nals, I knew what to expect. I was set that immediately swung the momentum control with powerful groundstrokes, using able to stay positive during the match to- in the Swede’s favour. the full width of the court to smash winners day.” Although Rybakina tried to dictate ral- and passing shots with precision. Hibino broke Doi seven times in the match lies using her power, it was Peterson who Martic’s service game suff ered — she won and won 71% of her fi rst service points to fi nished off points, winning nine straight only 53% of her fi rst service points — and win her second career title since her maiden games to bagel the fourth seed in the second Karolina Pliskova holds the trophy after winning the final match against Petra Martic at the Zhengzhou Open Pliskova duly took advantage to punish the win at the Tashkent Open four years ago. set and clinch the title. yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Monday, September 16, 2019 5 SPORT

MLB NBA Jordan selling share of Hornets, will remain Braves blow out Nats, majority owner

Reuetrs team and organization, and New York remain the team’s NBA Gov- ernor, Gabe and Dan’s in- vestment in the franchise is ichael Jordan is invaluable, as we continue clinch playoff spot selling a percent- to modernize, add new tech- age of ownership nology and strive to compete ‘It’s one of my better pitches, so I thought it would be a good option. I just threw what was in the Charlotte with the best in the NBA. MHornets to a pair of New York “Both Gabe and Dan are in- called for the most part. I thought everything was good today, except for a couple of mistakes’ based businessmen. dustry standard-setters and The deal is pending NBA proven leaders, with a belief in Reuters approval, but that is expected philanthropy and a passion for Washington to occur quickly, the Charlotte the game of basketball. They Observer reported. share my commitment to Jordan’s new partners will Charlotte and the Carolinas, onald Acuna Jr’s two-run double be Gabe Plotkin, a founder and I look forward to working highlighted a four-run seventh- of Melvin Capital, and Dan- with and learning from them.” inning rally on Saturday that iel Sundheim, a founder of Jordan, a six-time NBA sparked visiting Atlanta to a 10-1 DI Capital. How much of the champion, bought the Hor- winR over the Washington Nationals - and team they will buy has not nets for about $180 million in propelled the Braves into the playoff s. been disclosed, but the Ob- 2010 and controls about 97 While the win reduced Atlanta’s magic server called it “a large piece” percent of the team equity. number for clinching the National League though Jordan will remain Earlier this year, Forbes val- East to four, it also ensured the Braves will majority owner. ued the Hornets at about $1.3 at worst get one the NL’s two wild-card “I’m excited to welcome billion - 28th of the 30 NBA spots. The Braves (93-57) increased their Gabe and Dan as my partners teams. The Hornets fi nished division lead to 10 1/2 games over the Na- in Hornets Sports & Enter- 39-43 last season and lost tionals (81-66). The Braves have won 13 of tainment,” Jordan said in a their leader, Kemba Walker, in their last 16 and are 11-7 against the Na- team-issued news release. free agency in the off season. tionals. “While I will continue to run They made the playoff s three After reliever Fernando Rodney entered the Charlotte Hornets, make times this decade, losing in the game and struck out Adam Duvall, all decisions related to the the fi rst round each time. Acuna hit a sharp double to left on the fi rst pitch he saw that easily scored pinch run- ner Billy Hamilton and Dansby Swanson. NFL It was the only hit for Acuna, who has 97 RBIs. Acuna then scored when Ozzie Al- bies - who was 3-for-4 - clubbed his 42nd double. Three batters later, Nick Markakis Foles targeting singled in Albies. RESULTS Week 11 for return Braves 10-1 Nats Reuters Yankees 13-3 Blue Jays New York Astros 6-1 Royals Rays 3-1 Angels he Jacksonville Jag- Twins 9-5 Indians uars are targeting Twins 2-0 Indians Week 11 to get start- ing quarterback Nick A’s 8-6 Rangers TFoles back on the fi eld after Rockies 11-10 Padres a Week 1 injury forced him to Mets 3-0 Dodgers undergo surgery, according to Red Sox 2-1 Phillies an NFL Network report. Foles had a plate and screws Brewers 5-2 Cardinals installed to repair a broken left Cubs 14-1 Pirates collarbone that ended his Jag- D’backs 1-0 Reds uars debut in the fi rst quarter of a 40-26 loss to the Kansas Tigers 8-4 Orioles City Chiefs. Foles was 5-of-8 passing for Marlins 4-2 Giants Washington State rookie 75 yards before departing. Mariners 2-1 White Sox Gardner Minshew II, a sixth- Minshew went 22 of 25 for round pick, took over for Foles 275 yards, two touchdowns Mike Foltynewicz (6-6) continued to against the Chiefs and is ex- and an interception after en- pitch well since his return from the minor pected to remain the starter tering the game. leagues. The right-hander worked six in- going forward. nings and allowed one run on four hits, Foles also suff ered a broken JETS EXPECT DARNOLD one walk and fi ve strikeouts. Foltynew- collarbone with the Philadel- TO MISS 3-7 WEEKS icz has allowed only two runs in his last phia Eagles in 2014, but said Sam Darnold is sidelined due 18 innings. The Braves have won his last this injury was much worse. to mononucleosis and NFL 11 starts. Washington starter Austin Voth Atlanta Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson (left) and centre fielder Ronald Acuna Jr celebrate their win over Washington Nationals at That injury happened in early Network reported the New pitched 5 2/3 innings and allowed one run Nationals Park. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports November of that season; York Jets don’t expect their on four hits, two walks and six strikeouts. he did not have surgery and quarterback to return any Three Washington relievers combined to berson and fi nished the at-bat, striking and didn’t walk anyone. He is the third next three hitters and stranded him. Alex missed the fi nal two months time soon. allow nine runs over the fi nal 3 1/3 innings. out before Acuna’s big hit. Culberson was Astro to reach 16 wins this season. Mike Bregman tied it in the fourth with his 36th of the year. Darnold, per NFL Network, The Nationals scored a run in the fi rst carted off the fi eld and taken to the hospi- Montgomery (3-9) took the loss. He gave home run, just over Alex Gordon’s glove Foles would be eligible to is expected to miss between when Anthony Rendon delivered his 43rd tal, but Snitker said he was alert and re- up two runs on fi ve hits in fi ve-plus in- and into the fi rst row in left fi eld. The As- come off injured reserve after 3-7 weeks with the illness. double to right fi eld, easily allowing Trea sponsive. nings. He struck out one and walked fi ve. tros put runners on second and third with eight weeks, and with the Jag- That would include the team’s Turner to score. The Braves tied the game “I had planned on using the curve, and one out, but Montgomery retired the next uars having a bye in Week 10, Week 4 bye week. If he misses with a run in the sixth. Albies singled and ASTROS’ GREINKE BEATS ROYALS FOR it was pretty good at the start, so I used two batters. he could be ready to face the three weeks, Darnold could be scored on a two-out single by Markakis, 1ST TIME, MAKES HISTORY it a little more than I planned on,” said Houston took the lead in the sixth af- Indianapolis Colts in Week 11. back Week 5. who went 4-for-5 and has six hits in two Zack Greinke pitched six strong innings Greinke, who won the American League ter a walk to Bregman and back-to-back Foles was hurt on a 35-yard Backup Trevor Siemian got games since missing 44 games with a to become the 19th pitcher to defeat all 30 Cy Young Award with the Royals in 2009. singles by Yuli Gurriel and Tucker to start touchdown pass to DJ Chark the start Week 2 against the fractured left wrist. major league teams, as the Houston As- “It’s one of my better pitches, so I the inning. An error on Lopez at second with 5:23 remaining in the fi rst Buff alo Bills. The seventh-inning rally began when tros beat the host Kansas City Royals 6-1 thought it would be a good option. I just loaded the bases and ended the night for quarter. Head coach Adam Gase Wander Suero (5-8) walked Brian McCann Saturday night. Kyle Tucker had four hits, threw what was called for the most part. Montgomery. As he released the throw, all but ruled Darnold out for and Swanson to start the inning. The Na- including the go-ahead single in the sixth I thought everything was good today, ex- Reliever Tim Hill came in and got a he was hit by Chiefs defensive Week 3 at New England, and tionals called in Rodney from the bullpen, inning for the Astros. cept for a couple of mistakes.” strikeout, popout and fl yout to leave the tackle Chris Jones, who land- the Jets have a bye in Week 4 and his inside pitch hit Charlie Culberson Houston (97-53) saw its magic number The Royals opened the scoring in the bases loaded. ed on Foles and drove his left before facing the Philadelphia below the right cheek. But home plate to clinch the American League West re- third inning, as Whit Merrifi eld drove The Astros scored three runs in the shoulder into the ground. Eagles the following week. umpire Tim Timmons ruled Culberson duced to six. Oakland beat Texas later home Nicky Lopez with an RBI double to eighth on a three-run, pinch-hit home The signal-caller was tak- Because mono enlarges the had off ered at the pitch while attempting Saturday, but Houston maintained a 7 the wall in left centre. Lopez was original- run by Yordan Alvarez. It was the fi rst en to the locker room for X- spleen and puts it at a higher to bunt, which resulted in a strike rather 1/2-game lead over the A’s. ly ruled out at the plate, but the call was pinch-hit home run for Alvarez, and the rays, and he later returned to risk of rupturing in a contact than a hit batter. The decision incensed Greinke (16-5) allowed one run on six reversed after the Royals challenged. Mer- fi rst runs allowed in the majors by reliever the team’s sideline in street sport, Gase said the team will Atlanta manager Brian Snitker, who was hits. The former Royals fi rst-round pick rifi eld went to third on the throw and was Gabe Speier. Houston added a run in the clothes with his left arm in a not play Darnold until that ejected for arguing.Duvall replaced Cul- (sixth overall) in 2002 struck out seven there with no outs, but Greinke retired the ninth for the fi nal margin. padded sling. risk subsides.

NHL Capitals’ Kuznetsov gets 3-game suspension Reuters thing in my power to win you back with games last season and tallied 72 points Washington my actions both on and off the ice,” he (21 goals, 51 assists). In his career, he’s said. “I also understand that I am for- played in 416 games, scoring 337 points tunate to have an opportunity to make (101 goals, 236 assists). he NHL suspended Washing- things right. ton Capitals centre Evgeny “Thanks to the Capitals, NHL, and WILD’S SPURGEON SIGNS Kuznetsov for three games NHLPA, I have taken many steps in the SEVEN-YEAR EXTENSION without pay for what it termed right direction and I’m confi dent that I Wild defenseman Jared Tinappropriate conduct. will continue on that path. I am grateful Spurgeon signed a seven-year, The suspension stems from a positive for everyone’s support and I’m looking $53,025,000 contract extension, the test for cocaine at the 2019 IIHF World to move forward from this point. While team announced on Saturday. Championships on May 26. The Inter- I can appreciate that people may have Spurgeon’s contract has a $7,575,000 national Ice Hockey Federation already additional questions, I will not be com- average annual value and runs through banned him from international compe- menting further on this matter.” the 2026-27 season. tition for four years. The ban took eff ect Kuznetsov, 27, will be eligible to re- The 29-year-old Spurgeon posted on June 13, 2019. turn to international play on June 12, career highs in goals (14), assists (29), Kuznetsov and NHLPA representa- 2023, meaning he cannot participate for points (43), games played (82) and pen- tives met with commissioner Gary his homeland, Russia, in the 2022 Win- alty minutes (20) last season. Bettman on Monday. ter Olympics. Spurgeon led the team in blocked In a statement issued through the The ban didn’t apply to his status shots (145) and ranked second in average Capitals on Saturday, Kuznetsov said he with the Capitals. Under the NHL and ice time per game (24:09). will not appeal the league’s ruling. NHLPA’s joint Substance Abuse and Spurgeon has collected 70 goals and “I have decided to accept the NHL’s Behavioral Health Program, players 178 assists in 591 career games with the suspension today. I am once again sorry are not suspended for positive tests for Wild, who signed him as a free agent on that I have disappointed my family, my marijuana or cocaine. Sept 23, 2010. He was selected by the teammates, and the Capitals organiza- The Capitals’ fi rst-round pick in the in the sixth round of tion and fans. I promise to do every- 2010 NHL Draft, Kuznetsov played in 76 the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. Gulf Times 6 Monday, September 16, 2019 SPORT

MOTOGP Riding lessons for academic year 2019 begin at Marquez steals Rossi Al Shaqab Doha: The Equine Educa- tion Department (EED) of Al Shaqab, member of Qatar Foundation, has begun riding lessons for the academic year 2019. A new curriculum has thunder in San Marino been put in place, to usher in the reintroduction of the aca- demic system for Al Shaqab’s Spaniard now has a 93-point lead over Italian Ducati rider Dovizioso with six races left this season Riding Academy. A Parents’ Orientation AFP Program was conducted on Misano Adriatico, Italy September 4 and 5, to ap- prise parents of the school’s riders, on the curriculum that paniard Marc Marquez screamed will be followed. The riding with joy as he snatched victory classes for the academic year on the fi nal lap at the San Mari- 2019 began on September no Grand Prix yesterday to close 7. Lessons will be off ered inS on a sixth MotoGP world title. The until the end of April 2020. 26-year-old Spaniard said his motiva- Instructions are being made tion had been high after his spat with available for all skill levels, local hero Valentino Rossi in qualifying starting with students aged on Saturday. six, up to 17 years. Al Shaqab “I knew there was no need to win features a full-service Riding because (Andrea) Dovizioso was far Academy equipped with the behind but what happened yesterday infrastructure to teach all lev- (Saturday) in qualifying gave me extra els from preliminary/novice motivation and winning today was the level, right up to advanced/ best way to answer,” said Marquez. competition level. Through a Marquez and Rossi both insisted the diverse range of theoretical, other had deliberately ruined his chance riding, and practical lessons to start on pole position as they pushed that span various aspects of for the best time on the fi nal lap in qual- horse sciences, student riders ifying. Honda rider Marquez, starting will be trained and groomed on the second row, matched Rossi with in the diff erent facets of a third MotoGP win in Misano, fi nishing horsemanship. ahead of France’s Fabio Quartararo, on a Broadly classified as Foun- Yamaha-SRT, who had the lead for most dation Level and Intermediate of the race. Pole sitter Maverick Vinales levels, the curriculum off ers completed the podium for Yamaha. eight levels of programmes Marquez now has a 93-point lead depending on the rider’s on Italian Ducati rider Dovizioso with ability and skill. While classes six races left this season. Dovizioso at the Foundation Level are fi nished sixth yesterday in front of introductory, off ering pre- his home crowd. Seven-time MotoGP paratory classes in dressage, world champion Rossi — who last won jumping, theory, and ground- in Misano in 2014 — fi nished fourth work, the Intermediate Levels 12.660sec behind Marquez after start- will provide more advanced ing from the third row. learning in these areas. “At the end I just decided to go for it,” At the advanced stage of said Marquez, after his seventh win this the intermediate level, riders season after being pipped on the line in will be able to select their the last two races at Silverstone and the majors and eventually receive Dutch GP. “Having lost two races on their Equestrian Passport. the last corner burned a bit,” said Mar- This passport is a validation quez. “Fabio, however, is ready to win a Honda’s Spanish rider Marc Marquez celebrates after winning the San Marino MotoGP at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli yesterday. (AFP) that the rider qualifies for race and, starting next year, fi ght for the admission to riding schools MOTOGP RESULTS Francesco Bagnaia (ITA/Ducati-Pramac), championship. now I can say that it is Marquez claims a sixth win in Misano ian pole sitter Fabio di Giannantonio. anywhere in the world, as Michele Pirro (ITA/Ducati), Takaaki very nice to win in Italy.” and third in the MotoGP category af- Spain’s Alex Marquez — younger broth- 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) 42min well to participate in various Nagakami (JPN/Honda-LCR), Cal Marquez has now won 77 Grand Prix ter 2015 and 2017. He matches Rossi’s er of Marc Marquez — consolidated his 25.163sec, 2. Fabio Quartararo (FRA/ equestrian competitions. races in all categories to overtake British record of three wins at the San Marino overall world championship lead by fi n- Yamaha-SRT) at 0.903sec, 3. Maverick Crutchlow (Honda-LCR) Further, the passport will legend Mike Hailwood, who competed MotoGP. Suzuki’s Alex Rins, winner in ishing third. Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) 1.636, 4. Valentino Championship standings: Riders: carry a unique identification in the 1960s. The Spaniard has won 51 Silverstone, lost his third place in the In Moto3, Japan’s Tatsuki Suzuki Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 12.660, 5. Franco 1. Marquez (ESP/Honda) 275pts, 2. number and will be off icially MotoGP races, 16 Moto2 and 10 Moto3 championship standings after crashing started on pole to claim his maiden vic- Morbidelli (ITA/Yamaha) 12.774, 6. And- Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 182, 3. Petrucci registered with the Qatar — and is fourth overall behind Giacomo out of the race, with the next round at tory after a thrilling seven-rider battle rea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 13.744, 7. Pol (ITA/Ducati) 151, 4. Rins (ESP/Suzuki) 149, Equestrian Federation. Agostini (122), Rossi (115) and Angel Ni- home in Valencia next weekend. at the Misano World Circuit Marco Si- Espargaro (ESP/KTM) 20.050, 8. Joan 5. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) 134, Mohammed Sultan al- eto (90). In Moto2, Spaniard Augusto Fernan- moncelli, near Rimini in eastern Italy. Mir (ESP/Suzuki) 22.512, 9. Jack Miller 6. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 129, 7. Suwaidi, Manager, Equine “It was a very tough race,” said Quar- dez also snatched victory on the fi nal Suzuki’s victory was charged with emo- (AUS/Ducati-Pramac) 26.554, 10. Danilo Fabio Quartararo (FRA/Yamaha-SRT) 112 Education Department at tararo, 20, who has now achieved four lap to make it back-to-back wins af- tion as he races for the team of Italian Petrucci (ITA/Ducati) 31.456, 11. Johann Constructors: 1. Honda 281pts, 2. Ducati Al Shaqab, said: “We have in podium fi nishes in his fi rst season. “It ter Silverstone. The 21-year-old Kalex Paolo Simoncelli, whose son Marco Zarco (FRA/KTM) 32.388 221, 3. Yamaha 215, 4. Suzuki 174, 5. KTM place a carefully planned cur- was the fi rst time that I battled like that rider’s audacious overtaking move on died after an accident in 2011, with the Did not finish: Alex Rins (ESP/Suzuki), 85, 6. Aprilia 57 riculum across all levels.” with Marquez.” the fi nal lap gave him victory over Ital- Misano circuit named in his honour.

FOCUS 24H TOUT TERRAIN DE FRANCE SPOTLIGHT Kamworor smashes men’s Qatar’s Abdulla and Al Shaqab’s riders and horses qualify world half MMP team fi ght for Endurance World Cup 2020 marathon record hree riders and horses from back to fi nish 12th the Endurance Department of Al Shaqab, member of Qa- By Sports Reporter Adel said: “It was a very enjoy- tar Foundation, delivered a able and one of the most diffi cult Tsterling performance at the prestig- Fontaine-Fourches, France races that I did in my life. It was ious Endurance Equestre Monpazier not easy. To make the strategy event recently held in France. atar’s Adel Abdulla, beforehand with the team, you As a result, the successful hors- French off -road racer could really feel the teamwork in es have qualifi ed to participate in Matthieu Serradori this race, especially with every- the higher categories of Federation and teammates Ben- one pushing for a good result ” Equestre Internationale (FEI) races jaminQ and Cedric Bujon over- Adel and his French team faced that would eventually qualify them came an awful start to climb back a daunting fi ght back through for next year’s Endurance World Cup. from the foot of the massive fi eld the fi eld. They were classifi ed Al Shaqab’s Sultan Salim al- to fi nish a superb 12th overall and in 24th position in the overall Shamousi, astride RV Sultan, and third in their category at the 27th standings after 17 hours of rac- Khalid Sanad al-Nuaimi, riding IFO AFP edition of the 24H Tout Terrain ing. The MMP Rallye Raid entry LR Polino, competed successfully in Paris de France at the Circuit de Fon- had amassed 112 laps and were the CEI2* 125km, while Marine Fau- taine-Fourches yesterday. running 35 tours behind the lead- con, on CA’Saddam Al Shaqab, com- After a disappointing qualify- ers, having run a best lap of 5min pleted the CEI1* 80km race. enya’s Geoff rey ing session and losing many laps 55.655sec. The results of these marathon Kamworor sliced 17 following an early accident, the At this point, the overall lead- horses and their riders have come at seconds off the world MMP (Micouleu Mécanique Pré- ers were Guyette, Mercier and the peak of the international endur- record at the Copen- cision) Rallye Raid Team-built Fourmaux in a Can-Am Maver- ance horse racing season. Leading hagenK Half Marathon yesterday Buggy managed to complete 180 ick entered in the SSV category. horses and riders of Al Shaqab’s En- as he won in 58min 01sec. Kam- laps of the demanding northern The leaders in the T1A category durance team are presently in France woror improved on the 58:18 set French circuit and fi nished 34 were the third-placed Mitsubishi as they undergo intensive training to Khalid Sanad al-Nuaimi riding IFO LR Polino. in Valencia last year by his com- tours behind the overall winning Pajero crew of Igora and Rudolfo compete in FEI’s 2019 World Cham- patriot Abraham Kiptum. Can-Am Maverick of the French Skoks and Arvis Pikis and they pionship for 7-year-old horses in The 26-year-old Kenyan trio of Sébastien Guyette, Pascal held on to secure the class win at Pisa, Italy, scheduled to take place on Saad al-Dowsri in action. clearly likes the Danish capital as Mercier and Maxime Fourmaux. the fi nish. September 20. it was the scene of the fi rst of his At the national level, Qatar’s ex- three world half-marathon ti- citing endurance horse racing sea- tles. Kamworor broke away from son will begin in October. Following the pack and raced alone for the the international racing season, Al fi nal 11 kilometres, defying the Shaqab’s Endurance team will be fo- heavy rain that fell briefl y with cusing on major national titles such 37 minutes on the clock. as the 2019 National Day Cup, 2020 He covered the next fi ve kilo- Qatar International Cup and the metres segment in a swift 13:31, prestigious 2020 Emir Sword Cup, reaching 15 kilometres in 41:03, among others. 11 seconds inside sub-58-minute As the name suggests, Endurance pace. Although he slowed slight- riding involves the horse and rider ly in the fi nal quarter, he was still competing over long distances, often well inside world record pace but across breathtaking landscapes. The the clock agonisingly ticked over competition truly puts human and 58 minutes as he crossed the line. equine stamina and determination to Birhane Dibaba Adugna of the test. The demands of endurance Ethiopia won the women’s race races are intense and tactical, but the in 1:05:57, taking almost two welfare of the riders and the horses minutes off her lifetime best. Qatar’s Adel Abdulla in action at the 24-hour Tout Terrain de France. are always paramount at all times. Gulf Times Monday, September 16, 2019 7 SPORT

GOLF Europe win Solheim Cup in thrilling fi nale

Reuters The day had begun at 8-8 but with Glasgow three of the 12 singles matches left on the course the Americans needed just a half-point to retain the trophy. urope’s women reclaimed the Anna Nordqvist fi nished off Morgan Solheim Cup in the most thrill- Pressel 4&3 to close the gap to one point ing fi nish in the competition’s at about the same time that Bronte Law history when they beat the Unit- holed a 20-footer for birdie against Ally Eed States 14.5-13.5 at Gleneagles yester- McDonald to go two up with two to play day. and keep alive the European dream. After a three-day battle royal around In nerve-jangling tension Law com- the dramatic Scottish course, Norway’s peted a 2&1 victory on the 17th and Pet- Suzann Pettersen, playing against Mari- tersen did the rest. na Alex in the fi nal match, sank a putt on It is the fi rst time Europe have won the the 18th green to spark delirium among trophy since 2013. the European team. “Just unbelievable! There’s never been Moments earlier, with the scores a better moment. For it to come down to locked at 13.5-13.5, Alex had a putt to the last game... the Americans played keep the trophy in American hands but great as well but for Suzann to get the her eff ort slid by the hole. Had it gone in winning putt is phenomenal,” Matthew she would have been assured of at least a said. half-point on the 18th. “Half-an-hour ago it looked like a It was then all down to Pettersen, one draw would be a good result but those of Europe captain Catriona Matthew’s last three games were crucial. Just fan- picks. Somehow she steadied her nerve tastic. I had faith in Pettersen all the to fi re her ball into the middle of the cup time. This is the best moment, nothing from around 10 feet. tops this. There’s going to be a party!”

BASKETBALL SPOTLIGHT Chile’s Niemann takes two-shot lead Gasol claims rare at The Greenbrier

AFP way I’ve been playing,” said Washington Niemann, who could become the fi rst Chilean player to win a US PGA Tour title. “This double as Spain oaquin Niemann card- course is really good for me.” ed a two-under par With the greens fi rming up 68 on Saturday and to and the pins tucked into some take a two-shot lead tricky positions, super-low atJ The Greenbrier, where the scores were less in evidence on 20-year-old Chilean is chas- Saturday. ing his fi rst US PGA Tour title. After rolling in a 26-foot Niemann had three bird- putt for his second birdie of win World Cup ies and his fi rst bogey of the the day at the 10th, he made week to emerge with a 15-un- his lone miscue, fi nding the der par total of 195 on the Old rough off the tee at the 11th on ‘All of the things you sacrifice, it’s worth it... what a year, what an amazing year’ White TPC in White Sulphur the way to a bogey. Springs, West . He took advantage of the AFP He was two shots clear of par-fi ve 17th to stretch his Beijing Americans Richy Werenski, lead, recovering from an er- Nate Lashley and Robby Shel- rant tee shot to roll in a seven- ton. Werenski and Lashley foot birdie putt. hree-time All-Star Marc both posted 65s while Shelton Lashley, who captured his Gasol became only the carded an even-par 70. fi rst career title in Detroit in second man to win an It was a further stroke back June, had fi ve of his six bird- NBA crown and the to Americans Adam Long and ies in his fi rst eight holes and TWorld Cup in the same year after Scottie Scheffl er on 198. seized a share of the lead at Spain brushed aside Argentina Kevin Chappell, whose sec- 14-under with an eagle at the 95-75 yesterday. ond-round 59 on Friday was 17th — where he holed out Spain, who survived double just the 11th sub-60 round from off the green. overtime against Australia to ever produced on the PGA Moments later play was reach the fi nal, led throughout in Tour, struggled in the follow- halted for 50 minutes because Beijing to win international bas- up. of lighting in the area. Lashley ketball’s biggest prize a second Chappell, playing his fi rst would return to make his third time. tournament since having back bogey of the day at the par- The previous occasion was in surgery last November, had three 18th. 2006 with the two Gasol broth- four bogeys and one birdie in Werenski was delighted to ers, Marc and older sibling Pau, a three-over 73 that left him complete his 65 shortly before on the team. eight off the pace. the weather delay. Pau did not feature in China Niemann, who has eight “I played good,” said Wer- because of injury. top-10 fi nishes in his 42 ca- enski, who said a conservative The latest triumph was par- reer starts on the US tour, was game plan in tougher condi- ticularly sweet for the 34-year- coming off a career-best 62 on tions paid off . old centre Gasol, who three Friday that left him tied for the Knowing that he was months ago also played a key 36-hole lead in the fi rst event putting well, Werenski said, part in the Toronto Raptors’ run on the US tour’s 2019-2020 his plan was to “not fi re at an- to the NBA title. calendar. ything too crazy. Gasol, who had 14 points, sev- “I’m just really happy the “It worked out,” he said. en rebounds and seven assists, joins Lamar Odom, a double winner in 2010 with the United States and Los Angeles Lakers. “What can I say? How does it sound to you?” Gasol told re- porters of his personal feat. “I feel very fortunate to be in this position, to play this game and help these guys. Spain’s Marc Gasol celebrates with the trophy after winning the FIBA World Cup in Beijing yesterday. “All of the things you sacrifi ce, it’s worth it... what a year, what tallest teams at the tournament, an amazing year.” defeated reigning two-time Surprise fi nalists Argentina holders the United States in the had not triumphed since they quarter-fi nals, but then lost hosted the inaugural World Cup heavily to Argentina. in 1950. “For us it’s something very, As a contest, the fi nal was over very special and important we by the fourth quarter — although did it after a very diffi cult fi rst the Argentines did rally to reduce half,” French coach Vincent Col- Spain’s previously mighty lead let said. for a time. “Many teams could have giv- Fans of both teams had made en up, even easy shots we were it feel more like a football match, missing in the fi rst half. decked out in their national col- “We started to move the ball ours, chanting loudly and refus- better in the second half and ing to sit down. that’s why we won this game.” Spain, for whom Ricky Rubio It is still the best fi nish for the Joaquin Niemann of Chile lines up a putt on the second green. of the Phoenix Suns was after- Boomers, who had never gone wards named the tournament beyond the quarter-fi nals at 11 MVP, surged into a 14-2 lead. previous World Cups, but they Qatar beat Sri Lanka in Asian volleyball Led by their slick-haired Ital- are yet to claim a medal at the ian coach Sergio Scariolo, Spain worlds or Olympics. QNA after losing their first two were up 21-14 going into the sec- Deposed champions the Tehran matches to Australia and ond quarter and increased their United States, who were miss- Iran. advantage to 43-31 at half-time. ing their elite names, fi nished Qatar will play tomorrow With Rubio prominent, drill- Spain’s Marc Gasol (R) fights for the ball with Argentina’s Marcos Delia during the final yesterday. seventh, their lowest position in atar trounced Sri against the third placed team ing 20 points, Spain never looked tournament history. Lanka in straight of Group C, and on Wednes- like surrendering their lead, re- game by game, our concentra- we were not satisfi ed because we bronze in a row — and extend the They did, at least, qualify to sets (25-21, 25- day against the fourth of the peatedly thwarting Argentina’s tion, our determination, our wanted to win,” he said. Boomers’ long wait for a major defend their Olympic title in To- 14, 25-15) at the same group. suff ocated off ence. consistency,” he said. “For me, we won the silver medal. kyo next summer. Q2019 Asian Men’s Volleyball The Tehran championship Gasol said that Spain’s de- Several of the Spain players medal, we didn’t lose the gold Turkish-based guard Nando With 32 teams, this was the Championship here yester- will also serve as the Tokyo fence, which limited Argentine had tears in their eyes as they medal. De Colo led all scorers with 19 biggest-ever Basketball World day to post their fi rst win in 2020 Asian Olympic qualifi- talisman Luis Scola to eight collected the trophy. “I feel very proud of my play- points for France and Nicolas Cup. the tournament. cation tournament with the points, was the bedrock of their Argentina’s coach Sergio Her- ers.” France roared back after Batum had nine points, six as- The next one will be in 2023 in With this result, Qatar took top eight teams making it to victory. nandez said the better team won. half-time to defeat Australia 67- sists, three rebounds and three Japan, Indonesia and the Philip- the third place in Group A the Olympic qualifiers. “Defensively we improved “No excuse, we were not tired, 59 and claim a second World Cup steals. The French, one of the pines.

Monday, September 16, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING Qatar Arc Trials huge success

‘He’s a genius. This win is down to him, at ParisLongchamp the filly herself and her owner-breeder’

Chargée D’aff aires of the embassy of the State of Qatar in Paris Nadia Ahmed al-Sheebi distributed the trophies to the winners of the Qatar Arc Trials day at ParisLongchamp yesterday. PICTURES: Zuzanna Lupa

By A Correspondent today than at Deauville. He is a manner. I was of the opinion but now it could become reality! Paris stronger, and with the main race that the colt would have held his She will run in the Gr1.” of the Autumn approaching, it’s place behind his pacemaker, but Final Group race of the day, a perfect prep.” this wasn’t the case. It then took the Qatar Prix du Pin (Gr3) was he Qatar Arc Trials day The Qatar Prix Foy (Gr2), for some time before the gaps came won by the starting favour- took place at ParisLong- 4-year-olds and up over the his way. However, that’s perfect ite, City Light. This consistent champ yesterday, with the 2,400m of ParisLongchamp, as I didn’t want the colt to have 5-year-old horse was winning hopefuls for the biggest was won for the second year a hard race and, at the end of the his second Group race, having Traces on the weekend of the Qatar running by Waldgeist, in the col- day, he has only had to make a placed multiple times at Group Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe lining ours of Gestüt Ammerland who race of it for 100m!,” said trainer level for owner Jean-Louis Bou- up three weeks before the main own him in partnership with Jean-Claude Rouget after the chard. He jumped well and was event for their fi nal preparation. Newsells Park Stud. This son of race: settled mid-division by jockey Nadia Ahmed al-Sheebi, the great Galileo, who is trained A 5-furlong sprint down the Christophe Soumillon. Chargée D’aff aires of the embas- by André Fabre, won by 2 lengths straight at ParisLongchamp, Once in the straight, he eased sy of the State of Qatar in Paris in front of Way To Paris, with the Qatar Prix du Petit Couvert up to join the leaders and was was present and distributed the Japanese raider Kiseki a some- (Gr3), was won by the British- very impressive to win with trophies to the winners of the what disappointing third. trained Glass Slippers. This plenty in hand by a length and a two main races of the day, name- Waldgeist will be running next 3-year-old fi lly, who was coming half from Grainges in second. ly, the Qatar Cup - Prix Dragon for the second time in the Qatar here off a Listed win in Deauville Stéphane Wattel, the trainer (Gr 1 PA) and the G1 Qatar Prix Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe back at in August, is owned and bred by said, “It’s great to see him back Vermeille. ParisLongchamp in three weeks’ Bearstone Stud and trained by winning at this level. He had a One month on from his suc- time, in which he fi nished a very meille, for 3-year-old and older Star Catcher won the Irish as the 3-year-old Sottsass was Kevin Ryan. She won by a short hard race at Ascot this year. We cess in the Doha Cup (Gr1 PA), at honorable fourth in 2018. fi llies only, also takes place over Oaks (Gr1) last time out in July. making his fi rst racecourse ap- head in front of Shades Of Blue, know how diffi cult running on a Deauville, Akoya was victorious He was ridden here by his usu- the same course and distance as “The fi lly doesn’t have to race pearance since winning the QIP- who is also trained in England, straight track can be and Ascot in the Qatar Cup - Prix Dragon al partner Pierre-Charles Bou- the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Tri- from the front, but Frankie Det- CO Prix du Jockey Club in June. by Clive Cox. is very tough. The year before (Gr1 PA), on Sunday at Paris- dot. “I placed my mount in be- omphe. An objective in its own tori preferred to take matters Despite being blocked in on the Glass Slippers sat towards the he had out his heart into the race Longchamp, on Qatar Arc Trials hind the Japanese raider who set right, this highly competitive into his own hands by making rail until a furlong out from the rear, before being produced wide and it was a memorable battle, day. Trained by Karin Van Den a good pace. He picked up gradu- race was won by Star Cathcher. the running - granted that no winning post, Sottsass showed by jockey Tom Eaves and passing and I think it was hard for him to Bos, the 5-year-old horse went ally in the straight. He perhaps She was ridden by Frankie one was keen to go on! He’s a that he has the class to be a real out the fi eld decisively to hit the come back this year. He picked from pillar to post, never threat- showed a little less acceleration Dettori, who was also taking his genius. This win is down to him, threat over this distance with an line in front. up a lot of confi dence at Deau- ened by second-place fi nisher Al than last year, but it was very 16th Group 1 win of the year and the fi lly herself and her owner- exceptional turn of foot to win Terry Holdcroft, manager of ville, winning easily at a lower Shamoos. much a tune-up race and he will is trained by John Gosden for breeder. As regards going for by a length and a quarter in front Bearstone Stud, commented: level. He has a lot of speed and he Akoya was running for the be in peak condition come three the colours of Anthony Oppen- the Arc, we will have to wait and of Mutamakina, the only fi lly in “We are delighted with Glass won easily over a longer trip than fi rst time at ParisLongchamp weeks’ time. He has run some heimer, who tasted Qatar Prix see,” Gosden said. the race. Slippers winning her as we bred usual. He needed come right in three weeks prior to his main ob- great races this season. On his de l’Arc de Triomphe success in The fi lly does not currently Racing in the colours of Pe- her and we recently lost her his mind, and I think he’s nearly jective, the Qatar Arabian World previous start, he fi nished within 2015 with Golden Horn. hold an entry in the Qatar Prix de ter Brant’s White Birch Farm, dam. She didn’t run in the Prix back to his best now. We brought Cup, in which he will be facing a a length and half of Enable and John Gosden is of course the l’Arc de Triomphe. the colt confi rmed that he is de Meautry (Gr3) due to a small him back to 7 furlongs so that he much tougher fi eld. Crystal Ocean. So there are rea- trainer of Enable, who will be The Qatar Prix Niel (Gr2), the the leader of his generation in issue. She was feeling well here, wouldn’t have too hard a race. Akoya was ridden by Théo sons to be hopeful on October 5,” aiming for a third historic win in fi nal 2,400m trial for the Qa- France. and she won well. She is entered We will see the result in three Bachelot, who commented: Pierre-Charles Boudot said. the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triom- tar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe of “I hadn’t made allowances in the Qatar Prix de l’Abbaye weeks when he runs in the Qatar “The horse pleased even more The Group 1 Qatar Prix Ver- phe in October. the day, was highly anticipated for the race unfolding in such (Gr1) – It was just a dream at fi rst Prix de la Forêt (Gr1).”

CRICKET/ASHES Nabi and Mujeeb shine in record Afghanistan win England win 5th Test to square series over Bangladesh AFP Scorecard Mohamed Nabi and Mujeeb Ur London Rahman starred respectively ENGLAND 1st innings 294 J. Hazlewood c Root b Leach 0 with bat and ball as Afghani- AUSTRALIA 1st innings 225 Extras (nb2, b2, lb12, pen 5) 21 stan thrashed Bangladesh by ngland crushed Aus- 25 runs in their second match tralia by 135 runs in the ENGLAND 2nd innings 329 Total (all out, 77 overs) 263 of the tri-nation Twenty20 fi fth and fi nal Ashes Test AUSTRALIA 2nd innings Fall of wickets: 1-18 (Harris), 2-29 international tournament in yesterday to level the se- M. Harris b Broad 9 (Warner), 3-56 (Labuschagne), Dhaka yesterday. Nabi hit riesE at 2-2, ending their historic 4-85 (Smith), 5-148 (Marsh), an unbeaten 84 off 54 balls World Cup-winning season on a D. Warner c Burns b Broad 11 6-200 (Paine), 7-244 (Cummins), under pressure to guide high. Victory for the home side M. Labuschagne st Bairstow b 8-260 (Wade), 9-263 (Lyon), 10- Afghanistan to 164-6 before means the Ashes ends in a draw Leach 14 263 (Hazlewood) Mujeeb claimed a career best for the fi rst time since 1972, al- S. Smith c Stokes b Broad 23 Bowling: Broad 15-1-62-4, Archer 4-15 to help his side dismiss though holders Australia retain Bangladesh for 139 in 19.5 M. Wade st Bairstow b Root 117 16-2-66-0 (1nb), Curran 8-3-22-0, the urn. Leach 22-8-49-4, Woakes 7-1-19-0 overs for their world record 12 M. Marsh c Buttler b Root 24 The tourists, chasing an un- (1nb), Root 9-1-26-2 successive Twenty20 interna- likely 399 to win in a shade under T. Paine lbw b Leach 21 tional win. Mujeeb took three two days, were in trouble early Match result: England won by wickets in his opening spell P. Cummins c Bairstow b Broad 9 in their second innings when 135 runs to reduce the home side to England paceman Stuart Broad P. Siddle not out 13 Series: England 2 Australia 2 32 for four before Mahmudul- removed openers Marcus Harris N. Lyon c Root b Leach 1 lah and Sabbir Rahman put a and David Warner cheaply. little resistance with 58 runs While former captain Steve his following over, Broad ended but they were drowned out by for the fifth wicket. Gulbadin Smith was at the crease, Aus- Warner’s miserable series, with applause from the crowd in ap- Naib broke the partnership tralia retained a faint hope seal- the opener edging to Rory Burns preciation of his run-scoring by removing Mahmudullah, ing their fi rst Ashes series win in in the slips and departing for 11. feats. who made 44 off 39 balls for England since 2001. Warner, who returned to in- His run haul put him fi fth on Bangladesh before Mujeeb But when Ben Stokes dived to ternational cricket in June after a the list of highest tallies in an ended Sabbir’s innings at 24 his left at leg slip to catch Smith 12-month ban for ball-tamper- Ashes series behind Don Brad- in his final over to surpass his for 23, giving Broad his third ing, had a good World Cup but man’s two entries, England’s previous best of 3-17 against wicket of the innings, England has endured a torrid time in the Wally Hammond and former Ireland. Naib claimed 2-27 knew they had removed the big- Ashes. The attacking batsman, Australia skipper Mark Taylor. while skipper Rashid Khan and gest obstacle in their victory who was booed after his dis- Australia were seeking their left-arm pacer Fareed Malik charge. missal for his part in the cheat- fi rst Test series win in England also took two wickets each. Smith, who scored an aston- England’s captain Joe Root (left) and Australia’s captain Tim Paine hold the Ashes trophy during the ing scandal, scored just 95 runs for 18 years but only once before Nabi earlier helped Afghani- ishing 774 runs in just seven in- presentation ceremony on the fourth day of the 5th Ashes Test at The Oval in London yesterday. (AFP) in 10 innings and was dismissed had they scored 399-plus runs in stan recover from 40-4 with nings, was out for a score of less by Broad seven times. the fourth innings to win a Test his fourth Twenty20 interna- than fi fty for the fi rst time in the ance, scoring 117 as Jofra Arch- off the bails. Nathan Lyon and BROAD STRIKES Warner’s dismissal brought match, against England at Head- tional fifty, which featured series. er cranked his speed up to 95 Josh Hazlewood went in succes- Earlier, England added 16 runs to Smith to the crease and he ingley in 1948. three fours and seven sixes. The Oval crowd gave him a miles-per-hour in the evening sive balls, meaning England fi n- their overnight tally, with Archer opened his account with a sweet The tourists won the fi rst Test BREIF SCORES standing ovation as he walked sunlight, eye-balling the Aus- ished their season on a high two and Leach the last men out. drive through the covers for four at Edgbaston and the fourth at Afghanistan 164 for 6 (Nabi back to the dressing room in the tralian batsman in an attempt to months after winning the one- Broad then pounded in, roared off Archer but this time he could Old Traff ord while Ben Stokes 84*, Afghan 40, Saifuddin September sunshine, with Aus- intimidate him. day World Cup for the fi rst time. on by a packed crowd, who raised not fi nd the magic. inspired England to victory in 4-33) beat Bangladesh 139 tralia in deep trouble at 85-4 in England captain Joe Root fi - Broad and left-arm spinner the roof when he demolished The exit of Smith, also banned the third Test at Headingley. The (Mahmudullah 44, Sabbir 24, the post-lunch session. Mat- nally got his man, luring him for- Jack Leach both fi nished with Harris’s off -stump in the fthfi over the ball-tampering scandal, second match, at Lord’s, was Mujeeb 4-15) by 25 runs. thew Wade off ered brave resist- ward as Jonny Bairstow whipped four wickets. over of the Australian innings. In led to one or two isolated boos drawn.