SPORT Thursday 12 July 2018 PAGEE | 22 PAGEPAGE | 23 Dreams shattereded but WhatWhat now for Neymar the World Cup uunitednited afterafter image-shatteringi Belgiansgians WWorldorld Cup?

YESTERDAY'S RESULTS SECOND SEMI-FINAL

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MANDZUKIC -109' TRIPPIER - 5' PERISIC- 68'

Croatia stun Croatia’s forward Mario Mandzukic (centre) shoots and scores his team’s England to second goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup semi- final match against England at the Luzhniki Stadium in reach World Moscow yesterday. Cup final

AFP Sunday’s final after edging out the half-hour mark. Belgium 1-0 on Tuesday. That will Croatia’s forward Mario Croatia hung on and it was to MOSCOW: Mario Mandzukic not matter too much right now Mandzukic celebrates after their immense credit that they scored the winning goal deep in for Croatia, who are the smallest scoring his team’s second goal. turned the tide after the break in extra time as Croatia beat nation to make it to the final since what developed into an epic England 2-1 in an utterly gripping Uruguay back in 1950. encounter. World Cup semi-final in Moscow England had been the ones Shooting towards the end of yeserday to set up a final date hoping to make history, in what the Luzhniki Stadium where most with France. was their first appearance in the of their fans were gathered, they The Juventus forward netted semi-finals in 28 years. equalised in the 68th minute, as in the 109th minute to complete Then they were beaten on Sime Vrsaljko crossed from the a remarkable comeback from a penalties by West Germany. right and Perisic stole in front of shattered Croatian team and take Having ended their famous the stooping Kyle Walker to score the small nation of little more penalty curse by beating with his left foot. than four million people into the Colombia in a shootout in the last Having looked so com- World Cup final for the first time 16, they might have fancied fortable earlier, England’s young in their short history. repeating here. side were rattled, and they were Kieran Trippier’s magnif- But Croatia, having won on lucky not to go behind soon after icent early free-kick had seem- penalties against Denmark and as Perisic sent a low shot across ingly set England on course to Russia in the last two rounds, saw and off the far reach their first final since they the game out, dousing the World post. lifted the trophy on home soil Cup dream of Gareth Southgate’s Unable to get the second goal back in 1966. side that had gone from the while they were on top, Croatia But it wasn’t to be, as Croatia improbable to the possible over were forced into extra time again. came roaring back in the second the last month in Russia. Vrsaljko cleared a John Stones half and equalised through Ivan Southgate stuck with the control the game, but instead it free-kick at the World Cup since game. Zlatko Dalic’s side did header away from in front of the Perisic before somehow finding same starting line-up as that was he who gave away the early David Beckham against Ecuador gradually grow into the contest, line, but England had Pickford to the energy to win despite being which eased past Sweden in the free-kick from which Trippier put in 2006. but they could still be relieved thank for a brilliant save as Man- taken to extra time for the third quarter-finals, while Inter Milan’s England ahead. England could not have to go in at half-time only one dzukic connected with a devilish time in 10 days. Marcelo Brozovic replaced Andrej It was a fantastic curling imagined a better start. goal down, especially as Harry Perisic cross. The biggest winners of the Kramaric in the Croatian line-up. effort from 25 yards from the Tot- Croatia were stunned, and Kane was denied by a combi- It was a wonder the Juventus night could well be France, who They were looking to the tenham Hotspur full-back, and Ivan Rakitic, usually so accom- nation of goalkeeper Danijel forward did not break a limb as have had an extra day’s rest for inspirational Luke Modric to England’s first goal direct from a plished, was especially off his Subasic and the woodwork on Pickford crunched into him. 22 SPORT THURSDAY 12 JULY 2018

Dreams shattered but the World Cup united Belgians REUTERS Belgium did well, knocking out five- gives Flanders its own special form,” Are Belgium” motto, were chal- times champions Brazil last week. he said. lenging the cranky stereotypes: BRUSSELS: Belgium’s World Cup That new embrace of the team, often His N-VA party, also the biggest “Flemings are always grumbling dream is over but a fine run to a cited as one of the few real national in the federal parliament, wants about absolutely everything,” she France’s coach Didier Deschamps (centre) celebrates heartbreakingly narrow semi-final institutions Belgium has left after the eventual independence from poorer wrote. “Belgians are proud and like with Paul Pogba (right) and Presnel Kimpembe at defeat by France at the tournament king, may feed into more sense of French-speaking Wallonia. But they to party. “It’s more fun being Belgian in Russia has left a feel-good glow common purpose, some believe. are wary of seeming killjoys when than Flemish.” the end of the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final that might just help hold the Few expect football to change pride in “Belgitude” is running high For Jean-Michel De Waele, match at the Saint Petersburg on Tuesday. famously divided country together. politics quickly, but musings on the -- party leader Bart De Wever took political scientist at the French- “This kind of event brings Dutch- future were especially pointed on flak for hanging a Flemish flag from speaking Free University of Brussels metro plays and French-speakers together,” Wednesday as the Dutch-speaking his window on the day Belgium Brussels, football success has been student Alpha Omba said after half of the country marked its own played Brazil. a shot in the arm for a fragile sense watching the national side, known “national” holiday, commemorating Even in the Flemish press, one of national identity: “It’s been an French World Cup as the Red Devils, lose 1-0 on a 14th-century victory -- over the cartoon later showed De Wever extraordinary excuse to have a Tuesday night at an outdoor French. cursing “I hate football!” as French- party and shout about a collective anthem after defeat screening in Brussels. The prime minister of Flanders, speaking federal Prime Minister ‘us’ that we normally lack,” he told AFP “It’s really helpful.” Geert Bourgeois, took pains to Charles Michel celebrated the 2-1 win TV5. Despite disappointment, most of suggest Flemish and Belgium pride over Brazil. “In the short term, it won’t affect its 11 million people are happy could co-exist: “That’s our DNA and Zuhal Demir, an N-VA minister the political situation in the country,” BRUSSELS: Sleep deprived Belgians were not having in Michel’s gov- he said. “In the medium and long a bad dream yesterday morning: Brussels metros ernment, told De term, maybe.” resounded with a French football anthem after Les Standaard news- “I don’t really think that the Bleus qualified for the final of the World Cup. paper that the success of the Red Devils will save The STIB transport network in Brussels had lost party’s rivals were Belgium,” De Waele added, but he a bet against its Paris counterpart, the RATP, agreeing using the success of did believe younger people, espe- to play a 2002 song by French rock hero Johnny Hal- the multilingual, cially Dutch speakers, were devel- lyday called “Tous Ensemble”, if Belgium lost to diverse national oping a stronger bond to a broader France in Tuesday’s semi-final. team to hurt the national idea. With its chorus “We are champions, we are all separatists: “They’re the first generation together, go the Blues”, and the recognisable voice of “Football has since World War Two who are par- Hallyday, the anthem was played twice across the metro nothing to do with tying in the name of Belgium.” system during rush hour, said Francoise Ledune, politics,” she said. The Red Devils won fans around spokeswoman for STIB. Belgium’s road to humiliation “Football is a the world with their elegant style began Monday on Twitter when the RATP account doc- celebration, the and they also reflect a Belgium that tored a photo of the Brussels metro station Herrmann- bars are full, every- is home to Flemings and Walloons Debroux and renamed it “Griez-Herr-Mann-debroux” one’s happy and but also to many West and North in honour of the French player Antoine Griezmann. you can find me in African immigrants who take less A STIB riposte proposed to rename the Parisian front of a big screen part in those old communitarian metro station Saint-Lazare “Saint-Hazard”, named too.” rivalries. after the captain of the Red Devils, . Flemish sports “This is a new image of Paris then made a bet with Brussels. If Les journalist Anouk Belgium,” wrote Jan Segers in the Diables Rouges won, Saint-Lazare station would be Torbeyns had Dutch-language Het Laatste renamed for a day, but if not, Hallyday’s song would another take on Nieuws. “A country in the image of have to be broadcast at Brussels metro stations. how the free- a group of talented, disciplined, “Well done. Respect! We were also ready. We’ll wheeling Red creative, carefree, open-minded send you the plaque,” the RATP twitter feed said, Belgium fans react to their team’s defeat after the FIFA 2018 World Cup semi-final match at Devils with their and ambitious young men. with a photo of staff-members holding up the metro the Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg on Tuesday. English-only “We Wouldn’t you want to live there?” sign. French media see Cup coming home AFP national pride and jubilation still of the ball and strategy, also said vivid for millions. a second “star” was in reach. PARIS: France’s march into the “Les Bleus grabbed the “A second star which would World Cup final dominated the Devils by the tail in a spectacular propel them into another galaxy, nation’s headlines yesterday, match,” wrote Le Parisien, con- that of repeat world champions, with many already predicting a fident the team is already “at the alongside Italy, Uruguay, Brazil, second title for “Les Bleus” in gates of paradise”. Germany and Argentina,” it said. Moscow on Sunday no matter No matter if they end up Papers also lavished praise who they face. facing England or Croatia, on Samuel Umtiti, a player more “The Blue Dream Continues” “they’ll be the favourites for the used to blocking goals than wrote Le Figaro after a night of ultimate title,” the paper scoring the one that knocked celebrations by fans who poured claimed, dubbing the team “The Belgium out of the running on into the streets after the 1-0 win Incredibles”. Tuesday. over Belgium, watched by 19 “There’s no Zinedine Zidane “It’s a player who’s injured, million according to French but a bunch of great players sur- getting treatment every day broadcaster TF1. rounded by good players. It’s since he landed in Russia, who “Didier Deschamps is still on more of a team, a collective has opened the doors to the track to join Brazilian legend instead of a group gathered finals,” wrote Liberation. Mario Zagalle and Germany’s around a genius.” President Emmanuel Franz Beckenbauer, the only “There’s still one match to Macron, who attended Tues- two heros who have reigned go, but they’ve got a freeway in day’s match, plans to return to over planet football as both front of them and no more toll Russia for the final with his wife player and coach,” the broad- booths,” Yeo Mariba, the mother Brigitte on Sunday, his office sheet wrote. of midfielder Paul Pogba, told said yesterday. Deschamps was captain the paper while leaving the “We’re in the final. Rendez- when France won its first World stadium in Saint Petersburg. vous Sunday to bring it home,” French captain Didier Deschamps (C) waves and defender Lilian Thuram holds the trophy as French Cup in 1998, a victory which Sports daily L’Equipe, hailing the president, a football lover, players celebrate on the pitch of Stade de France in Saint-Denis, after France defeated Brazil 3-0 in the sparked an outpouring of the team’s “spectacular mastery tweeted. 1998 World Cup final in this July 12 file picture. Women players have an equal right to VAR: US coach

AP having it. I think it would be a women’s game than it is for the to Russia to appear on a Fox Players on the US women’s up from the $1m champion little bit insulting if we weren’t men. “With all the men’s leagues studio show and planned to team protested the decision by Japan received from a $10m MOSCOW: Female players afforded the same oppor- around the world, you’ve got attend England’s semifinal FIFA to play the 2015 Women’s total in 2011. have an equal right to have FIFA tunity,” Ellis said during a more referees getting more into match against Croatia. FIFA has World Cup in Canada on arti- This year’s men’s World Cup use video review for their tour- round-table discussion with the higher-level experience. We done little-to-no promotion of ficial turf, and several of them winner will receive $38 million nament next year in France, US American reporters. don’t have that many leagues, the Women’s World Cup during were part of a lawsuit filed in from a $400m fund, up from the women’s coach Jill Ellis said “There’s too much at stake so we have to, I think, add the men’s tournament. Canadian Human Rights Court, $35m Germany got from a yesterday. to not have it, and I think our another layer to the decision- “They missed an oppor- a case later withdrawn. $358m total in 2014. FIFA is using Video Assistant game, our passion, our drive, making process,” she said. tunity to talk about it here,” American players have been “I don’t know what the ram- Referees for the men’s World our motivation is at the same FIFA general secretary said Ricardo Font, head of outspoken in their criticism of ifications were in other coun- Cup for the first time this year, level as the men.” Ellis, who Fatma Samoura, the highest- global sponsorships at The FIFA’s prize structure. tries, but you look at our own and it has led to several key call coached the Americans to the ranking woman in world soccer, Coca-Cola Co., which has The US Soccer Federation team in our own country and reversals and an increase in 2015 Women’s World Cup title, did not respond to an email been a FIFA sponsor since the received $2m from a total of the viewership and the penalty kicks. maintains video review could seeking comment. 1978 tournament in $15m prize money allocated for attention, there’s no difference,” “I can’t see them not be even more significant in the Ellis, born in Britain, came Argentina. the 2015 Women’s World Cup, Ellis said. THURSDAY 12 JULY 2018 SPORT 23

Italian media What now for Neymar after hail Ronaldo’s Juve transfer AFP image-shattering World Cup? ROME: Italian media was bubbling with enthusiasm REUTERS Wednesday after Serie A club Juventus announced the 100 MOSCOW: As the World Cup million-euro “deal of the nears its conclusion, Brazilian century” and wrestled forward Neymar is faced with superstar Cristiano Ronaldo not just a bitter few days of what from European champions might have been, but a coming Real Madrid. season of what to do now. The country’s number The Paris St Germain striker one daily the Corriere della arrived in Russia hoping to guide Sera led the cries of joy at Brazil to their sixth title and also Ronaldo’s arrival by as favourite to succeed thirty- acclaiming a “dream come somethings Lionel Messi and true”, while La Repubblica Cristiano Ronaldo as the best hailed a “117 million-euro player in the world. dream”, referring to the huge Instead, he was ridiculed for investment Juventus will his haircuts, diving and tears, make in their marquee and the 26-year old must now signing. La Repubblica breaks decide what to do about his tat- down the cost of the deal to tered reputation. Juventus as 100 million euros He can respond on the field going to Real Madrid, a five by playing well and winning million-euro “solidarity con- matches, something that is tribution” paid to FIFA and 12 second nature to a man who won million “incidental costs”. league titles in Brazil, Spain and The Corriere della Sera France, and lifted the Champions believes that the latter sum is League with Barcelona and the actually the commission being Copa Libertadores with Santos. paid to those who facilitated But restoring his reputation the transfer -- principally Ron- off the field is more difficult. aldo’s agent Jorge Mendes. The “In terms of communica- front page of Italy’s principal tions, Neymar’s big problem - sport daily Gazzetta Dello Sport and it’s one common to other has Ronaldo exclaiming “I’m athletes - is his lack of empathy,” coming!” after what it calls “the Diogo Kotscho, a communica- coup of the century”. Rome- Brazil’s Neymar after World Cup loss to Belgium at Kazan Arena, Kazan, Russia in this file photo. tions specialist who looked after based paper Il Messaggero Kaka’s career and is now VP of meanwhile acclaimed club Communications at MLS club football fans, as well as to the imitating his exaggerated live his life surrounded by a pro- But Kotscho said those president Andrea Agnelli for Orlando City, said. coaches and players who criti- response in parks and stadiums tective entourage, it is not clear financial experts could be pulling of the “deal of the “He is very protected, and cised him, the Neymar they saw as far apart as Mexico and whether he has seen or cares decisive in any future decisions century”. the people who speak for him in Russia was spoilt and Scotland. about the ridicule. about an image makeover. “A spark has been lit, let are his dad, his mum, his sister, narcissistic. Neymar is an obsessive user Nor is it clear whether he “Maybe when it starts to us rejoice,” said Corriere his girlfriend. Neymar never One particular incident of social media, and with 99 intends to do anything about it harm his business the red light Della Sera columnist and speaks and when he does it is via against Serbia, when he rolled million followers on Instagram when he begins the new season will flash,” he said. Juventus fan Pierluigi Battista. social media or in tightly con- along the touchline in over- and 61 million likes on at PSG, a club he joined last year. “Top players earn more from “And to think that we saw trolled interview situations. Any wrought hysteria, became an Facebook he has considerable A spokeswoman has image rights than from actually him as unpleasant, CR7 ... identification with him is super- instant source of ridicule. influence. People who know rebuffed repeated requests from playing football, so if the with his arrogant attitude, ficial. The priority is getting him Memes picturing the fakery him invariably say he is polite Reuters over the last year to talk sponsors start disappearing that statuesque posing and per- to open up and let the public were shared millions of times, and easy going. to Neymar, his agent father, and might be the moment he starts fectly defined muscles,” con- know the real Neymar.” To many as were videos of children But because he appears to his financial advisers. to pay attention.” tinued Battista.

West Ham’s new signing Yarmolenko Juventus sees Ronaldo as key set to blossom AFP to Champions League dream AP LONDON: Ukraine interna- league, the Italian Cup and the Juventus’ supporters show their tional Andriy Yarmolenko Italian Super Cup are the four Cristiano Ronaldo’s Juventus official will flourish at his new club MILAN: With the arrival of five- aims for which Juventus has Jerseys in front of the Juventus West Ham because manager time Ballon d’Or winner Cris- always played for.” store in Turin on Tuesday. Manuel Pellegrini is the tiano Ronaldo, this could be the Juventus has won the Serie perfect coach to get the best year that Juventus finally wins A title for the last seven seasons out of him, according to the Champions League again. - and the league and Italian Cup director of football Mario Juventus has won Europe’s double for the past four - but it Husillos. premier club competition twice has struggled to transfer its The 28-year-old forward but the last time was in 1996. It domestic supremacy to the -- scorer of 35 goals in his 77 has been on the losing side in the European stage. appearances for his country final five times since then, Ronaldo has dominated the -- signed a four-year contract including twice in the past four Champions League and has with the Hammers on editions. scored a competition record of Wednesday for an undis- The Bianconeri lost to Real 120 goals, 105 of them since closed fee from Madrid in the 2017 final, with moving to Madrid in 2009 - 12 side . Ronaldo scoring twice in a 4-1 more than Juventus as a team Yarmolenko’s move win. Ronaldo also scored twice managed in that same period. brings to an end an unhappy against Juventus in the first leg “I think it’s a very important year-long stay in Germany of the Champions League quar- signing and a step up for eve- where he played for them just terfinals last season, including a ryone, for the club and the whole 18 times, scoring three goals. spectacular overhead goal - environment,” Allegri said. “When we had the oppor- which earned him a standing “When we start again on July tunity to sign him, we did not ovation from Juventus fans. 30 and everyone comes back, hesitate, because he really is Juventus always plays down we’ll have an important year will also boost the Italian game, With Ronaldo, Juve has been ele- “Certainly Ronaldo is among the kind of player we were the idea that the Champions ahead of us, like all the others, with the country still reeling after vated to another dimension: the best in the world, maybe looking for,” Husillos said. League has become an obsession with objectives that need to be not qualifying for the World Cup today everyone is talking of Juve, even the best ... but the truth is “I think Manuel Pellegrini but coach Massimiliano Allegri achieved.” for the first time in 60 years. of Turin and the Italian league that his arrival in Serie A gives is the perfect coach for Andriy knows that having a player who Juventus announced on “Signing Ronaldo is a great like never before, in the whole great benefits to Juve and really and his style of play. has won the competition five Tuesday it would pay 112m euros thing for the club but also a great world.” great motivation to challenge “I believe he is joining us times - including in four of the for Ronaldo, who signed a four- thing for Italian football,” said Napoli pushed Juventus them to all of us.” in the perfect moment. last five seasons - can bring some year deal with the Serie A former footballer Alessandro Del closest for the title last year in There are some question “He is 28, the prime age much-needed experience to the champions. Piero, who spent most of his what was for months a two- marks over how Ronaldo will fit for football, and we have club. The 33-year-old Portugal career at Juventus and won the horse race but ended up finishing into the Juventus team, alongside great expectation about what “We’ve always had the aim international will undergo a World Cup with Italy in 2006. four points behind. the likes of Gonzalo Higuain. The he can achieve with West of winning the Champions medical in Turin and is expected “The whole city, the whole New Napoli coach Carlo Argentina forward was the pre- Ham United.” Yarmolenko, League and certainly the signing to be presented to the media on country will welcome him with Ancelotti does not believe the vious record Serie A signing, two who spent the majority of his of Ronaldo will give us more Monday. great affection for what he has arrival of Ronaldo makes the title years ago, when Juventus paid career at Ukrainian side awareness of how to achieve it,” The signing got a warm done and what he will do. fight even more of a foregone Napoli 90m euros. Dynamo Kiev, said he is Allegri said at an event at the welcome in Italy as it will bring “I think he will increase the conclusion. “How will Ronaldo play?” looking forward to the chal- European Parliament in Brussels more attention to a league which level of Juve’s rivals, their desire “No,” said Ancelotti when Allegri said, with a laugh. “Like lenge of playing in the yesterday. has been largely devoid of big- to beat this Juventus side which asked if Juventus had already all he’s always done: trying to score . “But that, together with the name players in recent years. It already seemed unbeatable. but won the title. goals.” 24 SPORT THURSDAY 12 JULY 2018 THURSDAY 12 JULY 2018 SPORT 25

France coach Didier Deschamps celebrates French defensive after the semi-final France ‘Golden Generation’ will against Belgium in Saint Petersburg, on Tuesday. were lucky, Belgian PM strength key to tells Macron be back for Euro glory REUTERS Belgium play on Saturday against the loser of second semi-final between Croatia REUTERS ST PETERSBURG: Bitter defeat for Belgium and England in the third place play-off. in the World Cup semi-final is tempered by Players like captain Eden Players like captain Eden Hazard, Kevin World Cup charge BRUSSELS: The Belgian the fact that influential squad members will De Bruyne, and goalkeeper prime minister told French likely still be around in two years’ time for Hazard, , are still aged under 28 and AFP 4-3 win on the only occasion the French defence France peaking President Emmanuel the European Championship where they will will be eager to have another chance. Romelu Lukaku and goalkeeper have looked vulnerable in Russia. Macron yesterday that have another realistic chance at a major title. Thibaut Courtois are still aged “The disappointment is massive but we SAINT PETERSBURG: France have a much- Varane headed the opener in a 2-0 quarter- France had been very The country’s ‘Golden Generation’ had must be realistic. We have had a good tour- vaunted attack but it is their defence marshalled final win against Uruguay as Luis Suarez was shut fortunate to beat Belgium high hopes of a first-ever appearance in a under 28 and will be eager to nament, even the match against France was by Samuel Umtiti and Raphael Varane that is out. and reach the World Cup World Cup final but came up short on Tues- have another chance. good, and we can be proud despite the fact impressing at the World Cup -- at both ends of And Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne and final in Russia. day as neighbours France edged them 1-0 at that we lost,” said De Bruyne. the pitch. Romelu Lukaku could not break through in Saint Welcoming fellow the Saint Petersburg Stadium. “There was little difference between us Centre-back Umtiti scored the only goal in Petersburg as France registered a fourth clean perfectly as they leaders including Macron But if there is any consolation, it will be kicked off. “It’s too early to make a sort of and France and, in the end, it was just one Tuesday’s semi-final to condemn Belgium’s sheet in six World Cup games to reach the final. and US President Donald that many will return to try again at the Euro assessment of the (Russia) tournament at the corner that proved decisive.” ‘golden generation’ to the third-place play-off in “The defence was excellent,” said Deschamps Trump to a summit of the 2020 tournament where, should they qual- moment, we need to focus on that final game, Belgium’s best international perform- Russia. when asked if Tuesday’s performance was the NATO defence alliance in ify comfortably, Belgium will be among the coming back to St Petersburg and facing the ances have been European Championship For the third straight knockout match, best defensive display during his reign. Brussels, premier Charles favourites. opportunity of fighting for that third place. runners-up in 1980 and now two World Cup France needed a game-changing goal from a “We had to defend deep, very deep at times Michel said the Western “Belgian football has got a wealth of “Then we’ll need to regroup again, as it semi-finals, the first of which was in 1986. defender despite boasting a fearsome attack- because Belgium have technical quality. The idea bloc must go on setting young talent coming through and in my role, happens after any tournament, we need to Asked whether being knocked out of the ing pair of 19-year-old sensation Kylian Mbappe was not to give them space because they’ve rolled head to ‘fulfill aside differences to protect I’ve got an eye on the Euros in 2020,” said look at the younger generation and try to World Cup represented the last chance for a and Euro 2016 Golden Boot winner Antoine over everyone (in reaching the semi-finals), even each other. coach Roberto Martinez, who signed a two- become stronger from tournament to tour- talented group of players who have promised Griezmann. Brazil.” Then he added: “Yes- year contract extension to take him through nament. There is the drive and ambition,” he much in recent years, Courtois said: “I don’t Right-back Benjamin Pavard’s stunning long- On the few occasions the French defence has terday in Russia, Belgium to 2020 just weeks before the World Cup added. know. The Euros are only two years away.” range effort from left-back Lucas Hernandez’s been breached, captain Hugo Lloris has come up played a great game against cross levelled Les Bleus’ last-16 tie with Argen- with big saves against Uruguay and Belgium. Des- France. Belgians are gen- tina at 2-2 after Didier Deschamps’ side fell behind champs’ cautious approach does not win admirers erally not too chauvinist for the first time in the tournament. from all quarters. destiny’ but frankly, Emmanuel, Mbappe then took centre-stage in a thrilling Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois declared yesterday, the French team the result “a shame for football”. was very lucky. But the success of reaching the World Cup “Like in football, fair final after also playing in the Euro 2016 final is play and team spirit are hard to argue with. what we need more than As France look to make amends for losing to ever.”. Portugal on home soil two years ago, the pres- ence of Varane could make the difference. Fresh from winning his fourth Champions League title at just 25 with Real Madrid, Varane REUTERS all realise the importance of the added motivation. “It was very missed the Euros two years ago due to a thigh competition. When there was an difficult to accept what happened injury. ST PETERSBURG: Should France opportunity to be seized, they two years ago, and we do not Rivals at club level, he and Barcelona’s Umtiti go on to win the World Cup on took it.” want it to happen again. We want have formed a strong partnership with a combi- Sunday, they would have peaked The older players all played their role as leaders There have been many posi- to finish this tournament in the nation of aerial power and speed across the perfectly after starting the tour- and the youngsters brought their energy. I have tive aspects to their game. A lack best possible way,” said captain ground. “ nament in Russia slowly but a squad with a good blend. They have co-habited of panic when they were 2-1 Hugo Lloris after another series As in 2016, the dynamic within the team is gaining momentum when it happily together: Didier Deschamps down against Argentina in the of heroic saves on Tuesday. very good, but the team is more mature. There is mattered most. last-16 before coming back to win Deschamps, who captained more experience,” said Varane. Tournament experience has a thriller 4-3, and patience in France’s only World Cup winning Umtiti was drafted in for his international been key for both the players and asked after a far-from-inspiring then Belgium 1-0 in Tuesday’s breaking down stubborn Uruguay side in 1998, said the march to debut to cover for Varane two years ago, and is coach Didier Deschamps, who has start, which included a controver- semi-final at Saint Petersburg. in the quarter-finals. Sunday’s final has been under- determined not to suffer another disappointment learnt lessons from the last World sial win over Australia and “We have prepared well, I can Against Belgium on Tuesday, pinned by a steely in a final. “I’m not a lucky charm,” he said. Cup in Brazil, where they lost to narrowly beating Peru, France brag a little about that,” laughed France were watchful and determination. “We did not win the final at the Euros -- that’s Germany in the quarter-final, and still expectedly secured a knock- Deschamps after securing a place disciplined. “There is a spirit in the squad why it’s important for me to reach the World Cup the disappointment of missing out out round spot early from a first in Sunday’s final in Moscow “We have to give a lot of credit that can move mountains,” he final. I hope it will be different and we can bring on home soil in the European round group where they were against either Croatia or to the way France defended, even said. it back to France.” Championship two years ago. heavy favourites. England. having certain attacking players “They are young and they will Either side of Varane and Umtiti, Deschamps’ No more so than on Tuesday They have looked better in “The older players all played defending very deep and giving be even stronger in two and four decision to use 22-year-old converted centre- as they edged Belgium in the each game. their role as leaders and the us a lot of respect in that way,” years’ time. backs Hernandez and Pavard instead of Benjamin semi-final to put themselves There were, however, no easy youngsters brought their energy. said opposing coach Roberto “We have created an oppor- Mendy and Djibril Sidibe for their better defen- within one game of a second rides in the knockout stages I have a squad with a good blend. Martinez. tunity to become world sive qualities has been thoroughly justified. World Cup win, 20 years after where the French had to show They have co-habited happily For France, losing in the 2016 champions but we are still not Raphael Varane (top) celebrates as he is carried Deschamps’ France may not enthral like the their first. their full capability in beating together. European Championships final to there. But we want to fulfill our by France’s defender Presnel Kimpembe at the World Cup-winning side of 1998 he captained, While there were questions Argentina, Uruguay and “No one complains and they Portugal in Paris has provided destiny.” FROM LEFT: Belgium’s forward Romelu Lukaku, midfielder , midfielder and midfielder jump end of the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final but they will be hard to beat for England or Croatia to block a free-kick during the Russia 2018 World Cup semi-final against France in Saint Petersburg on Tuesday. against Belgium in Saint Petersburg on Tuesday. come Moscow on Sunday.

5 TIMES VAR MADE A DIFFERENCE IN RUSSIA Pogba dedicates semi-final France 2-1 Australia (Group C) Millions celebrate France feats at home France’s first game against Australia was the first time VAR was used to award a penalty at the World Cup. Antoine Griezmann was through on goal and inside the penalty area before he went down under contact from victory to rescued Thai boys Josh Risdon. REUTERS competition it has won just once Football pundits and celebrities Referee Andres Cunha allowed play to continue, but stopped the game after being alerted by the VAR. The before, on home soil in 1998. waxed lyrical about the young French Fans react on the Champs-Elysees after France defeated referee checked replays on a pitch-side monitor and awarded a penalty from which Griezmann opened REUTERS PARIS: Millions of jaded but jubilant On social networks, soccer buffs side, particularly lightning fast striker Belgium in their World Cup semi-final match on Tuesday. France’s account. Paul Pogba French were recovering after a night shared space with more light-hearted Kylian Mbappe, one of the stand-out ST PETERSBURG: France of celebration following the team’s commentators, some of whom were stars of the tournament. In Paris, graf- Brazil 2-0 Costa Rica (Group E) midfielder Paul Pogba dedicated 1-0 World Cup semi-final win against more interested in the historical and fiti popped up on one wall reading The game was scoreless with 12 minutes remaining and Brazil were pushing for an equaliser when Neymar his side’s World Cup 1-0 semi-final Belgium, a victory that has generated political ramifications of a final face- “Liberte, Egalite, Mbappe!”, a play on went to ground under a touch from Giancarlo Gonzalez, leading referee Bjorn Kuipers to award a penalty. win over Belgium to the 12 Thai a rare but contagious mood of opti- off between arch-rivals England and the national motto of “Liberte, Egal- The VAR intervened, and the referee watched the replays and reversed his decision, marking the first time a boys who were rescued from a mism. France. ite, Fraternite” (Freedom, Equality, VAR review had cancelled the award of a penalty at the World Cup. flooded cave along with their For those who returned to work, “Winning the final over England Brotherhood). Iran 1-1 Portugal (Group B) coach on Tuesday. many had barely slept after the spon- would be sublime, but losing to them In the Belgian capital Brussels, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was fouled in the box and the referee awarded a record 19th penalty at “This victory goes to the heroes taneous explosions of revelry, dancing would be so awful that I’m hoping for Wednesday morning commuters had the World Cup before the knockout rounds. Ronaldo missed his spot kick, but the decision eclipsed the previ- of the day, well done boys, you are and car-horn blaring from the streets Croatia,” said one Twitter fan by the to endure more than the pain of the so strong,” Pogba wrote on his offi- of Paris to the smallest village squares name of Antoine. previous evening’s loss. ous record tally of 18 penalties awarded at the 2002 World Cup hosted by Japan and South Korea. cial Twitter account after Samuel of a nation heaving to the beat of foot- Another contributor made fun of Honouring a bet between the cit- VAR was used on two more occasions of note in the same match - when Ronaldo was shown a yellow card Umtiti’s headed goal put France in ball chants. France’s rivals on the other side of the ies’ respective metro operators, the for an elbow and to award Iran a penalty for handball in extra time that allowed the Asian team to level the Sunday’s World Cup final in Mos- The Champs Elysees and the vast channel, saying: “Just spoke to an Eng- Brussels subway train company piped score. cow, where they will play Croatia coach to Spain to attend a Span- happiness of football, hoping that circle around the Arc de Triomphe lish friend. He tells me England’s music by late French singer Johnny Spain 2-2 Morocco (Group B) or England. ish top flight game in the future this can go some way to helping were packed with an estimated playing Croatia. So I’m like, ‘What a Hallyday over its sound system. At nearly the same time as Iran was scoring their penalty to level with Portugal, Iago Aspas had scored a late The “Wild Boars” soccer team, when they have fully recovered them after everything they’ve been 200,000 fans, who danced, sang and coincidence. We’re playing them on One member of the French team, goal to draw Spain level with Morocco, but his celebrations were cut short by the linesman’s flag for offside. aged between 11 and 16, and their from the ordeal. through in the last few weeks.” drank late into the night. Sunday.’” towering midfielder Paul Pogba, took Referee Ravshan Irmatov was alerted by the VAR to check the replays and overturned the linesman’s decision 25-year-old coach became La Liga’s President Javier FIFA had invited the boys to The immediate question on most French TV channels and radio sta- to Twitter to dedicate his side’s tri- and awarded the goal, sending Spain through to the knockout stages as group winners ahead of Portugal. trapped on June 23 while explor- Tebas said: “When the moment is Sunday’s World Cup final although people’s minds yesterday was who tions talked about little but soccer, umph to the team of young Thai Sweden 1-0 Switzerland (Round of 16) ing the cave complex in the right and everyone is ready I the world organising body said will reach the final to face Les Bleus. relegating coverage of weightier soccer players rescued after 17 days northern province of Chiang Rai would like to invite the children that due to medical reasons the England and Croatia play in the other issues such as a fractious NATO sum- trapped in a flooded cave in the coun- Sweden were 1-0 up and under pressure from Switzerland late in the game when they broke through the when a rainy season downpour and their coach to go to a Liga boys would not be in a position to semi-final in Moscow at 1800 GMT. mit to a few seconds. An estimated 19 try’s far north. Swiss cordon and launched a quick counter-attack. flooded the tunnels. game. travel to the game, although they There was no consensus about million of France’s 67 million popu- Alongside photos of the 12 rescued Martin Olsson was bearing down on the Swiss goal when he was fouled by Michael Lang and the referee

Yesterday, La Liga said they “We would like to host them would invite them to an event in which team would be a preferable - lation watched the Belgium game, boys, Pogba wrote: “This victory goes awarded a penalty and showed Lang a red card. After consulting the VAR, the referee realised the foul had had invited the boys and their and share with them the the future. meaning easier - opponent for France with that number only likely to grow to the heroes of the day, well done taken place outside the area and changed his decision, giving the Swedes a free kick instead. and its hopes of triumphing in a for the final. boys, you are so strong.”

363@51239_pen_12-07-2018_p24-p25 (1).indd 2-3 7/12/2018 12:06:12 AM 26 SPORT THURSDAY 12 JULY 2018

South Africa’s Kevin Anderson (left) celebrates Team Qatar winning his quarter-final match against Switzerland’s eyes rich haul Roger Federer at Wimbledon yesterday. of medals at Asian Games THE PENINSULA

DOHA: Six of Qatar’s most talented and ambitious athletes yesterday outlined their hopes and aspirations for the Asian Games in a lively question and answer panel session hosted by The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) at Olympic Tower. The session, shone a light on what it takes to prepare for the Asian Games, one of the biggest multi-sport events in the world after the Olympics, which will take place in Jakarta and Pale- mbang, Indonesia from 18th August – 2nd September and involve over 250 athletes from Team Qatar across 30 different sports. Taking part in the session were three talented shooters including Reem Al Sharshani, Matara Al Aseiri and Ahmed Mohsen Al Ali, Team Qatar boxer Abdullatif Mohammed Sadiq and Team Qatar Olympic football team member Hatem Kamal. Speaking at the event, Ahmed Darwish – Deputy Head of Administrative Delegation, said: “We are now at the final stage of preparations and we are working with all partici- Federer wastes match pating federations to confirm the final list of all participating athletes. Qatar will participate with 245 athletes competing in 30 point, loses to Anderson sports. Our athletes are cur- rently attending training AP sets; both of the other defeats camps to be well prepared came in 2011. And, according to Serbia’s Novak Djokovic for the games in Indonesia. LONDON: Roger Federer was a the ATP, it’s the fifth time celebrates after beating We will have two delega- point away from a rather tidy, Federer lost a match at a major Japan’s Kei Nishikori 6-3, 3-6, tions, one for competitions straight-set victory in the tournament after holding a 6-2, 6-2 during their quarter- that will take place in Wimbledon quarter-finals. One match point, something else that finals match on the ninth Jakarata and one for the lousy point. last happened seven years ago. day of the 2018 Wimbledon competitions in Palembang. And then, slowly, over the How hard was it to see this Championships in London Our united goal is to rep- next two-plus hours, all the way coming? yesterday. resent Qatar in the best way until the fifth set reached its 24th Federer was 4-0 against possible and for Qatar we Team Qatar game, as the temperature Anderson entering the day, do anything.” shooter Matra dropped and the spectators’ cries winning every set they’d ever Hatim Kamal spoke of “Let’s go, Roger!” echoed played against each other. But about the relationship Al Aseiri. through the shadows, everything there was more. So much more. between his team members, came apart for the eight-time Federer was attempting to reach saying: “Our relationship is champion against an opponent his 13th semi-final at Wimbledon very strong as a team; we who’d never beaten him before and move closer to title No. 9, work and train together as one family. We look forward to com- nor made it this far at the All both of which would have peting at the Asian Games where it’s an opportunity for the team England Club. broken his own records. to gain experience and help us prepare for the Asian Cup.” In a stunning turnaround in He came into the match Speaking about her greatest achievement and the local com- an unfamiliar setting - No. 1 having won 32 consecutive sets petitions organised by the shooting federation, Reem Al Shar- Court instead of Centre Court - at Wimbledon, a run he shani said: “I won a team gold medal at the Asian Championship. the top-seeded Federer blew a stretched to 34 before faltering. We competed against best athletes from both Asian and Interna- third-set match point and, even- And he had held serve 81 games tional world and this enriches our experience. Our federation is tually, all of his big lead in a 2-6, in a row at the grass-court committed to organise local and international championships and 6-7 (5), 7-5, 6-4, 13-11 loss to No. major, a streak that grew to 85 we have recently got Al Nishan Shooting championship which is 8 Kevin Anderson yesterday in before Anderson broke him a a strong competition and a great opportunity for all shooters in a 4-hour, 14-minute tussle. surprising total of four times. Qatar to gain points and for the amateurs to participate. It is also “It was just one of those days “I just kept on telling myself, an opportunity for people here to know more about different where you hope to get by ‘I have to keep believing.’ I kept shooting weapons.” somehow,” Federer said. “I saying that today was going to Matara Al Aseiri, also a shooter who competes in the air rifle, almost could have. I should be my day, because you really said about her beginning with the sport: “I stared the sport in 2001 have.” need that mindset taking the when I used to go with my sister to practice. Then I joined the fed- He was leading by two sets court against somebody like eration and I participated at a Championship held in Iran. My best and 5-4 in the third when, with Roger,” Anderson said. “If you achievement was in 2011 when I won team gold in the Arab Cham- Anderson serving, he got to go out there with doubts or anything other than an elite Grand Slam semi-final since pionship and the 2nd place in the individual category. There were Ad-Out. Could have ended things unsure what’s going to happen, tennis player. He was, after all, 2016 by beating No. 24 seed Kei strong opponents from Kuwait and Egypt but the team and I gained right then and there. Federer like I maybe did a little bit in that the runner-up at last year’s U.S. Nishikori of Japan 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, great experiences.” managed to return a 134 mph first set, it’s not going to go your Open. That also was the closest 6-2. About his hopes for the Asian Games and the future, aspiring serve, but on his next stroke, he way.” he’s come to winning a Grand Djokovic is a 12-time major shooter Ahmed Al Ali said: “The Asian Games is a great oppor- shanked a backhand. Not that Anderson is Slam trophy, while Federer owns champion who’s been in some- tunity to gain the experience needed in achieving my goals for the Back to deuce. From 20. thing of a rut, due to right elbow future. I am juggling between my studies and my sport, hoping I there, it all began to Anderson never had made it troubles that lasted more than a can graduate and still practice shooting. I am always giving fair change. Anderson held beyond the fourth round at year until he finally had surgery attention to both my training and my studies because I want to for 5-all, broke to 6-5 Wimbledon until this week, in February. excel in both. I even train during exam periods.” with a violent return carried by his booming serve. He He’s been flashing some Abdullatif Mohammed Sadiq, who holds a gold medal from winner off a 97 mph hit 28 aces against Federer, anger this fortnight and did so Qatar boxing open 2018 and has a Guinness record, spoke about second serve, then saved 9 of 12 break points and again in the second set, bouncing his achievement and goals by saying: “I achieved this record in staved off three break managed to hold his own in the his racket off the turf after failing 2009 in push-ups on two fingers of each hand. I managed to achieve points and closed the rare lengthy baseline rallies. to capitalize on three break 132 push-ups in one minute. The previous record was 124 in one set with a 133 mph ace. “It’s like that with the big points at 1-all. That earned a minute. My goal to achieve more records.” About his training, he The comeback was servers,” Federer said. “You’re code violation from chair umpire added: “An athlete has to dedicate enough time for training if they just beginning. never really safe.” Carlos Ramos. When Nishikori want to achieve greatness and this comes with the support of his “I had my chances,” As the fifth set became as let his own racket fly in the family and coach. Before the games, we have to have enough rest, Federer said. “So it’s much a test of mental strength fourth set, he wasn’t chastised, and during the game, we have to apply all the tips and instruc- disappointing.” as anything, from 4-all to 6-all which prompted Djokovic to yell tions all in one minute that could make a huge difference.” This was only the to 8-all to 10-all, Anderson was “double standards” toward You can follow Team Qatar’s preparations for the Asian Games third time in Federer’s Switzerland’s Roger Federer takes as steady as he needed to be. And Ramos - drawing boos from fans. on the Team Qatar social media channels and website, where 20 years of contesting part in a press conference after losing it was Federer who blinked, “He claims that he didn’t see further information and insights about their journeys and their Grand Slam matches to South Africa’s Kevin Anderson. double-faulting to face a break what Nishikori has done, but achievements will be shared regularly. that he lost one after point at 11-all, then slapping a apparently he always sees what taking the opening two forehand into the net to cede the I do,” Djokovic said. “Something key break. that I don’t think is fair.” Anderson then served it out, Later, Ramos warned Team Qatar boxer Today’s order of play ending things with a 128 mph Djokovic for a time violation, but Abdullatif Mohammed Order of play on the main show courts on the 10th day of Wimbledon today service winner, and raised both that didn’t seem to faze the Serb. Sadiq. (play starts at 1200 GMT/8 AM ET, prefix number denotes seeding): arms overhead. Soon enough, Djokovic was on Centre Court Now the 32-year-old South his way to the semi-finals, where 12-Jelena Ostapenko (Latvia) v 11-Angelique Kerber (Germany) African moves on to a semi-final he will meet Rafael Nadal who 13-Julia Goerges (Germany) v 25-Serena Williams (U.S.) against No. 9 John Isner of the beat Juan Martin del Potro 7-5, US or No. 13 Milos Raonic of 6-7, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. Court One Canada. “I like the level of tennis that That will be played at Centre I’m playing on right now. I really Men’s doubles - semi-finals Court, of course, a spot Federer do. I think with the perform- 13-Raven Klaasen (South Africa)/ Michael Venus (New Zealand) v Frederik Nielsen knows well. His loss to Anderson ances I’ve had, I deserve to be in (Denmark)/ Joe Salisbury (Britain) was the first match he’d played the semifinals,” said Djokovic, at No. 1 since 2015. whose last major title came at Court Two (not before 1130) Three-time Wimbledon the 2016 French Open. “I don’t Men’s doubles - semi-finals champion Novak Djokovic got want to stop here. I hope I can 15-Dominic Inglot (Britain)/ Franko Skugor (Croatia) v 7-Mike Bryan (U.S.)/ Jack Sock (U.S.) his wish to play in the main get a chance to fight for a stadium, and he reached his first trophy.” THURSDAY 12 JULY 2018 SPORT 27

Sri Lankan Du Plessis backs Steyn Ponting says Australia spinner Herath will turn things around contemplating to shine in Sri Lanka ahead of World Cup retirement AFP REUTERS “KG will take over that mantle (from REUTERS GALLE: South Africa skipper Faf Steyn). He has got the COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s Rangana du Plessis yesterday backed skills, pace and control SYDNEY: Australia still have the best depth of any cricket nation, Herath might retire from inter- “dangerous” paceman Dale to do well in all the con- former skipper Ricky Ponting (pictured) has said while backing national cricket after the three- Steyn and the rest of his bowlers ditions of the world,” he them to turn around their poor one-day international form in time match test series against England to wreak havoc in Sri Lanka on added in the pre-match to defend their World Cup title in England and Wales next year. in November, the left-arm the eve of the first Test. news conference Five-time World Cup winners Australia were whitewashed spinner has said. Steyn “gets one wicket and yesterday. 5-0 by hosts England in the ODI series Herath has notched up 418 he is up there with the most But Sri Lankan which concluded last month, extending wickets in 90 Test matches for dangerous bowlers in the world batsman Roshen Silva their poor ODI run having won only 16 Sri Lanka and is the country’s because he is so skilful. I am also struck a confident of their last 18 matches. highest wicket-taker after hoping to see Dale bowl really note, saying they will “There are 16 one-dayers to be played Muttiah Muralitharan, who has a quick again,” du Plessis told make most of the home between now and the next World Cup,” staggering 800 Test wickets to his reporters. advantage in conditions the 43-year-old said at a Channel Seven name. “In our bowling attack that South African cricket captain Faf du Plessis that favour spin more promotional event yesterday. “Maybe my final series will be we have, we have the ability to speaks at a pre-match news conference than seam. “I’ll guarantee you when you put the the England series later in the get 20 wickets on whatever the ahead of their first Test against Sri Lanka. “At the moment Australian group of 15 players down on year,” the 40-year-old told BBC surfaces. I think this series will The Test starts today. they, South Africa, are a sheet of paper, that group will line up Sinhala. “There comes a time for be won where the batters need the number two team in as good as any other team in the world.” every cricketer, when they have to stand up for both teams,” he ranking. We expect Ponting, who captained Australia in to stop playing. I think that time said. swing it South Africa’s way and them to come really hard at us. their 2003 and 2007 World Cup victories, has come for me.” Steyn, who is returning from eventually to step into Steyn’s “(But) we have prepared and said the ODI series against England helped young players to get Herath, who retired from an injury and last played a Test shoes as their foremost attack we will give our best,” said Silva, some games and he believes the team will keep producing great one-day and Twenty20 interna- in January, is expected to be a paceman. who has played six Tests since players. “One thing I do know is we’ve got still the best depth of tionals in 2016, is in the squad for part of South Africa’s potent Rabada, 23, is returning making his debut in India last any cricket nation in the world and I will continue to say that,” he Sri Lanka’s two-match Test series pace attack in the first of two from a lower-back injury that year. added. Ponting also supported coach Justin Langer who took over against South Africa, which kicks Tests starting in Galle today. saw him miss the Indian Premier “If you take Bangladesh and reins of the team in May this year. off on Thursday in Galle. The 35-year-old speedster League, but is still the year’s in India, we did well (during “The environment Justin Langer will create around that team With spinners like Dilruwan needs three wickets to add to his leading wicket-taker with 38 in those tours). We will gave a good will be a place that everyone will just get better, they’ll just improve, Perera, Akila Dananjaya and 419 scalps and surpass retired seven Tests. fight and we hope to win the they’ll love the environment,” he said. Lakshan Sandakan in the national quick Shaun Pollock (421) to “The remarkable thing about series.” “I’m really excited about what the future holds not just right side, Herath believed Sri Lanka become South Africa’s leading KG (Rabada) is how quickly he The two sides are also now but for the next 20 years.” would be in good hands post his wicket-taker in the five-day learns. He has the ability to scheduled to play five one-day Australia will host South Africa in November for three ODIs retirement. format. swing the bowl both ways which internationals and one and one Twenty20 and will then host Virat Kohli-led India for Du Plessis said he was also I think not many bowlers have,” Twenty20 international after the three T20s, four Test matches and three ODIs. Pakistan’s banking on Kagiso Rabada to said Du Plessis. Test series. Shehzad Indian women’s provisionally suspended cricket coach quits REUTERS AFP ISLAMABAD: Pakistan batsman Ahmed Shehzad has been provi- NEW DELHI: The Indian women’s cricket coach has quit just over year into sionally suspended and charged the job after a string of defeats and apparently alienating players, four months with violating anti-doping regu- before the World Twenty20. Tushar Arothe, who was instrumental in India lations after he tested positive for reaching the final of the women’s World Cup in England last July, stepped a prohibited substance in May, the down from his post Monday citing “personal reasons”. But a senior official country’s cricket board (PCB) has in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said that a few senior said. players were not happy with Arothe’s style of training. The 26-year-old’s in-compe- “Some players and selectors met BCCI administrators to convey that tition urine sample, which was they were not comfortable with Arothe’s method of training,” the official collected during the domestic said on condition of anonymity. Pakistan Cup tournament in May, Arothe, 51, was appointed last April after his predecessor, the former tested positive and an inde- women’s captain Purnima Rau, was sacked by the board. The team also had pendent review board confirmed a dismal Twenty20 tri-nation tournament against England and Australia in the result in June. March and then lost a one-day international series against Australia. However, “He has been given till July 18 it was the twin defeats against minnows Bangladesh in the Asia Cup, including 2018 to advise whether he wishes India’s Virat Kohli and England’s Eoin Morgan pose with the series trophy at Trent Bridge, one in the final in Kuala Lumpur last month, that hurt the most. to have his B Sample tested and Nottingham, Britain, yesterday. Both teams will play the first of three ODIs today at Trent The 10-nation ICC women’s World T20 is scheduled to take place in the till July 27 to respond to the West Indies November 9-24. The Indian men’s team also witnessed a similar Bridge followed by the second game on the 14th at Lords. The third and final match will be charges levelled in the Notice of situation last year when former captain Anil Kumble quit as coach after his played on the 17th at Headingley, Leeds. India won the three-match T20 series 2-1. The ODIs Charge,” the PCB said in a relations with skipper Virat Kohli became “untenable”. will be followed by a five-match Test series. statement on its website https:// www.pcb.com.pk/press-release- detail/notice-of-charge-handed- out-to-ahmed-shehzad.html. “The PCB has also provi- sionally suspended Ahmed Al Sailiya prepare for new QSL season Shehzad pending the outcome of the charges.” Shehzad most THE PENINSULA recently played for Pakistan in the two-match Twenty20 series DOHA: Al Sailiya will be looking Umm Salal arrive in Scotland in June. to challenge the top teams when the new QNB Stars League in Slovenia, get ready season kicks off next month. Boycott A sixth-place finish last season would have been satis- for training camp fying for most sides but coach recovering Sami Trabelsi is preparing his THE PENINSULA side for tougher tasks when the after heart regular football season starts in ZAGREB: Umm Salal have arrived in Slovenia for their pre-season a few weeks. training camp. surgery Trabeli’s fighting unit last The Umm Salal contingent arrived in Slovenia on Tuesday REUTERS season could not sustain the after a flight from Doha to Croatia and then to Slovenia by bus, good start they had in the early officials said yesterday. part of the previous year but Umm Salal will remain in Slovenia until July 25. LONDON: Former England Test things could be different in the File photo of Al Sailiya players celebrating a goal during The mission was received at the Zagreb International Airport captain Geoffrey Boycott is recov- 2018-19 season. the last QNB Stars League season. in Croatia by Ali Amin, Sports Director of Umm Salal. ering after undergoing quadruple Al Sailiya are one of the The football delegation was escorted from Doha by Nasser heart bypass surgery and will teams that rely on technical sta- Al-Fadala, the team’s manager. The mission then reached Slovenia miss commentating on England’s bility in order to achieve their international Fahad Al Youssef - are scheduled to play a number following a two-hour bus journey. first two Tests against India next goals and nobody would know and Algerian veteran Nadir of friendly matches before French coach Laurent Banide preferred not to train after the month. this better than Trabelsi who has Belhadj. These players have been returning to Doha. arrival at the team’s hotel to allow players some much-needed The 77-year-old, who scored been with the side for the last retained from previous season Al Sailiya will start its new rest. The first training session was held on Wednesday morning 8114 runs in 108 Tests and led few years. and Al Sailiya coach Trabelsi will season with a clash against Umm at the training venue next to the team’s hotel. England in four of them, had the Trabelsi knows the chal- be hoping the see better per- Salal on August 4. The match will The team will play four friendly matches during the camp operation on June 27 and spent lenges that lie in front of him as formances from the trio. be of great importance to the with teams from Croatia, Slovenia and Turkey. 10 days recovering in hospital. he works on his starting line-up Al Sailiya has supported its players and the players because Sheikh Hamad bin Nasser Al Thani, President of Umm Salal, “The surgeon says the oper- for the new season. His team with a number of national it will give an indication of what spoke to Sports Director Amin to check on the conditions of the ation was a success and has now knowledge of his opponents’ players, the most recent being the team can achieve in the new members of the mission as soon as they arrived in Slovenia, the allowed him home to recover,” strengths and weaknesses will goalkeeper Saud Al Khater. season. club said. Boycott’s daughter Emma said in come in handy when Al Sailiya These reinforcements will Coach Trabelsi will be The Umm Salal President is expected to join the team during a statement on behalf of her take to the pitch for QNB Stars contribute to the team’s cause in looking forward to a strong start the next few days. father on his official Twitter League clashes. the new football season in order in the new season, knowing very Coach Banide confirmed the players will undergo training account. The statement also said Trabelsi have assembled a to break through the grip of the well a win in the first match twice a day so that the squad quickly gets into the groove ahead that Boycott was hopeful of strike force that could lift Al top teams like Al Duhail, Al Sadd, could set the tone for better of the new season in Qatar. returning to the commentary box Sailiya in the new season. Expe- Al Rayyan and Al Gharafa. things in the weeks and months Umm Salal play Al Sailiya in the season-opener on August 4 for the third test of the five-match rienced Moroccan Rachid Tiber- Al Sailiya - currently training ahead. at Khalifa International Stadium. series between England and India kanine will join Syrian in the Tunisian city of Tabarka at Nottingham. THURSDAY 12 JULY 2018 SPORT 28

Qatar fans watch World Cup and dream of 2022

AFP first World Cup in the Middle football, but takes an interest in East,” said Atef. the game every four years when DOHA: In four years’ time, “It’s not only big for Qatar, the World Cup comes around. Qatar’s Khalifa International it’s big for the region.” Nearby, Mohamed, a Qatari Stadium will host a World Cup The game has attracted teacher was there to watch the quarter-final, but on Tuesday it people from all over Doha, match with his family, but was had to make do with a big mostly men, but there are plenty also thinking four years’ ahead. screen. of families and women in “I think we can make it Some 4,500 people packed attendance. better than Russia, because out the stadium’s fan zone as it Fans drawn from Qatar, there have been more sports in showed France beating Belgium Kenya, Bangladesh, India, Doha beforehand,” he said. in the semi-final in Russia, Pakistan are glued to the screen, Teenager Jassim from Bang- knowing that the clock is ticking screaming and jumping at ladesh, was dressed in a Qatari for Qatar’s World Cup in 2022. several near misses. thobe and said he cannot wait Atef, a 30-year-old local Popcorn and soft drink to watch games live in four who was supporting Belgium, sellers move among the crowd years’ time. said he has enjoyed the and people were still pouring in “This makes me so excited, tournament. some 30 minutes after kick-off. I will go to games in 2022,” says “It’s competitive, it makes it The stadium is the 15-year-old. more interesting, to see air-conditioned. High in the seats provided someone new in the World It was clear that Belgium for fans sit Alex, 29, a security Cup,” he says. were the fans’ favourites in the guard from Kenya, was cheering But he admitted the unpre- Khalifa Stadium -- though some Belgium because a former Fans cheer during a World Cup match at a fan zone in Doha. dicted success of Russia has supporters were in French Belgian national team player, posed more challenge to Qatar. replica shirts. Divock Origi, has Kenyan roots. He has been in the Gulf for Cup. “It will be a privilege for “If my visa expires, I will “To be honest, yes, there is One Indian fan, Pooja, But his mind is as much on two years and one of the reasons me to see the World Cup,” he have to find a way to extend it much pressure. This will be the admitted she does not really like 2022 as the semi-final. he come to Qatar is the World said excitedly. so I am here for 2022.” Belgium’s Martinez Deschamps urges France says disappointed team to make amends for Euro must try to finish third REUTERS AFP ST PETERSBURG: Belgium SAINT PETERSBURG: France paid the price for failing to take The disappointment coach Didier Deschamps urged their chances against France his side to seize their chance of but will now have to shake off is huge... It’s a redemption in the World Cup their disappointment and focus very sad dressing final after admitting he has still on finishing third at the World room right now. not got over the pain of defeat Cup, their coach Roberto in the Euro 2016 final. Martinez said after his team’s I don’t want any Samuel Umtiti headed the defeat in the semi-final. of my players to only goal in a 1-0 semi-final win Samuel Umtiti headed in be frustrated and over Belgium in Saint Petersburg from a corner for the only goal disappointed: on Tuesday, consigning the Red of the game to knock Belgium Devils ‘golden generation’ to out, and Martinez said that Belgium coach another bitter defeat. while he was pleased his team Roberto Martinez France’s own supremely tal- negated France’s threat on the ented young squad will now aim counter-attack, his players did his players and would do all he to make amends for defeat on not show their usual finesse in could to get them ready for home soil to Portugal two years front of goal. their final match of the ago in Sunday’s showpiece “It was a tight game,” the tournament. against England or Croatia. Spaniard told reporters. “There “The disappointment is “Finals have to be won weren’t many big moments... huge... It’s a very sad dressing because we have still not got The difference between defeat room right now,” he said. over the one we lost two years and winning was just one dead “I don’t want any of my ago,” said Deschamps. ball situation. players to be frustrated and “It is something exceptional. “We controlled their disappointed. I am very happy for my players. counter-attacks. We had the “It’s a difficult emotion to They are young but they have ball but have to give credit to manage. You’re disappointed character, a (winning) the way France defended, and because you lose the semi-final, mentality.” we couldn’t find that little bit of and it’s very difficult to see the In a World Cup replete with magic in front of goal.” opportunity of playing another set-piece goals, a corner again The match was a fasci- game as a positive. proved decisive when Umtiti nating tactical battle, with “We need to regroup and timed his run perfectly to meet France content to surrender recover and see the oppor- Antoine Griezmann’s delivery six possession and looking to use tunity. To try to finish third in minutes into the second half. Kylian Mbappe’s pace to hurt the World Cup doesn’t happen “The difference sadly is a set Belgium on the often. The only time it hap- play in a very close and tight counter-attack. pened in Belgian football was This combination of file pictures created yesterday, shows France’s head coach Didier Deschamps game,” lamented Belgium boss Martinez said his team had in 1986, when we finished (left) shouting from the sideline during the Russia 2018 World Cup Group C match against Denmarkin Roberto Martinez. done well to nullify the French fourth. “If you are going to have to Moscow on June 26, 2018 ; and Didier Deschamps, then French captain and midfielder during the threat from open play and “We need to understand it’s lose such a match, which is 1998 World Cup semi-final match against Croatia on July 8, 1998. denied that his decision to start an important game, but I accept bearable, it is the manner in Mousa Dembele in midfield had it’s very difficult after a game which our players lost, pushing France’s biggest threat, but it and deflected just over. Goal- Martinez introduced an extra a major effect on the outcome. with the emotions we had for everything, trying everything was another off night for Olivier keepers Lloris and Thibaut attacker in in an From dreaming of a first today. When you had the until the final whistle.” Giroud as the focal point of Des- Courtois played a huge part their attempt to turn the tide and he World Cup final, Belgium will ambition of getting to the final, Apart from being the match champs’s attack. sides’ quarter-final victories and nearly had an immediate impact now have to be content with a it’s tough individually and col- winner, Umtiti’s partnership Giroud has not scored in it was only thanks to two of the as his cross was headed inches play-off for third place, but lectively to prepare for the next with Raphael Varane in central eight games and is yet to even best ‘keepers in the world that wide by Marouane Fellaini. Martinez said he was proud of game.” defence continues to flourish, have a shot on target in Russia. the game remained goalless at That was as close as Belgium and when called upon, captain “I’m not missing too much,” half-time. came to taking the game to Hugo Lloris made important insisted Giroud. First, Lloris flew to his right extra-time, though, as Lloris saves at key moments. “I would have liked to help to turn behind Toby Alder- comfortably parried a long- At the other end of the field, the team, make the break- weireld’s shot on the turn. range pile-driver from Axel teenager Kylian Mbappe was through tonight. At the other end, Mbappe Witsel. “That was not the case but, demonstrated the subtler side to But for Courtois, France’s once again, I am confident in my his game to play in Benjamin margin of victory would have chances to score in the final and Pavard, but Courtois used his been greater as he made saves help bring back the World Cup. massive 6 feet 5 inch (199 cen- from Griezmann and Corentin Finals have to be won I really hope to do it in the final.” timetre) frame to deny the Tolisso in stoppage time. Belgium controlled pos- Stuttgart full-back his second For the generation of because we have still session early on with Eden goal of the tournament. Hazard, De Bruyne and Romelu not got over the one Hazard the biggest threat. The Giroud did at least have a Lukaku, beating Brazil in the we lost two years Chelsea forward pulled the first part to play in the decisive quarter-finals was meant to be attempt of goal just beyond the opener as, after his shot was the breakthrough on the way to ago: France coach Belgium’s midfielder Yannick Ferreira-Carrasco (left) is consoled far post, but his next effort was deflected wide, Griezmann’s winning a major tournament for by coach Roberto Martinez after semi-final defeat to France in Didier Deschamps arrowing into the top corner corner was flicked in at the near the first time. Instead, it proved until it flicked off Varane’s head post by Umtiti. to be another false dawn. Saint Petersburg Stadium on Tuesday.