FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 2 QFA president Sheikh Hamad re-elected for another term

Tuesday, December 11, 2018 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Rabia II 4, 1440 AH Inter Milan, PSG and GULF TIMES Liverpool sweating on last-16 spots SPORT Page 3 QNB STARS LEAGUE CRICKET Qatar open U19 WC qualifi ers Unbeaten Al Duhail campaign with victory over face in-form Al Sadd Thailand By Sports Reporter ‘The diff erence between us is only one point and that makes the game diff icult’ Doha

By Sports Reporter his team was under more pressure, Doha having lost to Al Duhail in the title atar made their fi rst appearance in the ICC race in previous seasons. Under-19 World Cup Qualifi ers Asia Divi- “We are under more pressure sion Two as they defeated hosts Thailand l Duhail will face their than Al Duhail. They are the leaders at Asian Institute of Technology Ground in toughest test of the season and have won the league title more QBangkok by six wickets yesterday. as the leaders are away to than once. And regardless of inju- Hosts decided to bat fi rst after winning the toss, but Al Sadd for a blockbuster ries, they are in a better position. were bundled out for just 92 in 36.2 overs with Samil AQNB Stars League clash today. I wish our fans turn out in large Sadiq (four for 12) and vice-captain Shubh Agarwal tak- Duhail have not lost a match since numbers and we need their sup- ing seven wickets between them. February 2017, an amazing un- port,” said Ferreira. Qatar played patiently and chased the target in 37.4 beaten run that has spread over 22 “Our players do not need any overs at the expense of four players. Saud Kamal fi n- months and 41 matches. psychological preparation for this ished the match with a fl ourish, staying unbeaten on But today, an in form Al Sadd will game. They know how important 12-ball 18, including a four and two sixes. fancy their chances against the de- the match is and both teams have Sadiq gave a thrilling start to the match for Qatar as fending champions and go on top of a great desire to win. The play- he removed opener Satarut Rungrueang off his very the table. Duhail, who had a healthy ers have had regular training and fi rst delivery for one. The home team could not over- eight-point lead over arch-rivals there was no special training for come the setback and kept losing players regularly and Sadd not long back, have struggled this match. Everyone knows that were struggling at seven down for 44 at one stage. for form recently. the game pits the two best teams in Sadiq, Agarwal (three wickets) and Patrick Kuma- They have been held to draw in Qatar. The diff erence between us is rage were the ones to cause the damage. Kongkidakon consecutive matches against Al only one point and that makes the Ruengrotchannachai was able to resist a bit before Rayyan and Qatar SC, which means game diffi cult,” he added. falling to Agarwal for 10 in 57 balls. the Nabil Maaloul’s side have just Meanwhile, Duhail coach Down the order, Kokiad Chatwong rallied a bit and one-point cushion going into to- Maaloul was hopeful his side will managed to move the team’s score to 92 with an un- day’s key clash. On the other hand put in a show worthy of the occa- beaten 18-run knock off 24 balls with two boundaries. Jesualdo Ferreira’s Sadd have been sion. He too conceded that the en- Chasing the modest target, Qatar began stead- on a roll, swatting aside their op- counter could prove a turning point ily with openers Solaiman Mohamed (19 with three ponents easily. in the league in which Duhail have Al Duhail striker Youssef El Arabi (right) trains with his teammates yesterday. fours) and Dhanitha Hettiarrachchige (20 off 93 balls) Al Sadd are coming off a 4-1 vic- 36 points, with Sadd close behind putting together 25 runs before their partnership was tory over Al Shahania, with Bagh- on 35. broken. dad Bounedjah scoring goals for “There was not much time to After skipper Hussain Khan fell cheaply for 10, Syed fun. The Algerian striker last week prepare for this game against Al Tameem and Saud Kamal pushed the team to the vic- became the Qatar league’s all-time Sadd. This is an important game tory. Just before the triumph, Tameem was dismissed top scorer in a single season when for both teams and the winners will by Rungrueang but Kamal saw the team home. he took his personal tally to 28 goals have an edge in the race for the ti- Rungrueang bowled well to grab three wickets for after scoring twice against Al Sha- tle,” Maaloul said 17 runs in fi ve overs but the target was too modest to hania. The Tunisian coach blamed Du- threaten Qatar. And Bounedjah will once again hail’s recent unimpressive run to The winners will next face Oman today. They will be a key pawn form Sadd against injuries to Nam Tae-Hee, who is have a day’s rest before taking on Saudi Arabia and Duhail, who will be happy with a out for the season after suff ering a Bhutan on successive days. draw. Meanwhile, Sadd captain knee ligament tear, while Luiz Mar- Xavi Hernandez is back from injury tin looks doubtful after getting a and will look to anchor the team in knock against Qatar SC. the midfi eld. “Our team has a few injury wor- Ahead of the game, Sadd coach ries and we did not have many op- Ferreira declared the winner of to- tions in our last match against Qa- day’s game may determine who will tar SC, which ended in a draw. I feel be the best team this season. our players will rise to the occasion “All our matches against Al Du- against Al Sadd and prove that we hail were exciting and full of goals, are the leaders not by default. Both but unfortunately we were not hap- sides know each other’s strengths py with those matches because they and weaknesses and the match has beat us in many games. I do not much at stake,” said Maaloul. agree that the recent results of Al The match was rescheduled from Duhail were due to injuries. Why do week 9 due to Al Sadd’s semi-fi nal you talk about injuries? The win- match against Iran’s Persepolis in ners of this game may determine the AFC Champions League, which who will be the best,” Ferreira said the Wolves lost on aggregate. The yesterday. kick-off is at 6.30pm at the Al Sadd Al Sadd captain Xavi (left) and midfielder Gabi train yesterday ahead of their QNB Stars League match against Al Qatar players celebrate taking a wicket during the The Portuguese manager felt Stadium. Duhail at Al Sadd Stadium. match against Thailand in Bangkok yesterday.

FOCUS QCA to celebrate Qatar National Day with Asian stars T20 match

By Sports Reporter tar. We wish to contribute to its For his part, al-Marri said, “It is Jadoun added that there is a Doha massive success like the previous our big pleasure to join hands with separate seating arrangement for years with a T20 match between the QCA for this big cricket match families and they can enter the Asian Stars (International) and to celebrate the Qatar National stadium through Gate 7. atar Cricket Asso- Qatar stars. Day. The ministry appreciates the ciation (QCA) and the “This match, of course, would eff orts such as this one to involve ASIAN STARS TEAM: Ministry of Interior have not been possible without various communities, co-operate AFGHANISTAN: Asadullah Khan, (MoI) have teamed up the support of QOC president HE with the QCA at every level and we Mohamed Yamin Ahmadzai; SRI toQ mount a memorable celebra- Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Tha- wish the event a big success.” LANKA: Ajantha Mendis, Asela tion of the Qatar National Day at ni, QOC secretary-general Jas- Also present during the press Gunaratne; PAKISTAN: Umar Gul, the Asian Town Cricket Stadium sim Rashid al-Buenain and the conference were MoI Communi- Fawad Alam; BANGLADESH: Mo- on December 18. Ministry of Interior. We extend ty Reachout Co-ordinator Faisal hamed Elias, Mohamed Ashraful; The Association, with the sup- our deepest gratitude to them al-Hudawi, QCA Operations NEPAL: Mahamad Hasim Ansari, port of the Qatar Olympic Com- for extending their backing and manager Manzoor Ahmad and Sanjam Regmi; INDIA: Venkatesh mittee (QOC), will host a Twen- co-operation in organising this Qatar Cricket Association president Yousef Jeham al-Kuwari (centre) speaks to the media during a press QCA Domestic Cricket head Gul Prasad. ty20 cricket match between Asian match at the Asian Town Stadi- conference in the presence of Ministry of Interior’s (MoI) Public Relations Off icer Lt Hamad Ali al-Jahweel Khan Jadoun. QATAR TEAM: stars and Qatar national team um,” he added. (left) and MoI’s Community Reachout Co-ordinator Faisal al-Hudawi yesterday. Ahmad said the QCA has made Inam-Ul Haq (captain), Tamoor players, QCA president Yousef Je- Al-Kuwari stressed that elaborate arrangements to en- Sajjad (vice-captain), Mohamed ham al-Kuwari said yesterday. cricket is one of the most popu- host sporting activities to involve mostly from the members of the desh, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. gage the crowd during the match Rizlan, Faisal Khan, Malik Awais, During a press conference yes- lar sports in Qatar and played by them,” he said. communities of India, Pakistan, We hope that a large number of with a variety of dance and mu- Hafiz Tanveer, Hafiz Nadeem, terday, attended by MoI Public a huge number of people from “We’ve already launched a so- Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal. fans will turn up at the venue to sical performances. All the play- M Noman, Imran Ashraf, Iqbal Relations Offi cer Lt Hamad Ali Asian sub-continent communi- cial media campaign to reach out “The feature of the Asian stars support the match and make the ers have confi rmed their partici- Chaudhary, Kamran Khan, al-Jahweel, al-Kuwari said, “The ties here. “We love and respect to cricket fans. We’re delighted to team is that we tried to include Qatar National Day celebrations pation and we’re anticipating a Zaheeruddin, Gayan, Khurram Qatar National Day is a very sig- all those who are living here. So say that we have already received players from many countries like an event to cherish for a long thrilling match on the big occa- Shahzad. Reserve Players Qalen- nifi cant event for all of us in Qa- this is our social responsibility to about 50,000 likes and hits Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangla- time,” the QCA president said. sion of the Qatar National Day. dar, Dharmang, Naveed. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, December 11, 2018 FOOTBALL

GENERAL ASSEMBLY QFA president Sheikh Hamad re-elected for another term By Sports Reporter the club football. Our player Abdulka- Doha rim Hassan won the AFC Player of the Year award recently which is a great achievement. Next year Qatar will fea- atar Football Association ture in Copa America. We are looking president HE Sheikh Ha- forward to an exciting time for football mad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed in this country.” al-Thani was re-elected for Key football matters will be discussed anotherQ four-year term till 2022 at the in the coming weeks and months with General Assembly of the body held yes- presidents of club under a committee terday. The QFA General Assembly also that will be chaired by Sheikh Ahmed retained members Saud al-Mohannadi, bin Hamad, it was revealed. The QFA Hani Ballan and Ahmed Abdulaziz al- President underlined the importance of Buanain. attracting fans to the venues to watch Meanwhile Sheikh Ahmed bin Ha- football matches during a regular sea- mad al-Thani, president of Al Ahli, was son. He stressed overall the game of signed in as the new member of the football remained healthy in Qatar. The Executive Committee along with Ab- minutes of the previous General As- dulrahman Majid al-Qahtani. The QFA sembly were also discussed in detail. gathering took place at Sheraton Hotel In the coming days and weeks, QFA in the presence of representatives from will discuss the development of U-23 17 QNB Stars League clubs. The QFA League with the Ministry of Culture President said: “I thank the QFA family and Sports. Reports from the previous that has gathered here today. We wel- season were also discussed in detail come everyone at the meeting which during the General Assembly on Mon- was called to elect new offi ce bearers day. Offi cials said budgetary matters and to discuss key football matters.” were also debated yesterday. He added: “The next four years are Chairman of the Electoral Commis- very important for QFA. Qatar will sion Abdullah Hamed Mulla also spoke host the 2022 FIFA World Cup as well during the General Assembly. The top as other key football tournaments. We vote was received by Sheikh Hamad bin have to prepare strong teams at the Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani, who re- junior and senior levels. Qatar’s junior ceived 17 votes and won the presidency. team will feature at the 2019 FIFA U-20 At the end of the General Assembly, Qatar Football Association president HE Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani (centre) poses with other off icials after being re-elected for another four-year World Cup in Poland next year.” the QFA President thanked the clubs term at the General Assembly of the body yesterday. The QFA President said: “The QNB ‘for the great support of federation for Stars League is producing good play- helping develop the game on profes- opportunities to take the game forward The QFA made a special mention home in the country’. The QFA Presi- For his part, al-Mohannadi thanked the ers and our clubs are getting stronger. sional lines.’ The QFA chief hoped the in Qatar.’ He thanked the out-going of- of thanking the media for their ‘high dent wished al-Mohannadi success in clubs for their support and thanked the I am sure we will get even better at new members would ‘create exciting fi cials for their ‘meritorious services’. contribution in taking football to every his bid to become the AFC President. QFA President for his leadership.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Seventh edition of Ronaldo urges Messi Workers’ Cup kicks off in grand style he seventh edition of saw Larsen & Toubro cruise to a Workers’ Cup, the annu- 6-1 win over HBK Contracting al football tournament and Galfar Al Misnad and Spar- to try something new organised by the Qatar tan Ready Mix share the spoils StarsT League (QSL) and spon- after battling to a 0-0 draw. sored by Supreme Committee for In Group D, Prince Martey Delivery & Legacy (SC), kicked and Williams Akolgo each netted off on Friday. a hat-trick as Doha Pest Con- A total of 28 teams, equally trol notched up a thumping 8-0 divided into seven groups, are win over CCC, while Delta Doha and come to Italy competing this year. Matches are Corp rode on a brace from Tripen played on Fridays at the Al Sadd Rai to prevail over NAAAS Group Stadium. The fi nal is scheduled by a 2-1 margin. ‘I’ve played in England, Spain, Italy, Portugal, while he’s still in Spain’ for 25th January, 2019. The tour- Group E witnessed victories by nament’s main objective is to fi ve-goal margins. Hamis Buke- AFP promote a culture of sport and nya Kitagenda scored all goals as Milan Cristiano Ronaldo joined healthy lifestyle in the commu- Mowasalat downed Aktor 5-0, Juventus for 100mn euros nity of migrant workers engaged while Shapoorji Pallonji got their last summer. (AFP) in various projects across the campaign under way with a 5-0 ristiano Ronaldo has urged long- State of Qatar, especially those victory over Teyseer Services. time rival Lionel Messi to be related to the infrastructure of In Group F, Group 4 Security more like him and push his lim- 2022 FIFA World Cup. emerged as 1-0 winners against its by challenging himself in an- In Group A, defending cham- Teyseer Security and Petros- otherC league than Spain. “I’d like him to pions Nakheel Landscapes began erv registered a 6-1 win over AG come to Italy one day. I hope he accepts their campaign with a narrow Middle East. the challenge like me, but if he’s happy 2-1 win over Black Cat. In the Petroserv were powered by there then I respect that,” Ronaldo told other match in Group A, Siraj Victor Awine’s hat-trick. Group the Italian press yesterday. Ahammed scored fi ve times as G action saw Power Internation- The two strikers have been rivals for Youth Club came up with a near- al strike a dramatic late equal- the past decade winning fi ve Ballon fl awless performance to see off iser to hold Al Asmakh FM 1-1. d’Or trophies each before their domina- DicoTech Qatar 6-0. Tarik Maati It was followed by Taleb Group’s tion was broken by World Cup runner- also got on the scoresheet. 15-0 win over Boom Construc- up Luka Modric last week. Asked if he In Group B, Medgulf Con- tion in what was the highest vic- missed the 31-year-old Argentinian, who struction pulled off a 4-2 win tory margin in the opening week. has spent his entire senior career at Bar- over Trags & Agency Services, Sodiq Olalekan Kolapo, Frank- celona, Ronaldo replied: “No, maybe it’s while CRC Dora and Trags Engi- lin Gyawae and Isaac Ameyaw him who misses me... I’ve played in Eng- neering played out an entertain- all scored a hat-trick for Taleb land, Spain, Italy, Portugal and for my na- ing 2-2 draw. The Group C action Group. tional team, while he’s still in Spain. “Maybe he needs me more... For me, life is a challenge, I like it and I like to make people happy. He’s a fantastic player and a good guy, but I don’t miss anything here. This is my new life and I’m happy. I left my comfort zone and took on this challenge here in Turin, everything has gone well, I’ve proven I’m still an in- credible player,” said Ronaldo. Ronaldo joined Juventus for 100mn euros ($114mn) last summer as the Turin knew it could work. I couldn’t be 100% “On the pitch I’ve done everything to zerland tomorrow, having already booked giants bid to lift the Champions League sure I was joining the best club in the win the Ballon d’Or, numbers do not lie, their place in the knockout rounds. And trophy after two runners-up fi nishes in world. After nine years at Real Madrid it but I’m no less happy if I do not win, I Ronaldo is hoping his experience of win- the past four seasons. To mark his 150 was diffi cult to compare. Now I’m 100% have wonderful friends and a family, I ning the trophy fi ve times can serve his days in Italy he gave interviews yesterday sure it was the right option.” play in one of the best clubs. Congratu- new team. “The Champions League can- to three leading sports dailies. Ronaldo has scored 11 goals this season, lations to Modric, who has earned the not be an obsession, you have to think “I had diff erent options. I won’t say bringing his career total to 584. Finishing award, but next year we will meet again about it calmly,” he warned. “Yes we all which but I had them. Juventus is a solid second in Ballon d’Or voting to Modric, and I will do everything to win the prize want it but we have to get there step by club. It has a long history,” he said of his said Ronaldo, just motivates him even again. Do you think I’m going home and step. Look at the game against Manches- decision. “I knew the atmosphere in the more. “Of course I’m disappointed, but crying?” ter United (2-1 defeat), if it had been a stadium. I’d played several times in Italy. life goes on and I will continue to work Juventus play Young Boys in their fi nal quarter-fi nal we would have gone out. A total of 28 teams, divided into seven groups, are competing in the I like the city, the people and the club. I hard,” said the 33-year-old. Champions League group game in Swit- You need a little luck.” seventh edition of Workers’ Cup.

BOTTOMLINE Al Sadd’s Ferreira and Bounedjah win QNB Stars League monthly awards l Sadd’s Jesualdo Ferreira and average number of 663 passes, of which sonal tally to 28 goals. The Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah 588 were successful. Short passes surpassed Brazilian striker Clemerson were named QNB Stars numbered 429 and forward passes 201. Soares’ record of 27 goals set in the League’s best coach and best There were 18.8 crosses (7.2 from the 2007-08 season for Al Gharafa. playerA respectively for the months of left and 11.6 from the right). They also The technical analysis of Bounedjah November and December. made 20 tackles and nine dribbles. Al released by STATS, the offi cial statis- Under Ferreira, Al Sadd played fi ve Sadd made 66 fi nal-third entries and 41 tics and fi gures provider for the QNB matches in the 2018-19 season QNB penalty-area entries. Shots for reached Stars League, showed he spent 476.0 Stars League’s Weeks 11, 12, 13, 14 and 23 and shots against eight. The average minutes on the pitch. He made an av- 15) and won all of them, collecting the number of shots on target was 11. erage of 34.5 passes, of which 26.8 were full quota of 15 points. Ferreira’s men Bounedjah, meanwhile, scored 10 successful. He scored all his goals from scored 27 goals while conceding just goals and gave six assists in fi ve match- inside the box. four, with 56 shots on target and 13 es. The two goals he scored against Al The physical aspects revealed that against it. According to STATS, the of- Shahania helped Bounedjah become the ace striker covered a total distance fi cial statistics and fi gures provider for the Qatar league’s all-time top scorer of 9,272.6 metres with a high speed the QNB Stars League, Al Sadd made an in a single season as he took his per- distance of 582.2. Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira (left) and striker Baghdad Bounedjah pose with their QNB Stars League’s monthly awards. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 11, 2018 3 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Neymar likely Inter Milan, PSG and to start for PSG against Red Star Liverpool sweating AFP Cameroon in November. The Belgrade Brazilian could line up alongside France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe to form a potent PSG eymar is set to start attack. Mbappe praised Ney- Paris Saint-Germain’s mar’s ability in the pre-match crucial Champions press conference. “It’s a massive on last-16 spots League tie at Red Star advantage for us, we’ll see on NBelgrade if he comes through a Tuesday all the quality he has,” pre-match training session un- he said. “He’ll be there and he’ll scathed, coach Thomas Tuchel prove his quality by helping us Inter will rely on Group B winners Barca to do them a favour and see off Tottenham said yesterday. “I think if train- win.” ing goes well today (Monday) The Parisians need a victory in Reuters then it’s obvious he will play,” the Serbia today if they are to guar- London Barcelona superstar forward Lionel German said. antee a place in the last 16. Liv- Messi attends a training session The world’s most expensive erpool face Napoli in the other in Barcelona yesterday, on the eve player came off early in the 2-2 Group C fi xture with the Reds he bid to reach the knockout of their Champions League match draw at Bordeaux on December needing to clinch all three points stages of the Champions League against Tottenham Hotspur. (AFP) 2 after hurting the same groin he at Anfi eld to have any chance of reaches its climax this week with injured playing for Brazil against advancing. Inter Milan, Paris St Germain and TLiverpool among seven clubs sweating on taking the remaining four places for the last 16. Today’s a number of blockbuster encounters will take place as Liverpool hope for one of those magical European nights at Anfi eld against Napoli in Group C, while Inter will be relying on Group B winners Barcelona to do them a favour and see off Tottenham Hotspur. Juergen Klopp’s Liverpool, sitting third in the group on six points behind PSG (eight) and leaders Napoli (nine), must win to have any chance of progress while the Serie A side need just a draw at An- fi eld to guarantee their spot in the next round. Napoli could even lose and still go through if PSG lose to Red Star Belgrade. Should Neymar and co prevail in Serbia, Liverpool would need to win 1-0 or by two goals or more due to pip Napoli on their head-to-head record. Liverpool’s Egypt striker Mo Salah certainly looks capable having scored a superb hat-trick at Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday. If Na- poli, PSG and Liverpool all fi nish on nine points, the Merseyside club would fi nish top with second place determined by the scoreline at Anfi eld. Paris St Germain’s Kylian Mbappe (left) and Neymar train at the Rajko A group stage exit for PSG would be Mitic stadium in Belgrade, Serbia, yesterday. (Reuters) humiliating for new manager Thomas Tuchel given the club’s Qatari owners’ desperation to see the French champi- QNB STARS LEAGUE ons conquer Europe. They have reached the knockout stages of the Champions League in every season since 2012-13 but have never gone on to reach the fi nal. tom side PSV who have just one point for a last 16 place in Group F. The French respective groups. Iceland’s Hallgrimsson After claiming one point from their from seven matches in the Champions side sit second on seven points, two ahead fi rst three matches in Group B Tottenham League this season. of the Ukrainians and so only need a draw TODAY’S CHAMPIONS looked out of contention but consecutive Tottenham lost 4-2 against Barcelona to qualify. LEAGUE FIXTURES to coach Al Arabi wins against PSV Eindhoven and Inter in the home leg at Wembley, but may Shakhtar must get maximum points GROUP A: Club Brugge vs Atlético Madrid; mean they head to the Nou Camp in sec- have an advantage in the fact that Barca to seal their fi fth appearance in the com- AFP Monaco vs Borussia Dortmund ond place and knowing a win will guar- have already qualifi ed as group winners petition’s round of 16. The 12 teams who Doha antee them a place in the last-16 for the and may take a leisurely approach as they have qualifi ed already for the knockout GROUP B: Barcelona vs Tottenham H third time. wind down for the mid-season break. stages are Ajax, Atletico Madrid, Barcelo- otspur; Inter Milan vs PSV Eindhoven Luciano Spalletti’s Inter side, who are Mauricio Pochettino’s team also do not na, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, eimir Hallgrimsson, GROUP C: Red Star Belgrade vs Paris level with Tottenham on seven points but necessarily need a win, as merely match- Juventus, Manchester City, Manchester the Icelandic coach below them on head-to-head, lost 1-0 ing Inter’s result will do. United, Porto, Real Madrid, Roma and Saint Germain; Liverpool vs Napoli who steered his coun- to Serie A leaders Juventus on Friday but Tomorrow, Lyon and Shakhtar Donetsk Schalke 04. However, only Barca, Porto GROUP D: FC Schalke 04 vs Lokomotiv try to their fi rst ever will be heavy favourites at home to bot- will face each other in the fi nal showdown and Real have clinched top spot in their Moscow; Galatasaray vs FC Porto WorldH Cup fi nals, is to take over at Qatari league side Al Arabi, the club announced yesterday. His CONFIDENT appointment was confi rmed in a video message on social media, hashtagged #WelcomeHeimir. A press conference to unveil Spurs can cause Barcelona upset, says Pochettino the 51-year-old offi cially is ex- pected to take place today. Reuters over PSV and Inter. ity. To be one of the best teams in the what Tottenham off ers players is the op- It will be Hallgrimsson’s fi rst Madrid Pochettino’s opposite number Ernesto world you need a squad who can show portunity to grow and play well in the job since standing down as Ice- manager, he guided Iceland to Valverde said earlier on Monday that their quality, and they are all here because same way no matter who is playing.” land’s national team coach fol- this year’s World Cup, their fi rst he would make a number of changes to they deserve to be.” Tottenham captain Hugo Lloris said lowing the Russia World Cup ever global tournament. ottenham Hotspur can defeat his team with Barca already qualifi ed as Having beaten Leicester City 2-0 away Barcelona would give his team a tough earlier this year. However, Iceland failed to win Barcelona at the Nou Camp today group winners but Tottenham’s Argen- in the Premier League on Saturday with a game, no matter what changes they His time with Iceland saw a single game and were knocked to secure a place in the Cham- tine coach is taking nothing for granted. rotated XI, Pochettino is expected to re- make.”It’s always a special game to play the country achieve unparal- out at the group stage. As part pions League knockout stages, “We’re going to be ready to compete in call talismanic striker Harry Kane, who against Barca in the Nou Camp, it’s a spe- leled success, qualifying for its of the preparation for the World Ttheir upbeat coach Mauricio Pochettino the best condition that we can,” Pochet- was rested. cial place, one of the best,” the French fi rst ever major tournament, Cup, Hallgrimsson took his Ice- has said. Spurs must equal or better Inter tino told a news conference yesterday. He indicated that he will make changes keeper said. the 2016 Euros in France, when land side to play a friendly in Qa- Milan’s result at home to already-elimi- “I’m optimistic, I think we come here given the gruelling schedule English sides Barca top the group with 13 points Hallgrimsson was joint manager tar in November 2017. Al Arabi nated PSV Eindhoven to clinch a last-16 at our best and we need to prepare and face over the Christmas period. “We’re ahead of Spurs and Inter on seven and alongside Lars Lagerback. currently stand mid-table in the spot that looked improbable after just think about the game we are going to play, playing 12 games in 40 days and have PSV with one. Tottenham are above Inter It was during that tournament, 12-team Qatar Stars League at one point from their opening three group not what Barca will do. Barcelona have a no pause in December,” said the Spurs on their head-to-head record having lost Iceland famously beat England the halfway stage, 15 points be- games before consecutive home wins great team of 24 players with great qual- boss.”If you don’t rotate it’s diffi cult, but 2-1 away and won 1-0 at home. 2-1 in the knockout stage. As sole hind leaders Al Duhail.

FOCUS Klopp demands Liverpool produce unique display against Napoli AFP good,” Klopp said. “We know the re- former Liverpool player Raheem Ster- They don’t deserve any reaction, they Liverpool sult we need, and it’s diffi cult because ling for the way he dealt with alleged don’t deserve any respect. I am obvi- Napoli are dangerous on the counter racist abuse directed towards him while ously not surprised that things like this attack and good defending. They are a playing for Manchester City at Chelsea still happen but I like the fact that we urgen Klopp has called on Liv- typical Italian team. But if something on Saturday. Chelsea and the Metro- put the fi nger on it and say: ‘You cannot erpool to produce “something special is possible, then it’s here, and politan Police are investigating the al- say what you want, it is not possible.’” special” when they face Na- we will try that.” legations after a video was posted on Napoli coach Ancelotti believes poli in a do-or-die Champions Liverpool go into Tuesday’s match social media that showed the England Liverpool are good enough to win the LeagueJ showdown today. Klopp’s side in good spirits, having gone top of the winger being shouted at by Chelsea Premier League, but the Italian is con- must beat Napoli at Anfi eld to stand Premier League on Saturday when they fans as he collected the ball behind the vinced his Napoli side can knock them any chance of progressing from their won 4-0 at Bournemouth and previ- goal. On Sunday, Sterling published a out of the Champions League on Tues- group into the knockout stages. A 1-0 ous leaders Manchester City lost 2-0 post on Instagram saying that British day. Napoli arrive at Anfi eld on the victory or any two-goal win will see the at Chelsea. Klopp, however, is certain newspapers are helping to “fuel rac- back of a 12-match unbeaten run in all Reds through. that his players will not get carried ism” because of the way they portray competitions, and defeated Liverpool Liverpool have a long history of away, either in the Premier League or young black footballers. He also wrote 1-0 with a late Lorenzo Insigne goal success on big European nights on in Europe, given the defeats they have in the post that he “had to laugh” when when the sides met at the Stadio San their own ground, dating all the way suff ered in their group this season. he heard the alleged racist remarks Paolo in October. back to the memorable European Cup “We will not get carried away. We during the game because he expects “The Premier League is always a quarter-fi nal win over Saint-Etienne know how diffi cult it is,” he said. “We “no better”. “I watched the game and I competitive league. Liverpool has the in 1977 that kick-started their conti- are not the most experienced side but think I saw the situation when he went possibility to win,” Ancelotti said. “The nental reign. That gives Klopp hope as Liverpool manager Juergen speaks at press conference yesterday. (Reuters) we know our way and which way we for the corner and I saw a few guys fact that they started really well means he prepares to face a major test against will go all the time. The league is not shouting,” he said. “I didn’t hear, I’m that it’s possible that they can do it.” Napoli, who are second in Serie A and look strong despite losing manager advance. important at the moment because to- not sure if it was possible to hear what The Napoli boss is fully aware of the unbeaten in Champions League Group Maurizio Sarri to Chelsea in July, with “We really need to make sure we are morrow we play Napoli. We were con- they shouted, but I already thought his impact that the Anfi eld atmosphere C, having defeated Liverpool 1-0 when Carlo Ancelotti taking over and Klopp ready for Napoli. It’s diffi cult to come fi dent before the away games in Napoli reaction was just brilliant. could have on today’s match, but said they met in Italy in October. knows Liverpool will have to produce in after a successful coach such as and Belgrade, and that didn’t help.” “You saw his face. He gave the right that neither he nor his players would be The Italian side have continued to one of their most dominant displays to Sarri and make changes but they are so Klopp, meanwhile, has commended response, not to react for these people. intimidated by it. Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, December 11, 2018 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT River edge out Boca to win Copa Libertadores title River prevails 5-3 on aggregate after the first leg finished 2-2 and reclaim the trophy they had last won in 2015

AFP the chaos two weeks ago and should Madrid have forfeited the trophy. They took their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but the appeal was rejected iver Plate won the Copa Liber- on Saturday. When the players shuffl ed tadores by beating their fi erc- out two hours before kick-off to inspect est rivals Boca Juniors 3-1 after the pitch, they held up their phones to extra time on Sunday night, capture the thousands already inside bringingR an end to a fi nal tainted by vi- and the view of a stadium most of them olence and moved more than six thou- had never played in before. sand miles away from Argentina. The cheers grew louder when they Boca took the lead through Dario came out for kick-off . Then there were Benedetto but Lucas Pratto equal- whistles as the teams swapped ends and ised before Juan Quintero and Gonzalo each were greeted by their opponent’s Martinez scored in extra time, aided by fans behind the goal. Jonatan Maidana Wilmar Barrios being sent off , to win a was playing for Boca when they last fi ttingly dramatic contest for River. won the Copa Libertadores 11 years ago It means River prevailed 5-3 on ag- and, now in the red and white of River, gregate after the fi rst leg fi nished 2-2 he almost gave his former club an early and reclaim the trophy they had last lead, slicing just over his own crossbar. won in 2015, lifting it for the fourth time The game lacked quality but came in their history. “We have shown we are alive one minute before half-time. Na- superior,” River’s Leonardo Ponzio said. hitan Nandez’s superb pass split two “After trying to stay quiet about every- River defenders and Benedetto kept a thing that happened, we showed on the cool head, guiding into the corner, be- pitch we were better.” fore taunting the beaten Gonzalo Mon- “The only thing I feel is sadness for tiel. not winning the cup and giving it to River had been inferior but improved. the people of Boca,” Boca coach Guill- Their fi rst real attacking move was also ermo Barros Schelotto said. Postponed a brilliant one as Leonardo Ponzio and on three occasions and then relocated Quintero exchanged passes before the from Buenos Aires to Madrid, the sup- latter pulled back for Pratto to sweep porters of these two great clubs showed home. The game meandered towards in the Santiago Bernabeu why this fi x- full-time and seemed destined for pen- ture had been billed as one of football’s alties until Barrios was shown a second greatest ever. yellow card for a tackle on Exequiel Pal- Lionel Messi, Antoine Griezmann acios and soon after, Quintero struck. and Diego Godin were among the It was a goal worthy of winning the 62,200 in attendance. But, despite tournament, as he collected 25 yards the bouncing huddles in the streets, out, glanced up and whipped the ball the plumes of blue and red smoke, the River Plate players celebrate with the trophy after winning the second leg match of the all-Argentine Copa Libertadores final against Boca Juniors in Madrid. (AFP) in off the underside of the crossbar. Le- swinging scarves, fl uttering fl ags and onard Jara almost snatched a late Boca fans that were chanting in their seats River’s El Monumental on November hosting major events and the security, was only that the operation was not as tourists and neutrals, but the atmos- goal but his shot nicked the outside of three hours before kick-off , there was 24 postponed, when around 50 fans at- which included around 2,500 police of- thorough 15 days ago and that a minor- phere suggested diff erent. Both teams the post. Then, with Boca’s goalkeeper nothing to extinguish the lingering tacked Boca’s team bus and left some of fi cers, did its job before kick-off . ity decided to take advantage. had initially refused to play in Spain’s Esteban Andrada up for a corner, River sense of regret. their players injured. Fans were separated into zones ei- Both clubs were allocated 25,000 capital but as the losers, Boca’s sense added the fi nal touch. Martinez ran the There was no repeat of the scenes Madrid, which will also host the ther side of the stadium and had to go tickets, with 5,000 of those reserved of grievance will now become more en- ball into the empty net and River’s sub- that cast a shadow over Argentinian Champions League fi nal in June, was through checks even to enter the area for residents of Argentina. The fear had trenched. stitutes and staff were already pouring football and saw the original game at chosen in part because of its record of immediately surrounding it. The shame been most of those buying would be They felt River were responsible for onto the pitch to begin the celebrations.

FOCUS PREMIER ELAGUE Bayern’s Robben may Chelsea suspend fans aft er Sterling racial abuse row

AFP iour, the club will issue severe sanctions, understand why people are racist in this retire at end of season London including bans. We will also fully support day and age all I have to say is have a sec- any criminal prosecutions.” ond thought about fair publicity an(d) AFP Meanwhile, The Professional Football- give all players an equal chance.” Berlin helsea have suspended four peo- ers’ Association said yesterday it stood The PFA was also critical of the media’s ple from attending their matches “shoulder to shoulder” Sterling. In an In- portrayal of Sterling, who has previously while the club carries out an stagram post on Sunday, Sterling accused faced negative publicity, often for non- rjen Robben says he investigation into allegations British newspapers of helping to “fuel football issues. “We have been aware for a may retire in June after CManchester City star Raheem Sterling racism” with the way they portray young few months of the targeting Raheem faces confi rming he will quit was racially abused during Saturday’s black footballers. in the press — it is evident that he is of- Bayern Munich when Premier League clash. A statement from the organisation ten singled out and treated more harshly hisA contract with the defending Television cameras apparently caught added: “The PFA condemn, in the strong- than his colleagues,” its statement said. Bundesliga champions expires. a Chelsea fan aiming racist abuse at Eng- est terms, the increase in racial abuse our “As such, these stories are fuelling rac- Robben, who turns 35 in January, land winger Sterling during the Blues’ members have been receiving from the ism within the game, as reports of racist confi rmed in yesterdays edition 2-0 win over City at Stamford Bridge. terraces. We encourage all clubs to take abuse continue to rise.” of magazine Kicker that he will Chelsea and the British police are in- the strongest possible action for fans Former England and Liverpool player quit the Bavarian giants at the vestigating the incident, which has pro- found guilty of racially abusing players. John Barnes was the victim of persistent end of the season: “that’s a fact”. voked widespread condemnation amid We commend Raheem for his profession- racism during his playing days, includ- “Of course it’s a big step, fears football is returning to the dark ages alism during the incident and the state- ing monkey chants and having bananas which you don’t just make in one of racism that blighted the sport in the ment he made via Instagram on Sunday. thrown at him. The 55-year-old feels day. I thought about it a lot and it 1970s and 1980s. We stand with him in calling for the press prejudice and discrimination extend far feels good that it’s now out, also Chelsea have taken swift action to tem- to consider the coverage of all football- beyond football and stems from “hun- for the fans and the club. It was porarily suspend four fans until they have Manchester City star Raheem Sterling ers carefully, and to end their imbalanced dreds of years of indoctrination”. the right point in time.” concluded their probe, with the threat of suff ered alleged racial abuse during his coverage aimed at young, black players.” “When people talk about, ‘Oh isn’t Having missed the last two permanent bans if they fi nd evidence of side’s defeat against Chelsea. (AFP) In his Instagram post Sterling, 24, re- that terrible what happened to Raheem games with a thigh injury, Rob- racist behaviour. “Chelsea Football Club ferred to a story from January about City Sterling?’, you speak to black people in the ben could make his return when has suspended four people from attend- this matter are ongoing. We are fully sup- teammate Tosin Adarabioyo reportedly inner cities and they say ‘this is what we Bayern face Ajax away in the ing Chelsea matches pending further porting the police investigation and any buying an expensive house despite never go through every single day’,” Barnes said. Champions League tomorrow. investigations into allegations regarding information we gather will be passed on having started a Premier League match. “It’s not a surprise to us. It’s prevalent Both teams are through to the the behaviour of supporters towards Ra- to them. Chelsea Football Club fi nds all “The young black kid is looked at in a bad in society as you go into the inner cities last 16 and Bayern need only heem Sterling during our match against forms of discriminatory behaviour ab- light. Which helps fuel racism an(d) ag- and see how disenfranchised and what a a point in Amsterdam to win Manchester City on Saturday,” a Chelsea horrent and, if there is evidence of ticket gressive behaviour,” Sterling wrote. lack of opportunities there are for mem- Group E. statement read. “Our investigations into holders taking part in any racist behav- “So for all the newspapers that don’t bers of ethnic minorities.” Robben also missed Saturday’s 3-0 league win at home to Nu- remberg which left Bayern third LA LIGA in the table and nine points be- IBRAHIMOVIC STICKING WITH LA GALAXY, hind Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund. Bayern’s senior boss- AC MILAN ‘EVALUATE’ FABREGAS es are planning a squad clear-out Villarreal sack Calleja, for next season and Robben says Milan: Zlatan Ibrahimovic will season with the Major League now is the right time to go, de- not be leaving LA Galaxy to Soccer side. spite two stunning goals in the appoint Garcia Plaza return to AC Milan, the Italian He was recently named the 5-1 thrashing of Benfi ca a fort- AFP club’s sporting director Leon- league’s Newcomer of the Year, night ago. Madrid ardo said on Sunday, although defeating record England goal- “The game against Benfi ca they are studying the possibility scorer Wayne Rooney among was a nice confi rmation that I also must be happy, so it’s not of signing Chelsea midfielder others for the award. Leonardo can play at the highest level,” he just about off ers from China or avier Calleja has been replaced as coach by Luis Garcia Cesc Fabregas. said Milan were “evaluating the added. “On the other side, the places in the desert. The fam- Plaza at struggling Villarreal after winning just three “Ibrahimovic will not return to conditions” to sign 31-year-old club wants to change the face of ily plays a very important role in matches this season, the Spanish La Liga club an- Milan,” Leonardo told Sky Sport Spaniard Fabregas, a former the team and I want to prepare every decision of mine.” nounced yesterday. The ‘Yellow Submarine’ lost 3-2 at Italia. “He gave his word to the Arsenal and Barcelona player. my future. I am simply happy After spells at Chelsea and homeJ to Celta Vigo at the weekend and now sit one place and LA Galaxy that he would renew “Unfortunately, with the and grateful that there is clarity Real Madrid, Robben joined Bay- three points above the relegation zone. his contract. We thought about Financial Fair Play issue it has for both parties.” ern in 2009 and the highlight of However, they are top of their Europa League group and will his return and he thought about become a puzzle and a diff icult However, Robben says he cur- nearly a decade with the Bavar- qualify for the next stage if they draw at home against Spar- it too, but he’s keeping his word one to work out. The owners rently has no plans past the end ian giants was his winning goal in tak Moscow on Thursday. Stepping into Calleja’s shoes until and will remain in MLS. want to invest, but there are of the season. “That’s not entire- the 2013 Champions League fi nal the end of the season will be 46-year-old Garcia Plaza who “He always said from the start parameters to be respected.” ly clear, perhaps I will stop play- at Wembley to seal a 2-1 victory returns to the club for a second spell, having spent the 2005- that if the LA Galaxy satisfied Meanwhile, Brazilian mid- ing — it’s about waiting and see- over Borussia Dortmund. The 06 season in charge of Villarreal B. The 40-year-old Calleja his conditions, then he would Milan from 2010 to 2012, win- fielder Lucas Paqueta arrived in ing what possibilities there are,” fl eet-footed, injury-prone Dutch was youth coach at Villarreal when he stepped up to take over remain. They are doing that and ning a Serie A title with the club, Milan on Sunday ahead of his he said. “If off ers come in, I’ll veteran, named Bundesliga play- as fi rst team boss from Fran Escriba who was fi red in Septem- he will stay there. It would have before moving to Paris Saint- 35mn euro ($40.4mn) signing.. really consider them 100% and er of the year after his fi rst season ber 2017. He had earlier spent seven years as a player with the been a marvellous story and a Germain and then Manchester “He’ll be a reinforcement, is if it’s something nice, I’ll play on, in Germany in 2009/10, has won Yellows. Calleja is the fi fth coach in La Liga to be sacked this strong signal, but it will not be United. The 37-year-old joined young and can certainly give us but if no ideal off ers come, then 19 titles so far with Bayern and season, following the dismissals of Eduardo Berizzo (Athletic possible.” LA Galaxy this season and has a hand,” added Leonardo of the that could be it. collected his seventh German Bilbao), Leo Franco (Huesca), Julen Lopetegui (Real Madrid) Ibrahimovic played for AC a contract through the 2019 21-year-old Flamengo player. “I have three children and they league title last May. and Antonio Mohamed (Celta Vigo). Gulf Times Tuesday, December 11, 2018 5 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT Lakers working on trade for Ariza Bucks edge Raptors 25, has full veto power over Reuters New York a trade per the one-year, $12 million contract he signed this off season. ooking to add a proven “The Lakers have shown a defender this season willingness to work with his while also retaining cap agent, Rich Paul, if there’s fl exibility this off sea- a deal that might increase 104-99 in battle of son,L the Los Angeles Lakers are his role and possibly get him in talks to acquire Trevor Ariza signed to a deal this summer from the Phoenix Suns, ESPN’s with a new team,” Wojnarowski Adrian Wojnarowski reported reported. on Sunday. Players signed this off season According to the report, the as a free agent cannot be traded main sticking point is fi nding until Saturday. a third team to complete the Ariza is also signed to a one- top Eastern teams deal. The Suns’ desire, accord- year deal, a $15 million pact ing to the report, is “to land a he signed after fi ve seasons in ‘We’re resilient. We’ve got a coach that has confidence in us every night win or lose’ playmaking guard and a draft Houston. Among the teams the asset as the price of unloading 33-year-old Ariza has played AFP Ariza.” for is the Lakers, with whom Los Angeles To that end, Wojnarowski he won an NBA championship reported, the Lakers are look- in 2009. ing to include guard Kentav- He is averaging 9.7 points, he Milwaukee Bucks bounced ious Caldwell-Pope in the deal, 5.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists this back from a disappointing defeat though it appears he would go season. The Suns are a league- with a big win in Toronto on Sun- to a third team. Caldwell-Pope, worst 4-22 this season. day, edging the Raptors 104-99 in Ta battle of the NBA’s top Eastern Confer- ence teams. The Raptors still own the best record in the league at 21-7, but they suff ered a sec- ond straight defeat after falling 106-105 to the Brooklyn Nets on Friday. Malcolm Brogdon’s back-to-back three-pointers with 1:07 remaining fi rst tied the score then put the Bucks up 100- 97, a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Brogdon scored 18 points. Giannis An- tetokounmpo scored 19 and matched his season-high with 19 rebounds for Mil- waukee, who fell to the two-time defend- ing champion Golden State Warriors on Friday. Brook Lopez also scored 19 for Milwau- kee, who became the fi rst team to beat the Raptors twice this season.

RESULTS New York 107-119 Charlotte Toronto 99-104 Milwaukee San Antonio 110-97 Utah Detroit 108-116 New Orleans

“We came off a tough loss to the War- riors, we knew we needed this one going into this back-to-back,” Brogdon said. Phoenix Suns forward Trevor Ariza reaches for a rebound during The Bucks, who improved to 17-8, host the NBA game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center in Cleveland on Monday. He said shaking off Chicago on November 21, 2018. (EPA) the loss to Golden State wasn’t diffi cult. “We’re a really good team this year,” he said. “We have a lot of confi dence in our- selves. We’re resilient. We’ve got a coach Free agent Keuchel in high demand that has confi dence in us every night win The annual off season fight dominant in the rotation, led by or lose.” for pitching is on, and Dallas Mike Foltynewicz. But Atlanta Toronto have dropped two straight for Keuchel is becoming one of the is no shoo-in for Keuchel’s serv- the second time this season and have lost most coveted arms on the free ices, per multiple reports. The three of their last four. agent market. Keuchel, 30, won Cincinnati Reds, Toronto Blue Serge Ibaka scored 22 points and Kawhi the 2015 American League Cy Jays and Philadelphia Phillies - Leonard had 20 for the Raptors. But Kyle Young Award and spent seven who off ered Corbin a five-year, Lowry went scoreless for the fi rst time seasons with the Houston $100 million deal before the this season, missing all fi ve of his shots. Astros, including three 200-in- former Arizona starter picked He did produce seven assists, and To- Milwaukee Bucks guard Malcolm Brogdon goes up to make a basket against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. ning campaigns. Washington - are all chasing ronto coach Nick Nurse said the Raptors PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports He could be the next domino Keuchel. Keuchel is not an didn’t play badly off ensively. to fall in the off season chase overpowering ace but highly “We did a lot of things well enough to cans past the Detroit Pistons 116-108. did a great job for us. Elsewhere, the San Antonio Spurs de- for starting pitching, following eff ective nonetheless. win the game, but we just didn’t score,” Holiday and Randle rose to the occasion Holiday fi lled the void with 37 points, feated the Utah Jazz 110-97, avenging a the seven-year, $140 million He was 12-11 with a 3.74 ERA last said Nurse, who admitted to concern over after star teammate Anthony Davis was one shy of his career high. He tied a ca- 34-point loss to the Jazz on December 4. pact between Patrick Corbin season and has a career 3.66 missed shots at the rim and missed open hobbled by a sore hip after a clash with reer-best with six three-pointers. He DeMar DeRozan scored 26 points and and the Washington Nationals ERA as part of a 76-63 record. looks from the perimeter. “That’s more Detroit’s Blake Griffi n in the first quarter. pulled down fi ve rebounds, handed out Rudy Gay had 23 points and 15 rebounds finalised last week. Keuchel is ESPN reported one pitching- the question,” he said of solving those Davis returned to the game in the third fi ve assists and came up with three steals. as the Spurs put together two straight the top target of the Atlanta needy team will not bid for shooting woes. “Can we get a little confi - period but fi nished with just six points Randle added 28 points with six re- wins for the fi rst time since they won four Braves, per MLB insider Jon Keuchel - the New York Yan- dence back, get a little pep in our step?” on two-of-seven shooting with nine re- bounds and fi ve assists. straight from October 27-November 3. Heyman, after the team lured kees. While the Yankees were in bounds, four assists and fi ve blocks. “Everybody stepped up and played well The victory was the 1,210th of coach third baseman Josh Donaldson on Corbin, reports indicate they HOLIDAY FUELS PELICANS “He was probably 50 percent,” Pelicans when we needed them to,” Gentry said. Gregg Popovich’s career, moving him into and brought back catcher Brian are focusing on getting lefty Jrue Holiday and Julius Randle combined coach Alvin Gentry said. “But just having “Obviously, Jrue did a fantastic job con- a tie with Pat Riley for fourth place in NBA McCann. The Braves are righty J.A. Happ locked down. for 65 points to lead the New Orleans Peli- him out there - defensively I thought he trolling the game.” history.

NHL Fleury gets league-high 17th win as Vegas tops Dallas Reuters BOESER’S HAT TRICK LEADS CANUCKS RESULTS New York IN ROUT OVER BLUES Brock Boeser scored three goals and Elias Vancouver 6-1 St. Louis Pettersson had a goal and four assists as the arc-Andre Fleury had 22 saves to Winnipeg 7-1 Philadelphia visiting Vancouver Canucks defeated the St. pick up his league-leading 17th Boston 2-1 Ottawa Louis Blues 6-1 on Sunday afternoon. victory of the season to help lead Montreal 3-2 Chicago Bo Horvat and Nikolay Goldobin also the Vegas Golden Knights to a scored for the Canucks, who gained their M4-2 victory over the Dallas Stars on Sunday Anaheim 6-5 New Jersey second straight victory after having won just night in Las Vegas. Las Vegas 4-2 Dallas once in their previous 13 games. Goaltender William Karlsson, Reilly Smith, Alex Tuch Edmonton 1-0 Calgary Jacob Markstrom made 21 saves, losing a bid and Ryan Carpenter each scored goals for for his fi rst shutout of the season in the third Vegas, which improved to 8-2 in its last 10 games dating back to last season. Karlsson period. Jordan Kyrou scored his fi rst career games, won its fi fth straight home contest, then gave the Golden Knights the lead mid- goal for the Blues, who lost by the same score and bounced back from a 5-1 loss at Los An- way through the second period with his 10th Dec. 1 at Arizona. St. Louis goalie Jake Allen, geles on Saturday afternoon. Colin Miller goal of the season, fi ring a wrist shot from who passed Glenn Hall to move into third added two assists. near the dot in the left circle through Bish- place in franchise history with his 17th career Martin Hanzal and Esa Lindell each scored op’s pads. Tuch made it 3-1 with his 10th goal shutout Friday in a 1-0 victory against Win- power-play goals for Dallas, which had a of the season, slapping in a bouncing puck in nipeg, was pulled in the fi rst period after al- four-game winning streak snapped. Miro the slot through Bishop’s pads. lowing three goals on six shots. Heiskanen added two assists and Ben Bishop The Stars cut it to 3-2 at the 8:33 mark of Boeser opened the scoring at 2:31 on a fl uke had 24 saves for the Stars, who lost for the the third period when Jason Spezza rifl ed a goal. Pettersson stole the puck behind the fi rst time in regulation in 11 games (9-1-1) pass from the top of the right circle, past the Blues’ net and fed Boeser, whose shot from against Pacifi c Division teams this season. top of the crease, off the skate of Lindell and the slot went high. But the puck bounced off Hanzal, playing just his second game of the into the left side of the net. It was Lindell’s the glass and ricocheted back over the cross- season after undergoing spinal fusion surgery fi fth goal of the season. bar, hitting Allen in the back of his left leg pad last March, picked up his fi rst goal of the sea- Fleury, making his 10th consecutive start before trickling over the goal line. son to give Dallas an early 1-0 lead by being in net, then came up with three saves during a Pettersson made it 2-0 at 12:46, gliding in the right place at the right time. Heiskanen four-minute power play after Shea Theodore over the blue line before taking a wrist shot fi red a shot from the top of the right circle picked up a double-minor for high sticking from between the top of the faceoff circles and the puck caromed off the leg of Hanzal Taylor Fedun and drawing blood. that defl ected off a defenseman’s stick and skating in front of the net and past Fleury. Dallas, called for too many men on the ice over Allen’s shoulder. Vegas tied it near the end of the period penalty with 1:07 left, still pulled Bishop with Allen’s afternoon ended when Boeser when Carpenter, standing alone by the left 50 seconds left and Smith sealed the win for scored on a snap shot from the right faceoff side of the net, shoveled in a rebound of an Vegas with an empty-net goal 22 seconds circle at 14:06 off a two-on-one break with Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury makes a save as Dallas Stars centre Martin Hanzal Oscar Lindberg shot for his fi rst goal in 41 later. Pettersson. looks for a rebound during the third period at T-Mobile Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, December 11, 2018 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Molinari named European Tour Golfer of the Year Agencies formance in 2018 would come in July, compelling argument with three victo- London though, where, playing alongside 14- ries and Patrick Reed also merited mas- time Major Champion Tiger Woods, sive consideration after winning the he held his nerve in tricky conditions Masters, but Francesco Molinari’s story rancesco Molinari was named at Carnoustie by carding a bogey-free in 2018 was absolutely outstanding. the European Tour’s Golfer of fi nal round of 69 to lift the Claret Jug “To win at Wentworth, then lift the the Year for the fi rst time yes- and become the fi rst Italian to win one Claret Jug at Carnoustie, and then back terday, capping a stellar season of golf’s four Major Championships. that up by winning fi ve points at The inF which he won the British Open to be- He followed that with another top Ryder Cup and win the Race to Dubai come the fi rst Italian major champion. ten fi nish in August at the US PGA is up there as one of the great years in A panel comprising members of the Championship, before creating more European golf. golfi ng media chose Molinari to be the history in The Ryder Cup the following “Francesco has always been one of recipient of the distinguished prize month, forming a memorable partner- Europe’s elite players, but in 2018 he following a magnifi cent 12 months on ship with Tommy Fleetwood en route became a global superstar and sepa- the European Tour in which he secured to becoming the fi rst European to win rated himself from his peers.” a fi rst Rolex Series title in the BMW all fi ve points from his fi ve matches Fellow panellist Nick Dougherty, PGA Championship, a maiden Major against the United States. Sky Sports Golf Presenter, said: “There victory at The 147th Open Champion- Fittingly, it was also Molinari’s vic- were many stand-out performances ship and played a starring role in Eu- tory over Phil Mickelson in the Sunday on the European Tour in 2018, includ- rope’s Ryder Cup win in France. Singles at Le Golf National which re- ing Oli Fisher’s historic 59, Tommy Molinari’s fi rst triumph of a memo- claimed The Ryder Cup for Europe. great names have earned this honour I’ll always look back on this season and golfer, he is a wonderful person too Fleetwood’s 63 in the fi nal round of rable 2018 came at Wentworth Club Molinari then rounded off a remark- and I feel very proud to join them. be proud of what happened.” and throughout this season he consist- the US Open and Matt Wallace’s vic- where he fi nished two shots clear of able year by becoming the fi rst Ital- “It is an award that means a lot to Keith Pelley, Chief Executive Offi cer ently reminded us what a magnifi cent tory in Denmark when trying to earn a Rory McIlroy to win the BMW PGA ian to win the Race to Dubai Rankings me and is a nice way to end a very of the European Tour, said: “There is so ambassador he is for our game. He is Ryder Cup wildcard. “But they all pale Championship, having fi nished run- presented by Rolex, holding off Mas- special year. Winning at Wentworth, much to celebrate after another fantas- a thoroughly deserving winner of the into insignifi cance compared to Franc- ner-up in the event 12 months previ- ters Champion Patrick Reed and 2017 in one of our biggest events, gave me tic season on the European Tour which 2018 Hilton European Tour Golfer of esco’s performance under pressure at ously. He came close to adding another Race to Dubai Champion Fleetwood to a lot of confi dence for the summer, saw so many of our Members excel the Year award.” Carnoustie. That felt special, particu- Rolex Series victory the following fi nish the year as the European Tour’s but obviously winning The Open at on the global stage and 12 in particu- Iain Carter, BBC Golf Correspond- larly his putt on the 18th when you look week by carding rounds 66-66-66-65 Number One. “It is a huge honour to Carnoustie, becoming my country’s lar during a spectacular Ryder Cup in ent, who was part of the panel, said: at who he was playing with. “He also to fi nish runner-up to his Ryder Cup be named the Hilton European Tour fi rst Major Champion, was incredible. France. “But it is right that we pay spe- “The list of monthly winners and nom- won at Wentworth, which is massive teammate Thorbjørn Olesen in the Golfer of the Year,” said Molinari, who “To then go on to win the Race to cial tribute to Francesco Molinari who inees for this year’s award shows the when you look at the list of previous Italian Open in his homeland. received the award yesterday at the Dubai and be part of that European Ry- repeatedly made history this year. depth in talent and nationalities on the winners there, and then he produced The 36-year-old’s standout per- London Hilton on Park Lane. “So many der Cup team in France was amazing. Francesco is not just a phenomenal European Tour. Matt Wallace made a that performance at Le Golf National.”

NFL HOCKEY WORLD CUP England ease past NZ 2-0 to meet Argentina Dolphins stun Pats; in quarter-fi nals

IANS reducing the margin in the 49th Bhubaneswar minute but Stephen Jenness’ shot from inside the box was parried away by England goalie ngland outclassed New Pinner. Chiefs, Saints win Zealand 2-0 in the fi rst In the fi nal minute of the crossover match of the match, New Zealand secured an- ‘They could throw it deep or run one of their ‘desperado type’ plays’ Men’s Hockey World other penalty corner but Pinner CupE here at the Kalinga Stadium made a smart save to keep a clean yesterday. slate and keep intact England’s England, who will now take on record of never fi nishing below Olympic champions Argentina in eighth in the World Cup. the fi rst quarter-fi nal tomorrow, In the other game, France scored their fi rst goal in the 25th reached their fi rst quarters by minute as Will Calnan got on the edging past stubborn China 1-0. scoresheet with a fi eld strike. They will take on Australia in the Luke Taylor converted a pen- last-eight stage tomorrow. alty corner in the 44th minute to Timothee Clement sounded help England score a comfortable the board in the 36th minute. win. The English were the better Viktor Lockwood raced to the team against Black Sticks in the baseline with a daunting run opening two quarters, carving out down the left fl ank and cut back more goal scoring opportunities to Maximilien Branicki in the than their ninth-ranked oppo- centre. Branicki then unleashed nents. In the opening exchanges, a fi erce reverse stick at the far England could have taken the lead post which was defl ected by in the fi fth minute from a penalty Clement into the net. corner but failed to. The fi nal two cross-over play- After a barren fi rst quarter, off matches take place today, England drew fi rst blood in the with Belgium taking on Paki- 25th minute when Calnan de- stan at 16:45IST with the winner fl ected in a high ball from skipper playing Germany in the quarter- Phil Roper from the left fl ank. fi nals. The 1900 match will be Two minutes later, a Liam contested between Netherlands Ansell strike from close range and Canada, with the winner went inches wide. setting up a quarter-fi nal clash New Zealand came close to against host nation India.

Ryan Tannehill (left) and Kenyan Drake of the Miami Dolphins celebrate their win over the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. (AFP)

AFP to stop Drake. The Green Bay Packers, who sacked Action from Men’s Hockey World Cup 2018 match between England RESULTS Los Angeles The Dolphins, who erased fi ve defi cits coach Mike McCarthy after last week’s and New Zealand at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar yesterday. (IANS) on the way to victory, improved to 7-6 to Indianapolis 24-21 Houston embarrassing loss to the Arizona Car- keep their slim playoff hopes alive. dinals, also rebounded, beating the Fal- Carolina 20-26 Cleveland he Dolphins scored a touchdown cons 34-20. Packers quarterback Aaron GOLF on a wild fi nal play Sunday to SAINTS, CHIEFS PLAYOFF BOUND New England 33-34 Miami Rodgers completed 21 of 32 passes for 192 edge New England 34-33 in Mi- In the late game, on a chilly Chicago Giants 40-16 Washington yards and two touchdowns. ami and put the Patriots’ NFL night, the Bears defense was lights out as Elsewhere, Dak Prescott threw his Tplayoff plans temporarily on hold. they held the Los Angeles Rams to a mea- Jets 27-23 Buff alo third touchdown pass to Amari Cooper Kizzire and Harman The Patriots led 33-28 with seven sec- gre amount of points with a 15-6 victory. Baltimore 24-27 Kansas City on the fi rst possession of overtime, and onds remaining, but couldn’t stop what The New Orleans Saints and Kansas New Orleans 28-14 Tampa Bay the Dallas Cowboys continued their coach Bill Belichick dubbed a “desper- City Chiefs, meanwhile, punched their march toward the division title with a 29- win golf QBE Shootout ado” play. Dolphins quarterback Ryan playoff tickets – the Saints locking up the Atlanta 20-34 Green Bay 23 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Denver 14-20 San Francisco Tannehill took the snap and connected NFC South division crown with a 28-14 On third down, Rasul Douglas mis- AFP at 17. with Kenny Stills, who made a 14-yard victory over the Buccaneers in Tampa Cincinnati 21-26 Chargers takenly tipped the pass into the air and Miami “We knew we needed at least gain before shovelling a lateral pass to and the Chiefs securing a playoff spot Cooper grabbed it and had an easy stroll birdie and eagle was a bonus,” Pittsburgh 21-24 Oakland DeVante Parker. with a 27-24 overtime triumph over the into the end zone from the Philadelphia Kizzire said. Parker made it another fi ve yards then Baltimore Ravens. Detroit 17-3 Arizona seven for the 15-yard score. atton Kizzire and Brian “He had a great iron shot in fl icked another lateral pass to Kenyan Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes Philadelphia 23-29 Dallas In Chicago, quarterback Mitch Tru- Harman eagled the par- there close and freed me up, and Drake, who raced in to complete the 69- connected on a stunning cross-body Rams 6-15 Chicago bisky completed 16 of 30 passes for 110 fi ve 17th on Sunday to I hit a good one, too. We both yard gain for the winning TD. fourth-down pass to Tyreek Hill to keep yards with one touchdown, but it was the seize victory in the QBE had looks at it. I putted fi rst and “They could throw it deep or run one a game-tying fourth-quarter touchdown the Dallas Cowboys, had to rally to beat Bears defense that provided the fi reworks ShootoutP in Naples, Florida, made it.” of their ‘desperado type’ plays,” Belichick drive alive. the Buccaneers. New Orleans trailed 14-3 by holding the Rams to just 214 yards of ahead of Graeme McDowell and Kizzire and Harman carded an said of what he thought the Dolphins’ Kansas City’s Harrison Butker missed a at halftime, but their potent off ense led off ense. Emiliano Grillo. 11-under fi nal round of 61 for a choices were coming down to the wire. 43-yard fi eld goal as time expired in regu- by quarterback Drew Brees came alive in Los Angeles quarterback Jared Goff Harman and Kizzire were one 30-under total of 186. “Twenty-yard pass, and then it turned lation, but made a 36-yarder in overtime the second. completed just 20 of 44 passing attempts behind McDowell and Grillo McDowell and Grillo had a to- ‘desperado.’” that proved the diff erence after the Chiefs Brees completed 24 of 31 passes for 201 for 180 yards with zero touchdowns and when they arrived at Tiburon tal of 10 birdies — three on the It was the fi fth defeat in the Patriots’ stopped the Ravens on fourth down in the yards with a touchdown and an intercep- a career-high four interceptions. He was Golf Club’s 17th in the fourball front nine before their streak of last six trips to Miami, and prevented extra period. tion. also sacked three times by the Bears de- fi nal round of the unoffi cial team seven from the 11th through the them, for now, from clinching a 10th While the Chiefs clinched a playoff spot, Elsewhere, the Indianapolis Colts fense. event founded by Greg Norman. 17th — in a 10-under 62 for 187. straight AFC East division title. the AFC West title will be in the balance halted the Houston Texans’ nine-game “Our goal is to play late in the season,” Both hit iron shots close and It was McDowell’s second “The way it ended sucked,” said New when they face on Thursday division rivals winning streak with a 24-21 triumph in said Bears defensive tackle Akiem Hicks. when Kizzire holed his eagle putt straight runner-up fi nish in the England tight end Rob Gronkowski, who the Los Angeles Chargers, who beat the Houston. The Texans lead the AFC South “As long as we keep doing what we do, we they leapfrogged McDowell and event, after fi nishing tied for was on the fi eld in a defensive role and Cincinnati Bengals 26-21. division at 9-4 with the Colts and Ten- are going to be a good defense for a long Grillo, who had pulled one ahead second with partner Shane Low- was the last Patriot player with a chance The Saints, coming off a shock loss to nessee Titans tied at 7-6. time.” with their seventh straight birdie ry last year. Gulf Times Tuesday, December 11, 2018 7 SPORT

HORSE SHOW MOTORSPORT Qatar Cross-Country Shaheen Lembarak, Rally to open 2019 FIA World Cup

By Sports Reporter inviting drivers and riders from Doha around the world to enjoy the challenges and demands that our off -road terrain and diffi cult Wasa win gold at ffi cials at the Qatar navigation throws up. We have Motor and Motorcycle again tweaked the format for the Federation (QMMF) 2019 edition. Our start ceremony have announced ini- and prize giving will both take tialO plans for next year’s Qatar place at the fabulous location of Cross-Country Rally (QCCR), the Pearl and will feature live tel- the opening round of the FIA evision coverage. Qatar Arabian show Cross-Country Rally World Cup. “Our team has laid on a chal- The event will take place over fi ve lenging fi ve-day route through stages on February 21-26, 2019. the remotest and most spectacu- Al Shaqab horses won gold in the Colts and the Fillies championship The QCCR will be the fi rst lar parts of the State of Qatar and round of the prestigious FIA we look forward to welcoming By Sports Reporter series for the fi rst time since it competitors and showing our Doha joined the championship in 2012. traditionally warm Arabic hospi- It will feature live televised start tality and support.” and fi nish ceremonies on the Rally headquarters and the ohamed Mubarak Pearl and fi ve demanding desert media centre will be based at the al-Sulaiti Abdul- special stages. new Losail Sports Arena, adja- lah’s Shaheen Lem- “We are delighted that the cent to the Losail International barak and Nasser Manateq Qatar Cross-Coun- Circuit, and a bivouac will be Mal-Hajri’s Wasa emerged as the try Rally will be the opening located outside the main indoor champion stallion and cham- round of the FIA World Cup for facilities. pion mare respectively, while Al Cross-Country Rallies for the The ceremonial start will take Shaqab horses swept the colt and fi rst time in 2019,” said QMMF place from 18.30hrs on February fi llies championship in the 21st president and Organising Com- 21 and the fi ve desert sections Qatar National Purebred Arabian mittee chairman Abdulrahman will take centre stage from Feb- Horse Show at the Al Shaqab In- al-Mannai. ruary 22-26 before the ceremo- door Arena on Sunday. “We have great pleasure in nial fi nish on the Pearl. Shaheen Lembarak, who had topped Class 12 for four- six-year-old stallions earlier on Sunday, edged out Nasser Mohamed Mubarak al-Sulaiti Abdullah’s Shaheen Lembarak won the gold in the Stallions Championship in the 21st Qatar National Purebred Lavillenie, Umtiti meet at Aspetar Mohamed Mesfer al-Hajri’s Arabian Horse Show at the Al Shaqab Indoor Arena on Sunday. PICTURES: Juhaim Gazwan Al Nasser in the cham- pionship round for gold. The latter had to be content for silver for the second straight edition of the show, after col- lecting 17 points to Shaheen Lembarak’s 18. Al Sraiya Stud’s Amaar Al Nasser won bronze with 12 points. Wasa collected a total of 22 points out of a possible 24 for her gold in the Mares’ Championship. Al Nasser Stud’s Bshaier Al Nasser and Mesfer Mohamed Mesfer al- Hajri’s Deema Al Nasser took sil- ver and bronze respectively. Al Shaqab’s Zuhayr Al Shaqab, winner of Class 6A for yearling colts earlier on Sunday, amassed an almost a unanimous approval Nasser al-Hajri’s Wasa emerged as the champion mare at the horse show. of the judges with 24 points, to win gold in the colts’ champi- onship. Al Reeh Stud’s Amir Al Reeh and Al Nasser Stud’s Badiea Al Nasser fi nished second and third in the championship round Olympic pole vault champion and world record holder Renaud respectively. Lavillenie (left) of France meets compatriot and FC Barcelona Siwar Al Shaqab brought home star Samuel Umtiti at Aspetar, the orthopaedic and sports second gold for Al Shaqab in the medicine hospital, in Doha. Aspetar plays an essential role in fi llies championship collecting 20 the development of sports in Qatar. Shaped by its vision to be a points for the gold, while Sheikh global leader in sports medicine and exercise science by 2020, Nawaf bin Nasser al-Thani’s Hat- the pioneering hospital has become a preferred destination for tan Al Nasser won silver with 15 athletes to experience world-class medical service. points. Assayel Al Uwaynah Stud’s Magna MS had to settle for bronze with 10 points. Siwar Al Shaqab had booked SPOTLIGHT her spot in the championship round with a win in the Class 3A for Yearling Fillies on Day One of the championship on Friday. Al Shaqab’s Zuhayr Al Shaqab won gold in the Colts Championship. Aurenche is beIN’s

TENNIS new vice-president Activities launched ahead of Qatar ExxonMobil Open for sports content eIN Media Group, the By Sports Reporter here don’t know much about leading sports, me- Doha this fascinating marine mammal dia and entertainment or how it is under threat. group, has appointed “Dugongs play a vital role in MartinB Aurenche as vice-pres- xxonMobil Qatar and the ocean ecosystems - they cycle ident of Sports Content, respon- Qatar Tennis Federation nutrients within the ecosys- sible for the group’s media rights (QTF) have launched a tems in which they forage. It is acquisitions and distribution series of promotional critical that we protect their key around the world. activitiesE ahead of the 2019 Qa- habitats and manage key threats. The strategic move comes just tar ExxonMobil Open, which But to do so, we need to engage weeks after Yousef al-Obaidly will take place at the Khalifa In- communities, foster steward- was appointed as CEO of the ternational Tennis and Squash ship and improve knowledge, group by chairman Nasser al- Complex from December 31, and this year’s campaign is going Khelaifi , signalling an excit- 2018, to January 5, 2019. to be a great help in accomplish- ing new phase of development qualifi ed lawyer, will now lead A ribbon cutting ceremony ing this.” for the global media company, and manage beIN Media Group’s at Doha Festival City marked As part of its environmental which holds the single largest Central Acquisitions Team glo- the launch of the promotional awareness campaign, Exxon- portfolio of sports rights of any bally – responsible for both activities, in the presence of Mobil Qatar is inviting social global broadcaster in the world. rights acquisition and distribu- Saleh al-Mana, vice-president media users on Instagram and Aurenche has been instru- tion – principally spending his and director of Government and Twitter to visit stands located in mental to beIN Media Group’s time in the key group offi ces in Public Aff airs for ExxonMobil Doha Festival City, Villagio Mall rapid expansion and remarkable Paris, London and Doha, but also Qatar; Tareq Zeinal, General and Souq Waqif, and take a pho- success over the past few years, focused on the group’s important Co-ordinator of Qatar Exxon- to with Morjan. They can then having been with the group interests and operations in the Mobil Open, and Karim Alami, participate in a competition by from the very beginning when it Americas and Asia. Tournament Director. posting their photos with the launched its channel in France Commenting on the appoint- At the centre of this year’s ac- hashtag #Dugongs_matter for in 2012, and managing major ment, al-Obaidly said, “I’m de- tivities is an exciting and crea- a chance to win valuable prizes relationships with international lighted to announce Martin’s ap- tive environmental awareness and also learn more about dug- rights holders as well as negoti- pointment. I’ve worked closely campaign, which ExxonMobil Qatar ExxonMobil Open tournament director Karim Alami (left); Saleh al-Mana, vice-president and ongs, which are listed as vulner- ating key acquisitions. with Martin over the past seven Qatar launched on November 27, director of Government and Public Aff airs for ExxonMobil Qatar; and tournament’s general co-ordinator able by the International Un- Only this month, Aurenche years and his knowledge, expe- 2018 to run through January 5, Tareq Zeinal at the launch of promotional activities at Doha Festival City. ion for Conservation of Nature headed the beIN negotiation rience and reputation across the the last day of the tournament. (IUCN). team that secured Ligue 2 rights industry is second to none, and The campaign revolves around for the 2019 Qatar ExxonMobil with ExxonMobil in promoting the tournament. We are proud ExxonMobil Qatar has in France for a four-year term, will be a real asset as we embark a dugong mascot called Morjan Open together with our partner tennis in Qatar. The 27th Edi- of what we’ve been able to do planned two other competitions complimenting beIN’s existing on the next phase of our interna- and his family Toola and Marah, the Qatar Tennis Federation,” said tion of the event is coming up together with Qatar ExxonMobil for their social media follow- rights to Ligue 1 for that period; tional growth.” as it aims to help raise awareness Alistair Routledge, President and in three weeks from now and we and I believe this year’s tourna- ers on Twitter and Instagram to and secured UEFA Champions Aurenche himself added: “I’m of the dugong population that General Manager for ExxonMobil hope tennis fans will enjoy an- ment will be bigger and greater.” help educate the general public League and UEFA Europa League thrilled to take on this new posi- lives in Qatar’s waters. Qatar. “Today’s event will help get other spectacular tennis experi- Talking about dugongs, Dr about Qatar’s dugong. rights for Digiturk – beIN’s sub- tion at such an exciting time for Morjan, Toola and Marah’s the word out that this outstand- ence with us.” Mohamad al-Sulaiti, Research The 2019 Qatar ExxonMobil sidiary and the biggest pay-TV beIN Media Group. I look forward names were chosen by students ing annual sporting event is com- Alami added: “Qatar Exxon- Director, ExxonMobil Research Open will bring together some network in Turkey – until 2021. to continuing to work with our through a competition that took ing to Doha very soon. I’m also Mobil Open is one of the sig- Qatar, said, “It’s wonderful that of the world’s top players to More broadly this year, Martin teams to strategically invest in pre- place at government schools in pleased to announce that we are nature events in Qatar’s sport- this year’s promotional activi- compete for the trophy and a has supervised multiple ten- mium rights in existing and new October. The winning students raising awareness of a local envi- ing calendar. we are once again ties highlight a local conserva- share of the prize money. Con- der processes with major rights markets so we continue to deliver were present at the launch cer- ronmental conversation issue in reiterating our commitment to tion issue – the protection of fi rmed tournament participants holders such as UEFA, the Eng- value for our partners and – most emony. this year’s tournament activities.” promoting tennis as much as dugongs. This is an important include Novak Djokovic, Do- lish Premier League and the In- importantly – give our subscrib- “We’re pleased to announce Zainal said, “We are proud possible as well as creating a issue for us in Qatar, but unfor- minic Thiem, Stan Wawrinka, ternational Handball Federation. ers the best content and viewing the start of promotional activities of our tremendous association fun-fi lled atmosphere ahead of tunately many people who live and David Goffi n. Aurenche, who is also a fully experience on the market.”

Tuesday, Decmber 11, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT SC secretary-general praises power of sport at Oxford summit E Hassan al-Thawadi, Al-Thawadi continued: “In Sport’s ability to teach life bers of the public,” said al-Nuai- Secretary-General of 2022, fans from across the skills was also discussed, with al- mi. “Social media also allows us the Supreme Commit- world will visit Qatar, with the Thawadi referencing Generation to have two-way conversations, tee for Delivery & Legacy vast majority visiting an Arab Amazing, one of the SC’s fl agship which I see as a positive when it H(SC), discussed sport’s power to and Middle Eastern country legacy programmes. comes to shaping the fan experi- strengthen international ties, in- for the first time. And like we “Our Generation Amazing ence in 2022.” crease dialogue and break down saw this summer in Russia, I’m programme, which harnesses the Al-Nuaimi also discussed social barriers during a summit at confident that through foot- power of football to bring people the recent World Cup in Russia the University of Oxford in the UK. ball, people will see our country together and teach new skills, is and said there was plenty Qatar During the Sports & Digital Di- and region in a positive light. currently active in seven coun- could learn from the tournament. plomacy: A Vision for the Future Negative stereotypes will be tries. Whether it’s leadership, “Much of the media – and many summit, which was organised by dispelled and – thanks to foot- teamwork or communication fans – had a negative perception the University of Oxford, in col- ball – we will bridge the gap be- skills, football helps us to provide of Russia before the World Cup. laboration with SOAS Univer- tween East and West.” people with the skills they need But the tournament was a great sity of London, al-Thawadi said Hosted by Dr Corneliu Bjola, to succeed in all areas of their success – everyone felt safe and sport had the power to positively from the University of Oxford, lives,” he said. was warmly welcomed by the change people’s lives. and Dr Simon Rofe, from SOAS Also, during the event, the Russian people. We are already “Nothing brings people to- University of London, the event SC’s Communications direc- engaging closely with our Rus- gether – and breaks down social was attended by academics and tor Fatma al-Nuaimi discussed sian counterparts, along with our barriers – like sport,” said al- practitioners in the fi eld of sport digital diplomacy, including colleagues at FIFA, to see how we Thawadi. “People’s passion for and digital diplomacy, including Qatar’s approach to sharing in- can build on this positive senti- sport – in particular football – representatives from Unesco, the formation. ment ahead of our own tourna- transcends linguistic and socio- UN, Special Olympics UK and “Social media helps us to share ment in 2022,” al-Nuaimi said. cultural diff erences.” HE Hassan al-Thawadi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC). the Red Cross. our messages directly with mem- (SC.qa)

CRICKET SELECTION England keep India end 10-year faith with Test Australia drought squad for West Indies tour in fi rst-Test thriller Wicketkeeper Pant takes record-equalling 11 catches as Australia lose by 31 runs

(From left) In this November 26, 2018, picture, England’s Moeen Ali, captain Joe Root, Ben Foakes, Ben Stokes and Rory Burns watch the run out of Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis (not pictured) on a screen during the third Test in Colombo. (Reuters)

AFP turns and Mark Wood is included London ahead of Olly Stone, who made his bow in Sri Lanka. Ben Stokes and Alex Hales ngland kept faith yes- have both been named in the ODI terday with the squad squad after a disciplinary hearing that delivered a Test into their roles in a fi ght outside whitewash in Sri Lanka, a Bristol nightclub in 2017, with namingE the same 16 players who all-rounder Stokes also in the fi nished that tour for the series Test squad. against the West Indies. “Ben is obviously in all Eng- That means no place for Sur- land formats and is one of our rey’s Ollie Pope, who was ini- leading cricketers in this coun- tially selected for Sri Lanka but try,” national selector Ed Smith left early to get game time with told Sky Sports. the second-tier Lions side, and a “Alex has been a central part of reprieve for Kent’s Joe Denly. the white-ball team for a number The uncapped 32-year-old of years. He’s currently missed was not required during the 3-0 out on selection at times but win but will once again travel as when he’s got his opportunities, batting cover for the three Tests, he’s taken them. ahead of Pope and his overlooked “So nothing has changed. county colleague Jason Roy. They are available for selection, Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes was they have been selected and a late addition in Sri Lanka after that’s the situation — that’s what an injury to Jonny Bairstow and is appropriate for me to consider takes his place as a fi rst-choice as a selector.” Captain Virat Kohli (centre) and Ravichandran Ashwin (right) celebrate India’s victory over Australia in the first Test in Adelaide yesterday. (AFP) pick after collecting man-of- England are due to play three the-series honours. Tests, fi ve one-day internation- AFP India’s last Test success in boundary from a pull shot off The 15-man one-day squad als and three Twenty20 interna- Adelaide Australia was at the WACA Scorecard spinner Ashwin. also has a familiar look as the tionals on their tour of the West Ground in Perth in 2008, and It was a much-needed knock countdown to next summer’s Indies, which starts next month. the previous one in Adelaide was for the left-hander, who was on World Cup continues. The T20 squad will be an- INDIA 1st inn 250 all out N. Lyon not out 38 ndia won their fi rst Test on 2003. They have now won just a run of six consecutive single- Left-armer David Willey re- nounced at a later date. Australian soil in a decade six times in Australia in more AUSTRALIA 1st inn 235 all out J. Hazlewood c Rahul b Ashwin 13 fi gure Test scores, although he yesterday, bowling out the than 70 years. INDIA 2nd inn 250 all out Extras (lb6, b1, nb3) 10 has been in scintillating form in home side in a nail-biting fi - But with the home team miss- domestic cricket. AUSTRALIA 2nd inn (o/n 104-4) Total (10 wickets, 119.5 overs) 291 Inale to clinch the opening match ing banned batsmen Steve Smith But Marsh didn’t last much Sri Lanka’s Dananjaya suspended and raise hopes of their fi rst ever and David Warner, Kohli and his A. Finch c Pant b Ashwin 11 Fall of wickets: 1-28 (Finch), longer with Jasprit Bumrah get- series victory Down Under. team sensed ahead of the tour M. Harris c Pant b Shami 26 2-44 (Harris), 3-60 (Khawaja), ting the big breakthrough as from bowling over illegal action Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant that this could be their opportu- 4-84 (Handscomb), 5-115 (Head), he pushed at a perfectly angled suspension will also be rec- U. Khawaja c Sharma b Ashwin 8 6-156 (Marsh), 7-187 (Paine), Reuters pouched a world record-equal- nity to make history by winning delivery, getting a faint edge to Bengaluru ognised and enforced by all ling 11 catches for the match the series. S. Marsh c Pant b Bumrah 60 8-228 (Starc), 9-259 (Cummins), Pant behind the stumps. national cricket federations for as India, after setting an im- They now take the momen- P. Handscomb c Pujara b Shami 14 10-291 (Hazlewood) By lunch Australia had fought domestic cricket events played probable target of 323, fi nally tum into the second Test in T. Head c Rahane b Sharma 14 Bowling: Sharma 19-4-48-1, to 186 for six, still needing a fur- ri Lanka spinner Akila in their own jurisdiction, the dismissed Australia to win by Perth starting Friday, with Mel- Bumrah 24-8-68-3, Ashwin 52.5- ther 137 runs for victory, with Dananjaya has been sus- ICC said. T. Paine c Pant b Bumrah 41 31 runs on day fi ve at Adelaide bourne and Sydney to follow. 13-92-3, Shami 20-4-65-3 (3nb), Paine not out 40 and Pat Cum- Spended from bowling However, Dananjaya may Oval. “The odds were stacked P. Cummins c Kohli b Bumrah 28 Vijay 4-0-11-0 mins on fi ve. in international cricket with be able to bowl in domestic Australia, attempting what against them. They fought really M. Starc c Pant b Shami 28 RESULT: India win by 31 runs But in the second over after immediate eff ect after an cricket events played under would have been a record chase well but we executed our plans they resumed Paine top-edged a independent committee found the auspices of Sri Lanka at the ground, gallantly battled well and got that last wicket pull shot from Bumrah and Pant his bowling action to be illegal, Cricket. to 291 before Josh Hazlewood which we were intending to get,” of the way the team took it to the Marsh and Head had started easily took a catch. the International Cricket Coun- He will now undergo remedial became the last man to fall to said Kohli. wire. cautiously, grinding out 11 runs Cummins, who survived two cil (ICC) said yesterday. work on his action and will be Ravichandran Ashwin, who fi n- “I’m super-proud of the “We thought we could win, in the opening seven overs be- big reviews within four balls, Dananjaya was reported for allowed to resume bowling ished with 3-92. Shaun Marsh bowlers, to have four bowlers no doubt about that. We saw fore seamer Ishant Sharma with the technology both times a suspect action following Sri in international cricket if his made 62 and Tim Paine 41. and take 20 wickets is a great how the pitch is playing and told struck with the score on 115, going in his favour, showed Lanka’s first Test against Eng- modified action passes the It was a huge breakthrough for achievement and something ourselves we are going to dig bowling a bouncer that caught gritty application with Mitchell land in Galle last month. 15-degree rule. captain Virat Kohli’s men, who that we haven’t done in the past. deep, but unfortunately, my- Head’s bat as he tried to fend it Starc in a 41-run eighth wicket The 25-year-old’s bowling Dananjaya has claimed 27 went 1-0 up with three Tests to “It shows us that if the bats- self, Travis (Head) and Shaun off and Ajinkya Rahane took the stand. action was assessed on wickets in five Tests for Sri go after becoming the fi rst Indian men step up regularly, we will be couldn’t bat long as long as we catch at gully. And when the target dropped November 23 at the National Lanka since making his debut team to win the opening match of gunning for a win in every Test should have.” Paine joined Marsh and they below 100, the crowd dared to Cricket Centre in Brisbane, against Bangladesh in Febru- a Test series in Australia. match.” Australia resumed the fi nal day upped the ante, capitalising on dream before Starc fell to Shami where the straightening of his ary. Pant took the plaudits after needing another 219 for victory some loose balls from Shami to for 28. It brought Nathan Lyon to elbow during deliveries was He has also bagged 46 wickets matching the record of 11 catch- ‘SHATTERING’ with four wickets down, but lost chip away steadily and close the the crease and he got the pulses found to exceed the 15-degree in 30 one-day internationals es in a Test held by England’s Paine, who fell to a rash shot their last two specialist batsmen gap. racing with a quick 38 to set up tolerance limit. and 14 wickets in 16 Twenty20 Jack Russell and South Africa’s after lunch, said the defeat was before lunch, shifting the odds Marsh brought up a valuable a tense fi nale, before Hazlewood Dananjaya’s international internationals. AB de Villiers. “shattering” but he was proud heavily in India’s favour. 50 — his 10th in Tests — with a departed to end the match.