THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2019

STAGE SET FOR AMIR CUP 2019 FINAL AT AL WAKRAH STADIUM

It will be the first football match at the new 2022 FIFA World Cup Stadium; coach hopes new stadium brings luck AL SADD HOLD EGDE BUT DUHAIL DETERMINED TOO

AYENI OLUSEGUN

THE 40-000 capacity Al Wakrah Stadium will come to life as Al Sadd and defending champions Al Du- hail slug it out in the Amir Cup final I am very pleased too bbe on Thursday. part of the opep ning of The first of the 2022 FIFA Wolrd Cup stadiums to be built from Al Wakrah World Cup scratch will be inaugurated by HH Stadium and to plaplay in the Amir Sheikh Tamin bin Hamad this impportant touurnanaamenm t al Thani before kickoff at 10:30pm. It is only fitting for the most prestig- for the first time,e bubuttt thee ious domestic competition to have most important thiingng ffofororr first taste of the new stadium. me is my team,m wininninn g On the pitch, however, it prom- ises to be a tough battle against two will meaan a lot. teams who are evenly matched both in attack and defence. This will be Al Duhail coach Rui Faria. the second Amir Cup final between Al Duhail and Al Sadd with both teams splitting the spoils. This season, Al Sadd enjoyed a Al Duhail coach Rui Faria speaks to the media at Tower on Wednesday. better head-to-head record over the Red Knights on their way to winning and a big team like Al Duhail wouldn’t est the Amir Cup gets from the me- was an assistant before, but now it’s the QNB Stars League, cruising to a want to lose. They are champions but dia and citizens of Qatar. This final my first final as a coach, and also at 3-1 win in the first leg and forcing a we want to win the Cup. will be one of the biggest in history the stadium which will host matches 2-2 draw in March. “In 2017 we beat them at the especially being played at a World of the 2022 World Cup. Surely this Al Sadd’s last win came at the Khalifa Stadium and now it’s Cup stadium,” Ferreira told the me- will increase the importance of the Khalifa International Stadium in Al Wakrah. Maybe the World Cup dia on Wednesday. game,” he added. 2017 and coach Jesualdo Ferreira stadiums are good for us. The final will also mark another The defending champions will hopes Al Wakrah brings them more “It’s special for me because it’s milestone as both coaches are from likely be without some injured play- luck, especially this being his last the last game I’ll lead this club,” Portugal. Ferreira however, was ers and there’s doubt on Youssef El game in charge of the Wolves. he said. quick to downplay the relevance of Arabi’s participation. The Moroccan Offficialscialciaalsdisd displayd splaspsp ymymay matchtchtch jerseysjersjeerseysey –tr traditionaladitiionalwh whiteite for Al Sadd Sadddd andan reded forfoor “There are no clear favourites, “We also know how much inter- any comparison with Rui Faria. recently returned to training after Al Duhail – following a technical committee meeting on Wednesday. “It’s the players and not the missing the semi-final. Mohammed Al Sadd SC coaches who play. I would have Muntari and led the at- Al Duhail SC loved to play but my age is against tack against Al Sailiya and the duo (Possible line-up) me,” the 72-year-old said with a are likely to start with Edmilson (Possible line-up) laugh. “The most important parts Junior on the wing. Goalkeeper of the game are the players, we can “We have injuries in the team, Goalkeeper Defender Pedro Miguel only supervise them as coaches.” but this will not reduce the num- Defender Defender Meanwhile, Al Duhail head ber of players for us on the pitch. Defender coach Rui Faria will take charge of We have some players who will not Defender his first final as coach after 17 years participate, but there are a number Defender Bassam al Rawi Defender as an assistant to Jose Mourinho. of others who will find their place in Defender Sultan al Brake Midfielder Gabi “I am very pleased to be part of the starting line up. Forward Youssef El-Arabi Midfielder Jung Woo-young the opening of Al Wakrah World “We are focused on the avail- Forward Almoez Ali Cup Stadium and to play in this able players and when we play with Midfielder Xavi important tournament for the first this mentality, it makes it easier for Midfielder Shoya Nakajima Midfielder Ali Asad time, but the most important thing us to play at a maximum level and Midfielder Forward for me is my team, winning will everyone is motivated to this game Midfielder Assim Madibo mean a lot to the team,” said Faria. and looking to achieve victory,” the Forward Baghdad Bounedjah “I am a coach and the victory will Portuguese added. Midfielder be added to my personal account. I Cracker on the cards. Be there!

Al Sadd goalkeeper Saad al Sheeb trains ahead of the Amir Cup final on Wednesday. Sports Thursday, May 16, 2019 17 Wish to conclude my career by winning the Amir Cup: Xavi

I want to thank my big family at want to grab this great opportunity. Al Sadd, all my friends on the team, X-avi Files We will play a big team that has a the management, the staff – everyone number of great players. It will be a Xavi lifted the 34th title tough game but we have trained hard worked hard and they ensured that I of his career when during this past week and I am very was very happy throughout these last four years.  excited for the opportunity to win the Al-Sadd won the QNB Stars last title of my life as a footballer on League for the 14th time. one of the 2022 World Cup pitches. It was one of the best decisions of my We want to put smiles on the faces of This was Xavi’s fourth our fans because they certainly de- life to come here. My family and I, we trophy with the Wolves, serve it. are very comfortable here. My children after having earlier won the are like Qatari because they were At the end of your career with born here. We are very happy and grateful to live Amir Cup, Qatar Cup and the Al wSadd, which is the title you Sheikh Jassim Cup. wanted to win the most? here. Everyone offers us respect. Xavi: I won all the domestic ti- ~ Xavi Hernandez The legendary midfielder tles here, the league, Amir Cup, Qa- joined Al-Sadd in the tar Cup and the Sheikh Jassim Cup.  I wanted to win the AFC Champions summer of 2015, after League. We had an excellent team achieving the treble with his and we were the better side in the childhood club FC Barcelona. semifinal against Persepolis but this is football. All the titles I won with While at Barcelona, Xavi won Al-Sadd are important but I hoped the La Liga (8), Copa del Rey to win the Champions League title (3), UEFA Champions League as well, and we were close to (4), FIFA Club World Cup (2), Xavi Hernandez (right) trains with teammates on eve the 47th Amir Cup final. doing it. Spanish Super Cup (6), and l Sadd Xavi Her- family and I, we are very comfortable Who will be Xavi’s UEFA Super Cup (1). nandez will be hoping here. My children are like Qatari be- successor in foot- Afor the perfect end to his cause they were born here. We are ball? In the colours of the illustriousus footballing career very happy and grateful to live here. Xavi: I don’t like Spanish national team, on Thursdayay when he leads his Everyone offers us respect. comparisons in foot-  teamteam out in thet Amir Cup final I want to thank my big family at ball. There are many Xaaotevi won the FIFA agaigainsnst Al Duuhail at the new Al-Sadd, all my friends on the team, excellent midfielders today, soome World Cup in 2010 Al-WWakrakrah Stadium. While the management, the staff – everyone of them are superstars, such aas Bus- and lifted the there will be a lolot of attention worked hard and they ensured that I quets, Modric, Kroos and VeVerratti. European towardss thethhe openingin of the new was very happy throughout these last Many others are there as wellll, but I World Cup vvenue,e, Xavi’s fo- four years. Once again, I am happy to don’t really like comparisons and I Championship twice cus will be onn biddiing farewell have come here and as I said, it is one don’t want to miss out on annyyna name.me I in 2008 and by winning anothnotther titleit with of the best decisions of my life. thinhinkthk there will be bbetter playayeyers t han 2012. He also Al Sadd. me, becaause football is likeike llife, there Ahead of his retirementent,nt WhatW are youy r final goalso bfbefforere is allwaysres renewall. won the FIFA Xavi had one last interview as retiring? U-20 World a player with official Al Sadd Xavi: We are delighted to reach What will your final message be Cup in website, speaking about his the final of the Amir Cup. We will try and to whom? 19999. experiences in Qatar over the to end the season in the best way pos- Xavi: My final message is to say past four years. sible by winning the title. It will be thanks to everyone. My time as a Excerpts: the ideal ending to the season, in the player was great, ever since I was a presence of His Highness the Amir child. I did not expect to reach this Q: How do you rate your expe- and playing at the Al-Wakrah Sta- level in my career. I played at Bar- rience with Al-Sadd during the dium, one of the venues of the World celona and Al-Sadd, and I achieved past four years? Cup. As the captain of the team, I all my dreams with them. I want to Xavi: I rate my time here in Qa- hope I get the honour of lifting the thank Qatar, Al Sadd Club and eve- tar very highly. It was one of the best trophy. This is one of the most im- ryone in Qatar. You will always be in decisions of my life to come here. My portant tournaments in Qatar and we my heart. (al-saddclub.com)

There are no clear favourites, I hope this match will be a good farewell for Xavi and me: Ferreira

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

AL Sadd head coach Jesu- In tomorrow’s game, Xavi aldo Ferreira gave his will carry out all the thoughts ahead of the up- instructions I give. Xavi will coming Amir Cup final be a great manager. against Al Duhail, express- Tomorrow’s game will also Al Sadd’s Spanish midfielder Gabi Fernandez addresses the media on ing his wish to get a farewell Wednesday ahead of the Amir Cup final. gift by winning the title. be a good farewell for me Speaking at the pre-match and Xavi. We want to win press conference, Ferreira the title. Xavi an example to said: “On a personal level, I am very happy to be in Amir Al Sadd coach Cup final for the third time. I Jesualdo Ferreira follow, says Gabi hope it won’t be the last time for Gabi. I also wish to win the title for the second time. game with just 90 minutes, for everyone. I’ll miss him here.” “We know the importance Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira at the press conference on Wednesday. and not a number of matches. ‘Playing Amir Gabi who led his Atletico of this trophy in this country It will be a different game and team to the La Liga title in and we know how much im- for us if we win the trophy.” Asked about the sig- Ferreira also said: “The an exciting final.” Cup final will 2013/14 season in Spain, said portance the media, the citi- As for their opponents, nificance of two Portuguese players are the most impor- Finally, he said: “In tomor- Al Sadd wants to finish the zens and residents give to this Ferreira said: “We will face Al coaches competing in the final, tant part of the game. They are row’s game, Xavi will carry out be special’ season on a high note with a tournament. This final will be Duhail, who are the defend- he said: “The ones who play the ones who will be champi- all the instructions I give. Xavi domestic double. an illustrious place in the ca- ing champions. It is going to the game are the players and ons. They need to work as hard will be a great manager. To- AYENI OLUSEGUN “I’m very motivated to play reers of the coaching staff, the be a tough and intense game not the coaches. I wanted to as possible to win the title. morrow’s game will also be a DOHA my first Amir Cup final. Since officials and medical staff as between the two sides. We are play in this match but my age There is no clear favourite in good farewell for me and Xavi. my first day at Al Sadd, all the well. It will be an an honour here to win the title.” and FIFA don’t allow that.” this game, which is a knockout We want to win the title.” AL Sadd’s Spanish midfielder players have told me how big Gabi Fernandez has hailed this tournament is. retiring teammate Xavi her- “We’ll be playing in a nandez as “an example to fol- World Cup stadium, which Opposite Camp low” as the former Barcelona is historical on its own. We legends prepares for his final played against Duhail twice match as a player. already and the quality will be Xavi announced he’ll be the same in the final. This team Amir Cup a serious tournament for Al Duhail: Luiz Martin hanging up his boots via social wants to finish the season on a media last week, bringing an high note, we already have the TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK of this game and this tourna- Al Sadd will not matter in Martin said, “I am delighted end to glittering career which league title so we want to add DOHA ment for everyone in Qatar. Thursday’s game. to have met a player like Xavi, began in Barcelona. this,” the 35-year-old said. “This tournament al- “We played well against a phenomenon in the world of “I speak a lot with him Having played in two AL Duhail midfielder Luiz ways attracts all the players, Al Sadd in the league, but we football and a distinguished (Xavi) and I’ve asked him to UEFA Champions League fi- Martin stressed the impor- and everyone likes to play in did not win,” he said. player who has everyone’s enjoy this final. He is an exam- nals himself, the Spaniard said tance of the Amir Cup final this event. We at Al Duhail “We drew with a goal respect. ple to follow not just here in playing in the Amir Cup final match against Al Sadd on take this game seriously, from an individual error aff- “It is a great value for us Qatar, but worldwide. I hope will be special. Thursday. and with great respect. Our ter, but the situation is com- and he gives a lot of qual- we win so we can give him a “Both set of players have a The Brazilian-born star, focus is to hold the trophy pletely different. This is a ity and for me, he is the great farewell,” the former huge responsibility tomorrow. who has been part of the at the Al Wakrah Stadium,” very different and important one of the best players. Atletico Madrid captain said The final will be for the country club’s success said it will be Martin said. tournament for us because His presence in Qatar on Wednesday. and it’s not an everyday game. I great to hoist the at the Al The 30-year-old who we will go into the match as brought extra value “Xavi is a global example. have participated in a lot of fi- Wakrah Stadium. moved to Qatar in 2010 said the defending champions.” for the league,”he He’s committed, punctual and nals in my career, but I live here “We know the importance their league struggles against On Xavi’s retirement, concluded. always has a smile on his face now and it’s special,” he added. 18 Thursday, May 16, 2019 Sports Belgium’s invites Wilmots fans to experience appointed Iran coach UEFA Europa League final in

SCO- protected , mud The 68,700-seater volcanoes and timeless rural villages, there’s something for Baku Olympic everyone in Azerbaijan. Stadium will Baku’s buzzing streets and bazaars make it an ideal des- host the final tination for fans to enjoy both before and after the match. between Arsenal The country’s unique geogra- and Chelsea later phy and location have resulted in a cuisine infused with the A handout picture made available this month flavours of the Caucasus, the by the Football Federation of Iran Caspian and the Great Silk (FFIRI) shows Belgian Marc Wil- TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Road. From traditional bis- mots inspecting Iran’s National DOHA tros serving local delicacies to soccer team camp in Tehran on Spectators sit under umbrellas as all the matches were suspended due to rain at the Italian Open tennis tournament in on Wednesday. (EPA-EFE) chic international restaurants, Wednesday. (EPA-EFE) AZERBAIJAN is excited to tourists can revel in a vibrant welcome global football fans and affordable culinary scene. AFP to enjoy the final of Europe’s What’s more, visitors to TEHRAN Federer’s return delayed second biggest club football Baku can still find a wide tournament, the UEFA Eu- range of affordable accom- FORMER Ivory Coast and Bel- ropa League, at the Baku modation options, with an gium manager Marc Wilmots Olympic Stadium on 29 th of abundance of luxury and mid- has arrived in Tehran and is as rain ruins play in Rome May 2019. The match will see range hotels near the stadium set to sign a three-year deal two English teams – Arsenal and across the city, as well as as national coach, state news and Chelsea – battling it out plenty of well-priced hostels agency IRNA reported. AFP matches including oine fea- They brought in a “no re- hear,” the 20-time Grand Slam for European glory, attract- and Airbnbs rentals. The official agency said ROME turing men’s top seed Novak fund” policy after doubling champion said. ing excitement from their fans “We are excited to wel- Iran football federation presi- Djokovic playing Canadian ticket prices for Wednesday “I just really hope it doesn’t around Europe and the world. come European and global dent Kami Rita Sherpa had ROGER Federer’s return to the Denis Shapovalov. to reap the financial benefits take away the fact I’m really After hosting a series of fans to visit Azerbaijan, with confirmed the deal and the for- Italian Open was scuppered However the dual ATP- of Federer’s return to the happy to be here.” successful high-profile sport- two powerhouses of global mer Belgian striker would sign by rain on Wednesday as of- WTA clay showpiece now faces venue -- only confirmed after Due to the poor condi- ing events over the last few sport competing for victory a contract later on Wednesday. ficials were forced to cancel a double-up day on Thursday he lost in the quarter finals tions, the order of play was years, including the European here in Baku. After an inten- It said the 50-year-old who all day matches after waiting in order to try and get back in Madrid last week -- gen- re-arranged and reduced, with Games, the Islamic Games sive planning phase for the was capped 70 times for his more than seven hours for the onto schedule for a pair of Sun- erating ill-will for the event starting times regularly de- and the Formula 1 Azerbaijan highly anticipated event, all country was expected to sign weather to clear. day finals. among the local public. layed as the day dragged on. Grand Prix this April, stakeholders including the on until the end of the 2022 Federer last appeared at Federer, a four-time final- The Italian Tennis Fed- Finally, hopes were aban- Baku, the capital of Azer- State Tourism Agency, gov- World Cup for a fee of $1.2 mil- Rome’s Foro Italico in the 2016 ist in Rome, returns to Italy eration justified the decision to doned after 6pm (1600 GMT). baijan, is well placed to accom- ernment bodies and private lion (1 million euros) a year. third round, losing to Dominic after skipping the clay season raise prices by saying that they Besides Federer, Djokovic modate a large influx of visi- businesses are prepped and He replaces Portuguese Thiem, but he was kept wait- for the last two years as he con- wanted “to reward fans” who and Rafael Nadal were also tors for this important game. equipped to welcome visitors coach Carlos Queiroz who ing to begin his tournament centrated on his grass game. had bought tickets before they caught by the weather, with de- Besides watching the and fans for a celebration of stepped down after eight years against Portugal’s Joao Sousa The Swiss was originally knew Federer would play. fending champion Nadal set to game, Azerbaijan hopes to football,” commented Florian in charge in January follow- thanks to rain and wintery scheduled to play at 11am When informed of the de- play France’s Jeremy Chardy. tempt spectators to explore Sengstschmid, CEO of Azer- ing Iran’s semi-final exit in temperatures in what is nor- (0900 GMT) but was among cision on Tuesday during a Among the women, world the country’s many offer- baijan Tourism Board. the Asian Cup when they went mally a warm and pleasant dozens of players kept wait- media event, Federer did not number one Naomi Osaka ings of outdoor pursuits and To meet the increased de- down 3-0 to Japan. period of the year in the Italian ing in crowded locker rooms seem particularly impressed. was waiting for a start against high-energy activities to ‘Take mand for flights, Azerbaijan He led Iran to two World capital. and lounges, as organisers in- “I heard some fans clearly Dominika Cibulkova after Another Look’ at all it has to Airlines (AZAL) and others Cup finals and extended his Against the odds, officials advertently created a perfect were not happy about it. That’s beating the Slovak in the Ma- offer. As one of the safest fam- have organised more than 40 contract to 2019 after the 2018 kept four scheduled night storm of damaging PR. obviously disappointing to drid first round last week. ily-friendly destinations in the charter flights to accommodate tournament in Russia. region, the country is blessed fans for the match. All services Wilmots guided Belgium with endless natural beauty, of Baku’s Heydar Aliyev Inter- into the 2014 World Cup dur- modern architectural wonders national Airport will function ing his stint as coach with and remnants of rich medieval at full capacity to ensure the them between 2012-2016. German, French leagues reject proposal to create closed UCL history. From Baku’s modern smooth operation of the flights He took charge of Ivory , to the UNE- and flow of passengers. Coast in 2017 but parted com- REUTERS tional leagues around Europe. a proposal on the table which damaged in their attractiveness pany after failing to qualify BERLIN The French league (LFP), would involve drastic changes. for millions of people across the the west Africans for the 2018 meanwhile, said it would pro- Several league representa- continent.” World Cup. THE German and French foot- pose an alternative in the next tives who were present have “Changes to these must not ball leagues have both rejected few days. said that the proposal included jeopardise the relevance and a proposal to create a near- The region’s governing body a three-tier European league future of the national leagues in closed Champions League UEFA is working with the Euro- with promotion and relegation Europe. This would... damage from 2024 onward, adding to pean Club Association (ECA), between each division. the whole of European football Croatia’s widespread opposition to the whose members include all of “The presently discussed - and that can never be in the plan. the continent’s biggest clubs, to concept... would have unac- interest of the UEFA.” The LFP Stimac The German Football re-design European competi- ceptable consequences for the said that 32 of its members have League (DFL), which runs the tion after the current interna- national leagues in Europe and voted against the proposal with named India top two divisions of the Football tional calendar ends in 2024. should therefore not be imple- three abstentions. League system -- known as the According to reports of a mented in this form,” said the “French football is worried football coach Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 -- meeting held between UEFA DFL’s chief executive Christian about the sporting and econom- said in a statement that such a and representatives of the Eu- Seifert. ic consequences of the current competition would have “unac- ropean Leagues last week, the “We must not allow the tra- project for the national champi- ceptable consequences” for na- governing body has already put ditional national leagues to be onships,” it said in a statement. The which will play host to Europa League final. Education City Stadium: Jewel of the Desert HE Education City FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022 ability Assessment System He noted that work has already Stadium is labeled the program (GSAS), thanks to the begun on the two roof covers, A file photo of former Croatia Jewel of the Desert. It strategy employed in its design the first is circular for the pitch, coach Igor Stimac. (AFP) is one of the stadiums and construction. It is the first the second is an indoor roof. thatT will host the FIFA World stadium in the world to earn He added that he expects AFP Cup 2022 in Qatar. It will be that recognition. work on the roof to be com- NEW DELHI one of the most prominent en- Al Qahtani said that con- pleted in the coming month, vironmentally sustainable sta- struction work is progressing especially in light of the accel- FORMER Croatia coach Igor diums in the world, in addition rapidly in order to meet the set erating pace of work and the Stimac was named India man- to its design that is inspired by deadline, noting that work on determination to complete all ager on Wednesday, replacing Islamic architecture. the iron structure, which in- tasks on schedule. Englishman Stephen Constan- The stadium, located 12 km cludes the roof and the facades The project manager also tine who quit following the from the heart of the Qatari and the base was more than said that he expects the final Asian Cup exit. capital Doha, will accommodate 70 percent complete, in addi- phase of work to be easier than “Igor is the right candidate 40,000 spectators and will be tion to completing all the con- the previous one. He noted to coach the Blue Tigers... In- located in the western part of the crete structure work over the that work on the final finishing dian football is going through Education City’s southern cam- past two months. He noted the phase, in addition to the op- a transition, and I am confident pus. The venue will be a symbol great progress made in terms erational phase will take place his vast experience will guide of innovation, sustainability and of the two phases of electrome- in the next six months. He said us to higher echelons,” All India progress for decades to come. chanical work. Work in the first that, after that, the project will Football Federation president The Supreme Commit- phase is close to completion, be ready to host any event. Praful Patel said in a statement. tee’s Project Manager of the while the second phase is more He stressed that the Su- A former centre-back who stadium Eid al Qahtani said than 80 percent complete. He preme Committee for won 53 caps, Stimac was in that the design of the stadi- noted the great acceleration in and Legacy in all the projects charge of Croatia during quali- um, with the flood lights on, the pace of work in all stages as of the Qatar 2022 World Cup fication for the 2014 World will make the stadium spar- The stadium, located 12 km from the heart of the Qatari capital Doha, will accommodate 40,000 specta- the project is set for completion remained committed to work- Cup in Brazil. He was sacked kle at night, as if a jewel in the tors and will be located in the western part of the Education City’s southern campus. The venue will be a in the coming period. ers’ rights, safety, and security after Croatia took only one point desert, hence the nickname. symbol of innovation, sustainability and progress for decades to come. The project manager re- in accordance to the highest from their last four group games Speaking to Qatar News vealed that the finishing work international standards. He meaning they only just scraped Agency (QNA), he said that modernity. The facade features the stadium will set an exam- design of the stadium was for the roof was 75 percent added that this was evident into a playoff. Niko Kovac was the stadium’s most important triangles that form complex, di- ple for the use of intelligent done using the best practices finished, the floors were more in the committee’s rules that in caretaker charge as they over- characteristic is its location at amond-esque geometrical pat- building systems that con- adopted globally, which will than 80 percent finished, as oblige contractors to provide came Iceland to reach the finals. the heart of Education City. terns, appearing to change color serves the energy of things result in high levels of water well as thermal insulation housing for workers that is not Stimac’s last job was with He added that it will over- with the sun’s movement across such as automatic lighting and and energy efficiency. At least which is also more than 80 further than five kilometers Al Shahania club in Qatar. look the most important main the sky. Like diamonds, the sta- air conditioning units. The 20 percent of the materials percent complete. away from the stadium. Constantine stepped down roads, starting with the south- dium’s design represents qual- environmentally-friendly con- used in building the stadium The installation of the plas- Al Qahtani stressed that the as India coach in January after ern Khalifa area to the coastal ity, durability and resilience, struction practices will also were from sustainable sourc- tic seats will be installed in the Supreme Committee chose very an injury-time Bahrain pen- city of Dukhan. and will become something to reduce the carbon footprint of es, in addition to purchasing final phase along with laying carefully all the locations of the alty denied the -mad Education City Stadium be treasured both for the memo- the stadium, not just during 55 percent of the building ma- the grass. He also said that World Cup, with each one tell- nation a historic place in the has a design that draws on the ries it holds and its future value the construction stage, but af- terials from local sources. they have secured the supply of ing its own story. He added that Asian Cup knockout stages in rich history of Islamic architec- to the country and region. ter its completion as well. The project was awarded seats, in preparation for install- this helps with the legacy of the a 1-0 defeat. ture, blending it with striking The project manager said Al Qahtani said that the the five-star Global Sustain- ing them at the right moment. World Cup in Qatar. (QNA) Sports Thursday, May 16, 2019 19 Bangladesh crush QR800,000 up for grabs in Amir Cup v’ball final Ireland by six wkts al Jumaan, Video House and support the annual biggest vol- Attractive prizes Electronic Centre Vice-Chair- leyball championship. man and Managing Director “Volleyball is quite popular AGENCIES for fans in the Sajid Jassim Mohammed Su- in Qatar and many communi- May 18 final laiman, CEO CV Rappai and ties have been offering their QVA Technical Director Hus- support to the sport regularly. SEAMER ’s first sein Imam Ali being present We’ve many attractive and sur- five- haul in only his TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK along with players and officials prise prizes for fans who will second ODI coupled with fif- DOHA of the two teams. turn up at the final on Satur- ties from , Liton Video House and Electronic day,” he added. Das and led A prize money of QR800,000 Centre, which sponsored one “Seeing the high standards Bangladesh to a six-wicket win will be up for grabs for the fi- Man of the Match Award for of both the teams, we expect a and kept Ireland winless in the nalists of the prestigious Amir each fixture up to semi-finals, tough final and we wish good tri-series here on Wednesday. Cup Volleyball Championship will honour two players in the luck to both the teams,” Rappai However, Bangladesh will be on May 18. final – one best pro and other said. sweating over Shakib’s fit- Defending champions and best local player. During the final, Qatar’s ness after the all-rounder had 13-time winners Al Rayyan On behalf of the sponsors star beach volleyball players retired hurt during the chase Club will clash with four-time and their V-C Sajid Jassim Mo- Cherif Yonousse and Ahmed with a suspected side strain. runners-up Police in the final, hammed Sulaiman, CEO CV Tijan, who have risen to world Earlier, Ireland opener which is scheduled at the QVA Rappai expressed his gratitude No. 5 now, will also be felici- put on a show, Indoor Hall at 9.30 pm to the QVA for having provided tated by LG and Jumbo Elec- making 130 off 141 balls, and The winners will take them an opportunity to be a tronics, a flagship company of was well-supported by his cap- home QR500,000, thanks of part of the premier volleyball Video House, for being the Asia tain William Porterfield, who chief sponsors Video House championship in the country. champions and performing hit his first ODI fifty in more and Electronic Centre, while “We’ve been having a long as- brilliantly at the FIVB Beach than a year, but their efforts the runners-up stand to earn sociation with the QVA at dif- World Tour. went in vain as Bangladesh Bangladesh’s Abu Jayed Rahi bowls during the Tri-Nation Series One-Day International against Ireland at QR300,000. ferent levels but this is the first Video House will also rec- aced their chase. the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground in Clontarf, Dublin on Wednesday. (AFP) A press conference was held time that we’re partnering the ognise the best players in the Tamim set the tone with his at the QVA Meeting Hall on QVA for HH the Amir Cup Vol- age-group volleyball – un- second fifty in three matches SCOREBOARD eight fours and four sixes in his Wednesday with QVA Assistant leyball Championship. We feel der-14, under-15, under-17 and this series, helping Bangladesh 130. Secretary-General Saeed Salem very proud and honoured to under-20. to another rapid start. He put IRELAND: 8-0-47-0. Porterfield made 94 off 106 on 117 for the first wicket with Paul Stirling c b Abu Jayed 130 balls, including seven fours James McCollum c Liton Das b 5 BANGLADESH: Liton and piled the pressure on Andrew Balbirnie c b Abu Jayed 20 Tamim Iqbal b Boyd Rankin 57 and two sixes, but got out to Ireland with a flurry of bound- c Liton Das b Abu Jayed 94 Liton Das b Barry McCarthy 76 Jayed just as he tried to accel- aries. Tamim could have been Kevin O’Brien c Tamim Iqbal b Abu Jayed 3 Shakib Al Hasan retired hurt 50 erate. He had been particularly dismissed on 22 had Gary Wil- Mark Adair Hit Wicket b 11 Mushfiqur Rahim c b Boyd Rankin 35 severe on Mashrafe Mortaza, Gary Wilson c Shakib Al Hasan b Abu Jayed 12 35 son hung onto a catch behind b Mohammad Saifuddin 4 c Gary Wilson b Mark Adair 14 taking the veteran seamer for the stumps, but he went onto Barry McCarthy not out 1 not out 7 31 off 25 balls. Shakib wasn’t add 35 to his tally. Extras (0b, 6lb, 0nb, 0pen, 6w) 12 Extras (0b 9lb 11w) 20 spared either. Porterfield also Total (for eight , in 50.0 overs) 292 Total (for four wickets, in 43.0 overs) 294. Liton complemented Fall of wickets: 1-23 (McCollum), 2-59 (Balbirnie), Fall of wickets: 1-117 (Iqbal), 2-160 (Das), 3-224 slammed five fours off Shakib, Tamim well and was particu- 3-233 (Porterfield), 4-263 (O’Brien), 5-264 (Stirling), (Rahim), 4-278 (Saikat) who finished with 0 for 65 in larly strong square of the wick- 6-287 (Wilson), 7-291 (Adair), 8-292 (Dockrell) Did not bat: Mortaza, Saifuddin, Hossain, Chowdhury his nine overs, including a 23- et, keeping Bangladesh ticking Bowling: Abu Jayed 9-0-58-5 (3w), Rubel Hossain Bowling: Mark Adair 10-0-52-1, Barry McCarthy 10-0- run last over. 7-2-41-1, Mohammad Saifuddin 9-0-43-2, Mosaddek 61-1 (3w), Joshua Little 8-0-67-0 (4w), Boyd Rankin in the chase. Both the openers Hossain 8-0-32-0, Shakib Al Hasan 9-0-65-0 (3w), 7-0-48-2 (3w), George Dockrell 8-0-57-0. Jayed also took the prized were bowled, but Shakib and scalp of Stirling, helping Bang- Mushfiqur then took over, add- ladesh keep Ireland to under ing 64 runs together in 10 overs. cepted by a diving Wilson. ladesh victory had looked less 300. Porterfield was caught at During the process, Mushfiqur Shakib suffered a suspected likely when Stirling dominated the deep extra-cover bound- became the fifth wicketkeeper side strain while trying to pull the visitors in the first innings. ary while Stirling gave deep to reach 5,000 ODI runs after Josh Little in the 35th over, Stirling got going with a crunch midwicket a simple catch. Ire- Adam Gilchrist, Andy Flower, and consequently retired hurt. through the covers off Jayed land’s slide either side of the Kumar Sangakkara and MS Mahmudullah, though, got and proceeded to add 174 with Stirling-Porterfield stand and Dhoni. The stand, however, them home, with his unbeaten Porterfield - the highest third- some wayward bowling meant QVA Assistant Secretary-General Saeed Salem al Jumaan, flanked by Video House and Electronic Centre ended when Mushfiqur’s leg- 35 off 29 balls. wicket stand for Ireland in ODI they ended the series without a Vice-Chairman & MD Sajid Jassim Mohammed Sulaiman (left) and CEO CV Rappai, with the Amir Cup side tickle was superbly inter- Such an emphatic Bang- cricket. In all, Stirling struck single win. volleyball Championship trophy in Doha on Wednesday. Karthik pipped Pant because Bairstow credits IPL for raising his game of experience, says Kohli AFP derabad. BRISTOL (UNITED KINGDOM) One-match ban slapped on Morgan “You’re able to learn dif- REUTERS players believe India will miss into primary consideration.” ferent things from different MUMBAI the 21-year-old in the show- Karthik made his one-day inter- JONNY Bairstow said play- AFP coaches and different players,” piece which gets underway on national debut in 2004 and has ing alongside the likes of Aus- BRISTOL (UNITED KINGDOM) said Bairstow, who opened the DINESH Karthik’s experience May 30. played 91 matches for India in tralia’s David Warner in the for the Sunrisers with and composure in pressure sit- “In pressure situations, he’s the format, compared with left- Indian Premier League had ENGLAND will have to find a new captain for the fourth Warner -- set to be an oppo- uations helped him pip young shown composure,” Kohli told handed batsman Pant who has helped take his game to new one-day international against Pakistan on Friday after skip- nent during the World Cup sensation Rishabh Pant to the the Times of India newspaper played just five after making his heights after his match-win- per was banned from the match by the Inter- and subsequent Ashes series second wicketkeeper’s spot in about Karthik. “It was some- 50-over debut last October. ning hundred against Pakistan national Cricket Council for a slow over-rate offence. in England. India’s World Cup squad, cap- thing that everybody on board Karthik, who has also played in Bristol. Morgan was sanctioned after World Cup hosts and fa- “It’s just little things like tain has said. was convinced about. 26 Test matches for India, has Opening batsman vourites England took around four hours to bowl their 50 game plans,” Bairstow added. With Mahendra Singh Dho- “He has the experience. If, the ability to bat anywhere in Bairstow’s blistering 128 off overs in a six-wicket win over Pakistan in the third ODI at “He (Warner) hits in ni as the undisputed first-choice god forbid, something happens the batting order which makes 93 balls helped World Cup Bristol on Tuesday. completely different areas wicketkeeper of the side, the se- to MS (Dhoni), Karthik can be him a limited-overs asset. hosts England to a six-wicket He was also fined 40 percent of his match fee and his to potentially myself. I guess lectors preferred Karthik, 33, in immensely valuable behind the “We can very well imagine win in the third one-day inter- players 20 percent of theirs after match referee Richie Rich- it’s method more than any- their 15-man squad over Pant, wickets. As a finisher, he’s done there’s more than an opinion national on Tuesday as they ardson ruled England were two overs short after time allow- thing else. But learning from who is known for his swash- well. in place that some capable guys went 2-0 up in a five-match ances were taken into consideration. them, as well as the guys here, buckling batting. “So, it was the overall ex- have missed out,” India coach series with two to play. that can only be a good thing Teams can change players posure to a tournament of Ravi Shastri added. “Heart goes The 29-year-old York- form from the lucrative Twen- runs in 10 games at an average playing under pressure with until May 23 and several former this magnitude that was taken out to them. shireman carried on his recent ty20 IPL where he scored 445 of 55.62 for the Sunrisers Hy- expectation.” Al Shaqab to hold Open House and auction of Arabian horses this weekend

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

AL Shaqab, member of Qatar Foundation, and Al Rayyan Stud will hold an Open House and Auction of exquisite Ara- bian and Peninsula horses this weekend at Al Shaqab. The Open House is scheduled to take place in Al Shaqab’s indoor arena, situ- ated within the Equine Edu- cation Department, starting at 9pm on Friday, May 17. It will provide an opportunity for horse lovers and horse owners to observe and ap- praise the foals and mares that will be in the Auction, which will take place at 9pm on Saturday, May 18 at the same venue. The horses will be prog- enies of the prestigious stal- lions and mares which are Progenies of some of the finest Arabian horses bred at Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre and Al Rayyan Stud Recently, Al Shaqab was triumphant at the Marina di Pietrasanta 2019 Arabian Horse Show in Italy, when bred through the successful will go under the hammer on May 17 and 18 from 9pm onwards. four of the six horses won top honours. breeding program being im- plemented by Al Shaqab. have won awards at interna- al breeders’ association The partment, said: “In protecting with great moral character several progenies who have four of the six horses won Twenty-one horses, most tional shows. Pyramid Society; and the tra- and conserving Qatar’s eques- and kindness. Seven world continued to win at some of top honours - Ghalliba Al of them belonging to Al The breeding programme ditional Qatari bloodlines of trian heritage, Al Shaqab’s champion stallions are key to the most prestigious shows.” Shaqab, a filly, and Aqil Al Shaqab, will be auctioned. includes international Arabian the past. breeding philosophy has been Al Shaqab’s program and they Recently, Al Shaqab was Shaqab, a champion colt, Over the years, Al Shaqab horses, combining all Arabian Sheikh Hamad bin Ali to preserve the Arabian breed are among the finest Arabian triumphant at the Marina won gold medals, while Te has bred several prize-win- bloodlines; Peninsula horses, al Thani, Manager of the Al and to produce horses that horses on the planet. di Pietrasanta 2019 Arabian Al Shaqab and Thamamah Al ning stallions and mares that as determined by internation- Shaqab Breeding & Show De- are beautiful and athletic, “These stallions have sired Horse Show in Italy, when Shaqab, won silver. 20 Thursday, May 16, 2019 The Last Word

AMIR HOSTS IFTAR FOR HEADS OF DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS AND QATARI AMBASSADORS

The Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani on Wednesday hosted an iftar banquet in honour of their excellencies heads of diplomatic missions accredited by the State, ambassadors of Qatar abroad and top officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan. The iftar was attended by Personal Representative of HH the Amir, HH Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al Thani, and a number of their excellencies sheikhs. (QNA)

Ashghal promises hassle-free road Qatar’s hospitality access to Al Wakrah Stadium sector retains its TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK top ranking in ME DOHA

AS all roads lead to the majestic Guest Experience Index shows Qatar Al Wakrah Stadium on Thurs- hotel guests report finest experience day, the Public Works Author- ity (Ashghal) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure they don’t TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK “Qatar’s hospitality sec- slip into traffic chaos as the sta- DOHA tor remains a key engine of our dium opens its gates to the pub- tourism vision. We congratulate lic for the first time. QATAR’S hospitality sector our partners in the private sector The Amir Cup final between has been ranked the best in the for their continued growth and local football clubs Al Sadd and Middle East for the second con- their focus on providing travel- Al Duhail provides a befitting secutive year by Olery’s Guest lers with unparalleled hospital- debut to the Al Wakrah Sta- Experience in the Middle East ity and authentic experiences,” dium, which is one of the 2022 Report. Qatar National Tourism Council FIFA World Cup host venues. muting from Doha to Al Wakrah and the southern areas. It ex- 2018, Ashghal launched construc- figuration of one lane in each A hospitality and travel data (QNTC) Secretary-General Ak- With the Amir HH Sheikh nowadays does not necessar- tends for 22 kilometres from tion works to upgrade 9 kilome- direction. The road consists of provider, Olery collects, analy- bar al Baker. Tamim bin Hamad al Thani ex- ily require passing through Al Hamad International Airport to tres of Al Wakrah Main Road. The two multi-level interchanges ses and distributes online re- “The Olery report confirms pected to watch the match at the Wakrah main road, since there Al Majd Road. project will deliver three lanes in providing free flow traffic in all views from guests for the global that Qatar’s hospitality sector stadium, fans are likely to turn are new alternative routes such DOHA EXPRESS HIGHWAY - SOUTH: each direction including an un- directions. hospitality industry. is best in class, and a model for up in large numbers. To ensure as the G-Ring Road. The south- The Southern Part of the Doha derpass that will span between Al LOCAL ROADS : Ashghal’s Its report analysed over 12 the industry and the region,” he a hassle-free access to the stadi- ern part of the Doha Express Express Highway project is con- Wakrah City and Doha. achievements in implementing million online guest reviews added. um, Ashghal has several strate- Highway, street exten- sidered one of the most impor- The project’s design allows the highways leading to Al Wak- over the past 12 months (April “The Olery report and the gies in place. sion also serve as alternative tant roads that directly connect for a wide central median that rah Stadium from all over Qatar 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019) from guests who have stayed in Qa- Currently, five expressways routes along with the recently to Al Wakrah stadium though Al will accommodate Qatar Red extended to include the develop- popular online booking sites. tar’s hotels articulated the main lead into the Al Wakrah Stadi- revamped roads that connect Wukair Interchange. Line metro (Qatar Rail) con- ment of local roads in Wakrah Qatar’s score increased from selling points as attentive ser- um. Besides, Ashghal has built commuters from the north, such It connects with Doha Ex- necting Al Wakrah with Doha. and Al Wukair area that serve 84.3 last year to 85.4. The de- vice, top notch facilities, and the Al Wukair Road and a string as the Al Majd Road. pressway, Sabah Al Ahmad Cor- The project will also deliver 6.1 the stadium through a series of velopment of new attractions, authentic experiences. These of local roads leading away from Ashghal has completed the ridor and G Ring Road on one kilometres of combined pedes- projects. such as the recently opened Qa- remain a priority as we continue it around the stadium. construction of all expressways end and with Al Wukair Road, trian and cycle paths. These projects included de- tar National Museum, was cred- to build diverse tourism and Ashghal has also lain around adjacent to the Al Wakrah Sta- Mesaieed Road and Al Wakrah AL WUKAIR ROAD: Al Wukair velopment works on part of Al ited with helping maintain the hospitality products and attract of 3.5 kilometres of pedestrian dium in 2017 and 2018, includ- Main Road on the other. Road is considered a vital addi- Wukair Road, which included hospitality sector’s momentum. more guests to experience all and cycle paths directly feeding ing the southern part of Doha AL MAJD ROAD: The seven-lane tion to the roads network, pro- an increase in the number of The report measures overall that Qatar has to offer.” into the stadium from the vi- Express Highway and G-Ring free-flow dual carriageway from viding a 13-kilometre stretch of lanes from two to four lanes and guest satisfaction by considering The hotel classification cinities of the Al Wakrah Metro Road. Mesaieed to Al Khor will accom- road, significantly upgraded to the installation of traffic signals different aspects of their tourist system introduced by QNTC Station. Here are some of its key G RING ROAD: The G Ring Road modate more than 14,000 vehi- provide dual four lanes capable in the area between Al Wakrah accommodation experience, in- in 2016 plays a central role in projects designed to ensure easy is a newly-constructed vital road cles per hour in each direction of accommodating 8,000 vehi- Hospital and Al Wukair Road’s cluding service, location, clean- establishing Qatar as a leading public access to the stadium. that has significantly enhanced for a distance of 130 km. cles per hour in each direction intersection with Doha Ex- liness, room quality and value destination in terms of hospital- EXPRESSWAY NETWORK: Com- traffic movement between Doha AL WAKRAH MAIN ROAD: In May as opposed to the previous con- pressway. for money. ity and quality. One of its major In Qatar, service, cleanliness components is the Voice of the and location received ratings of Guest, which classifies hotels 9, above the global benchmark through performance. Partner- fans to arrive at the stadium well ro station to the stadium.” in each of these categories. ing with one of the world’s lead- Organisers urges fans to arrive early in advance of the match time to “Fans can also make use of Qatar’s hospitality sector ing companies in guest senti- avoid any rush and traffic bot- taxis. We want the fans to arrive also scored higher in rooms ment analysis, QNTC uses a tool Continued from page 1 Ô 3.5-km-long pedestrian and cy- Stadium from 6:30pm to 2am on tlenecks. early as it is a new stadium and (8.9), food (8.8) and facilities to obtain a sentiment score from cling tracks extending from the Thursday. Khalid al Naama, Media there will be a security cordon in (8.4). According to the ‘guest over 100 guest review platforms. IN order to facilitate the fans’ metro station to the stadium. The organisers, Qatar Foot- Relations Senior Officer at SC, and around the stadium,” Ma- type’ category, Qatar’s tourist This commitment to travellers commute from Al Wakrah Met- Ashghal has urged those not ball Association (QFA) and the said: “To make it easier for fans, jor Abdulla al Ghanim, official accommodation was particu- helps QNTC and its partners in ro Station to Al Wakrah Stadi- heading to the stadium to avoid Supreme Committee for Deliv- there will be a shuttle service to spokesperson of Security Com- larly popular among business the hospitality sector evolve new um, Ashghal has implemented roads surrounding Al Wakrah ery & Legacy (SC), have asked ferry fans from Al Wakrah met- mittee, said. travellers, families, and friends. products and experiences.