SPORT Thursdayy 16 November 2017

PAGE | 30 PAGE | 32-33 PAGE | 36 ATP Finals: Italy axe Ventura India’sI Kohli frets over Dimitrov storms after World Cup openingo pair dilemma into last four debacle againsta Sri Lanka QOC Secretary visits QBWF Xavi set to return as Al Sadd headquarters

QNA prepare for Umm Salal clash he Qatar Olympic Com- mittee Secretary TGeneral, Jassim Rashid Fawad Hussain QNB STARS LEAGUE FIXTURES Iceland. Similarly, Meshaal Bar- Al Buenain made an inspec- The Peninsula sham, Hassan Ahmed, Meshaal tion visit to the Qatar Boxing Saturday’s fixtures Al Shammari, Fahd Shnein and and Wrestling Federation l Sadd superstar Xavi 4pm: Al Gharafa vs Al Sailiya at Yousuf Abdul Razzaq will return (QBWF) Headquarters yester- Hernandez is set to Al Gharafa Stadium to the Al Sadd fold after doing day . return to action as 4pm: Al Markhiya vs Al Ahli at duty for the Qatar Olympic team During the visit, the Sec- the Wolves prepare Al Arabi Stadium in two friendlies against its Syr- retary General met with to take on Umm 6:10pm: Qatar SC vs Al Khor at ian counterpart. Yousef Al Kazem, the QBWF SalalA for the Sunday’s QNB Stars Qatar SC Stadium However, the Wolves can President, the meeting also League (QSL) clash at their home Sunday’s fixtures expect a tough challenge from attended by Khaleel Ibrahim ground. 4pm: Al Sadd vs Umm Salal at the Orange Fortress who are Al Jaber, the Director of QOC’s Xavi missed Al Sadd’s pre- also desperate for a victory after Sport Affairs Department, Al Sadd Stadium vious clash against Al Ahli due they slipped to fifth spot, follow- Khaled Al Mass, the QBWF

6:10pm: Al Arabi vs Al Rayyan at

to a back injury, however, the ing a 2-3 loss against Al Sailiya Secretary General and senior Barcelona legend has recovered Al Arabi Stadium – who took fourth position in QBWF employees. and took part in Al Sadd’s train- the standings. In the meeting with the ing session on Tuesday to flex Rayyan also defeated Al Sadd in Umm Salal have one of the QBWF officials , the QOC Sec- for Umm Salal clash. ‘Qatar Clasico’ recently. best defences in the 12-team retary General received a Al Sadd, though won their A handsome victory against league, and Al Sadd attackers brief presentation on the Round 7 clash against Al Ahli 2-1 Umm Salal on November 19 will may find it hard to breach their QBWF vision, goals, road map sans Xavi, the seasoned cam- help Al Sadd in regaining the solid resistance. and the prospective partici- paigner will boost them as they second spot and keep pressure Overall, Umm Salal have pation in the next seek a big win against Umm on top-placed Al Duhail, who been doing well since the start championships. Salal after being demoted to have 19 points. of this season, collecting 13 QBWF President, Mr. third spot by an in-form Al The Wolves will also be points from four victories and Yousef Al Kazem highlighted Rayyan side. spurred with the services of one draw. They have lost two the mechanism of perform- Both Al Sadd and Al Rayyan Qatar internationals, such as games. ance at the QBWF and the Xavi Hernandez, have so far earned 18 points with Saad Al Sheeb, Hassan Al Hay- Ivorian striker Yannick ongoing effort to focus on all set for return an exact goal difference (9) but dous, Salem Al Hajri, Boualem Sagbo leads Umm Salal’s chal- Olympian champions and tal- the latter edge the former cour- Khoukhi and Musaab Khader, lenge and Syrian professional after recovering ents who will represent Qatar tesy to scoring number of goals who played in the friendlies Mahmoud Al Mawas lends sta- from back injury. at the international sporting (19 as against the Wolves’ 17). Al against the Czech Republic and bility to their midfield. arenas.

QFA President, Oceania Confederation Doha Bank becomes Al Arabi sponsor chief discuss football development plans The Peninsula

he Qatar Football Associ- ation (QFA) President, TSheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani met with the President of the Oceania Foot- ball Confederation (OFC) David Chung yesterday at QFA’s headquarters. QFA Vice-President Saoud Al Mohannadi, QFA General Sec- retary Mansoor Al Ansari, and Ahmad Al Henzab (left), Head of Administration and Executive Director of the QFA President office Ali Dawood Properties at Doha Bank and Jassim Al Kuwari, Vice- attended the meeting. president at Al Arabi Club show off the new club jersey The visit of the OFC Presi- with Doha Bank logo as the main sponsor in Doha dent represented a new yesterday. The sponsorship agreement is for a period beginning for Qatar-Oceania of two seasons for the QNB Stars League football team. relations and signaled potential collaboration opportunities between the two parties in the near future. During the meeting, both parties discussed ways of sup- Qatar’s Al Kuwari gets porting the football system, which will be of benefit to both parties and will ensure the elected as executive development of football at all levels locally, regionally and internationally. Bilateral relations concern- member of AVC Qatar Football Association (QFA) President, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani ing football and ways to enhance and develop them further in the handing over a memento to President of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) David Bangkok Assembly included the Presi- future were also discussed. Chung in Doha yesterday. QNA dent, and Mubarak Eid Al There were talks about the pos- Abdullah, Board Member, and sibility of signing a cooperation in the coming period in Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup and legacy that benefits the present he President of Qatar Vol- Vice Chairman of the Beach agreement between the two par- and the OFC and means to applauded the commitment and future generations of leyball Association, Ali Soccer Committee Mohammed ties, which will enhance enhance the cooperation shown by Qatar for wanting to Qatari citizens and residents in TGhanim Al Kuwari, was Salem Al Kuwari. relations and further develop between the two showcase a tremendous and Qatar.” elected as member of the AVC The General Assembly dis- them. The coming period will organisations. memorable event. The OFC President also Executive Office at the meeting cussed several issues, including focus on ways to develop the The OFC President thanked He said: “Qatar has a high wished New Zealand the best of the General Assembly of the the problems of the Kuwaiti, cooperation between the two the QFA President for the warm level of sports infrastructure, of luck for the qualifying match Confederation held yesterday Indian, Philippine and Samoa sides and ways to share knowl- welcome and gracious hospital- which enables it to host the against Peru for the 2018 FIFA in Bangkok, Thailand, with the Federations. edge and experience between ity extended to him during his most important sporting events World Cup Russia which if they participation of 67 members The Association also dis- them. visit to Qatar. and championships. Hosting win, would be their third representing national associa- cussed the annual budget of the They also discussed matters He also praised the current big sports events and tourna- appearance in the global event tions in Asia. Confederation, and new mem- of mutual interest and the infrastructure development in ment leaves the country and and would reflect positively on The delegation of the Qatari bers were elected to the importance of developing them Qatar in preparation from the the region as a whole a lasting football in the Oceania region. Association participating in the Executive Office. 30 SPORT THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2017 ATP Finals: Dimitrov storms into last four London AFP

ulgaria’s Grigor Dim- itrov raced into the semi-finals of the ATP Finals with a 6-0, 6-2 demolition of David BGoffin yesterday. Dimitrov has never quite lived up to his billing as the heir to Roger Federer’s throne, but the world number six’s eye- catching rout of Goffin was a reminder he is still young and gifted enough to finally make the Delgado says breakthrough. The 26-year-old unloaded 18 winners to dismiss the Bel- Murray will be gian world number eight at London’s O2 Arena and seal his back to his best spot in the last four with one match to play. London Dimitrov, who defeated Reuters Dominic Thiem in three sets in Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov in action during his group stage his Pete Sampras group opener, match of the ATP World Tour Finals against Belgium’s David ormer world number has already made history as the Goffin at the O2 Arena, London, Britain, yesterday. one Andy Murray (pic- first Bulgarian to qualify for the Ftured) has had no season-ending Tour finals. adverse reaction to his recent And, while Federer remains charity game against Roger the title favourite following Federer and assistant coach Rafael Nadal’s injury withdrawal, Jamie Delgado is confident he Dimitrov will fancy his chances will be able to get back to his of becoming the first debutant best after a hip injury brought winner since Alex Corretja in an early end to his season. 1998. his last group match against Becker group. Dimitrov had won game of the first set. Dimitrov mocking cheers from the crowd Murray, who has been out Goffin, another first time Thiem to have a chance of join- three of his four previous meet- was dominating from the base- as he avoided the embarrass- of action since losing to Sam Tour Finals qualifier, had made ing Dimitrov in the semi-finals. ings with Goffin and he was line and, with Goffin unable to ment of a total whitewash. Querrey in the Wimbledon a flying start with his dramatic World number two Federer, quick to establish control once find any rhythm, the Bulgarian Dimitrov was warned for a semi-finals, is targeting a three-set victory over Nadal on aiming for his seventh Tour again. Goffin had a strapping broke twice more to take the set coaching violation when the return to competitive action Monday. Finals title, has already qualified around his left knee and Dim- in just 27 minutes. umpire said his coach Daniel early next year with a view to But that victory was slightly for the last four from Boris itrov immediately tested his Goffin fared little better in Vallverdu told him to “use your competing at the Australian devalued as the world number Becker group after winning his mobility. the second set as Dimitrov made forehand”. Open. one was struggling with a knee first two matches. Moving Goffin around the it nine game in a row to take a The Bulgarian claimed he The Scot has plummeted injury and pulled out of the tour- Alexander Zverev or Jack court with some deft ground- 3-0 lead. didn’t hear it, but he regained his to 16th in the rankings -- his nament after the match. Sock will advance with Federer strokes, Dimitrov landed an early The Belgian finally held serve composure to close out the lowest position for nine years Now Goffin will have to win as the second qualifier from the blow with a break in the second in the 10th game, sparking victory. -- and began his comeback with a charity game against Federer in Glasgow last week. “His body recovered well after that ... we are confident and hopeful that he will be Zverev has the ‘full package’, says Federer back to his best,” Delgado told Sky Sports. “We are in the process London (Alexander),” said Federer. “I see some- early, like what Rafa and Andy did, now of getting ready for a few AFP body who is working towards the future. Novak, Lleyton (Hewitt), all these guys. weeks ... to get a pre-season I think, yes, of course it’s really impor- “They were such great teenagers. I block together... get some oger Federer says Alexander tant right now to have success. do see a great upside from all these good players to practise with Zverev has the “full package” as “He had that with two massive wins three guys. What I like about Zverev is and pick up that level. Rthe young German bids to estab- in Rome and Montreal. I mean, that’s he’s got the full package.” “The plan is to start in lish a foothold at the pinnacle of the going to protect his season anyways. With Djokovic and Murray missing Brisbane in the first week of men’s game and push the old guard The rest sort of is all a bonus. from the end-of-season showpiece and the year, ... there is a week’s aside. “What I like to see is I feel like Nadal having pulled out injured, there gap between that and the Zverev, who lost in three sets to they’re working towards how he could is a chink of light for Zverev and the Australian Open,” the coach Federer at the ATP Finals on Tuesday, be playing when he’s 23, 24 years old other players in the eight-man London added. has climbed to number three in the in terms of fitness, planning, organisa- event, even if Federer is a big Delgado said Murray’s world after a breakthrough season in tion, all these things. I think that’s nice obstacle. spirits were lifted after meet- which he has won five events, includ- to see.” The Swiss thinks whatever happens ing his fellow professionals in ing two Masters tournaments. Federer said younger players in this week, the experience is going to London and that the 30-year- The towering 20-year-old is being general were taking longer to make stand Zverev in good stead for the old had missed being on the spoken about as the leader of a pack their mark in the modern game, with future. road while recovering. of young tyros eyeing their chance to most of the major trophies locked down “He’s already three in the world. I “It was great to be back unseat the game’s ageing by the “Big Four” of Federer, Rafael think he’s going to leave the World Tour and see all the guys again and aristocracy. Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Mur- Finals, regardless if he qualifies for the also to give him the feel of Having beaten Federer earlier this ray over many years. semis or not, with a lot of information. coming to a tennis event. He year at the Rogers Cup in Montreal, “Now, the future? The thing is, it I think the last six months of the season hasn’t been to one for a few Zverev went toe to toe with the Swiss seems like they need a bit more time, gave him everything he needs to work months. great in their round-robin encounter at the young guys in general, to break forward to. “He is missing that a lot. Germany’s Alexander Zverev during his the O2 Arena, taking the match to a third through these days even though I’m “Then, of course, he’s only going He will need that, practising group stage match of the ATP Tour Finals set before he lost his way but he can still really happy to see that there is the likes to get stronger from here. That should with those guys over the next against Switzerland’s Roger Federer on reach the semi-finals. of (Denis) Shapovalov or Nick (Kyrgios), be very encouraging for him and his couple of months to get him Tuesday. “I like what I’m seeing with Sascha now also Zverev, making the move team.” ready for next year.” Rose has eyes set on European crown

Dubai Race to Dubai leader Tommy Fleet- end of the leaderboard, and if you’re back-to-back, and those events, is AFP wood, who he trails by 256,737 points. going to finish at the top end you may brilliant. If Fleetwood doesn’t win in as well focus on trying to win the “It’s not intimidating or stressful decade after first winning the Dubai, a solo second place will tournament. in any way. I’m not sure whether nerv- European Tour Order of Merit secure Rose top spot. If Rose fin- “It’s just about putting myself in ous is the right word, but it’s the good Acrown, Justin Rose (pictured) is ishes outside the top five, Fleetwood position, and then getting it done when kind of nerves. hoping for similar success this week will hold his place at the top of the you have that chance.” “You know, I’m turning up tomor- at the season-ending DP World Tour rankings regardless of his perform- Rose said he had used his week row, final event of the year and I’m Championship in Dubai. ance at the Jumeirah Golf Estates. off to spend time with his family playing with Justin Rose trying to win Rose won the 2007 season finale, “It’s actually a very similar situa- and had arrived in Dubai “fresh, a Race to Dubai.” then held at Valderrama in Spain, to tion (to 2007). I think at Valderrama I ready to go and excited”. Rose said he also expected a strong become the European number one, could have finished second or third, “Those are the main ingredients, challenge from Sergio Garcia, who lies and needs to bring his sizzling recent but went ahead and won the tourna- really, for playing well. You can never third in the rankings. form to the $8m tournament if he ment,” said the former US Open guarantee a good week, but the rec- “Sergio could win it, as well. Ser- wants to win the Race to Dubai, champion and the 2016 Olympic gold ipe is in place to continue doing what gio, Rose and then me... that’s pretty which replaced Order of Merit in medallist. “But end of the day, to win I’ve done the last few weeks.” cool.” 2009. the Race to Dubai, I have to contend Fleetwood, who won the Abu The tournament is missing Rory The 37-year-old world number six in this tournament one way or Dhabi HSBC Championship at the start McIlroy and Henrik Stenson, who has won his last two tournaments -- another,” he added. Rose opted not to of the season and the Open de France between them have won the title four the WGC-HSBC Champions in play the Nedbank Challenge in South in July, said he was not intimidated by times in the past five years. Shanghai and the Turkish Airlines Africa last week, but is hoping the Rose’s stature in the game, nor his cur- McIlroy ended his injury-ravaged Open in Antalya. week off will help him in his charge rent form. season early, while Stenson pulled out Rose heads towards the season’s for a third successive win and a sec- “Justin has done a lot of things in of the last two events with a rib prob- climax in an almost match play-like ond Order of Merit title. his career that I would like to do,” said lem sustained in Shanghai on the eve situation with fellow Englishman and “I need to finish towards the top world number 19 Fleetwood. “To win of the WGC-HSBC Champions. THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2017 SPORT 31 Young England frustrate We’ll bounce back: O’Neill

Dublin Neymar’s Brazil in friendly AFP artin O’Neill has vowed that the Republic London Brazil’s Neymar (left) shoots at goal during an of Ireland will bounce back from the worst AFP international friendly football match against England at Mdefeat of his four-year reign when they Wembley Stadium in London, Britain on Tuesday. begin their quest to reach a third European Cham- eymar and his pionship finals in a row. Brazil col- After holding Denmark scoreless last Satur- leagues were day, Ireland were crushed 5-1 on Tuesday before held to a frus- a home crowd expecting a first World Cup qual- trating goalless ification since 2002. Ndraw after a spirited display Ireland now have a long wait until their next by a callow England team in competitive fixtures because the qualifiers for the Tuesday’s friendly match at 2020 European Championships do not begin until Wembley Stadium. March 2019. Brazil coach Tite was “We’ve lost a play-off game and we’ll come able to name a first-choice back again,” O’Neill promised. starting XI, but despite the “This is hard work and we’ve only been beaten presence of Neymar, Gabriel four times in 24 competitive matches since I came Jesus and Philippe Coutinho in,” added the manager. in the visitors’ line-up, they O’Neill received plenty of flak of leaving Wes tested England goalkeeper Hoolahan out in order to put the returning David Joe Hart only three times. Meyler back into a midfield diamond formation For Gareth Southgate’s which played to the strengths of Denmark’s hat- England, who were once trick hero Christian Eriksen. again without stars such as “We were well beaten in the end. Although Harry Kane, Dele Alli and we got off to a great start by scoring first, a sec- Raheem Sterling through ond goal for us might have made a difference,” injury, it was a second suc- said O’Neill who lamented the poor defending cessive encouraging 0-0 that enabled Denmark to take control of the sec- draw following Friday’s ond leg. stalemate with Germany. “We gave away two sloppy goals in the space Liverpool forward of a few minutes and it was a long way back after Dominic Solanke’s appear- that,” said O’Neill. ance as a late substitute “For their first goal, Harry (Arter) got beaten made him the sixth England but we still be able to clear the ball and the sec- player to have made his their 17 games since he took Dani Alves cross 12 minutes only 34 minutes on his space in the England half, ond goal is just a comedy of mistakes. debut over the two games. charge in June 2016, but in. return to Wembley as injury but still the hosts resisted. “The whole mindset changes because six or “In terms of heart, resil- their failure to unsettle Yet for all their back- obliged him to cede his place Ashley Young marked seven minutes earlier, we could have been two ience and spirit, it was up such green opponents heels and bravado, Brazil to Jesse Lingard. his return after four years goals up. there with anything I’ve raised questions about their made few inroads, with Paris Brazil created their first in the international wilder- Denmark boss Age Hareide admitted he was been involved in,” Southgate prospects of a sixth World Saint-Germain superstar clear chance early in the sec- ness by sliding in to block hoping Ireland would adopt a diamond forma- told ITV. Cup triumph in Russia next Neymar twice ballooning ond period when Neymar’s from Willian seconds after tion, and paid tribute to Tottenham midfielder “We’ve played the best year. shots high into the seating pass freed Coutinho, only for coming on, while Hart stood Eriksen. two teams in the world and There was a samba band behind Hart’s goal. the recalled Hart to block up well to thwart Roberto “I’d like to thank to you to Ireland,” he said of kept two clean sheets, which in the away fans’ section and England worked Brazil with his legs. Firmino from Neymar’s O’Neill, Hareide’s former teammate at Norwich gives us something to build the visitors’ forward forays goalkeeper Alisson only Substitute Fernandinho pass. City. on.” drew shrill cheers from their once before half-time and he went even closer with 14 Solanke, 20, might have “Although they shut Eriksen out in Copen- While Southgate yellow-shirted compatriots had little trouble fielding a minutes remaining, but after claimed a famous winner at hagen, I couldn’t believe the amount of space reflected with pride on his in the stands, but Brazil’s rasping drive from Marcus a surging run from halfway, the death when Young’s they gave him to exploit here in . young team’s maturity, it football was all style and lit- Rashford. his low 25-yard effort grazed deep cross from the left The Norwegian-born manager said he was was a case of back to the tle substance. Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the left-hand post. found him unmarked at the always confident his team would recover from drawing board for Tite. Jesus worked Hart with who had starred on his debut A spate of substitutions back post, but Alisson slid conceding an early lead to ’s Brazil have won 13 of a near-post header from a against Germany, would last had the effect of opening up out bravely to block. header.

Sergio Aguero hospitalised Stindl rescues Germany as Russia hold Spain Paris snatched a draw as substitutes Stindl and after fainting AFP Mario Goetze combined for the former’s fourth international goal. Moscow ars Stindl scored a last-gasp equal- The game was played under tight AFP iser as world champions Germany security after a friendly between the two Lplayed out an entertaining 2-2 draw teams at the Stade de France was hit by anchester City forward with France in Cologne on Tuesday, while the Paris terror attacks on November 13, Sergio Aguero was Spain were held by Russia in a 3-3 2015. Mrushed to a local hos- friendly thriller. Spain were denied a seventh consec- pital in Krasnodar after he France and Germany are among the utive victory as Fedor Smolov grabbed fainted in Argentina’s dressing favourites for next year’s World Cup in World Cup hosts Russia a thrilling 3-3 room during half-time of Tues- Russia, and Stindl’s injury-time effort draw in Saint Petersburg, despite a rare day’s friendly with Nigeria, the extended Joachim Loew’s side’s unbeaten international brace for Sergio Ramos. Argentine Football Association run to 21 matches. Julen Lopetegui’s visitors took con- (AFA) confirmed. “We conceded the goal from noth- trol through a Jordi Alba header and “Aguero suffered a ing to make it 2-1, but we also showed Ramos’ first spot-kick, but Smolov and lypothymia (fainting without the morale to come back from behind,” Alexei Miranchuk brought Russia level loss of consciousness), which said stand-in Germany captain Sami with goals either side of half-time. is why he was transferred to Khedira. Real Madrid centre-back Ramos hospital for routine tests as a In the two teams’ first clash since the completed his first double for Spain since precaution,” the AFA said in a French won 2-0 in the Euro 2016 semi- scoring two against San Marino in 2005, statement. finals, Didier Deschamps’ men scored a but Smolov grabbed Russia a draw after Aguero, who scored the brilliantly-worked opening goal in the an encouraging performance. winner in Argentina’s 1-0 vic- 33rd minute, as Anthony Martial danced It was still a satisfactory international tory over Russia on Saturday, between two defenders and squared for break for 2010 World Cup winners Spain, netted his team’s second goal Alexandre Lacazette to tap into an empty after a 5-0 thrashing of Costa Rica in against Nigeria in the 36th net. Malaga on Saturday. minute before he was replaced Loew’s hosts equalised before the “Russia showed a high level of play at the break after suddenly hour mark, though, as Mesut Ozil led a tonight as their players all looked feeling ill. rapid counter-attack and played in RB extremely motivated,” coach Lopetegui He was taken by team doc- Leipzig forward Timo Werner to slide a said. tor Donato Villani to a clinic in finish through the legs of the onrushing “Russia haven’t played any compet- Krasnodar. Steve Mandanda. itive games and their players worked flat “He felt bad twice, and But the visitors still looked threaten- out in every single friendly match. But with the medical history he ing going forward and retook the lead we also played well tonight.” has, since he was operated on with 19 minutes to play. Portugal struggled to a 1-1 draw when he was 15, we wanted to This time it was teenage sensation against the United States in the absence be sure it was nothing,” said Kylian Mbappe who was the creator, of Cristiano Ronaldo as Vitorino Antunes Villani, referencing a previous playing a pin-point through ball that cancelled out Weston McKennie’s early heart problem. Arsenal striker Lacazette latched onto opener in Leiria. “We took him to hospital before confidently finishing past Paris Uruguay fell to a 2-1 defeat by Aus- to make sure everything was Saint-Germain second-choice goal- tria, who failed to qualify for Russia, in normal, we prefer to wait to be keeper Kevin Trapp for his first Vienna despite a goal for Edinson Cav- sure.” international brace. ani, while World Cup debutants Iceland Aguero, Manchester City’s The 26-year-old had only scored were held 1-1 by 2022 hosts Qatar in goalscorer, had a health once in his previous 15 France appear- Doha. scare less than two months ago ances, but sent out a message that he The Netherlands made it two wins when he suffered a broken rib could take Olivier Giroud’s place up front from two since their qualifying catastro- Germany’s striker Lars Stindl scores past France’s goalkeeper Steve in a car accident in at international level, as he already has phe by brushing aside Romania 3-0 in Mandanda (right) during their international friendly football match played Amsterdam. done for his club. Bucharest as Ryan Babel scored his first in Cologne on Tuesday. The match ended in a two-all draw. But Germany kept probing and international goal since May 2008. 32 SPORT THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2017 THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2017 SPORT 33

Italy axe Ventura Denmark’s Christian Eriksen scores their fourth goal to complete his hat-trick against Republic of Ireland during their 2018 after heartbreak World Cup qualifier at in Dublin, Republic of Ireland on Tuesday.

Rome AFP

ian Piero Ventura (pictured) was sacked as Italy coach yes- terday after the four-time champions failed to reach the GWorld Cup finals. The veteran coach’s fate was sealed after a crisis meeting of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in Rome. The 69-year-old had refused to resign despite a 1-0 aggre- gate play-off defeat to Sweden on Monday saw Italy miss the World Cup for the first time in 60 years. “As of today Gian Piero Ventura is no longer the coach of the national team,” the FIGC said in a statement. Ventura had defended his leadership as “one of the best records in 40 years” despite failing to lead the 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006 winners to their 19th World Cup. “I lost onlyyg two games in two yyears,” he had told Italian tele- visionvision sshowhow Le Le Iene Iene in in a a b briefr interview. SinceSince ththehe ffoformerrmer Torino coach Australia’s Mile Jedinak celebrates after scoring a goal with took over in JulyJuly 22016,0 Italy have lost three matcmatchesh -- against team-mates during their 2018 World Cup qualifier against France in Bari (3-1), Spain in Honduras at ANZ Stadium in Sydney, Australia yesterday. MadridMadrid ((3-0)3-0) and against SwedenSweden in ttheh World Cup first-legfirst-leg plplay-offay in Solna (1-0)(1-0) -- winningwinn nine and Jedinak hat-trick drawingdrawing ffour.our. Former CChelseahe and Real MadridMadrid bbossoss Car Carlol Ancelotti has beenbeen touted bbyy t theh Italian press helps Australia seal as tthehe ffavouriteavourite ttoo replace Ven- tura, as the 58-year-old58-yea Italian is freefree since bbeingeing sasackedc by Bayern World Cup berth MunichMunich at ththe end of September.September. Earlier,Earlier, VVentura had Sydney “They got what they refusedrefused to rresigne as coach, AP deserved — it wasn’t by luck defendingdefendin “one of the or by chance,” said Postec- best rrecordsec in 40 Eriksen magic carries Denmark to Russia 2018 ile Jedinak stepped up oglou, who took on the years”.years”. when it counted most, Australian job just before the “I“I llosto only two Mpropelling Australia 2014 World Cup in Brazil. games iin two years,” into next year’s World Cup “They believed in something VenturaVentura told Italian Dublin effort clipped the inside of the post and World Cup 2018 with a hat-trick yesterday in that we started, and right to tetelevisionlevisi show Le AFP deflected in off the luckless Christie. a 3-1 victory over Honduras the end they displayed the IeneIene iinn a brief inter- Three minutes later and the task The 30 nations that have already that secured the next-to-last kind of resilience and belief viewview as he boarded a hristian Eriksen’s magnifi- deepened for Ireland. Ward was again booked their place for the 2018 spot in Russia. that has made me proud all the flflightight ttoo Bari. cent hat-trick inspired It is an incredible exposed by losing the ball and Nicolai World Cup in Russia, after Australia The Australia captain was way along. They did it their The 69-year-old Denmark to a 5-1 demoli- Jorgensen picked up Eriksen and he qualified yesterday: in doubt for the interconti- way, and got great rewards for isis uundernder contract until tion of the Republic of feeling. We have found the top corner past Darren Ran- nental playoff series with a it.” JuneJune 22020 but has Ireland in Tuesday’s second been fighting for so dolph with a first-time shot from 25 groin injury that had forced While the Australians not resignedres despite Cleg of their play-off in Dublin to clinch yards. Europe: him to miss the end of the invested heavily in the char- a 1-0 aggregateag play- a spot at next year’s World Cup. long to get to the O’Neill’s decision to ring the Belgium, England, Germany, Iceland, Asian qualifying campaign, ter flight to get home Sunday offoff ddefeatefe to Sweden Following Saturday’s stalemate in changes at the break did little to ease Poland, Russia (as hosts), Serbia, when the Socceroos narrowly after the first leg, the Hondu- thatthat ssawa Italy miss Copenhagen, Ireland got their home World Cup. We are the pressure as Sisto forced a reflex Spain, France, Portugal, Switzerland, missed out on direct entry. ras squad took a commercial tthehe WWorld Cup for leg off to the perfect start when Shane very much looking save from Randolph with a shot from Croatia, Sweden, Denmark But Jedinak played a full flight and arrived a day later. tthehe fifirstr time in 60 Duffy headed them into the lead after distance. game in the 0-0 draw in San But with veteran skipper years.yearss. only six minutes, but Denmark struck forward to it: Eriksen All Ireland could muster was the Africa: Pedro Sula last Friday and, Maynor Figueroa returning, “I“I apologised to twice before the break and three more odd half chance from set-pieces, leav- Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco, aided by the state-of-the-art and with Elis adding pace on ItaliansItalian for this result. in the second half to seal their place in ing space for Denmark and Eriksen to rehabilitation program on the flank, Honduras lifted its Tunisia It’sIt’s hohorrible to see a Russia. capitalise on. Australia’s charter flight home, tempo in the first half and WorldWorld Cup without “It is an incredible feeling. We have After nearly grabbing his second took the free kick that broke frustrated the Australian ItaItaly,ly, but it’s done been fighting for so long to get to the on 56 minutes, the Tottenham talisman Asia: the scoring drought in the 54th attack. nnowow aand I can’t do World Cup. We are very much looking made no mistake on 63 minutes when Iran, Japan, Saudi Arabia, South minute at Sydney’s Olympic Honduras coach Jorge Luis anythinganythi about it.” forward to it,” said Eriksen. were well beaten in the end,” said Ire- he completed a flowing move between Korea, Australia stadium. Pinto said the Australians “No,“N because my “It is not often I score any hat-trick land coach Martin O’Neill. four players by curling a left-footed His free kick curled to the clearly worked to neutralize recordrecord is one of the so of course it is incredible.” “The two goals we conceded within shot beyond the outstretched arm of left of the wall and deflected Elis out wide, and the momen- bestbest oof the last 40 The equaliser arrived in fortuitous a couple of minutes knocked us. We Denmark’s midfielder Christian Eriksen Randolph. North, Central America and sharply in off defender Henry tum shift was too great after years.years. I lost only two circumstances on 19 minutes when had to chase the game and Denmark celebrates after scoring their third goal While McClean and substitute Caribbean: Figueroa, bringing the paro- the opening goal. gamesgames iin two years,” helped bundle in took advantage. They deserved to go during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifier spurned openings for Ire- Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama chial 77,060-strong crowd at “Australia were very added VVentura.e Andreas Christensen’s effort, but there through.” against Republic of Ireland on Tuesday. land to try claim some respectability, Sydney’s Olympic stadium to strong and aggressive and put FormerForme Chelsea and was nothing lucky about Eriksen’s O’Neill, who had already agreed a they conceded again from another South America: life. pressure on us. In the first half RealReal MaMadridd manager thunderbolt for the second or his sec- new contact to lead Ireland into the Ward error. He converted from the the game was more balanced Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Colombia CarloCarlo AncAncelottie has been ond-half brace. qualifiers for the 2020 European needing three goals to redeem their delivery was telegraphed perfectly for Denmark began to take encourage- The Burnley man’s feeble attempt spot in the 72nd after referee — in the second half, the (first) toutedtouted by the Italian Nicklas Bendtner, on as a late sub- Championship, will ship criticism for cause. the giant centre-back to arrive on cue ment from the space they were finding at clearing a cross enabled Eriksen to Nestor Pitana penalized Bryan goal took a toll,” Pinto said. presspress as ttheh favourite to stitute, completed the rout in the final again selecting his team without the Duffy will certainly be around for to nod past the onrushing Kasper behind the home side’s rigid defence dash in and rocket his shot into the top The one remaining place went to the Acosta for a hand ball and “The second goal, there was replacereplace VVentura, as the minute with a penalty after a clumsy craft of . the next campaign and his role as a Schmeichel. and a piece of magic from Pione Sisto corner for his hat-trick. winner of the intercontinental play- again calmly slotted home contact with the player’s hand, 58-year-old58-year Italian is trip on him by James McClean, extend- The 35-year-old, one of four Ire- central figure was solidified by his sec- That early breakthrough ensured conjured the equaliser. To compound Ireland’s woe, they off between Peru and New Zealand another penalty in the 85th but it wasn’t intentional.” freefree ssince being ing Ireland’s wait for a first World Cup land players likely to retire from ond crucial goal of the campaign. the game opened up and Murphy His raid from the wing left Stephen conceded a late penalty which Bendt- played later yesterday. after Robbie Kruse was Honduras earned its place ssackedacked by Bayern appearance since 2002. international football, was only intro- After Daryl Murphy earned a free- nearly added a second only to ripple Ward for dead and the left-wing cross ner gave Randolph no chance with by dragged down in the area. in the playoff with a 3-2 win Munich.Munic “We’re really disappointed. We duced at the interval with Ireland kick on the halfway line, ’s the side-netting with a volley. found Christensen, whose close-range hammering into the top left corner. After 22 games and 27 months, over Mexico on a hectic last the win ensured Asian Cup day of qualifying in North and champion Australia qualified Central America and the Car- for its fourth consecutive ibbean, securing fourth spot World Cup. and ensuring the U.S. missed “It wouldn’t have mattered out. Italy’s goalkeeper Gianluigi who scored. I’m happy to chip Australia advanced after Buffon reacts during their Paris Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, in,” Jedinak said. “We got the beating Syria for fifth place in FIFA World Cup 2018 AFP the top scorer in the Bundesliga last sea- job done and that’s all that Asian qualifying, with veteran qualification football match son, was propelling his tiny nation towards matters — it’s going to be a big Tim Cahill scoring twice in ith Arjen Robben, Alexis Sanchez, An all-star team of World Cup absentees a first ever World Cup, until they lost 3-0 2018.” Sydney. against Sweden at the San Gareth Bale and Gianluigi Buffon in Morocco in a game that ultimately set- Siro stadium in Milan on Honduras scored a conso- Cahill was involved when Was the stars, it is possible to build tled the group. The Borussia Dortmund lation goal deep in injury time Australia edged Uruguay on Monday . an impressive team from players who will ageless pillar of the Italy team over 175 Bonucci, Chiellini (Italy), Ghoulam was broken up in the summer as the jun- reached the last World Cup. All three ago- August, a result that opened the door striker found the loss hard to swallow. He in a scramble in front of goal penalties in a playoff in 2005 miss the 2018 World Cup. caps spread across 20 years. (Algeria) ior member, Leonardo Bonucci, moved to nisingly missed out this time. for Greece. blamed poisoned orange juice. with Alberth Elis and Maynor to qualify for the following In some cases, the players simply have He was in goal when Italy won the On either side of the back four are two Milan, but he was back alongside Andrea For Wales the journey ended with a Arsenal’s Sanchez hit seven goals for Figueroa both taking swipes year’s World Cup in Germany. the bad luck to represent nations who are World Cup in a penalty shootout against men who symbolise the qualifying failures Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini against 1-0 home loss to the Republic of Ireland in Attackers: Robben (Netherlands), Chile in qualifying, second only to Lionel Messi at the ball from close range. He was also there when the unlikely to reach the World Cup, at least France in 2006 and dreamed of pulling on of their African nations. Serge Aurier of Tot- Sweden. their final qualifier. Their injured Real Aubameyang (Gabon), Sanchez (Chile) in the South American group. It was not The result meant Asia got Australians qualified directly until it expands to 48 teams in 2026. Oth- his gloves for a sixth World Cup at the age tenham Hotspur had a terrible final match Those two, both well past 30, epito- Madrid star Bale could only watch as his The Netherlands may have missed Euro enough and Sanchez, who has been persist- a full quota of five teams into from Asia for 2010 and 2014. ers, notably the Italians, Chilean and Dutch, of 39. But defeat to Sweden in the playoff as Ivory Coast lost 2-0 at home to Morocco mise old-school Italian defensive discipline country suffered their only defeat of the 2016 but Bayern’s Robben had helped ently linked to Manchester City, will be able the World Cup in Russia, with There is a good chance he’ll be may find it hard to believe that they will on Monday means his international career who, as a result, qualified for Russia and toughness. Barzagli, 36, like Buffon campaign. Bayern Munich midfielder Arturo them to two World Cup exploits: the final to spend the summer focussing on his future. 31 of the 32 places decided. in Russia, too, well after he has be watching the finals from their sofas. is over. instead. and midfielder Daniele De Rossi, retired Vidal was also absent for Chile at the key in 2010 and third place in 2014. He scored Peru was hosting New Zealand turned 38 years of age. The stars who symbolise shattered “I am devastated, devastated, devas- Napoli’s Faouzi Ghoulam was not the from international football after the defeat. moment. He was suspended for the final both goals as the Netherlands won their On the bench to determine the last qualifier “To help my country qual- expectations of nations which believed they tated. Not for myself but for all football, worst player in a disastrous final stage as group game away to Brazil. Chile lost 3-0 final group game 2-0 against Sweden but Jan Oblak (Slovenia); Antonio later Wednesday. ify for four World Cups is had realistic hopes of qualifying, make up because we have failed,” he told Italian tel- Algeria, who reached the last 16 in 2014 Midfield: Bale (Wales), Vidal and dropped three places, surrendering a since the Dutch needed to win by seven to Valencia (Ecuador), Virgil van Dijk Under-fire coach Ange something I will be proud of this first XI. Their supporting cast and the evision in tears. “That is the only regret I in Brazil, failed to win a single game in their (Chile), Pjanic (Bosnia) direct ticket to Russia and even missing out edge past the Swedes on goal difference, (Netherlands), Stefan Savic (Montene- Postecoglou said he was when I get ... even older,” the stars of lesser teams, who few expected have, certainly not the fact that I must stop group, but he is one of the stars who should Wales reached the semi-finals of Euro on a playoff place to Peru on goal it was no more than a proud star fighting gro), David Alaba (Austria); Henrikh delighted for his Australian former Everton player said. “I to see in Russia, are on the bench. playing.” lead. 2016, Chile lost on penalties to Brazil in difference. vainly to the end. Mkhitaryan (Armenia), Naby Keita team, and declined to com- feel like a young kid. I “Time passes and it is a tyrant,” said To compound the humiliation three the last 16 of the 2014 World Cup and then Miralem Pjanic, of Juventus, was on And time will beat Robben as it has (Guinea), Victor Wanyama (Kenya); Ste- ment on his future amid would’ve done anything to be Goalkeeper: Buffon (Italy) the Juventus goalkeeper, as dignified in other North African teams -- Egypt, Tuni- won back-to-back Copa America titles, the field as Bosnia, in a position to fin- Buffon. At 33 the “Flying Dutchman” has van Jovetic (Montenegro), Wilfried speculation that he may not part of this group and I will A monument and a global yardstick in defeat as in victory. sia and Morocco -- are going to Russia. while Bosnia, with a far shorter history, ish second in their group, blew a indicated he will retire from the national Zaha (Ivory Coast), Ciro Immobile stay on to take them to the do anything to stay a part of his position, Buffon has been a seemingly Defence: Aurier (Ivory Coast), The famed Juventus “BBC” back three qualified for the first time when they two-goal lead and lost in Cyprus in team. (Italy)ww World Cup. it.” 34 SPORT THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2017 THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2017 SPORT 35 Lin Dan Celtics storm to stunned in China Open 13th win in a row first round Shanghai AFP Masked-man adminton legend Lin Irving shines Dan saved seven match Bpoints before being Boston Celtics point dumped out of the first round guard Kyrie Irving (11) of his home China Open yes- plays the ball against terday, stunned by Indonesia’s world number 17 the Brooklyn Nets Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (left) slides for during the first quarter Jonatan Christie. The 21-19, 21-16 defeat a first down in the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins of their NBA game at during their NFL game at Bank of America Stadium on Barclays Center on will ramp up speculation that the 34-year-old Lin, widely Monday. Tuesday. regarded as the best badmin- ton player of all time, may soon call it quits as he Thursday g ames under approaches the end of his brilliant career. Seeded third, Lin, a five- fire in NFL injury crisis time China Open champion, was guilty of a catalogue of errors in going down to Chris- Los Angeles place an intolerable burden on tie in 42 minutes in a shock AFP players, Baldwin said: “It’s upset in the Chinese city of Exhibit A, Exhibit B, Exhibit C, Fuzhou. hen Richard Sherman Exhibit D, Exhibit Z. Thursday The 20-year-old Christie became the latest night football should be plays Hong Kong’s Angus Ng Whigh-profile NFL star illegal.” in the second round. to suffer a season-ending injury This week it will be the turn New York NBA RESULTS “Just wearing a mask for “When we shook hands in Seattle’s bruising victory over of the Pittsburgh Steelers and AFP precautionary reasons,” Irv- before the match I felt his Arizona last week, it was not the Tennessee Titans to perform San Antonio 97 Dallas 91 ing said. “Hopefully, it’ll get hand was cold and I sensed long before a familiar culprit a tight turnaround after play-

asked man Toronto 129 Houston 113 better in the next few weeks.” he was nervous,” Christie, found itself in the dock. ing on Sunday.

Kyrie Irving When Tuesday’s game who lost to Lin in straight Sherman, who suffered a Veteran Steelers quarter- Boston 109 Brooklyn 102 scored 25 was over, Irving pulled the games at their last meeting ruptured Achilles tendon, was back Ben Roethlisberger is points to lead mask of his face and saluted in June, told the official BWF one of around 15 players who adamant that Thursday night the Boston against the Nets and he Boston fans who were chant- World Superseries finished the game hurt or games should be scrapped. MCeltics to their 13th consecu- responded by hitting 8-of-20 ing “M-V-P, M-V-P,” -- for website. injured. “It’s miserable, it’s terrible,” tive NBA victory on Tuesday from the field and 7-of-8 Most Valuable Player -- at “I realised that even For Seahawks receiver he said in an interview with a with a 109-102 triumph at from the free throw line as all him. though he was a past World Doug Baldwin, the blame CBS Sports Radio station in Brooklyn. five Boston starters scored in “I don’t worry about him and Olympic champion, he should be put squarely on the Pittsburgh on Monday. The Celtics, whose 13-2 double figures getting a rhythm too much,” could get nervous too, so that scheduling of the game today. “They need to get rid of this record is the NBA’s best, are “It’s a piece of plastic on Celtics coach Brad Stevens made me confident,” he Since its introduction in game I think. Just play on Mon- on their longest win streak your face,” Irving said. “It’s said. added. 2006, “Thursday Night Foot- days and Sundays. It’s so tough since winning 14 in a row in the difference in having “He’ll find that and obvi- Christie added: “One of ball” has gradually expanded to on the guys. You’re beat up, November and December of something over your face. It’s ously he made huge plays late the best days of my life, I incorporate 14 games, a period you’re banged up. It’s a very 2010, with the team record almost like having somewhat in the game again.” beat Lin Dan at his home spanning most of the regular violent, physical game we play. of 19 consecutive wins com- foggy blinders on. Marcus Morris added 21 crowd.” season. “You’ve got to let your body ing in November and “When I take off the points and 10 rebounds while But for a late rally by Lin, For players required to suit recover a little bit. Even a week, December of 2008. mask, I can see everything. Al Horford contributed 17 the result might have been up on Thursdays, however, that you’re still not fully recovered Irving suffered a facial When I have the mask on, I’m points and 11 rebounds for even more embarrassing. often means putting their bat- by Sunday to Sunday, you’re fracture on Friday in Boston’s really dialed into what’s in Boston and called Irving’s Christie had an astound- tered bodies into the firing line still dealing with bumps and 90-87 victory over Charlotte front of me, my peripherals return “great” for the Celtics. ing 11 match points, and even while they are still carrying bruises and things just continue when Australian team-mate are a little cut off, but it’s just The Celtics have not lost since though Lin clawed back seven knocks from Sunday games to build up throughout the Aron Baynes elbowed him something you get you used dropping their home opener of them, the Chinese played four days earlier. season.” accidentally. to.” to Milwaukee on October 18, a weak shot wide of the side- “Guys don’t have time to Despite the unpopularity of That forced the 25-year- Irving, who joined the a night after Gordon Hayward line to go tumbling out of the recover,” Baldwin told playing on Thursdays, it old guard to miss Sunday’s Celtics in an off-season trade was lost for the season with tournament. reporters after Seattle’s 22-16 remains to be seen whether the 95-94 victory over Toronto. with Cleveland, wore a mask a horrendous knee injury in Lin’s great rival, the win over the Cardinals last criticism will be heard by the A plastic protective mask for 19 games with the Cava- an opening-night loss at Malaysian Lee Chong Wei, week. “Hard to recover in NFL, a multi-billion-dollar allowed Irving onto the court liers in the 2012-13 season. Cleveland. had no such trouble in a 21-5, four days.” industry which remains Amer- 21-7 demolition of Taiwan’s Asked if the injury tally was ica’s most lucrative professional Hsu Jen-hao. evidence that Thursday games sport. De La Hoya: I can take out McGregor in two rounds NHL: Oilers trounce Knights New York It occurred 17 seconds after Alex New York Agencies Chiasson tied the score at 2 with Agencies a sizzling one-timer for his sec- yan Nugent-Hopkins and ond goal of the year. oxing Hall of Famer Oscar Connor McDavid each Blue Jackets 2, Canadiens 1 De La Hoya (pictured) Rscored twice in Edmon- Zach Werenski’s goal at 1:09 Bremains confident that he ton’s easy 8-2 win over Vegas. of overtime gave Columbus a still can handle himself in the Oscar Klefbom, Patrick victory over Montreal. ring. Maroon, Matt Benning and Mark Josh Anderson also scored De La Hoya, who is nearly Letestu added goals as the low- for the Blue Jackets and Sergei a decade into retirement, said est-scoring team in the NHL Bobrovsky made 28 saves, on Monday that he has been erupted for a season-high goal including a pair of spectacular “secretly training” and called Famers Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. total in winning at home for only ones. Columbus has won con- out UFC star Conor McGregor. (twice), Pernell Whitaker and the fourth time in 10 games. Cam secutive games for the first time “You know I’m competi- Arturo Gatti. He also fought Talbot made 22 saves for the since Nov. 2 and were 0-3-1 tive,” the 44-year-old De La other greats, including Felix Oilers. before defeating Detroit in a Hoya said on “Golden Boy Trinidad, Hector Camacho Sr., The Knights came into shootout Saturday. Radio with Tattoo and the Bernard Hopkins, Floyd May- Edmonton with only two wins Paul Byron scored for the Crew,” a daily digital radio weather Jr., Shane Mosley in their previous seven games Canadiens and Charlie Lindgren show. (twice) and Manny Pacquiao. (2-4-1) and their No. 4 goal- The Edmonton Oilers celebrate a third period goal against made 23 saves. “I still have it in me. ... I’m De La Hoya has not fought tender Maxime Lagace, who the Vegas Golden Knights during their NHL game at Rogers Canucks 3, Kings 2 faster than ever and stronger since dropping a one-sided gave up seven goals on 29 shots. Place on Tuesday. Sven Baertschi broke a 2-2 than ever. I know I can take out eighth-round knockout loss to Junior goalie Dylan Fergu- tie with a power-play goal at Conor McGregor in two rounds. Manny Pacquiao on Dec. 6, son, on an emergency call-up, Penguins 5, Sabres 4 Sam Reinhart had a goal and two 4:07 of the third period as Van- I’ll come back for that fight. 2008. He went 39-6 with 30 allowed a goal and made a save Conor Sheary scored his sec- assists, and Evander Kane and couver handed Los Angeles its Two rounds. Just one more knockouts in his career and was in the last nine minutes. ond goal of the game 16 seconds Benoit Pouliot also scored for the third straight loss and fourth in (fight). I’m calling him out. Two inducted into the International into overtime as Pittsburgh con- Sabres. Robin Lehner stopped a row at home. rounds, that’s all I need. That’s Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014. tinued its domination of Buffalo. 40 shots. Henrik Sedin and Bo Horvat all I’m going to say.” De La Hoya also has battled NHL RESULTS The Penguins have a 13-game Predators 6, Capitals 3 also scored for the Canucks, Der- De La Hoya publicly con- drug and alcohol addiction and Edmonton 8 Las Vegas 2 point streak against the Sabres, Filip Forsberg scored his rick Pouliot had two assists and sidered a comeback in June has been to rehabilitation mul- Nashville 6 Washington 3 who have not won against Pitts- 100th career goal as part of Anders Nilsson made 30 saves 2015, only to change his tune tiple times, but he said in burgh since April 23, 2013. Nashville’s four-goal second in his first appearance since Oct. one week later. Monday’s interview that he is Minnesota 3 Philadelphia 0 Sidney Crosby ended an period in its fifth straight 26. A 1992 Olympic gold medal doing well now. Winnipeg 4 Arizona 1 11-game goal drought, while Phil victory. Tanner Pearson and Anze winner and 10-time profes- McGregor, 29, lost a 10th- Columbus 2 Montreal 1 Kessel and Patrick Hornqvist Forsberg snapped a five- Kopitar scored in the first 3:14 to

sional world champion, De La round knockout to Floyd Florida 4 Dallas 3 also scored for the Penguins. game goal-less drought on a give the Kings a 2-0 lead, and

Hoya captured titles at 130, 135, Mayweather on Aug. 26 when Matt Murray made 28 saves. wrister that hit off a defender’s Los Angeles outshot the Canucks 140, 147, 154 and 160 pounds. he crossed over from mixed Pittsburgh 5 Buffalo 4 Jack Eichel halted an eight- skate and skittered by Braden 7-0 through the initial 9 1/2 He won bouts against Hall of martial arts for a boxing match. game goal drought for Buffalo. Holtby at 6:45 for his ninth goal. minutes. 36 SPORT THURSDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2017 France to host 2023 World Cup

London Rugby: France named Controversies and corrup- Reuters suprise hosts tion claims have surrounded bids to host other major sport- rance will host the France chosen ahead ing events in recent years and 2023 Rugby World of South Africa and although the Olympic Games Cup in a huge sur- Ireland, will host the remains a secret ballot, FIFA prise after the Council event for second time has changed its rules to make of the sport’s govern- after 2007 the vote for the next World Cup Fing body went against the an open one. recommendations of an exten- WRC goes against Bernard Laporte, the head sive evaluation report in a of the French rugby union, had own Board’s secret ballot yesterday. publicly complained about recommendation as South Africa had been rec- many aspects of the evaluation ommended by World Rugby’s France wins 24 of 39 report, saying it was “nonsense Board but in a second ballot the votes in secret ballot and full of errors” and accus- Council members voted con- ing World Rugby of vincingly 24-15 for France, The bidding countries did incompetence. which also held the tournament not take part in the ballot. The However, speaking in Lon- in 2007. remaining Six Nations and don after the announcement, It was the first time the SANZAR countries had three the former France coach was Board’s recommendation has votes each with the rest made all smiles. been ignored and the decision up from the six regional asso- “We did dispute some was immediately followed by ciations and smaller rugby aspects but I’m not saying that’s questions over the selection countries. why we won,” he said. “I’d like process and the point of run- Beaumont made repeated to thank World Rugby for ning an extensive and references to an “open and replying to our letter after we transparent evaluation process transparent” process when communicated on our misun- only for the decision to be taken congratulating France but was derstanding and maybe it in secret. unable to give a clear answer helped us. Claude Atcher, Director of French Bid for World Cup 2023 and Bernard Laporte, President The shock announcement as to why the final vote was “We’ve won but it’s really of the Federation Francaise de Rugby (right) pose for a photograph with The Webb Ellis by World Rugby chairman Bill held in secret. grass-roots rugby that has Trophy after winning the bid to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup in London yesterday. Beaumont in London was “We made a recommenda- won,” he added. “It’s worth a greeted by a moment of tion which wasn’t accepted by billion Euros for (French) shop- after coming out clearly on top by rivals, but endorsed a second Irish Union, struggled to hide stunned silence, before the the Council,” he said. “It’s the keepers. 17,000 jobs will be of the evaluation report. time by World Rugby last week,” his frustration. French delegation delivered a first time we’ve had this proc- created and I’m very proud of Mark Alexander, president he said. “World Rugby needs to muffled cheer. ess and we will learn as we that.” of SA Rugby, said he was “However, the view of the decide what sort of tournament Ireland, which has never move forward. South Africa, which staged “desolated”. experts and World Rugby’s it wants,” he said. “Money is hosted the World Cup on its “Because the vote went to the 1995 tournament, winning “We produced a compelling leadership was overturned by imperative but it shouldn’t be own, was eliminated after the France after we had recom- it in their first appearance after bid document that earned the World Rugby Council members, everything - we could run a first round when it secured mended South Africa doesn’t missing the first two because unanimous recommendation of who may have had other fac- world-class tournament and eight votes to the 13 of South mean it’s humiliation (for of the apartheid sporting ban, the Board. That recommenda- tors to take into account.” produce the necessary Africa and 18 of France. World Rugby).” had been odds-on favourite tion was questioned last week Philip Brown, CEO of the revenues.” India’s Kohli frets over opening pair dilemma against Sri Lanka

Kolkata Reuters

ndian captain Virat Kohli admit- ted to being in a familiar dilemma Iover the team’s opening combi- nation going into the first Test against Sri Lanka beginning at the Eden Gar- dens today. The right-handed duo of Murali Vijay and Lokesh Rahul have England’s paceman Chris Woakes (right) celebrates the remained India’s trusted batsmen wicket of Cricket Australia XI batsman Jason Sangha on the upfront but the former’s wrist injury first day of a four-day Ashes tour match at the Tony Ireland opened an unlikely door for Shikhar Stadium in Townsville, yesterday. Dhawan when they toured Sri Lanka earlier this year. The Delhi left-hander responded In-form Woakes claims by grabbing the opportunity with both hands, smashing two centuries to claim the man-of-the-series award six wickets on first day as India completed a 3-0 whitewash in the Test series. A fit-again Vijay is hoping to Townsville middle finger of his left hand. reclaim his spot in the three-test AFP Woakes followed up his series against Sri Lanka but Kohli match-winning four for 17 in confirmed the situation is not so The ground of the Eden Gardens is covered after rain ahead of the first Test match n-form England paceman the second innings against CA straightforward. Chris Woakes claimed six XI in Adelaide with an even bet- “That situation has always been between India and Sri Lanka yesterday. Inset: Indian captain Virat Kohli gestures as he Iwickets and wicketkeeper ter one, taking four for eight at (like this for a while),” Kohli told talks during a press conference in Kolkata yesterday. Jonny Bairstow had an injury one stage on opening day in reporters yesterday. scare as a Cricket Australia XI Townsville. “The balance has swung every reached 249 for nine at the Woakes heads into the first now and then, between two guys close on the opening day of Gabba Test in terrific form after doing well and one of them missing their four-day tour match in he was ruled out for bulk of last out. It happened with KL (Rahul) ini- SL eyes ex-Bangladesh coach Townsville yesterday. season with a side injury suf- tially, it happened with Shikhar in The Warwickshire fast fered during the Champions between. Colombo vacant since South African semi-finals of the Champi- bowler finished the day with six Trophy. “It’s very difficult to pick two out AFP Graham Ford quit in June. ons Trophy tournament in for 54 in the final warm-up Test hopeful Craig Overton of three when all three are so good Sports Minister Dayasiri England this year. But he game before next week’s Ashes (2-32) also edged closer to his and have done so well.” ri Lanka is in talks to hire Jayasekara declined to com- came in for criticism during series opener against Australia debut. Rahul has scored a half-century former Bangladesh head ment on the talks but said he Bangladesh’s recent tour of in Brisbane. Off-spinner Moeen Ali had in each of his last seven test innings Scoach Chandika Hathu- hoped the former Test player South Africa, where the team The tourists didn’t help their his first bowl on the tour after but the 25-year-old has struggled rusingha to groom its would take on the job. failed to register a single win. cause by spilling three catches recovering from a side strain. with a nagging shoulder injury and national team for the 2019 “I (would) certainly wel- His contract with the as CA XI skipper Matt Short top- He finished wicketless for 39 was dropped from the limited-overs cricket World Cup, sources come Hathurusingha to Bangladesh Cricket Board scored with 51. off 16 overs. team against New Zealand. said yesterday. prepare our team for the next was supposed to run until England had an early injury England’s spin pair Mason In contrast, Dhawan has been in The 49-year-old Sri World Cup,” Jayasekara told World Cup 2019 and made scare when Test ‘keeper Crane and Moeen were astray strong form across formats which Lankan stepped down from reporters in Colombo. him one of the highest-paid Bairstow was forced off the with their bowling lengths dur- makes it difficult to ignore the pug- the Bangladesh team earlier “But I don’t want to say cricket coaches in the world field for an hour after getting ing the morning session. nacious 31-year-old. this month after a disastrous anything about the discus- on $40,000 a month. hit on a finger. Leg-spinner Crane had two “Shikhar’s comeback has been a tour of South Africa. sions that are taking place.” Hathurusingha played 26 Glovesman Bairstow was catches dropped off his bowl- revelation... His counter-attacking Since then there has been Under Hathurusingha, Tests and 35 ODIs for Sri replaced by tour understudy ing while a diving Bairstow also skills really gave all the batsmen a speculation he is to take the perennial minnows Bangla- Lanka before becoming the Ben Foakes, who took a catch missed an opportunity when good platform to work on. It also job of head coach at Sri Lanka desh made rapid strides in assistant coach under Trevor before Bairstow returned to Woakes found the edge of deflates opposition to a certain Cricket which has been world cricket, reaching the Bayliss, a job he lost in 2010. the game with bruising to the Simon Milenko’s bat. extent,” Kohli said.