Sport TUESDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2020 08

Hamilton says safety car Nuggets rally past Clippers re-starts putting drivers at risk to level NBA play-off series AFP – MIAMI Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets drives to the basket against REUTERS – LONDON Kawhi Leonard of the LA Clippers during the third quarter in Game Denver’s Nikola Jokic had Six of the Western Conference Second Round during the 2020 NBA Six-time Formula One world champion game highs of 34 points, 14 Play-offs in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, on Sunday. Lewis Hamilton has called for a rethink rebounds and seven assists on how races are re-started behind the Sunday, powering the Nuggets safety car because he fears drivers are over the Los Angeles Clippers being put at risk. 111-98 to level their NBA Sunday’s Tuscan Grand Prix at play-off series. Mugello was stopped twice due to The Nuggets, who also had crashes, the first time after a four-car 21 points from Jamal Murray pile-up when backmarkers accelerated and Gary Harris, recovered too soon. from a 19-point deficit in the Valtteri Bottas had been leading for third quarter to match the Mercedes and controlling the pace, Clippers at 3-3 in the Western backing the pack up and delaying his Conference semi-final, setting getaway for maximum effect. up a winner-take-all game Hamilton, who took his 90th career seven today. win at the Italian circuit, told reporters “We don’t have pressure,” the safety car lights were being turned Jokic said. “All the pressure is Stewart Cink reacts after off, effectively handing over control to on them. We have to play at a chipping in for birdie to take the race leader, later and later. high level and give our best. “They’re obviously trying to make “To us it’s just another the lead in the final round of it more exciting but ultimately today game seven. We’re going to go “I think it’s defense, “Jokic points and Leonard, last year’s first. Miami and Boston will also the Safeway Open at Silverado you’ve seen they’ve put people at risk, out there and play.” It’s the said. “When we get a couple NBA Finals Most Valuable meet in the Eastern Conference Resort in Napa, California, on sso o perhaps they need to fourthfourth consecuticonsecutivev playoff stops, we are flying and the Player for Toronto, added 25 final opener today. All games Sunday. rethink that,” said seriesseries overover twotwo seasonss in ball is moving. When we start to lead the Clippers, who were are being played without spec- Hamilton,Hamilton, who felt which the NuggetsNuggets have faced running the offense, we’re a outscored 64-35 in the second tators in a coronavirus quar- SundaySunday was “a littlelittle a seventhseventh game. TheyTh are 5-0 really good team.” half. antine bubble at Disney World Cink wins bitbib t overover tthehe limilimit.”t.” inin elimination gamgamese and have The Clippers, who have “It was beautiful playing,” in Orlando, Florida. Torrey rallied from 16-point16-poin or worse squandered a 3-1 series edge, Clippers coach Doc Rivers Craig’s 3-pointer a minute into Safeway deficitsdeficits in thethe papastst three such have never reached a con- said. “Then we stopped the fourth quarter gave the ggames.ames. ference final in their 50-year moving the ball, stopped Nuggets an 82-79 lead, their Open, claims “The“The eeffortff was history. They missed 10 shots playing. That’s what let them first edge since 8-7 in the first amazing,”amazing,” JoJokicki said. “We in a row in the third period get back in the game. quarter. werewere downdown 16 last time, during a 17-0 Nuggets run. “We clearly have the right Jokic scored 11 points, first title downdown 16 to UtaUtahh --- we don’t “They came down and formula. We just lost it. We lost including three 3-pointers, in wantwant it bbutut maymaybebe we like it. scored or got fouled in the our pace.” The Nuggets a decisive 21-9 Denver run to since 2009 We’re ggoodood at itit.. third quarter and we couldn’t became the first team since the give the Nuggets a 109-93 “The“The whole teamte played buy a basket,” Clippers star 1970 Los Angeles Lakers to lead. REUTERS – NAPA, CALIFORNIA well.well. It was an amamazinga game Kawhi Leonard said. force multiple game sevens in The Clippers closed the forfor us.” TheThe 25-25-year-oldyear 7-foot “We’ve just got to leave it the same playoff run. second quarter with a 16-2 run Stewart Cink made eight (2.13m)(2.13m) Serbian center hit all out on the floor, commu- No team has ever for a 63-47 half-time lead, but birdies in the final round of the 13-of-2213-of-22 sshots,hots, 4-4-of-6 from nicate and play hard on the recovered from a 3-1 deficit Jokic and Murray sparked a PGA Tour’s season-opening 3-point rangerange andand 4-of-54 from defensive end.” twice in the same playoff run 17-0 run and seized command Safeway Open on Sunday to the ffreeree throwthrow lline.ine Paul George scored 33 but the Nuggets could be the in the fouth quarter. claim a two-shot victory over Harry Higgs for his first title since winning the British Open Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Alec Mills pitches against the Milwaukee in 2009. Badminton: Thomas and Uber Cup Brewers at Miller Park, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Sunday. The 47-year-old American fired a final-round 65 to finish on 21-under for the in doubt after virus pull-outs tournament. Higgs, who began the AFP – KUALA LUMPUR weekend, following Thailand, Australia and round one shot behind over- Taiwan in deciding to skip the event. night leaders Brian Stuard, Badminton’s showpiece Thomas and Uber Cups Heavyweights China and Japan are among James Hahn and Cameron were hanging in the balance yesterday after teams that have not yet announced a pull-out Percy, found himself three several countries withdrew due to the corona- but with some of Asia’s top talent missing, doubts behind Cink in the closing virus and a top player expressed concerns about are swirling over the event. stages. safety. Cancelling the October 3-11 event would be The 28-year-old eagled The twice-postponed men’s and women’s a major blow to badminton’s restart, as it was the 16th to put himself in world team championships are set to take place the biggest event left on the calendar this year contention but Cink held his in Denmark next month, and would be the first after the Olympics were postponed. Two other nerve to become the oldest international tournaments since the pandemic tournaments are due to be held in Denmark after player to win a PGA Tour halted badminton in March. the Thomas and Uber Cups, followed by three in event since Phil Mickelson at But Indonesia, 13-time Thomas Cup cham- consecutive weeks from November 10 in Asia, Pebble Beach in 2019 aged pions, and South Korea withdrew over the at locations that are yet to be announced. 48. Mickelson finished 11 shots behind Cink on Sunday after his six birdies were offset by bogeys at the seventh and ninth, and a double bogey at the eighth. Doc Redman moved up 40 places to tie for third alongside Chez Reavie and Kevin Streelman after firing a 10-under 62, matching the lowest round of the tournament. Scheffler out of US Open Mills tosses no-no as after positive Cubs blast Brewers COVID-19 test

AGENCIES – MILWAUKEE RESULTS REUTERS – BOSTON Dodgers 8, Astros 1 Alec Mills tossed the 16th Yankees 3, Orioles 1 Scottie Scheffler has with- no-hitter in Cubs history as Twins 7, Indians 5 drawn from this week’s US Chicago rolled to a 12-0 win Marlins 2, Phillies 1 (Game 1) Open after testing positive for over the host Milwaukee Marlins 8, Phillies 1 (Game 2) COVID-19, the United States Brewers on Sunday afternoon. Red Sox 6, Rays 3 Golf Association (USGA) said It was the Cubs’ first no- Braves 8, Nationals 4 on Sunday. hitter since Jake Arrieta accom- Reds 10, Cardinals 5 The 24-year-old plished the feat on April 21, White Sox 5, Tigers 2 American, Scheffler, who is a 2016, against the Cincinnati Mariners 7, Diamondbacks 3 contender for PGA Tour Reds. The catcher that day was Royals 11, Pirates 0 Rookie of the Year, finished David Ross, who now is in his Rangers 6, Athletics 3 fourth at last month’s PGA first year as Cubs manager. Blue Jays 7, Mets 3 Championship and fifth two Mills (5-3) lifted his arms Padres 6, Giants 0 (Game 1) weeks ago at the Tour after he got the milestone final Padres 3, Giants 1 (Game 2) Championship. out in only the 15th start of his The world number 29 shot major league career. Shortstop over Colorado in Denver, it also a sizzling 59 en route to a Javier Baez fielded a ground made history. fourth-place finish in the Fed- ball and zipped a throw to first It was Pujols’ 660th career ExCup play-offs opener at TPC base to retire Jace Peterson. home run, tying Willie Mays for Boston. The Brewers were no-hit fifth on the all-time list. “We are sorry to lose a for the first time since June 12, The 40-year-old Pujols, member of the USGA family in 2007, when Justin Verlander who is signed through next this year’s field,” said the USGA dominated them as a member season, is 36 home runs away senior managing director John of the Detroit Tigers. from tying Alex Rodriguez for Bodenhamer. fourth place. Pujols went 93 “We look forward to wel- Angels 5, Rockies 3 plate appearances without a coming him back to the US Albert Pujols’ two-run homer before coming to the Open for many years to come.” home run in the top of the plate in the eighth inning on Scheffler will be replaced in eighth inning not only pro- Sunday with the Angels trailing the field by South African pelled Los Angeles to a victory 3-2. Branden Grace. TUESDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2020 SPORT 09 Australia's Zampa No one has forgotten wants ‘world-class’ about Black Lives Matter, Smith back for decider AFP — MANCHESTER miss the last couple of games,” Archer tells Holding Zampa told a conference call Australia leg-spinner Adam yesterday. REUTERS — LONDON knee which was described Lives Matter” logos on their Zampa is eager to have “world- “He’s a world-class player as ‘lame’ by Holding, who shirts during their test series class” Steve Smith back in the and has that experience as well. England fast bowler Jofra also took issue with Aus- against West Indies, but team as the tourists bid for a It’s pretty obvious if Steve Archer has said they have tralian captain Aaron Finch’s opted not to continue the series-clinching victory in the Smith is fit he’s in most cricket not forgotten about the statements when the visitors practice against Pakistan and third one-day international at teams. I’d hope to have him ‘Black Lives Matter’ said they would not take a Australia. Old Trafford tomorrow. back for the third game.” movement after former knee. Although England’s Smith has been on the side- Australia were cruising to West Indies bowler Michael “We have not forgotten, cricket team stopped taking lines for the opening two victory while captain Aaron Holding criticised the coun- no one here has forgotten a knee, the country’s soccer matches of the three-match Finch (73) and Marnus try’s board (ECB) when about ‘Black Lives Matter’,” team took a knee before their series against world champions Labuschagne (48) were com- players stopped taking a Archer said. UEFA Nations League England after being hit on the piling a partnership of 107 knee before matches. “I think it is a bit harsh for matches while Premier head during practice on before a flurry of wickets on a England and West Indies Michael Holding to not do League clubs have also con- Thursday. used pitch. players took a knee before some research before criti- tinued to do the same after Australia have repeatedly “Marnus and Finchy played each game in their three-test cising. I’m pretty sure he the new season kicked off said the star batsman has been it beautifully, I just think once series in July but the sym- doesn’t know what is going over the weekend. rested purely as a precaution you lose a wicket after a big bolic gesture was discon- on behind the scenes. England and Australia are despite passing two concussion partnership like that, it’s really tinued for the Pakistan series “I don’t think he has level at 1-1 in the one-day tests. hard to start, balls were hitting as well as the two limited spoken to (ECB chief exec- international series with the They won the opening the toe of the bat and some overs series against utive) Tom Harrison. I have decider to be played on match by 19 runs on Friday and were hitting the handle of the Australia. spoken to Tom and we have Wednesday in Manchester. were cantering to victory on bat too,” said Zampa. The ECB had released a stuff running in the The hosts won the three- Sunday at 144-2, chasing a “We were so close to statement justifying their background.” match Twenty20 series 2-1 target of 232. winning the series with a game decision to stop taking a England also wore “Black in Southampton last week. England’s Jofra Archer Australia, however, suf- to spare. When you’re watching fered a dramatic collapse, that happen, it’s never easy.” sparked by pacemen Chris England have made a habit Woakes and Jofra Archer, as of recovering from seemingly England won by 24 runs to level hopeless positions to beat Aus- the series. tralia, winning last year’s Ashes Kohli ‘leading by example’ as “It’sIt s been disappointing to Test at HeadinHeadingley by one havehave hhimim wicketwicket anandd ffightingighti back for a (Smith)(Smith) two-run victoryvicto in the first Twenty20TwTwenty20 at Southampton Bangalore seek turnaround earlierearlier ththisis month. “It sayssays England are a reareally,lly, really good AFP/IANS — NEW DELHI cricketcricket team,”t said ZampaZampa wwhen asked South African veteran AB de about thosthose results. Villiers said captain Virat Kohli “Their“Their one-day is “leading from the front” as I think everyone has bought cricketcricket ooverve the last four Royal Challengers Bangalore into this hard-working oror five yearsyea has been look to shed their wooden- unbelievableunbelievable -- they really spooners tag in the Indian environment and a lot of attack withwith theth bat and do . credit should to go Virat for thethe jjobob witwithh the ball. De Villiers said India that: AB de Villiers “They“They rreade conditions skipper Kohli was inspiring reallyreally wewell,l the bowlers much hard work in the build- literallyliterally hit the top of up to the IPL’s start in the ferent’, that’s all I can tell you,” off-stumpoff-s the United Arab Emirates on said de Villiers. whwholeo time and Saturday. “I won’t say we have got the theythey are very dis- “I think everyone has best team. There is a different ciplined.cipl England bought into this hard-working feel in the team that I can’t areare just a really environment and a lot of credit explain, but it is very exciting. goodgoo cricket should to go Virat for that,” De “Looking at the combina- Steve Smith teamtea and we can Villiers said in an interview tions there is back-up every- learnlea a lot from posted on his team’s YouTube where. And we have options for them.”tethe channel yesterday. Virat to play the best XI.” “He leads by example, he The Twenty20 tournament sets the standards and it is is being held in UAE because of pretty easy to follow when you the surge in coronavirus cases have a captain leading from the in India, which is the second Bangladesh Test series front.” worst-hit nation behind the Bangalore, who finished last United States. in Sri Lanka in doubt of the eight teams in two of the Adjusting to extreme heat past three seasons, begin their biggest challenge, says Boult campaign against Sunrisers New Zealand pacer Trent over virus restrictions Hyderabad in Dubai next Boult (pictured) has said the Monday. biggest challenge for him will AFP — DHAKA practising would be for- Kohli, who took over as be to adjust to the extreme heat bidden -- were captain of the Bangalore team in the United Arab Emirates Bangladesh’s forthcoming unacceptable. in 2013, has said he has “never (UAE). Test series in Sri Lanka was “The proposal we felt so calm” entering an IPL Boult was roped into the thrown into doubt yesterday received is... not even close season.season. Mumbai Indians squad in theth after its cricket chief rejected to what we agreed upon,” “It’s“It’s a IPL ttraderade winwindowdow fromfrom theth In this file photo taken on May 17, 2018, Royal Challengers Bangalore the coronavirus restrictions Hassan said in Dhaka. ttrickyricky one Delhi CapitalsCapitals in the auctioauctionsn captain Virat Kohli (right) and AB De Villiers celebrate the team’s 14 imposed by the hosts. “Under these conditions, because wwee hheldeld last year.year. run victory during the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 The three Tests in it is not possible for us to play saysay that MumbaiMumbai InIndiansdians tatakeke oon cricket match against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bangalore. October-November were the Test championship... This ((we’llwe’ll Chennai Super KinKingsgs in the IIPLP meant to mark the two is not even close to what is improve)improve) openeropener at the Sheikh ZayedZaye country, New Zealand which is I have played against them a nations’ return to interna- being followed in some other everye v ery StadiumStadium on Saturday.Saturday. about 7 or 8 degrees at the few times. The big challenge tional cricket after a months- parts of the world where season.season . “The biggest challenge sos moment, the middle of winter,” that you face when you come long lockdown halted pro- cricket is being played during (But)(But) I farfar has been trying to prepareprepa Boult said in a video shared by up against this side is that they fessional sports worldwide. this time.” promisepromise you,you, toto come to 45 dedegreesgre Mumbai Indians on their official have always been very intimi- But Bangladesh Cricket Hassan said players had ‘it’s‘it’s ddif-if- inin tthehe mimiddleddle of a Instagram account. dating. So it’s nice to be on the Board President Nazmul been unable to train together desert.desert. I comecom “I have played for a couple other end of it and be part of Hassan said Sri Lanka’s con- after all sporting activities in from a vverye of other franchises but I am such a cool group,” Boult added. ditions, which include 14 Bangladesh were suspended smalls m al very excited to be part of this The left-arm pacer has so days of isolation for players in March to stem the spread Mumbai family,” said the far played a total 33 IPL after arrival -- during which of the virus. 31-year old. matches in which he has “Speaking from experience scalped 38 wickets. ‘A big lesson’: Djokovic ready to move on from US Open default

REUTERS — ROME and the player that I have claycourt opener at this week’s always been. Italian Open -- a tune-up for the World number one Novak “I’m going to take this in as French Open starting Sep- Djokovic says he cannot guar- profound as possible for me as tember 27. antee he will not make a similar I’m trying to be the best a big lesson.” “It’s great I have a tour- mistake that led to his disqual- version of myself on the Following the incident, the nament a week or 10 days after ification at the US Open for court and off the court and tournament organisers con- it happened because I feel the striking a line judge with a ball I understand that I have firmed Djokovic was fined earlier I get back in competition but he remains confident it will outbursts and this is kind $250,000 -- his prize money mode the faster I’ll overcome not affect his tennis in the of the personality and the for reaching round four. The the memory and reprogramme future. 33-year-old was also fined an Novak Djokovic of Serbia it. I’m hoping for the best,” said player that I have always returns a forehand during a The Serb was disqualified in been: Novak Djokovic additional $10,000 for the 17-times Grand Slam the fourth round in New York unsportsmanlike conduct. practice session on day one of winner. when he hit a ball in frustration “There was a lot of specu- the Internazionali BNL D’Italia Rafa Nadal, bidding for a after dropping serve in the first “I cannot promise or cannot lation about whether it was ATP tour at Foro Italico in Rome, record-extending 13th French set against Spain’s Pablo guarantee that I will never ever deserved. I accepted it, I moved yesterday. Open title, is returning after Carreno Busta, hitting line judge do anything similar to that in on,” Djokovic added. more than six months on Tour Laura Clark in her throat and my life,” Djokovic told a news “Of course I didn’t forget sets down to beat German Alex- “For Dominic to lose three having skipped the US Open due causing her to fall to the floor. conference at the Italian Open about it, I don’t think I’ll ever ander Zverev in the final on (slam) finals and start the match to COVID-19 concerns. Djokovic, who had already yesterday. forget about it.” Sunday. not on a very high level but then “For the guys who are apologised for the incident, said “I’m trying to be the best In Djokovic’s absence, Aus- “I watched the final last come back and win in such playing US Open, it’s very close, that he called on the lines- version of myself on the court tria’s second-seeded Dominic night until the end of the fourth fashion is very inspiring.” very tight after an exhausting woman to check on her health and off the court and I under- Thiem claimed his maiden set. You know, I want to con- The disqualification, month of tennis in the States on since the incident at Flushing stand that I have outbursts and Grand Slam title in New York gratulate both of these guys,” however, gave Djokovic more different surfaces,” said Meadows. this is kind of the personality after he came back from two Djokovic said. time to regroup before his Djokovic. 10 SPORT TUESDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2020

List of US Open men’s singles champions

I put a lot of work in. I 2020 - Dominic Thiem (Austria) beat Alex- dedicated basically my ander Zverev (Germany) 2-6 4-6 6-4 6-3 7-6(6) whole life until this 2019 - Rafael Nadal (Spain) beat Daniil Medvedev (Russia) 7-5 6-3 5-7 4-6 6-4 point to win one of the 2018 - Novak Djokovic (Serbia) beat Juan four majors. Now I did Martin del Potro (Argentina) 6-3 7-6(4) 6-3 2017 - Nadal beat Kevin Anderson (South it. That’s also for Africa) 6-3 6-3 6-4 myself a great 2016 - Stan Wawrinka (Switzerland) beat Djokovic 6-7(1) 6-4 7-5 6-3 accomplishment. 2015 - Djokovic beat Roger Federer (Swit- zerland) 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-4 2020 US Open 2014 - Marin Cilic (Croatia) beat Kei Nishikori (Japan) 6-3 6-3 6-3 champion 2013 - Nadal beat Djokovic 6-2 3-6 6-4 6-1 Dominic Thiem 2012 - Andy Murray (Britain) beat Djokovic 7-6(10) 7-5 2-6 3-6 6-2 2011 - Djokovic beat Nadal 6-2 6-4 6-7(3) 6-1 2010 - Nadal beat Djokovic (Serbia) 6-4 5-7 6-4 6-2 2009 - Del Potro beat Federer 3-6 7-6(5) 4-6 7-6(4) 6-2 2008 - Federer beat Murray 6-2 7-5 6-2 2007 - Federer beat Djokovic 7-6(4) 7-6(2) 6-4 2006 - Federer beat Andy Roddick (U.S.) 6-2 4-6 7-5 6-1 2005 - Federer beat Andre Agassi (U.S.) 6-3 2-6 7-6(1) 6-1 2004 - Federer beat Lleyton Hewitt (Aus- tralia) 6-0 7-6 6-0 2003 - Roddick beat Juan Carlos Ferrero Thiem fights back in style to (Spain) 6-3 7-6 6-3 2002 - Pete Sampras (U.S.) beat Agassi 6-3 6-4 5-7 6-4 2001 - Hewitt beat Sampras 7-6(4) 6-1 6-1 2000 - Marat Safin (Russia) beat Sampras win maiden Grand Slam title 6-4 6-3 6-3 1973 - John Newcombe (Australia) beat Jan AP - NEW YORK Federer that way at Wimbledon in Zverev’s turn to nose ahead, stands - and, deep into the match, Kodes (Czechoslovakia) 6-4 1-6 4-6 6-2 6-2 2019. breaking for a 5-3 lead when Thiem yells from the players’ 1972 - Ilie Nastase (Romania) beat Arthur A US Open unlike any other “I was a few games away, a few sent a down-the-line backhand entourages. Ashe (U.S.) 3-6 6-3 6-7 6-4 6-3 finished unlike any other - with an points away,” said Zverev, who was wide and leaned over, gasping for But the louder crowd noise 1971 - Stan Smith (U.S.) beat Kodes 3-6 6-3 unprecedented fifth-set tiebreaker trying to give Germany its first male air. heard by TV viewers was fake, 6-2 7-6 as Dominic Thiem became the first Grand Slam champion since Boris But with a chance to serve out added by the broadcaster. 1970 - Rosewall beat Tony Roche (Australia) man in 71 years to win the final Becker in the 1990s. “I’m 23 years the biggest win of his nascent Unable to draw from support 2-6 6-4 7-6 6-3 after dropping the opening two sets. old. I don’t think it’s my last career, Zverev faltered, getting in what’s always been an electric 1969 - Rod Laver (Australia) beat Roche 7-9 So close to defeat in a nearly chance.” broken right back when he pushed environment, on an evening that 6-1 6-2 6-2 empty Arthur Ashe Stadium - fans Zverev choked up when he a volley into the net. felt more like a glorified practice 1968 - Ashe beat Tom Okker (Netherlands) were banned because of the coro- mentioned that his parents hadn’t That began a three-game run session than a match with so much 14-12 5-7 6-3 3-6 6-3 (Compiled by Shrivathsa navirus pandemic - Thiem slowly been able to travel to New York for Thiem, who broke to lead 6-5, at stake, both men were sluggish at Sridhar in Bengaluru) but surely turned things around because they tested positive for earning his own chance to serve times, listless, even. against a faltering Alexander COVID-19, although he Zverev and pulled out a 2-6, 4-6, said they are now 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory at Flushing healthy. Meadows for his first Grand Slam As Thiem stepped I will be a Grand Slam champion, title. forward to pose for The match ended with both pictures with his shiny says Zverev after US Open loss men fighting leg cramps and, new bit of hardware, clearly, nerves. Zverev remained a few AFP - NEW YORK “Somehow,” said Thiem, a feet behind, one hand 27-year-old from Austria, “the clutching his less- Alexander Zverev pledged to bounce back from his bitterly disap- belief today was stronger than the impressive silver tray, pointing loss in the final of the US Open on Sunday to capture a body, and I’m super happy about the other hand on a Grand Slam one day. that.” hip. The 23-year-old German went two sets and a break up in his first When a backhand from Zverev The proceedings Grand Slam final before losing in five sets to Austria’s Dominic Thiem. landed wide on the third champi- took 4 hours, 2 “I was super close to being a Grand Slam champion. I was a few onship point, a weary Thiem minutes. And to think: games away, maybe a few points away,” a dejected Zverev told dropped to his back way behind the After just 1 1/2 hours, reporters. “For me what upset me the most is not the third set, it’s baseline and covered his face with Zverev was up by two the fifth set,” when he was serving for the championship at 5-3. “I his hands. sets and a break in the had a lot of chances in the fifth set and didn’t use them,” he added. When he arose, he was met by third at 2-1. The second seeded Thiem beat the fifth seed Zverev 2-6, 4-6, Zverev, who walked around the net “The match turned 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) in 4hr 2min. to clasp hands, then embrace his when he broke me for It was the first time in the US Open’s Open era history that a friend and foe, two sights rarely the first time in the player had recovered from losing the opening two sets to win the seen in this era of social third set,” Zverev said. title. It was also the first time the final had been settled by a distancing. “He started playing tie-break. Thiem then rested his head on much better, and I Zverev said it hurt to lose in the manner he did. the shoulder of the taller Zverev, started playing much “Obviously being two sets to love and a break up in a Grand Slam who himself came within two worse.” final then losing is not easy,” he told reporters. Dominic Thiem (left) of points of what would have been his Zverev, of all Zverev’s debut appearance in the last-two of a tennis major Austria shakes hands first major triumph. people, should have came after he reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open earlier with Alexander Zverev of “I wish we could have two known what might this year. Zverev said the rawness of the Flushing Meadows defeat Germany after winning their winners today,” Thiem said. “I think have seemed like an meant it was too soon to say whether he had taken any positives final of the 2020 US Open we both deserved it.” impossible hill to climb from going a step further. at the USTA Billie Jean King He is the first man to win the for Thiem was, indeed, “That question is probably two, three days too early to ask right National Tennis Center in the American Grand Slam tournament achievable. now,” he said. Queens borough of New York after trailing 2-0 in sets in the final After all, in Thurs- But the German, who came into the tournament ranked seventh City on Sunday. since Pancho Gonzalez did it day’s semi-finals, it in the world, added that he was sure he would capture a tennis against Ted Schroeder in 1949 at was Zverev who major in the future. an event then known as the US trailed 2-0 in sets “I’m 23 years old. I don’t think it’s my last chance. I do believe Championships and held in Forest against Pablo Carreño that I will be a Grand Slam champion at some point,” he said. Hills. Busta before coming The event never had been back to win. settled by a fifth-set tiebreaker; no Thiem began the day 0-3 in for it when Zverev netted a The play was hardly perfect: major tournament ever had until Grand Slam finals, but always faced backhand, followed by a long They combined for 120 unforced Thiem says first Slam Novak Djokovic edged Roger a member of the Big Three of men’s forehand. errors to only 95 winners. In a tennis in those After having a trainer check on curious parallel, Zverev balanced frees him up for more Dominic Thiem others. his right leg during the ensuing his 15 aces with 15 double-faults, celebrates his This time, he changeover, Thiem couldn’t seal and Thiem had eight in each AFP - NEW YORK win after a was the favourite the deal, either, and on they went category. match that last and came out to the tiebreaker. Zverev double- Normally, the US Open closes US Open champion Dominic Thiem said on Sunday four hours and jittery, but even- faulted twice and offered up one each Grand Slam season, but what that chasing future Slams will be easier now that he two minutes. tually worked his second serve at 68 mph, about half about 2020 has been normal? has that elusive first tennis major under his belt way out of that, the speed he’s capable of. Wimbledon was cancelled for following three near misses. while Zverev went While this was the No. 7-ranked the first time since World War II, Thiem said he expects to be able to play more from cool and con- Zverev’s first Slam final, this was while the French Open was post- freely at Slams as he bids to snatch titles away from fident to passive the first one the No. 3-ranked poned from its originally scheduled the “Big Three” of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and and pushed around. Thiem was supposed to win, fol- May start and now will begin in two Novak Djokovic. The fifth set lowing losses to 12-time French weeks. “It’s going to be or I expect that it’s going to be was just as back- Open champion Rafael Nadal at Another way in which this easier for me now in the biggest tournaments,” Thiem and-forth as the Roland Garros in 2018 and 2019, whole event was different: Federer, told reporters. “Because, of course, I had it in the other four, the mis- then to eight-time Australian Open Nadal and Djokovic had won the back of my head that I had a great career so far, way takes rising with champion Djokovic at Melbourne preceding 13 major trophies. But better career than I could ever dreamt of, but until the tension and the Park this February - back before Federer and Nadal didn’t enter the today there was still a big part, a big goal missing. history in the the pandemic upended the world US Open, while Djokovic was “With this goal achieved, I think and I hope that offing. and put tennis on a five-month defaulted in the fourth round for I’m going to be a little bit more relaxed and play a Thiem broke in hiatus. accidentally hitting a line judge little bit more freely at the biggest events,” he added. the opening game Instead of wild applause and with a ball he smacked in anger Thiem came into the US Open final having lost when Zverev loud shouts greeting great after dropping a game. in five sets to Djokovic in the final of the Australian shanked a pair of exchanges, the soundtrack on Thiem - barely, just barely - Open earlier this year. forehands. Zverev Sunday mainly came from outside was the one who took advantage He also lost in the final of the French Open in broke right back - the largest court in tennis, courtesy of the chance to sneak into the club 2018 and 2019, both times to Nadal. and pierced the of roaring airplanes, rumbling of champions. Thiem said lifting the US Open was a dream come silence with a rare trains, revving car engines, honking “Such a big relief. I mean, obvi- true. cry of “Come on!” - horns and wailing sirens. ously it was huge pressure in the “I achieved a life goal, a dream of myself, which when Thiem There was the occasional polite match, huge emotions,” Thiem said. I had for many, many years. Of course, as a kid, as double-faulted. applause from the dozens of tour- “It tough to stay there and to still well, when I started to play tennis. But back then it’s Then it was nament workers allowed in the believe. But I did.” so far away,” he told reporters. TUESDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2020 SPORT 11 Furious Neymar alleges racism PSG ‘strongly supports’ as five sent off in PSG storm Neymar over AFP — PARIS After fielding a depleted line-up at Lens on Thursday, complaint Neymar insisted he had been Neymar was red-carded after Tuchel was able to recall the victim of racism as he Neymar and Angel Di Maria a VAR review, while was one of five players sent for a match played in front REUTERS — PARIS off in a mass brawl at the end team-mates Layvin Kurzawa of around 4,000 supporters of Marseille’s 1-0 win over and Leandro Paredes were in Paris. Paris St Germain have thrown their champions Paris also sent off. Marseille striker However, Kylian Mbappe support behind Neymar after the Brazil Saint-Germain on Sunday. Dario Benedetto and defender remained absent after testing forward reported being a target of a PSG’s Brazilian star Jordan Amavi were also positive for the coronavirus racist slur during the French champions’ appeared to accuse Alvaro expelled. on France duty at the start of 1-0 defeat by Gonzalez of calling him a the week with Mauro Icardi on Sunday. “monkey” in a series of Florian Thauvin’s close-range and Marquinhos also still Neymar, 28, one of five players sent furious tweets after he was volley on 31 minutes earned missing. off during the match at the Parc des sent off in injury time for Marseille ‘keeper Steve Princes, informed the fourth official he slapping the Marseille Marseille a first victory Mandanda produced a mag- had heard a racist comment while defender on the back of the over their bitter rivals since nificent reflex to keep out an walking off the pitch. head. November 2011 but the ugly effort from Marco Verratti In a statement yesterday, PSG urged “Look at the racism. scenes overshadowed the just a minute in as tempers the French league’s governing body That’s why I hit him,” game at Parc des Princes. bubbled over frequently in (LFP) to investigate the matter. Neymar, who was returning Neymar walks off the the capital. “Paris St Germain strongly supports from coronavirus quar- pitch after a red card. Thauvin, who shone in Neymar Jr who reported being subjected antine, said as he left the Marseille’s opening 3-2 win to racist abuse by an opposing player,” pitch. Gonzalez later denied at Brest before the interna- the club said in a statement. making a racist comment. “There is no place for “I told the players if we tional break, made the “The club restates that there is no “The only regret I have is racism in football but I don’t continue to play like that breakthrough when he place for racism in society, in football or not hitting this idiot in the think that was the case,” we’ll win every match. It was turned in a in our lives and calls on everyone to face,” Neymar, the world’s Marseille coach Andre Villas- Fourteen yellow cards a great performance but the free-kick from point-blank speak out against all forms of racism most expensive player, Boas told Telefoot. “We’ll and five reds means the result is what it is.” range. throughout the world. tweeted after the game. have to look at it.” PSG, runners-up to Di Maria found the net “Paris St Germain looks forward to match was out of control. Neymar was red-carded According to Telefoot, Bayern Munich in the for PSG just past the hour but the LFP’s Disciplinary Commission to after a VAR review, while Gonzalez replied “What Not to criticise the Champions League final had strayed behind the last investigate and ascertain the facts, and team-mates Layvin Kurzawa racism?” when he was asked referee but perhaps it’s last month, have now lost defender, and Marseille’s cel- the club remains at the LFP’s disposal and Leandro Paredes were about the incident. He also not the time to officiate their opening two games of ebrations were cut short in for any assistance required,” PSG said also sent off. Marseille striker tweeted a picture of himself a ‘clasico’: PSG sporting a season without scoring similar fashion moments yesterday. Dario Benedetto and surrounded by multi-racial director Leonardo for the first time since later when a Benedetto goal Littered with fouls throughout, the defender Jordan Amavi were team-mates. 1978/79. was ruled offside. clash boiled over in the last minute of also expelled. “There’s no place for A frenzied schedule PSG’s last goal came in stoppage time when a full scale brawl Florian Thauvin’s close- racism,” the Spaniard wrote, said Leonardo. “Not to crit- awaits Tuchel’s coronavirus- the 3-0 win over RB Leipzig broke out on the pitch. range volley on 31 minutes adding: “Sometimes you icise the referee but perhaps hit side, starting with the visit in the Champions League PSG’s Neymar, Laywin Kurzawa and earned Marseille a first have to learn to lose and take it’s not the time to officiate a of Metz in midweek and a semi-final on August 18, and Leandro Paredes as well as Marseille’s victory over their bitter rivals it on the field.” ‘clasico’.” trip to Nice next Sunday, and Neymar poked wide from a Dario Benedetto and Jordan Amavi were since November 2011 but the PSG sporting director Tuchel tried to downplay Neymar now faces a Pablo Sarabia cross before sent off after players aimed punches and ugly scenes overshadowed Leonardo suggested referee the defeat. suspension. the contest deteriorated at kicks at each other. the game at Parc des Princes. Jerome Brisard lacked the “I’m not angry. I think Marseille find themselves the finish. Neymar, who struck Alvaro Neymar “told me it was experience to officiate such you have to separate the per- with an early six-point “It’s a bit disappointing Gonzalez on the back of the head, a racist insult, but I didn’t a highly-charged fixture. formance and the result. We advantage as they attempt to we ended like that,” said tweeted after the match that his only hear anything on the pitch”, “Fourteen yellow cards played a great match, I’m close the gap on PSG, French Thauvin. regret was not hitting the Marseille PSG coach Thomas Tuchel and five reds means the happy with the quality, men- champions seven of the past “We didn’t want to get defender in the face. said. match was out of control,” tality and the effort,” he said. eight years. into that sort of game.”

PREMIER LEAGUE Lampard 'amused' by TALKING POINTS

ANCELOTTI REWARDED FOR FAITH IN Klopp's comments on NEW FACES Everton’s 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday sent a strong signal that Chelsea spending Carlo Ancelotti’s side really might be finally able to make a real push towards the top six -- but it also AFP — LONDON wealthy owners of clubs in the showed the astuteness and bravery Premier League.” Lampard, Chelsea coach Frank Lampard who last season warned Liv- of the Italian coach. (pictured) says he is amused erpool not to get “too arrogant” A trend has been established rather than annoyed by Jurgen after they won the title, said the in recent years where managers Klopp’s criticism of his summer champions’ owners, Fenway gradually ease in close-season signings, spending, pointing out that Sports Group, had spent a lot giving them a taste of action from the Liverpool splashed the cash on of money since Klopp had been bench for a few weeks before finally the road to Premier League in charge. handing them a starting place. So glory. “Liverpool’s story, it’s a fan- on Sunday there was some surprise Lampard has invested tastic story of a club over four- when Ancelotti named all three of his around £200m ($257m) on and-a-half, five years that Jurgen big summer signings in the starting Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Klopp’s been there that have lineup at Spurs. Powerful midfielder Hakim Ziyech and Ben Chilwell, managed to get recruitment right Abdoulaye Doucoure and creative with Thiago Silva arriving on a to a really high level,” said the attacker James Rodriguez only joined free transfer and goalkeeper Chelsea boss. the club last week while Brazilian Edouard Mendy reportedly set “And the reality is probably, holding midfielder Allan signed just to join from Rennes. other than maybe Leicester eight days before the game. For once, the ‘new look’ to the team was evident By contrast, Klopp has (champions in 2016), which is Action during the QSL match between Al Ahli right from the start and Ancelotti’s added only Greece left-back an incredible story, most clubs and Al Khor at Al Khor Stadium on Sunday. Kostas Tsimikas to his league- that win the Premier League in trust in his new players to make winning squad so far. the modern day have recruited an impact even without weeks of Lampard said any owner well and recruited at a high training together and ‘gelling’ paid needed huge resources to level money-wise. off handsomely. compete in the Premier League. “And you can go through Al Ahli continue winning KLICH THE UNLIKELY STAR “I was less annoyed with it, the Liverpool players: Van Dijk, Leeds United were widely praised I found it more, slightly , Fabinho, Keita, Mane, for the way they took on Liverpool at amusing, I would say,” he said, Salah, incredible players, that Anfield in their thrilling 4-3 defeat and, referring to Klopp’s came at a very high price.” form as QSL takes break while understandably much of the comments. Lampard, who guided focus was on the way Marcelo Bielsa’s “Because I think when you Chelsea to fourth place and the THE PENINSULA — DOHA all-important goal. Al Khor six points, while Umm Salal team operate as a collective, there talk about the owners of clubs FA Cup final in his first season are now 10th (from eighth) slipped from 10th to bottom were some outstanding individual I don’tdon’t thithinknk it inin charge,charge, sasaidid hishi spending The 2020-21 season QNB with two points. of the table with one point. displays. None was more impressive matters should be put inintot context, Stars League’s Round 3 Al Sadd slipped to the The highlight game of the than 30-year-old Polish midfielder whatwhat lineline given that when hhe replaced concluded on Sunday , with second position with six week between Al Arabi and Al Mateusz Klich, who capped his of MaurizioMaurizio SarriSarri theth club was Al Ahli emerging as the top points. Al Wakrah and Al Gharafa had all the ingre- excellent performance with a brilliantly businessbusiness underunder a ttransferransfer bban. side after completing a hat- Gharafa too have six points, dients of a thriller, close on the taken goal. they come “So LiverpoolLiverpool have done trick of wins. but were placed third and expected lines of their huge Klich’s experience in England from,from, we’rewe’re it, and they’ve dodone it over a The third week's matches fourth respectively on goal fan following as well. Al since his move from Dutch team FC talking periodperiod of titime,”m said were played at the Qatar SC, difference. Gharafa had the last laugh as Twente in 2017 has been entirely ababoutout Lampard.Lampard. “What we’vew done Al Duhail, Al Khor and Al Al Ahli and Al Sadd are the they won 2-1. in the second-tier Championship somesome is come off the babackc of a ban, Arabi Stadiums. only unbeaten teams in the Jonathan Kodjia and with Leeds but he certainly looked veryvery probably tried to aaddress the The high-profile match tournament after Al Rayyan Sofiane Hanni were Al at home in the top-flight, making situation ourselourselvesv to help between Al Sadd and reigning crashed to a 0-1 defeat against Gharafa’s scorers even though a huge impact in central midfield improveimprove us. champions Al Duhail was Qatar SC, with Kayke Rod- Ahmed Alaaeldin stole much against the champions. “So I thithinknk it’s par for postponed owing to their riguez scoring the winner. of the show with his out- PROMOTED DUO FACE LONG SEASON the course,course, and I think commitments in the 2020 AFC The loss made Al Rayyan standing performance. Hamdi One should normally be wary of wewe aallll kknow that Champions League, which slip from third to fifth in the Harbaoui found the target for pronouncements starting with “I know tthere’shere’s nno point in was to resume on 14th Sep- standings with four points. Al Arabi. its only the first week of the season...” doing ththe maths too tember with all West Zone Qatar SC jumped from the In other action, Al Sailiya but the defeats for promoted Fulham muchmuch because I matches on the continent bottom of the table to eighth defeated Al Kharaitiyat 2-0. and West Bromwich Albion certainly thinthinkk we know being scheduled in Doha. It position with three points. Iraqi striker Mohanad Ali confirmed their status as favourites thattha Liverpool will be played on October 21. It may be recalled that scored both goals as The Per- for the drop. haveha spent at Barring that, all five games holders Al Duhail had lost to egrines moved from 11th to Fulham lost 3-0 at home to a high level, ended in victories. Al Wakrah in Week 2. sixth spot with four points. we know The biggest gainers were Al Wakrah continued The Thunders moved down Arsenal and the Baggies suffered the they have Al Ahli, who topped the table their good run as they beat the ladder (seventh to ninth) same result against visiting Leicester an with nine points following Umm Salal 2-0, goals coming with three points. City. The performances and results incredible their third consecutive victory, from Mohamed Benyettou The tournament will will leave the fans of both promoted coach,c we this time against Al Khor by a and Khalid Muneer. resume with Week 4 fixtures teams hoping there is going to be

knowknow they have 1-0 margin. The Blue Wave moved on October 17 after a month’s some intense transfer activity before

the Oct. 5 deadline. incredibleincredib players,” Hernan Perez scored the from sixth to third place with break. he ssaid.aid. Sport

TUESDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2020 ThiemT fights back in style to beat Zverev anda seals his maiden Grand Slam title Somehow,S the belief today was stronger than the body, and I’mI super happy about that. I wish we could have two winners today.t I think we both deserved it.

US Open champion Sport |10 Dominic Thiem ACL: RESULTS GROUP A: AL AHLI (KSA) 1-0 AL SHORTA GROUP B: SHABAB AL AHLI 1-0 SHAHR KHODRO, AL HILAL 2-1 PAKHTAKOR Confident Al Sadd, Al Duhail eye wins CHINTHANA WASALA Al Sadd players THE PENINSULA taking part in a AFC President training session on Qatari football giants and two-time the eve of their AFC hails resilience champions Al Sadd will be looking to Champions League impress when they welcome Abu Group D match against Dhabi-based Al Ain in their Group D against Al Ain, which match of the AFC Champions League will be played at Al at Al Sadd Stadium today. Sadd Stadium today. COVID-19 as Al Sadd are currently leading their group with four points from two action resumes matches, and a goal difference of three (5 for and 3 against). THE PENINSULA – DOHA An own goal from Al Nassr’s Abdulelah Al Amri secured a draw away The President of the Asian from home on their first match, before Football Confederation (AFC) and going on to beat Sepahan 3-0 thanks Senior Vice President of FIFA, to a goal from Akram Afif’s and a brace Shaikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al from captain Hassan Al Haydos. Khalifa has stated that the The Xavi Hernandez-coached side, resumption of the AFC Cham- who reached the semi-finals in the past pions League (ACL) delivers a two editions, will hope for a win to strong message of resilience in strengthen their position at the top of the face of the extraordinary the table, while Al Ain need a win to circumstances brought about by take them back into contention for the COVID-19 pandemic. qualification to the Round of 16 for the qualities to go far in the AFC Champions The AFC chief discussed how tenth time in their history. League. the resumption of matches in the Speaking at the pre-match press “We had a lot of injuries especially western region matches of the conference, Xavi said: “We are very after the restart, but we won the league ACL in Qatar honours frontline excited to start. Al Sadd is at the top of despite those injuries and I have faith healthcare workers who have the group. We have a lot of youngsters in every member of the squad,” said worked tirelessly across the con- and experienced players as well. We Regragui. tinent to limit the spread of are training well and we will look “To play every three days and go all COVID-19. He described them as forward to a strong start, in a compe- the way to the final, you have to have true champions who have tition that will be difficult for that fighting spirit. I believe the winner worked to quell the pandemic everyone.” this year will not be the best team, but with the highest levels of profi- “I’m happy with what the team’s the one with the most fighting spirit and ciency, professionalism, sacrifice performance at the start of this season. I always tell that to my players. and bravery. In the last two editions of the Cham- “We still have a lot of confidence as Shaikh Salman also praised pions League, we reached the semi- league champions and we will carry Qatar's exceptional capabilities finals, and everyone is dreaming of that through into the AFC Champions that are in place to host major reaching the final. We are now playing League. We have to forget the last game sporting events. In particular, the at our home and this is good for us.” Al Duhail players taking part in a and focus on Sharjah.” advanced infrastructure of the Al Sadd are going great guns in the training session on the eve of today's Al Duhail, who kicked off their cam- FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums QNB Stars League this season, winning AFC Champions League Group C match paign with a 2-0 home win over Islamic – all of which have been both of their matches , collecting 10 against Sharjah. Republic of Iran’s Persepolis FC designed and built to the highest goals from the two outings. courtesy of goals from Mario Mandzukic standards. However, the Barca great is wary and Edmilson, but then succumbed to Shaikh Salman also thanked of Al Ain in today’s game, which will Al Sadd’s former the early start to a 2-0 away loss to Saudi Pro League the Qatari stakeholders for their kick off at 6pm today. Asian player of the training, and this gives side Al Taawoun, leaving them in cooperation to ensure “As I mentioned earlier, we are in Year, defender us more readiness than second place in Group C on three points.nts. tthathat thethe tour-tour- a good period, but the Champions Abdelkarim Hassan the rest of the teams,” he Sharjah, returning to the compe-pe- nanamentment isis League is completely different and we said the competition added. tition for the first time since 2004, llostost dedeliveredlivered will face Al Ain, which is also a different won’t be easy but the Elsewhere, at the their opening game 1-0 to Al Taawounoun tto tthehhe team from last season. They have a Wolves will be ready Education City Stadium, in their first game back in the compe-pe- hhighestighest good coach and a lot of good local and for the challenge. QSL champions Al tition since 2004, before earning a 22-2-2 ininterna-terna- foreign players, but we are ready to “Our group is not Duhail take on reigning draw with Persepolis as Mohamed Kha-ha- titionalona l compete.” easy, but Al Sadd is UAE Pro League cham- lfan’s close range tap in and Ryanyan stastandards.ndards. Xavi added: “I feel very good. I’m a fully prepared and we pions Sharjah in Group Mendes’ hammered effort from closeose positive guy. We are winners , and we hope to qualify as the C. The match kicks off at range cancelled out Ali Alipour’s brace.ace. have many players who won many group toppers. We’ll 6pm. Despite their A win for the Qatari side cAl Duhailhail titles , but it doesn’t mean anything . I take every match separately, as they domestic title win, Al Duhail’s coach, have reached the quarter finals in 2018018 know everyone is excited but we have come.” former Moroccan international but exited at the hand of eventualual to be calm, and go game by game, step “We have benefitted a lot from the defender Walid Regragui believes his runners-up Persepolis with an by step.” resumption of the Qatari league and side will need to show different aggregate score of 3-2. Shaikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa AFC CHAMPIONS Late goal powers Al Ahli Saudi FC past Al Shorta LEAGUE AFC – DOHA Despite their numerical disad- TODAY'S FIXTURES vantage, Al Shorta piled the pressure Al Ahli Saudi FC became the first team on their opponents early after the GROUP C to reach the 2020 AFC Champions restart, and within 10 minutes Al Owais League Round of 16 thanks to a late was beaten, but Saad Natiq’s towering goal that earned them a header cannoned off the crossbar and Al Duhail SC (QAT) vs 1-0 win over Iraq’s Al Shorta on there was no one to follow through on Sharjah (UAE) Matchday Three of Group A yesterday. the rebound. Following the AFC’s COVID-19 Sub Al Ahli regrouped and controlled Education City Stadium Committee for AFC Champions League possession for large spells in the (18:00) West decision to consider Al Wahda remainder of the second half, but with withdrawn and their matches ‘null and little penetration and dearth of supply void’, Al Ahli found themselves going into to front man Al Somah. Persepolis FC (IRN) vs the Matchday Three fixture in need of With just four minutes to go, Al Ahli Al Taawoun FC (KSA) just three points to guarantee a top-two finally found a breakthrough as former spot in the now three-team Group A. Chelsea winger Marin drove into the Education City Stadium In a lively start to the match at heart of the Al Shorta defence before an (21:00) Khalifa International Stadium, the exchange of passes inside the box saw Saudis’ first attempt on target came just Abdulrahman Ghareeb set up the four minutes into the game with Omar German with the goal at his mercy. Marin GROUP D Al Somah heading Abdullah Tarmin’s kept his composure to slot him from six cross straight into the hands of goal- yards out to win it for Al Ahli. keeper Ahmed Basil. The two sides clash again on the Al Ain FC (UAE) vs Al Sadd Al Shorta delivered a strong response same ground on Thursday in Matchday Al Ahli FC’s Hassan SC (QAT) two minutes later, coming within inches Four. of scoring as Karrar Amer rose highest Al Qeed (R) vies for the header with Elsewhere, Hattan Bahebri's Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium to power a header from Ahmed Jalal’s Shorta’s Hussam Kadhim (centre) and stoppage time strike secured defending Ahmed Jalal (left) during their AFC (18:00) in-swinging corner, drawing a fine reflex champions Al Hilal SFC a 2-1 win over save on the goal-line from goalkeeper Champions League group A match Uzbekistan's Pakhtakor in their Group Mohammed Al Owais. played at the Khalifa International B tie at the Al Janoub Stadium. Stadium, yesterday. Sepahan FC (IRN) vs Al Iraqi international right-back Ali Also in Group B, a beautiful solo goal Mhawi was booked in the 25th minute from youngster Harib Abdallah Suhail Nassr (KSA) following a heavy challenge on Al Ahli’s goalward from a tight angle, but the half would prove to be an important was the difference as Shabab Al Ahli Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium Abdulbaset Al Hindi in the middle of the number three watched as his effort was moment as the Al Shorta defender used Dubai FC managed their first three pitch. saved by Al Owais, and upon receiving his hand to intercept a Marin pass with points in the 2020 AFC Champions (21:00) Centre-back Amer continued to be the spilled ball Amer hit the side netting seconds left in the opening period, League with a win over Islamic Republic Al Shorta’s main source of threat as he in the 33rd minute. earning a second yellow card and his of Iran's Shahr Khodro FC at same got on the end of another corner, firing Mhawi’s booking from earlier in the marching orders. venue.