MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2019 SPORT 07

At the end I just decided to go Marc Marquez says FOOTBALL FOOTBALL for it. Having lost two races on after winning the San AFC Champions League Premier League: Aston the last corner burned a bit. Marino Grand Prix. Quarter-final, 2nd leg: Villa vs West Ham United ACTION Al Sadd vs Al Nassr TODAY’S at Villa Park World Cup in ‘beautiful’ will be unique: Eto’o

THE PENINSULA launched the Official Emblem their holidays in a very beau- I was delighted to see the Middle like us Africans – a warm sense home, a successful World Cup for the FIFA World Cup 2022 a tiful country. East given the opportunity to of hospitality and keenness to is mostly linked with the quality major milestone in Qatar’s Q: What makes the FIFA host in 2022 – it is an oppor- welcome others, wherever they of football. The drama, the Former Cameroon international journey on the road to 2022. World Cup so special to you per- tunity I know it will make thethe are from in the world. passion, this kind of thing.thing I’m and four-time African Player- From your experience, what do sonally? You played in the first most of. Q:Q: Aside from the suresure Qatar’s World CupCup will of-the-Year Samuel Eto’o you think fans can expect in FIFA World Cup in Africa – how Q: Qatar’s central locationion aactionction on the ppitch,itch, have all of that, but for tthose (pictured) has said FIFA World 2022? do you think Qatar will stamp means it is accessible for Africancan wwhathat do you thinthinkk who travel to these tourna-tou Cup Qatar 2022 will be a unique A: When fans arrive in Qatar its own identity on the first football fans too. What woulduld mmakesakes for a sucsuc-- ments it is about the overallov experience for fans and players, for the World Cup they will find edition in the Arab world? you say to football fans thereere ccessfulessful FIFA World experience.experience. What rreally saying ‘when fans arrive in themselves in a very beautiful A: It is true that I was for- who are considering attendinging CCupup and how concon-- makesmakes a differencedifferen is Qatar they will find themselves country, rich with traditions and tunate enough to play in the first in 2022? fidentfident are you Qatar what the fans enjoy away in a very beautiful country.’ culture, and a totally unique World Cup in Africa. Although A: For African fans, it is true,ue, will deliverdeliver in this from the stastadiumsdiums – and Eto’o, one of the most dec- setting for the tournament. I can we as a team did not progress it will be great. For many it wwillill area?area? I’m sure in Qatar thetheyy will orated players in world football, say from first-hand experience as far as we had hoped, it was a be one flight and for most notnot A: Of course, for have a very smootsmoothh and in an interview posted on the the temperature at the time of memorable experience – not too many hours travelling.ng. thosethose watcwatchinghing enjoyableenjoyab Supreme Committee website, year the tournament is just for Cameroon or the hosts When they arrive in Doha I amam at experience.experienc also backed the idea to host the scheduled for will be perfect for South Africa, but for the whole confident they will be happyy to FIFA showpiece event in the watching football, for playing continent. I have always find themselves in a countrytry Middle East. football and also for relaxing by believed football is a game for that has more or less the sameme Following are the excerpts the beach! So fans will be able everyone, and therefore the climate as ours at certain timesmes of the interview. to enjoy many things away from World Cup should visit every of the year. Secondly, they willwill Q: We have recently the stadiums also, and spend region of the world. Therefore, be in a country that has valuesues

Spain’s Rudy Fernandez holds the trophy Europe regain to celebrate the FIBA World Cup title with his team-mates, yesterday. Solheim Cup with thrilling victory over USA

REUTERS GLENEAGLES, UK

Europe’s women reclaimed the Solheim Cup in the most thrilling finish in the competi- tion’s history when they beat the United States 14.5-13.5 at Gleneagles yesterday. After a three-day battle royal around the dramatic Scottish course, Norway’s Suzann Pettersen, playing against Marina Alex in the final match, sank a putt on the 18th green to spark delirium among Gasol claims rare double as the European team. Moments earlier, with the scores locked at 13.5-13.5, Alex had a putt to keep the trophy in American hands but her effort Spain win FIBA World Cup slid by the hole. Had it gone in she would have been assured of at least a half-point on the AFP Cup bronze in a row -- and 18th. BEIJING Spain’s Marc Gasol celebrates extend the Boomers’ long wait It was then all down to Pet- with the trophy. for a major medal. tersen, one of Europe Three-time All-Star Marc Gasol Turkish-based guard Nando Catriona Matthew’s picks. became only the second man to De Colo led all scorers with 19 Somehow she steadied her win an NBA crown and the FIBA Spain brush aside points for France and Nicolas nerve to fire her ball into the World Cup in the same year after Argentina 95-75 in the Batum had nine points, six middle of the cup from around Spain brushed aside Argentina final of FIBA World Cup. assists, three rebounds and three 10 feet. 95-75 yesterday. steals. The day had begun at 8-8 Spain, who survived double Marc Gasol becomes The French, one of the tallest but with three of the 12 singles overtime against Australia to teams at the tournament, matches left on the course the reach the final, led throughout only the second man to defeated reigning two-time Americans needed just a half- in Beijing to win international win an NBA crown and holders the United States in the point to retain the trophy. basketball’s biggest prize a the FIBA World Cup in quarter-finals, but then lost Anna Nordqvist finished off second time. the same year. heavily to Argentina. Morgan Pressel 4&3 to close the The previous occasion was “For us it’s something very, gap to one point at about the in 2006 with the two Gasol France roar back to very special and important we same time that Bronte Law brothers, Marc and older sibling defeat Australia 67-59 did it after a very difficult first holed a 20-footer for birdie Pau, on the team. and claim a second half,” French coach Vincent against Ally McDonald to go two Pau did not feature in China Collet said. up with two to play and keep because of injury. World Cup bronze in a “Many teams could have alive the European dream. The latest triumph was par- row. given up, even easy shots we In nerve-jangling tension ticularly sweet for the 34-year- were missing in the first half. Law competed a 2&1 victory on old centre Gasol, who three “We started to move the ball the 17th and Pettersen did the months ago also played a key better in the second half and rest. part in the Toronto Raptors’ run that’s why we won this game.” It is the first time Europe to the NBA title. It is still the best finish for the have won the trophy since 2013. Gasol, who had 14 points, Boomers, who had never gone “Just unbelievable! There’s seven rebounds and seven beyond the quarter-finals at 11 never been a better moment. assists, joins Lamar Odom, a As a contest, the final was the second quarter and increased Several of the Spain players previous World Cups, but they For it to come down to the last double winner in 2010 with the over by the fourth quarter -- their advantage to 43-31 at had tears in their eyes as they are yet to claim a medal at the game... the Americans played United States and Los Angeles although the Argentines did rally half-time. collected the trophy. worlds or Olympics. great as well but for Suzann to Lakers. to reduce Spain’s previously With Rubio prominent, Argentina’s coach Sergio Deposed champions the get the winning putt is phe- “What can I say? How does mighty lead for a time. drilling 20 points, Spain never Hernandez said the better team United States, who were missing nomenal,” Matthew said. it sound to you?” Gasol told Fans of both teams had made looked like surrendering their won. their elite names, finished “Half-an-hour ago it looked reporters of his personal feat. it feel more like a football match, lead, repeatedly thwarting “No excuse, we were not seventh, their lowest position in like a draw would be a good “I feel very fortunate to be in decked out in their national Argentina’s suffocated offence. tired, we were not satisfied tournament history. result but those last three games this position, to play this game colours, chanting loudly and Gasol said that Spain’s because we wanted to win,” he They did, at least, qualify to were crucial. Just fantastic. I and help these guys. refusing to sit down. defence, which limited Argentine said. “For me, we won the silver defend their Olympic title in had faith in Pettersen all the “All of the things you sac- Spain, for whom Ricky Rubio talisman Luis Scola to eight medal, we didn’t lose the gold Tokyo next summer. time.” rifice, it’s worth it... what a year, of the Phoenix Suns was after- points, was the bedrock of their medal. With 32 teams, this was the what an amazing year.” wards named the tournament victory. “I feel very proud of my biggest-ever Basketball World It is the first time Surprise finalists Argentina MVP, surged into a 14-2 lead. “Defensively we improved players.” Cup. had not triumphed since they Led by their slick-haired game by game, our concen- France roared back after The next one will be in 2023 Europe have won the hosted the inaugural World Cup Italian coach Sergio Scariolo, tration, our determination, our half-time to defeat Australia in Japan, Indonesia and the trophy since 2013. in 1950. Spain were up 21-14 going into consistency,” he said. 67-59 and claim a second World Philippines. 08 SPORT MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2019

Ireland wary England in the ‘right place’ of Japanese threat: Schmidt

REUTERS to win title, says George CHIBA, JAPAN

AFP on ourselves, mostly this week -- and Ireland want to take it one match at a MIYAZAKI, JAPAN we’ll look ahead to Tonga next week.”       time in their Rugby World Cup group Jones has said he wants his '    ( )  *   *    stage but have already singled out hosts Leaner, meaner and better prepared players to be ready for North Korean          + '    Japan as a tough opponent in Pool A, than for their disastrous 2015 World missiles, earthquakes and even bad           *  * , -   #% head coach Joe Schmidt said. Cup, England have the tools to capture sushi. The current world number one open rugby’s top prize, hooker Jamie England held a heat camp in Italy +  ,-  . +  '  " their campaign on September 22 in George warned yesterday. over the summer and part of the ' (!& $ .. & Yokohama against familiar foes Scotland The English have waited four reason Jones chose the southern !  $ !$ $ before taking on Japan less than a week years to banish the nightmare of the coastal resort of Miyazaki for Eng- later. last World Cup, and George believes land’s World Cup base was to further $ $ !!  #. Japan have never beaten Ireland in they could go all the way in Japan acclimatise for the humidity that is !& $ !# #! any of their previous meetings, but after being meticulously prepared by likely to have an impact on teams Schmidt said the recent strong run of !& $  #% Eddie Jones for what looks like being during the tournament. form which saw the Brave Blossoms take a wide-open tournament. “A lot of acclimatisation happened ! $ # #& / the Pacific Nations Cup last month makes    “He’s not giving us too many mes- in Treviso,” said George, noting   $ #$ #/ them a side that needs watching. sages now,” George told reporters at England could even play under a   “I think Scotland will be very dif- England’s training base in Miyazaki. closed roof in Sapporo.  )  " ! &  ficult for us. And I think just the six-day “The messages have been sort of “During training here obviously !& $ # #. turnaround to Japan will be very drilled into us for the last four years the humidity is pretty high. Regardless & $ "  tough,” Schmidt told reporters on really. When (Jones) first came in, he of whether we play with the roof on Saturday. said to you and he said to us that we’re or off, we’re not too bothered about   / # #& “They were obviously very strong here to win the World Cup in four it.” ! $ ## #" in the Pacific Nations Cup, and I think years,” he added. George, whose contributions at we’re trying to take one match at a time / “We’re in that place now, so I the lineout and as a ball-carrier will $ * # #/ but we’ve certainly got an eye to the think we’re in a good position to go be key, revealed that players were +, $ .  future and the quality that the Japanese out and do that.” dipping balls in water buckets to sim- - / "#/ team have.” England, who in 2015 famously ulate slippery game conditions, but The warm and humid weather, which became the first hosts to crash out of shrugged: “You’ve just got to make . &  / ! the hosts are better accustomed to, will the World Cup’s group stage, have sure you grip it and hope for the best!”  /  & #$ also be a factor. been drawn alongside France and England are still sweating on the “The temperature is due to be 32   % .# Argentina in Pool C. fitness of Mako Vunipola (hamstring) degrees tomorrow and that’s not really But while they hope to emulate and Jack Nowell (appendix) and will . . $ Irish temperatures. That will be a chal- England’s 2003 vintage, still the only not want to pick up further injuries   . lenge for us in itself,” Schmidt said. northern hemisphere team to lift the against Tonga before facing the “So we’ll see how we adapt and cope Webb Ellis Cup, George insisted the United States in Kobe just four days with those different conditions. The players were not looking beyond their later. '01 , 0, forecast for Sunday is torrential rain. So ( )   0     opening game against Tonga in Tonga were smashed 92-7 by we’re going to have to be ready for  N  2  0 $  Sapporo on September 22. world champions New Zealand in a whatever conditions there are on the “We’ve got a lot of hard work to World Cup warm-up recently, but -   2    day.” 34! 4" $ go in order for us to get there,” said England defence coach John Mitchell ( Ireland are likely to be without centre the Saracens hooker, who has made predicted the Pacific islanders would )  Robbie Henshaw against the Scots with the number two jersey his own over bounce back strongly. $  a tight hamstring but Schmidt hoped the the past season. “They’re very hard-working injury was not too serious. “We’re not thinking too far ahead. people and obviously very passionate Ireland also play Russia and Samoa Everything that we’re focused on is when they do play for Tonga,” he said.        '    in Pool A.

New Zealand’s players pose for a photograph after a  welcoming ceremony held   at Zojoji temple in Tokyo, on     Saturday, ahead of the 2019         Rugby World Cup which         begins on September 20.                   !  "

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                '    Fofana still All Blacks Wales eyeing strong in doubt for dismiss SBW start, says Gatland France’s injury rumours REUTERS KITAKYUSHU, JAPAN opener AFP TOKYO Wales did not fully express themselves in their pre-World AFP Cup matches and are looking for a strong start in their bid FUJIYOSHIDA, JAPAN New Zealand’s assistant coach yesterday quashed to win the Webb Ellis trophy for the first time, coach Warren rumours that star centre Sonny Bill Williams had suffered Gatland said yesterday. France centre Wesley Fofana a World Cup-threatening injury, declaring him fit for selection Despite winning the Grand Slam earlier this year, Gat- remains a doubt for France’s World for the All Blacks’ crunch opener against South Africa. land’s side come into the tournament ranked fifth in the Cup opener next weekend but coach Social media in New Zealand has been abuzz with reports world and after heavy defeats to England and Ireland Jacques Brunel said on Saturday that that Williams was heading home, which would have been the during World Cup warm-up matches. he had the framework for the team second injury blow for the defending champions after losing flanker Gatland said the team were experimenting in those that will face Argentina in Tokyo. Luke Jacobson. matches and that their true strategy will only come to the The 31-year-old Fofana, who is But Ian Foster denied the reports. fore when they begin their campaign against Georgia on retiring from international rugby “Is he going home? No. Is he available for selection based on his Sept. 23. after the World Cup, missed France’s progression last week, then I think the answer is yes. He’s trained really “We haven’t shown a lot in the games we have played warm-up match against Scotland in well,” he said. and we have kept things under our belt,” Gatland said at Edinburgh with a thigh injury and Foster stressed that no one had been called up from New Zealand the team’s pre-World Cup training camp in the port city the same problem has caused the because “there are no people needed”. of Kitakyushu. centre to sit out training since He insisted that nothing but victory was acceptable in New Zealand’s “We feel that it is important to get off to a good start.” Wednesday. marquee Pool B match against the Springboks. “There is a confidence and self-belief in the squad that “We are going to wait until the Meanwhile, playmaker Beauden Barrett revealed the All Blacks had if we play to our potential then we can go a long way in start of the week to see how he is,” been focusing on playing with a wet ball in training, as torrential rain is this competition.” said Brunel at a press conference in forecast at the weekend when the key games get under way. Wales face the strong-scrummaging Georgians in Fuyoshida. He said he expects to get pelted with high balls if he plays at fullback Toyota City before a mouth-watering Pool D clash with “He is in rehabilitation. He and has been preparing intensively. Australia in Tokyo six days later. trained on his own this morning (Sat- The All Blacks star said he was equally happy to occupy the fullback “I think everyone gets a little apprehensive and then urday), he will do the same or fly half position and was relishing the higher profile he now enjoys they get excited and can’t wait for the first game to kick- tomorrow and on Monday we will in world rugby. off,” said Gatland. see whether he will be able to take “Four years later, I’m older, more experienced, with a little bit more New Zealand All “We are all just sitting here waiting at the moment, part in this match or not,” he said. responsibility on my shoulders,” said the 28-year-old. “It’s a challenge I Blacks’ star centre training. So, I think everyone just can’t wait until we really enjoy.” Sonny Bill Williams actually get started.” MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2019 SPORT 09

Ooredoo Cup 12 teams in hunt for 2019-2020 season crown to kick off on October 11

THE PENINSULA Third Qatargas U-23 League begins DOHA

THE PENINSULA Al Kass, to showcase a perfect Al Gharafa will start their DOHA league. title defence against “I thank Al Kass for its great mighty Al Duhail as the The Qatar Football Association efforts in promoting the league schedule for the Ooredoo (QFA) yesterday announced the and the successful relationship Cup was announced launch of the third Qatargas throughout QFA’s matches and yesterday by the Qatar U-23 League season 2019-20, competitions.” Stars League. which will begin today with three Al Sulaiti, PR Manager at According to the matches. Qatargas said: “Qatargas is schedule, first round of the The event was launched at a delighted to be part of this 12-team tournament will joint press conference held by exciting league that brings be played on October 11 the QFA and Qatargas at Al Bidda together some of the most and 12. The remaining Tower. aspiring young footballers in rounds’ fixtures will be The third edition of the Qatar. We are hopeful that finalised in co-ordination league showcases the long- Qatargas’ support for the league with the authorities con- standing and fruitful partnership will go a long way in taking cerned, it was announced between Qatargas and the QFA Qatar’s football to new heights, yesterday. which has been in place for especially as the country is Al Sadd will be seen in many years and witnessed the getting ready to host the World action on the opening day of numerous successful Cup in 2022. I thank the Qatar when they will start their events and projects. Football Association for pro- campaign against Al The press conference was viding us this opportunity to be Wakrah at Hamad Bin attended by Khalid Mubarak Al part of the State of Qatar’s efforts Khalifa Stadium. Kuwari, Director of Marketing to be one of the world’s leading Al Rayyan will meet Al and Communications at QFA, Ali sports destinations.” Shahania while Al Ahli will Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, Public Rela- Khalid Mubarak Al Kuwari, Director of Marketing and Communications, QFA, and Ali Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, SC will play Al lock horns with Umm Salal tions Manager at Qatargas, and Public Relations Manager, Qatargas following the launch of third Qatargas U-23 League season at Al Arabi SC while Al Khor will face on the inaugural day. The representatives from QFA and Bidda Tower, yesterday. Al Ahli SC, and Al Duhail SC will second day of the first participating teams. meet defending champions Al round will be followed by It was announced that the participating teams in this year’s players, coaches and other club company and is one of the key Rayyan on the opening day. three more matches edition include 12 clubs: Al Ahli officials. sponsors of QFA, having them Matches will be played at 6:15pm including a game between PARTICIPATING SC, Al Sadd SC, Al Duhail SC, Al Speaking at the press con- on board is an important at Al Khor, Al Sailiya and Al Arabi Al Gharafa and Al Duhail. Rayyan SC, Al Arabi SC, Al ference, Al Kuwari commented: achievement which we aim it stadiums. The 12 First Division TEAMS Gharrafa SC, Qatar SC, Umm “The Qatar Football Association continues for many years ahead Week 1 matches will con- teams participating in the Al Ahli SC, Al Sadd SC, Al Duhail Salal SC, Al Khor SC, Al Sailiya and Qatargas have a long- as it’s part of the QFA’s 2021 tinue tomorrow while Week 2 event have been divided SC, Al Wakrah SC, and Al Sha- standing partnership. Qatargas vision.” and 3 games will be played on into two groups in the SC, Al Rayyan SC, Al Arabi hania SC. U-23 League is one of the fruitful He added: “Preparations for September 23 and September 30. Ooredoo Cup with the top SC, SC, Qatar SC, Al Kass, the host broadcaster, results of this unique partnership Qatargas U-23 League have All matches will be played on four teams advancing to the Umm Salal SC, Al Khor SC, Al will broadcast the matches, and and emphasises the depth of the started after the end of the last Mondays and Tuesdays of every quarter-finals after the first Sailiya SC, Al Wakrah SC, and Al produce a special program relationship between the QFA season, in which a full-fledged week. Week 4 of the league will stage. Al Gharafa have won focused on covering all aspects and Qatargas. marketing and media plan has begin on 21 October and matches the previous two editions Shahania SC. and highlights of the league and “Qatargas is the world’s been put in place in cooperation will be announced at a later of the event. featuring interviews with premier liquefied natural gas with our partners Qatargas and stage. We can’t win all the time: Guardiola

REUTERS MANCHESTER all three of their efforts on goal. With Vincent Kompany having “It is football - we had many left the club and not been replaced Manchester City manager Pep Guar- opportunities today, they had three during the transfer window, City diola shrugged off his team’s shock Sometimes games or four and scored three goals,” he have few options at the back but 3-2 defeat by newly-promoted like this happen. We added. Guardiola said he had confidence Norwich City in the Premier League had our chances to “The first one was a set-piece in Stones and Otamendi. on Saturday saying his team simply score but didn’t, so we didn’t defend, the second we “John and Nico have played cannot be expected to win every were caught on the counter-attack together many times and been a week. congratulations to and the third came from a mistake, huge part of what we have done, Guardiola’s team beat Liverpool Norwich: City manager but we know what we are as a but Kompany is now in Belgium, to the title by a solitary point last team, we know what we have done Laporte is injured and these are the season after winning their last 14 and we know what we are going defenders we have at this moment,” games. The prior season, City achieved to do.” Norwich’s crucial third goal he said. But after five games of this a record 100 points, losing just two came after defender Nicolas Ota- City’s Spanish international season they already trail Juergen matches in the entire campaign and mendi was caught in possession in midfielder Rodri said not too much Klopp’s side by five points. finishing 19 points clear at the top. his own penalty area allowing should be read into the loss. “The people cannot expect us “Sometimes games like this Emiliano Buendia to square to “That’s football. It wasn’t a to win or pick up 100 points all the happen - we had our chances to Teemu Pukki. normal game, but we have to look time. We’re going to recover now score but didn’t, so congratulations In the absence of injured French forward. The season is very long, and come back,” said Guardiola to Norwich,” said the Spaniard, who defender Aymeric Laporte, who you’re going to have matches like after the loss at Carrow Road. felt the scoreline didn’t reflect the could be sidelined for six months this - at least two or three,” he said. City won 32 of 38 games last balance of the game. with a knee injury, City featured “We’re not a 10 as a team. We’re season, losing only twice and they Manchester City, as usual, dom- John Stones and Argentine Ota- not perfect. The only positive thing had not suffered a league defeat inated possession with 69% of the mendi in the centre of defence and we can say is that it’s early in the since their 2-1 reverse to Newcastle ball and they had eight shots on they rarely looked solid on season. We’re five points behind the Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola during United on January 29. target -- while Norwich scored from Saturday. leaders, but we need to keep going.” the match against Norwich City on Saturday. La Liga: Jordan stars as Milan on top with win over Udinese Sevilla climb to the top REUTERS SERIE A when Matteo Politano drilled a REUTERS kick fizzing into the top corner. MILAN shot off the foot of the post after VITORIA Mexico forward Javier Her- Inter Milan move five minutes. nandez made his debut for Inter Milan went top of Serie A ahead of Juventus on The visitors proved their Sevilla climbed to the top of La Sevilla when he came off the on Saturday after Stefano Sensi’s ability to cause an upset on the Liga yesterday after beating bench in the second half but (pictured) header sealed a 1-0 to nine points after the opening day when they beat AC Alaves 1-0 away from home. Alaves finished the game win over 10 man Udinese at San champions were held Milan at home but they were put Spanish midfielder Joan stronger and spurned two Siro to continue their perfect to a goalless draw by on the back foot when a Video Jordan (pictured) scored the chances to equalise late on. start. Fiorentina earlier on Assistant Referee (VAR) review only goal of the game in the The win took former Spain Udinese midfielder Rodrigo Saturday. showed De Paul slapping Can- 37th minute, sending a free and Real Madrid coach Julen De Paul was shown a straight red dreva in the face after 34 minutes. Lopetegui’s side to the top of the card for slapping Antonio Can- The Argentina international was table after four games on 10 dreva off the ball in the first half. Udinese occupy 14th shown a straight red card. points, one more than Atletico Sensi pounced just before the place, having taken Inter needed just 10 minutes Madrid. break with a superb header from three points from their to profit from their numerical On Saturday, Ansu Fati, the a Diego Godin cross that was opening three games. advantage as Sensi stooped to 16-year-old starlet from Guinea enough to secure Inter’s third meet a cross from Godin and Bissau, scored his second goal win in three league games under head his finish past the of the season as Barcelona Antonio Conte, but the coach was nothing is easy and we will never earlier on Saturday. goalkeeper. breezed to a 5-2 win against not completely satisfied with his take anything for granted. Udinese occupy 14th place, On-loan Manchester United Valencia. side’s performance. “Every game is a battle and having taken three points from forward Alexis Sanchez nearly Karim Benzema netted “We should have been more the level of Serie A competition their opening three games. made an instant impact after twice for Real Madrid as they clinical and finished it off earlier, has definitely improved.” Conte’s side knew that making his debut from the bench fought off a late comeback to but instead we were always just Inter moved ahead of victory would send them two late on, but goalkeeper Juan overcome Levante 3-2 as star hanging on,” Conte told DAZN. Juventus on to nine points after points clear at the top after the Musso somehow recovered to Eden Hazard made his La Liga “I read too much rubbish in the champions were held to a result in Florence and they block the Chilean’s effort from debut. the papers, but the truth is goalless draw by Fiorentina immediately showed intent point-blank range. 10 SPORT MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2019

Monster Energy Yamaha’s , Petronas Yamaha SRT’s and Mission Winnow Corse’s in action during the San Marino Grand Prix at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Misano Adriatico, Italy, yesterday.

Marquez wins San Marino MotoGP AFP won five times in Misano and twice ’s San Marino MotoGP MISANO ADRIATICO, ITALY before in the MotoGP category in 2015 Marc Marquez and 2017. celebrates Results and standings after the San Marino Spaniard Marc Marquez snatched He matches Italian star Valentino winning the San MotoGP, the 13th of the 19-round world victory on the final lap at the San Marino Rossi’s record of three wins at the San Marino Grand Prix championship series, yesterday: Grand Prix yesterday to close in on a Marino MotoGP. yesterday. 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) 42min sixth world title. Former seven-time world champion 25.163sec, 2. (FRA/Yamaha- The Honda rider, starting on the Rossi -- who last won in Misano in 2014 SRT) at 0.903sec, 3. Maverick Vinales (ESP/ second row, took a third MotoGP win -- finished fourth in his home race. Yamaha) 1.636, 4. Valentino Rossi (ITA/ in Misano ahead of France’s Fabio Quar- In Moto2, Spaniard Augusto Fern- Yamaha) 12.660, 5. Franco Morbidelli (ITA/ tararo, on a Yamaha-SRT, who had the andez also snatched victory on the final Yamaha) 12.774, 6. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/ lead for most of the race. lap to make it back-to-back wins after Ducati) 13.744, 7. Pol Espargaro (ESP/KTM) “At the end I just decided to go for Silverstone. 20.050, 8. (ESP/Suzuki) 22.512, 9. it,” said Marquez, who had been pipped The 21-year-old Kalex rider auda- Jack Miller (AUS/Ducati-Pramac) 26.554, at the line at the last two races in Silver- cious overtaking move on the final lap 10. (ITA/Ducati) 31.456, 11. stone and the Dutch GP. gave him victory over Italian pole sitter (FRA/KTM) 32.388 Five-time world champion Marquez Fabio di Giannantonio. won the 77th Grand Prix of his career in Spain’s Alex Marquez -- younger Did not finish: Alex Rins (ESP/Suzuki), all categories to overtake British legend brother of MotoGP world champion (ITA/Ducati-Pramac), Mike ‘the bike’ Hailwood. Marc Marquez -- consolidated his Michele Pirro (ITA/Ducati), Takaaki Nagakami The 26-year-old has won 51 MotoGP overall world championship lead by fin- (JPN/Honda-LCR), (Honda-LCR) races, 16 Moto2 and ten Moto3. ishing third. World championship standings: Marquez now has a 93-point lead In Moto3, Japan’s Tatsuki Suzuki Drivers: on Italian Ducati rider Andrea Dovizioso started on pole to claim his maiden 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) 275pts, 2. with six races left this season. Dovizioso victory after a thrilling seven-rider Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 182, 3. Danilo finished sixth on Sunday on front of his battle at the Misano World Circuit Marco Petrucci (ITA/Ducati) 151, 4. Alex Rins (ESP/ home crowd. Simoncelli, near Rimini in eastern Italy. Suzuki) 149, 5. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) Pole sitter Maverick Vinales com- Suzuki’s victory was charged with 134, 6. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 129, pleted the podium for Yahama. emotion as he races for the team of 7. Fabio Quartararo (FRA/Yamaha-SRT) 112 “It was a very tough race,” said Italian Paolo Simoncelli, whose son Constructors: Quartararo, 20. Marco died after an accident in 2011, 1. Honda 281pts, 2. Ducati 221, 3. Yamaha “It was the first time that I battled with the Misano Circuit named in his 215, 4. Suzuki 174, 5. KTM 85, 6. Aprilia 57 like that with Marquez.” Marquez has honour. Qatar’s Abdulla and MMP Team Qatari riders fight back for strong finish in Paris deliver sterling THE PENINSULA PARIS Qatar’s Adel Abdulla in action at the 27th edition performance Qatar’s Adel Abdulla, French of the 24H Tout Terrain off-road racer Matthieu de France at the Circuit THE PENINSULA Al Shaqab’s Endurance team are Serradori and team-mates de Fontaine-Fourches DOHA presently in France as they Benjamin and Cédric Bujon yesterday. undergo intensive training to overcame an awful start to climb Three riders and horses from the compete in FEI’s 2019 World back from the foot of the massive Endurance Department of Al Championship for 7-year-old field to finish a superb 12th Shaqab, member of Qatar Foun- horses in Pisa, Italy, scheduled overall and third in their dation, delivered a sterling to take place on September 20. category at the 27th edition of performance at the prestigious At the national level, Qatar’s the 24H Tout Terrain de France, Endurance Equestre Monpazier exciting endurance horse racing presented by Sofrat, at the Circuit event recently held in France. season will begin in October. de Fontaine-Fourches yesterday. As a result, the successful Following the international After a disappointing quali- horses have qualified to partic- racing season, fying session and losing many ipate in the higher categories of Al Shaqab’s Endurance team laps following an early accident, Fédération Equestre Interna- will be focusing on major the MMP (Micouleu Mécanique tionale (FEI) races that would national titles such as the 2019 Précision) Rallye Raid Team- eventually qualify them for next National Day Cup, 2020 Qatar built Buggy managed to com- year’s Endurance World Cup. International Cup and the pres- plete 180 laps of the demanding Al Shaqab’s Sultan Salim Al tigious 2020 Emir Sword Cup, northern French circuit and fin- Adel and his French team still Mitsubishi Pajero crew of Igora seriously to do something next Shamousi, astride RV Sultan, and among others. As the name sug- ished 34 tours behind the overall faced a daunting fight back and Rudolfo Skoks and Arvis year with this championship, Khalid Sanad Al Nuaimi, riding gests, Endurance riding involves winning Can-Am Maverick of the through the field. They were Pikis and they held on to secure because it is very good. You need IFO LR Polino, competed suc- the horse and rider competing French trio of Sébastien Guyette, classified in 24th position in the the class win at the finish. to be patient. cessfully in the CEI2* 125km over long distances, often across Pascal Mercier and Maxime overall standings after 17 hours Later in the morning, Adel The circuit is over 7km long. while Marine Faucon, on breathtaking landscapes. Fourmaux. of racing. The MMP Rallye Raid returned to the driving seat. “It Sometimes they put the water CA’Saddam Al Shaqab, com- The competition truly puts Adel said: “It was a very entry had amassed 112 laps and was my turn again and I pushed on the roads to stop the dust and pleted the CEI1* 80km race. human and equine stamina and enjoyable and one of the most were running 35 tours behind the to take us to position 14 and our it can be unbelievable difficult The results of these mar- determination to the test. The difficult races that I did in my life. leaders, having run a best lap of last driver moved us up even to drive. It is like driving on ice athon horses and their riders demands of endurance races are It was not easy. To make the 5min 55.655sec. further to 12th overall and third or snow – very slippery and have come at the peak of the intense and tactical, but the strategy beforehand with the At this point, the overall in the category. tricky. international endurance horse welfare of the riders and the team, you could really feel the leaders were Guyette, Mercier “Our two cars finished “I thank my sponsor racing season. horses are always paramount at teamwork in this race, especially and Fourmaux in a Can-Am second and third in the category, Ooredoo, all the people who Leading horses and riders of all times. with everyone pushing for a Maverick entered in the SSV cat- It was a fantastic result. It was support me and MMP for the good result.” egory. The leaders in the T1A cat- the first time for me to have this really good and enjoyable A rider from the As morning broke yesterday, egory were the third-placed kind of experience. I am thinking experience. Endurance Department of Al Shaqab, taking part the prestigious Endurance Equestre PSG Academy Qatar begins new season Monpazier event in France.

THE PENINSULA former player of the club was training center developed by the There are no less than 650 DOHA also on hand to attend this event Supreme Committee for Delivery registered in all sites, with and to offer his valuable advice and Legacy, in the context of the training open to children Paris Saint-Germain Academy to all these young football upcoming World Cup. between the ages of 4 and 16, Qatar kicked off the 2019-2020 enthusiasts. The Academy will be present girls and boys. To promote the season at Qatar Foundation on The PSG Academy continues this season on two major sites, spirit of Paris Saint-Germain as Saturday. its expansion with the opening Qatar Foundation and Onaiza an omnisportclub, and offer new More than 300 players and on September 29 of a second site but also within the Lycée Vol- experiences to all its fans, a their families responded to this in the heart of Doha (Al-Wahda taire with the implementation of handball program was launched fabulous invitation. Didier Domi, - Onaiza) one of the newest an After-School program. at the beginning of September. MONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 2019 SPORT 11 England win fifth Test to square series AFP LONDON SCOREBOARD England (I innings) ...... 294 Australia (II innings) England crushed Australia by 135 Australia (I innings) ...... 225 MHarris b Broad ...... 9 runs in the fifth and final Ashes England (II innings) DWarner c Burns b Broad ...... 11 Test yesterday to level the series RBurns c Paine b Lyon ...... 20 MLabuschagne st Bairstow b Leach ...... 14 at 2-2, ending their historic JDenly c Smith b Siddle ...... 94 SSmith c Stokes b Broad ...... 23 World Cup-winning season on a JRoot c Smith b Lyon ...... 21 MWade st Bairstow b Root ...... 117 high. BStokes b Lyon ...... 67 MMarsh c Buttler b Root ...... 24 Victory for the home side JBairstow c Smith b Marsh ...... 14 TPaine lbw b Leach ...... 21 means the Ashes ends in a draw JButtler c Labuschagne b Siddle ...... 47 PCummins c Bairstow b Broad ...... 9 for the first time since 1972, Australia SCurran c Paine b Cummins ...... 17 PSiddle () ...... 13 although holders Australia retain players CWoakes c Smith b Marsh ...... 6 NLyon c Root b Leach ...... 1 the urn. celebrate JArcher c Paine b Cummins ...... 3 JHazlewood c Root b Leach ...... 0 The tourists, chasing an JLeach c Hazlewood b Lyon ...... 9 Extras (NB2, B2, LB12, PEN 5) ...... 21 unlikely 399 to win in a shade with the Ashes trophy SBroad (not out)...... 12 Total (all out, 77 overs) ...... 263 under two days, were in trouble Extras (NB1, B7, LB11) ...... 19 Fall of : 1-18, 2-29, 3-56, 4-85, 5-148, early in their second innings and urn after Total (all out) ...... 329 6-200, 7-244, 8-260, 9-263, 10-263 when England paceman Stuart drawing the Fall of wickets: 1-54, 2-87, 3-214, 4-222, Bowling: Broad 15-1-62-4, Archer 16-2-66-0 Broad removed openers Marcus series to 5-249, 6-279, 7-305, 8-305, 9-317, 10-329 (1nb), Curran 8-3-22-0, Leach 22-8-49-4, Harris and David Warner cheaply. retain the While former captain Steve Ashes at the Bowling: Cummins 21-5-67-2, Hazlewood 19- Woakes 7-1-19-0 (1nb), Root 9-1-26-2 Smith was at the crease, Australia Oval, London, 5-57-0 (1nb), Lyon 24.3-5-69-4, Siddle 13-4-52- Match result: England won by 135 runs retained a faint hope sealing yesterday. 2, Marsh 11-1-40-2, Labuschagne 7-1-26-0 Series result: England 2 Australia 2 their first Ashes series win in England since 2001. But when Ben Stokes dived scored an astonishing 774 runs September sunshine, with Aus- eye-balling the Australian Nathan Lyon and Josh Broad and left-arm spinner to his left at leg slip to catch in just seven innings, was out for tralia in deep trouble at 85-4 in batsman in an attempt to intim- Hazlewood went in successive Jack Leach both finished with Smith for 23, giving Broad his a score of less than fifty for the the post-lunch session. Matthew idate him. balls, meaning England finished four wickets. third of the innings, first time in the series. Wade offered brave resistance, England captain Joe Root their season on a high two Earlier, England added 16 England knew they had removed The Oval crowd gave him a scoring 117 as Jofra Archer finally got his man, luring him months after winning the runs to their overnight tally, with the biggest obstacle in their standing ovation as he walked cranked his speed up to 95 miles- forward as Jonny Bairstow one-day World Cup for the first Archer and Leach the last men victory charge. Smith, who back to the dressing room in the per-hour in the evening sunlight, whipped off the bails. time. out.

Nabi, Mujeeb SCOREBOARD Afghanistan Qatar Arc Trials huge success in Paris shine in record Rahmanullah Gurbaz b Saifuddin ...... 0 Hazratullah Zazai c Liton b Shakib...... 1 THE PENINSULA Najeeb Tarakai c Sabbir b Saifuddin ...... 11 DOHA Afghan victory c Sabbir b Saifuddin ...... 40 Najibullah Zadranc Soumya b Shakib ...... 5 AFP (not out) ...... 84 The Qatar Arc Trials day took DHAKA b Saifuddin ...... 0 place at ParisLongchamp Karim Janat (not out) ...... 5 yesterday, with the hopefuls for Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb Extras (B8, LB2, W6, NB2) ...... 18 the biggest races on the weekend Total (six wickets, 20 overs) ...... 164 Ur Rahman starred respec- Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-10 , 3-19, 4-40, 5-119, of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de tively with bat and ball as 6-121 Triomphe lining up three weeks Afghanistan thrashed Bang- Bowling: Saifuddin 4-0-33-4 (w1, nb1), Shakib before the main event for their ladesh by 25 runs in their 4-1-18-2 (w1), Mustafizur 4-0-25-0 (w2), Taijul final preparation. second match of the tri-nation 4-0-32-0 (nb1), Soumya 2-0-31-0 (w2), Mosaddek Nadia Ahmed Al Sheebi, tour- 1-0-12-0, Mahmudullah 1-0-3-0 Chargée D’affaires at the Qatar nament in Dhaka yesterday. Bangladesh Embassy in Paris was present Liton Das c Tarakai b Mujeeb ...... 0 Nabi hit an unbeaten 84 off Mushfiqur Rahim b Fareed ...... 5 and presented the trophies to the 54 balls under pressure to c Rashid b Mujeeb ...... 15 winners of the two main races guide Afghanistan to 164-6 Mahmudullah c Tarakai b Naib ...... 44 of the day, namely, the An action from the Qatar Arc Trials day at ParisLongchamp yesterday. before Mujeeb claimed a career Soumya Sarkar lb b Mujeeb ...... 0 - Prix Dragon (Gr 1 PA) and the best 4-15 to help his side Sabbir Rahman c Naib b Mujeeb ...... 24 G1 Qatar Prix Vermeille. dismiss Bangladesh for 139 in Afif Hossain c Najibullah b Naib ...... 16 One month on from his won by 2 lengths in front of Way win in the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de filly, who was coming here off a 19.5 overs for their world Mosaddek Hossain b Rashid ...... 12 success in the Doha Cup (Gr1 PA), To Paris, with Japanese raider Triomphe in October. Listed win in Deauville in August, Mohammad Saifuddin c Rashid ...... 2 record 12 successive Twenty20 at Deauville, Akoya was victo- Kiseki a somewhat disappointing The Qatar Prix Niel (Gr2), the is owned and bred by Bearstone Taijul Islam (not out) ...... 0 international win. Mustafizur Rahman c Sub b Fareed ...... 15 rious in the Qatar Cup - Prix third. Waldgeist will be running final 2,400m trial for the Qatar Stud and trained by Kevin Ryan. Mujeeb took three wickets Extras (LB3, W2, NB 1) ...... 6 Dragon (Gr1 PA), yesterday at next for the second time in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe of the She won by a short head in front in his opening spell to reduce Total (all out) ...... 139 ParisLongchamp, on Qatar Arc Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe day, was highly anticipated as the of Shades Of Blue, who is also the home side to 32 for four Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-11, 3-31, 4-32, 5-90, 6-95, Trials day. back at ParisLongchamp in three 3-year-old Sottsass was making trained in England, by Clive Cox. before Mahmudullah and 7-115, 8-120, 9-124, 10-139 Trained by Karin Van Den weeks’ time, in which he finished his first racecourse appearance Glass Slippers sat towards the Sabbir Rahman put a little Bowling: Mujeeb 4-0-15-4, Fareed 2.5-0-33-2, Bos, the 5-year-old horse went a very honorable fourth in 2018. since winning the Qipco Prix du rear, before being produced wide resistance with 58 runs for the Karim 3-0-27-0 (nb1), Nabi 2-0-11-0 (w1), Rashid from pillar to post, never The Group 1 Qatar Prix Ver- Jockey Club in June. by jockey Tom Eaves and passing 4-0-23-2, Naib 4-0-27-2 (w1) fifth wicket.Gulbadin Naib Result: Afghanistan win by 25 runs threatened by second-place fin- meille, for 3-year-old and older Despite being blocked in on out the field decisively to hit the broke the partnership by Man of the match: Mohammad Nabi isher Al Shamoos. Akoya was fillies only, also takes place over the rail until a furlong out from line in front. removing Mahmudullah. running for the first time at the same course and distance as the winning post, Sottsass Final Group race of the day, ParisLongchamp three weeks the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de showed that he has the class to the Qatar Prix du Pin (Gr3) was prior to his main objective, the Triomphe. be a real threat over this distance won by the starting favourite, Qatar Arabian World Cup, in An objective in its own right, with an exceptional turn of foot City Light. This consistent Rain washes out first which he will be facing a much this highly competitive race was to win by a length and a quarter 5-year-old horse was winning tougher field. won by Star Catcher. She was in front of Mutamakina, the only his second Group race, having The Qatar Prix Foy (Gr2), for ridden by Frankie Dettori, who filly in the race. Racing in the placed multiple times at Group India-South Africa T20 4-year-olds and up over the was also taking his 16th Group 1 colours of Peter Brant’s White level for owner Jean-Louis Bou- 2,400m of ParisLongchamp, was win of the year and is trained by Birch Farm, the colt confirmed chard. He jumped well and was AFP without a ball being bowled in won for the second year running John Gosden for the colours of that he is the leader of his gen- settled mid-division by jockey DHARAMSALA, INDIA Dharamsala yesterday. The pitch by Waldgeist, in the colours of Anthony Oppenheimer, who eration in France. Christophe Soumillon. Once in and the square at the start of the Gestüt Ammerland who own him tasted Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Tri- A 5-furlong sprint down the the straight, he eased up to join Rain and a damp outfield forced three-match series remained in partnership with Newsells omphe success in 2015 with straight at ParisLongchamp, the the leaders and was very the abandonment of the first covered throughout, with rain Park Stud. Golden Horn. John Gosden is of Qatar Prix du Petit Couvert (Gr3), impressive to win with plenty in Twenty20 international lashing the sleepy hill station in This son of the great Galileo, course the trainer of Enable, who was won by the British-trained hand by a length and a half from between India and South Africa the Himalayan foothills. who is trained by André Fabre, will be aiming for a third historic Glass Slippers. This 3-year-old Grainges in second. Arsenal blow two-goal lead at lowly Watford English Premier League AFP their own box for Tom Cleverley opening five games to the cam- LONDON Results yesterday: to pull a goal back before David paign and were opened up far Bournemouth 3 (Wilson 23, 72, Fraser 67) Luiz upended Roberto Pereyra, too easily to allow Aubameyang Everton 1 (Calvert-Lewin 44); Watford Quique Sanchez Flores enjoyed who slotted home the resulting to open the scoring on 21 2 (Cleverley 53, Pereyra 81-pen) arsenal a happy return to Watford as penalty. minutes. 2 (Aubameyang 21, 32) Arsenal blew a 2-0 lead at A point sees Arsenal only The home fans were Played on Saturday Vicarage Road to draw 2-2 move level with Manchester screaming for a foul as Dani Norwich 3 (McLean 18, Cantwell 28, yesterday. United, Tottenham, Chelsea and Ceballos won back possession, Pukki 50) Manchester City 2 (Aguero Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Leicester behind Liverpool and but Watford were slow to 45, Rodri 88); Liverpool 3 (Mane 28, looked to have the Gunners well Manchester City in the early react as Kolasinac burst down on course for a comfortable three season battle for a top-four the left and fed Aubameyang, 40, Salah 72) Newcastle 1 (Willems points when he struck twice in finish. who spun and fired low past 7); Brighton 1 (Maupay 51) Burnley 1 11 minutes before the break. However, it is Watford who Ben Foster. (Hendrick 90+1); Manchester United 1 Arsenal midfielder Nicolas Pepe (left) vies with Watford However, Sanchez Flores, will feel they should even have Ozil was involved as a (Rashford 8-pen) Leicester 0; Sheffield defender Craig Dawson during the English Premier who was appointed as Hornets’ gone onto win the game as patient build-up from the vis- United 0 Southampton 1 (Djenepo 66); boss for the second time last Arsenal boss Unai Emery’s ina- League match at Vicarage Road Stadium in Watford, itors doubled their lead on 32 Tottenham 4 (Son 10, 23, van Aanholt week after one point from their bility to find a balance between north of London, yesterday. minutes. 21-og, Lamela 42) Crystal Palace 0; opening four games of the season his brilliant attack and shoddy At the end of a 20-pass Wolves 2 (Abraham 69-og, Cutrone saw Javi Gracia sacked, roused defence continued. move, Ozil freed Ainsley 85) v Chelsea 5 (Tomori 31, Abraham the hosts for an impressive Emery recalled Mesut Ozil to Ozil initially struggled to fired horribly off-target with a Maitland-Niles in behind the 34, 41, 55, Mount 90+6) second-half fightback. his starting line-up for the first settle as Watford started the great chance from the edge of the Watford defence and the right- Today’s fixture (1900 GMT) Arsenal played a huge part time since he and Sead Kolasinac brighter with Cleverley’s rising area. back squared for Aubameyang Aston Villa vs West Ham in their own downfall too as they were the victims of a carjacking drive forcing Bernd Leno into a However, Watford have now to slot home his fifth goal in as gifted possesion away inside attack in July. fine save before Jose Holebas conceded 10 goals in their many games this season. SPORT

PAGE | 09 PAGE | 10 We can’t win World Champion all the time, Marc Marquez says City manager wins San Marino Guardiola MotoGP

Monday 16 September 2019 Doha ready for memorable IAAF Worlds: Dahlan

QNA Doha’s Khalifa International Qatari capital DOHA Stadium, the host venue for will host the 17th the IAAF World Athletics edition of the IAAF The Vice-President of the IAAF and World Athletics Championships 2019. Head of the Local Organizing Championships Committee (LOC) of 2019 World PIC: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH/ from September 27 Athletics Championships, Dahlan Al THE PENINSULA Hamad said that the city is ready to host to October 6. a memorable edition of the competition This will be the when it starts on September 27. first time the Dahlan, who inaugurated the vol- Middle-East will unteers’ tent at Khalifa International bebe hostinghosting the toptopp Stadium, said that the competition’s athleticsathletics event.event. volunteers reached 5000, adding that he was sure that their contribution will help make the major sporting event a success. It is worth noting that the Middle-East is hosting the Athletics Worlds for the first time ever. Al Hamad stressed that the expe- rience of volunteering will provide val- volunteers. He then invited fans in letes to compete at Khalifa Interna- serving our dear country,ountry, Qatar.Qatar. uable experience to the young volun- Qatar and all over the world to come tional Stadium. Ali Dari, a volunteerunteer for the World teers, saying that it was a true reflection and enjoy the different competitions Al Rumaihi stressed that the vol- Championship, saidaid hhee is ververyy happhappyy of the national cohesion among all throughout the event. unteers proved during the training pro- and proud to wworkork in the 20192019 members of society. He also said that Deputy director of the institutional grams that they have the excellence, Championships. the State of Qatar has always been support committee Kaltham Al Rumaihi patience, and readiness to take respon- He conveyed the honorhonor and lucky to be the home of such giving expressed her delight at the launch of sibility, despite the efforts made in the pride of his colleaguesagues volun-volun- young people. the volunteers’ tent. past period they showed team spirit and teering to serve ththee 2019 Dahlan concluded his remarks by She said that this great sporting cooperation to ensure the success of Worlds, adding thatthat the conveying his gratitude to the President event awaited by the world with all the the tournament. whole world is waitingiting forfor The Vice-President of the IAAF and Head of of the Olympic Committee, H E Sheikh excitement would turn the attention to She added that volunteering is a this prestigiousgious the Local Organizing Committee of 2019 World Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani to the Qatar as it hosts the world’s best ath- true translation of the passion for tournament. Athletics Championships, Dahlan Al Hamad.

Al Sadd players take part in a Al Rayyan, training session on the eve Al Duhail of their AFC Champions share points League (ACL) quarter-final second leg in round 3 match against THE PENINSULA Saudi Arabia’s DOHA Al Nassr which will be played in Al Duhail and Al Rayyan played out Doha today. an exciting 1-1 draw in round 3 of the PICTURE: TWITTER/ QNB Stars League (QSL) at the Al @ALSADDSC Janoub Stadium yesterday. Ahmed Yasser took Al Duhail ahead in the 66th minute, a lead neu- tralised by new recruit Franck Kom for Al Rayyan in the 75th minute. Al Duhail took their points tally to five and Al Rayyan three. Both teams thus maintained their unbeaten record. Al Sadd aim to bounce Al Duhail had beaten Qatar SC 2-1 and drawn 1-1 with Al Arabi, while Al Rayyan had drawn 2-2 with Umm Salal and goalless with Al Gharafa. Al Duhail were dominant in first- back against Al Nassr half play with 65 per cent possession (67 per cent in favour of Al Duhail at final whistle), but they could not THE PENINSULA the players about the impor- month’s Sheikh Jassim Cup tie Al Sadd cananan takee convert the opportunities. DOHA tance of winning, and I talked against Al Duhail. confidence fromfrom Al Duhail’s Paulo Edmilson, Ali in particular with captain Tae-Hee, 28, resumed their vastly superiorerior Afif and Almoez Ali all made Hernandez-coached Al Hassan Al Haydoos about our training well in advance and he history in the com-om- attempts at the rival goal. At the Sadd will be looking to ability to win the Asian Cham- will join the Wolves’ stellar petition, comparedaredd other end, Al Rayyan’s Abdelaziz overcome a one-goal deficit pions League like what the line-up in today’s crunch tie. to their visitors.s. Hazaa skied his shot over the when they host Saudi Arabian national team did in the Asian “Nam is ready for the game The Qatarisris bar. counterparts Al Nassr in the Cup 2019. I am confident of the and will be on the list of have reached thehe Al Duhail kept attacking and second leg of the AFC Cham- players and very eager for this favourites,” Xavi said knock-out stagesess Ahmed Yasser provided them pions League (ACL) quarter- match, and we hope to succeed yesterday. on five occasionsns with the winner in the 66th final today. in it and qualify for the semi- South Korean star Jung and remain thee minute when he headed in a free- The 2011 champions of the finals,” the former Al Sadd Wooyoung and Algeriaan goal last West Asiann kick by Ali Afif into the top right continental tournament, Al captain said. machine side to lift thee corner of the net, leaving goal- Sadd will seek nothing less than “We will be facing a dif- are also back after international trophy. keeper Fahd Younis rooted at the a 1-0 win, having lost the first ficult match against Al Nasr. We duties and they will also lift The Qatariri goal. leg by a 2-1 margin in Riyadh know them very well and Xavi’s hopes in today’s match. side qualified fforor Not long after, Al Rayyan 10 days ago. accept the difficulties ahead, Captain Al Haydos did not the quarter-finalsinals equalised, Cameroonian Kom banging The Saudi team has never but I am optimistic that we will look troubled by Al Nassr’s goal by defeating AAll DuhailDuhaill home a rebound from distance off made it to the semi-final stage play our best game as we also advantage. 4-2 on aggregategate whilewhile goalkeeper Amine Lecomte after he and Xavi’s men will be looking have the advantage of playing “We have the opportunity Al Nassr put itt past thee punched away a shot from Abdelaziz to dent their hopes at the Jassim at home in front of our fans. So to compensate and qualify,” Al UAE’s Al Wahdada 4-3 on Hatem, who joined Al Rayyan from Bin Hamad Stadium this we will defend our chances of Haydos said during the pre- aggregate in Round ofof Al Gharafa this season. afternoon. qualifying for the next stage,” match press conference yes- 16. At the end of the third round, Al “We are delighted to be at the Barcelona legend said. terday, said that today’s match Al Sadd reachedached the Arabi are at the top of the standings this stage in the AFC Cham- “We started the season very will be a new challenge. Round of 166 afterafter with two wins and one draw. pions League and we are ready well and I am happy with the After failing to make it past topping Group D witwithh Defending champions Al Sadd who for the match,” Xavi said at the level that the team offers,” Xavi the play-offs for two consec- 10 points andd the are occupying the third spot, will meet press conference yesterday. said. utive years, Al Sadd put on a Saudi side ppro-ro- Al Sailiya in their third round fixture “My goal is to win the AFC Al Sadd will welcome back solid performance in the 2018 gressed to thethee on September 24. The match was post- Champions League,” Xavi said. their star south Korean mid- AFC Champions League, going knockout stagee byby poned due to the latter’s AFC Cham- “I came to Qatar to win the fielder Nam Tae-hee, who was as far as the semi-finals before becoming runners-ers- pions League second-leg quarter-final championships with Al Sadd as recovering from an injury losing to eventual runners-up up in Group A, aalsolso Xavi Hernandez against Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr which a player and coach. I talked to which he sustained during last Persepolis. A with 10 points. takes place in Doha today.