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Friday, September 21, 2018 FOOTBALL Moharram 11, 1440 AH Mourinho upbeat as GULF TIMES Pogba points way for United in Europe SPORT Page 7 ASIAN TEAM SNOOKER CHAMPIONSHIP China on a roll; two Pakistan teams in semis By Sports Reporter 76-point break, before Junxu won March this year, made it to the 3-2 in yesterday’s quarters. eventually the title, the two have Doha the second frame 74-1. semi-fi nal stage nonetheless Cheung, 19, gave Hong Kong to take on China’s Yize and Junxu Patience paid off as the hosts with a 3-0 sweep of Thailand in the lead taking the fi rst frame in today’s semis. duo managed to stay in the game the quarters. against Ali, before Bilal restored Yesterday, Ehsan Heydari espite a resolute per- in the doubles frame with a close Chandra held off Passakorn Su- parity beating Fung. The Paki- Nezhad gave Iran a blockbuster formance in the doubles 64-43 win. wannawat in the fi rst frame, be- stani duo then took the lead with start in the quarter-fi nal with frame, the campaign of In the fourth, even as al- fore a 64-point break by Advani a doubles frame victory before breaks of 48 and 51, blanking Qatar 1’s Ahmed Saif Obaidli pushed Yize, the latter took the second frame away from Cheung forced a decider with a Masih 104-0. andD Ali al-Obaidli came to a halt eventually sealed a 57-43 win for Thanawat Tirapongpaiboon. win over Bilal. However, Asif restored parity at the quarter-fi nals stage of the a spot in the semis. Advani’s 99-point break in the Ali stayed calm against the beating Amir Sarkhosh 72-24. In Asian Team Snooker Champion- Yize-Junxu combine have doubles frame gave the Thai duo more experienced Fung to take a nerve-racking doubles frame, ship yesterday. dropped just three frames from no chance to stay in the game. his team into the semis. Nezhad and Sarkhosh eked out a The Qatari duo were up against their four matches so far, includ- Both the teams from Pakistan Pakistan 1’s Mohamed Asif and 69-59 win. the unbeaten Chinese teenaged ing a 3-0 sweep of India 1, com- made it to the last-four stage, Babar Masih would be hoping Pushed to the corner, both team of Wu Yize, 14, and Pang prising Pankaj Advani and Man- with Pakistan 2’s Mohamed Ma- to make amends from the IBSF- Asif and Masih came away with Junxu, 18, for a spot in the last an Chandra, in the group stages jid Ali and Mohamed Bilal set to ACBS World Team Snooker Cup close wins in their reverse singles four at the Qatar Billiards and on Wednesday. play the Indians in semis today six months ago, having fi nished frames to make it to the semis. Snooker Federation Hall. The experienced Indian team, afternoon. runner-up in the March 2018 The semi-fi nals will be played Yize took the fi rst frame against who had won the IBSF-ACBS They beat Hong Kong’s Che- tournament. today at 1:30pm, before the fi nal China’s Wu Yize in action during the Asian Team Snooker Championship Saif 107-6 after putting together a World Team Snooker Cup in ung Ka Wai and Fung Kwok Wai However, to reach the fi nal and at 5:30pm. quarter-final against Qatar 1 yesterday. PICTURE: Nasar T K

FOCUS CRICKET Birthday boy Rashid stars as Afghanistan Russian athletes upset Bangladesh Scorecard AFGHANISTAN M. Shahzad c Hider b Shakib 37 to return as WADA I. Janat c Mithun b Hider 8 R. Shah b Hider 10 H. Shahidi c Das b Hossain 58 A. Afghan c and b Shakib 8 S. Shinwari b Shakib 18 M. Nabi lbw b Shakib 10 lift s doping ban G. Naib not out 42 R. Khan not out 57 WADA would be given access to former Moscow laboratory data and samples Extras (b 5, nb 1, w 1) 7 Total (for 7 wkts; 50 overs) 255 AFP ti-doping agencies around the Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Janat), Victoria, Seychelles world, who have accused WADA AFP 2-28 (Shah), 3-79 (Shahzad), of caving in to pressure from the Abu Dhabi 4-101 (Afghan), 5-139 (Shen- International Olympic Commit- wari), 6-150 (Shahidi), 7-160 he World Anti-Doping tee. (Nabi) Agency (WADA) yester- Leading athletes signed a joint alented spinner Rashid day lifted a ban on Rus- letter this week against the plan Khan celebrated his Bowling: R. Hossain 6-1-32-1, sia’s anti-doping agen- to reinstate Russia saying WADA 20th birthday by scoring Hider 9-1-50-2 (1w), Hasan Tcy, paving the way for Russian “owe it to all clean athletes to be a half century and taking 8-0-21-0, Mortaza 8-0-67-0 athletes to return to competition the guardians of clean sport”. Ttwo wickets as Afghanistan up- (1nb), Shakib 10-1-42-4, M. Hos- across all sports. Jim Walden, the lawyer of set Bangladesh by 136 runs in the sain 4-0-18-0, Haque 3-0-15-0, “Today, the great majority of Russian doping whistleblower Asia Cup yesterday. Riyad 2-0-5-0 WADA’s Executive Committee Grigory Rodchenkov, led the Rashid scored a rapid unbeat- decided to reinstate RUSADA as fi rst wave of outcries at yester- en 32-ball 57 with eight fours and BANGLADESH compliant with the World Anti- day’s decision. a six to lift Afghanistan to an im- L. Das lbw b Alam 6 Doping Code subject to strict “WADA’s decision to reinstate posing 255-7 after their captain conditions,” WADA president Russia represents the greatest Asghar Afghan won the toss and N. Hossain c Alam b Mujeeb 7 Craig Reedie said. treachery against clean athletes decided to bat at Sheikh Zayed Shakib lbw b Rashid 32 Reedie said the decision “pro- in Olympic history,” said Wal- Stadium. M. Haque c Shahzad b Naib 9 vides a clear timeline by which den, whose client lifted the lid Rashid, who fi nished with WADA must be given access to on Russia’s doping scandal in 2-13 in nine overs and eff ected M. Mithun b Naib 2 the former Moscow laboratory 2015. a run out, claimed the prized M. Riyad b Rashid 27 data and samples”. wickets of Shakib Al Hasan (32) M. Hossain not out 26 He said that if the commit- and Mahmudullah Riyad (27) as In its landmark M. Hasan c Shahidi b Shah 4 ment was not met, WADA would meeting today, WADA Bangladesh were bundled out for reinstate the ban on the Russian sent one clear message 119 in 42.1 overs. M. Mortaza c Alam b Nabi 0 anti-doping agency. to the world: we put the It was Afghanistan’s second A. Hider run out 1 The decision was taken at a ‘ upset in the tournament fol- wishes of a small handful R. Hossain b Mujeeb 0 meeting of WADA’s Executive of sports administrators lowing their 91-run win over Sri Committee in Victoria, capital A journalist films the sign on the RUSADA (Russia’s anti-doping agency) building in Moscow yesterday. (AFP) above the rights of millions Lanka which sent the islanders Extras (w5) 5 of the Indian Ocean island of of clean athletes and the crashing out in the fi rst round. Total (all out; 42.1 overs) 119 Seychelles. letes and the dreams of billions dreams of billions of sports Afghanistan next take on Paki- Fall of wickets: 1-15 (N. Hos- The Russian government ap- of sports fans,” USADA CEO fans stan in the double-header Super sain), 2-17 (Das), 3-39 (Haque), plauded the decision to lift RU- Travis T Tygart said in a state- — Travis T Tygart, Four game in Abu Dhabi on Fri- 4-43 (Mithun), 5-79 (Shakib), SADA’s three-year suspension, ment. day while title holders India meet USADA CEO 6-90 (Riyad), 7-100 (Hasan), saying it was the result of “enor- WADA suspended RUSADA in Bangladesh in Dubai. 8-110 (Mortaza), 9-119 (Hider), mous work” by Russian authori- November 2015 after declaring it Afghanistan rocked the Bang- 10-119 (R. Hossain) ties to improve their procedures. to be non-compliant following RUSADA’s reinstatement ladesh top four for just 43 runs “We welcome WADA’s deci- revelations of a vast Russian- could have far-reaching impli- before Shakib and Riyad added Bowling: Alam 5-1-11-1 (3w) sion,” Deputy Prime Minister backed scheme to avoid drug cations across the sports world. 36 but they were not spared by Mujeeb 8.1-1-22-2, Naib 6-0-30- Olga Golodets was quoted by testers. Most significantly, it re- Rashid, who became the fastest 2, Nabi 10-1-24-1 (w2), Shinwari Russian news agencies as saying. A WADA report by Canadian moves a key obstacle to lifting bowler to 100 one-day wickets in 2-0-12-0, Khan 9-3-13-2, Shah “Russia confi rms its adher- lawyer Richard McLaren ac- the suspension of Russia by the 44 games earlier this year. 2-1-7-1 ence to the principles of clean cused Russian authorities of International Association of This was Bangladesh’s low- RESULT: Afghanistan won by sports competition,” she said. running an elaborate doping Athletics Federations (IAAF), est total against Afghanistan by 136 runs “Over the past years Russia has programme with the full sup- track and field’s global govern- some distance — their previous done enormous work to create port of the Russian Ministry of ing body. lowest against the Afghans was transparent and understandable Sport and the Russian secret The IAAF has taken a hardline 208 in Dhaka two years ago. Shakib who fi nished with 4-42 measures to prevent doping.” service (FSB). stance on Russian athletes since The whole Bangladesh innings in his ten overs. She said those measures in- WADA president Craig Reedie. WADA announced last week the scandal emerged, refusing to had just fi ve boundaries — two Rashid used the long handle to cluded criminal prosecution for that it had received an internal lift its ban shortly before the Eu- by Riyad and three by Mosaddek the best eff ect, taking Afghani- those who force someone to take USADA called the decision to day, WADA sent one clear mes- recommendation to lift the sus- ropean Championships. Hossain (26 not out). stan past the 250-mark, adding banned substances. reinstate the Russian anti-dop- sage to the world: we put the pension of RUSADA. The IAAF will review Rus- Earlier, Hashmatullah Shahidi 90 for an unbroken eighth wick- ing body “a devastating blow to wishes of a small handful of The softening of WADA’s sia’s status once more at its hit a 92-ball 58 with three fours et stand with Gulbadin Naib who ‘DEVASTATING BLOW’ the world’s clean athletes”. sports administrators above the stance has triggered outrage council meeting in Monaco in to revive Afghanistan after they made a 42 off 38 balls with fi ve But the US anti-doping body “In its landmark meeting to- rights of millions of clean ath- from athletes and national an- December. were jolted by left-arm spinner boundaries. Gulf Times 2 Friday, September 21, 2018 SPORT

CRICKET TENNIS Giorgi upstages Scandal-hit Aussies defending champ Wozniacki in Tokyo

Reuters Azarenka dominated from Tokyo the baseline and picked her mo- ments to come to the net to beat vow ‘hard but fair’ the Australian. talian Camila Giorgi once Azarenka, who is working her again frustrated Caroline way back up the rankings after Wozniacki on a hard court a prolonged custody battle over as she beat the defending her son, said she was pleased Ichampion 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 to reach with how she controlled the the quarter-fi nals of the Pan Pa- match. series vs Pakistan cifi c Open in Tokyo yesterday. “I think I played a lot better Giorgi has now beaten the Aus- than in the fi rst round,” she said. tralian Open champion in each of “I felt I really controlled today Squad jetted out for their first Test series since the ill-fated tour of South Africa their three hardcourt meetings and found the court really well. and will next face former world “Obviously it’s been a while AFP Paine is expecting a demand- number one Victoria Azarenka since I’ve played, I’m just trying Sydney ing tour played in temperatures for a place in the last four. to look day by day and see what likely to hit 40 Celsius (104 Wozniacki is one of the best happens. But I’m defi nitely en- Fahrenheit). defensive players on the women’s joying my time on court these kipper Tim Paine vowed “We are going to have to play tour but the Dane had no answer days.” Australia will play “hard really hard, tough cricket par- to Giorgi’s power and accuracy Czech eighth seed Barbora but fair” against Paki- ticularly from the batting side,” from the baseline, and the Italian Strycova fought off Estonian An- stan as they embark on he said. sent down 45 winners to wrap up ett Kontaveit 7-5(5) 3-6 7-5 in a theirS fi rst Test tour since a ball- “And then in the heat over the contest. see-saw battle that lasted just tampering scandal and with there, it’s the same for our After tamely surrendering the over three hours and will face US fresh controversy raging fol- bowlers; it’s going to be about fi rst set, Wozniacki roared back Open champion Naomi Osaka for lowing allegations by England’s patience, trying to wear them to claim the second and go a a place in the semi-fi nals. Moeen Ali. down and being in a position late break up in the decider but Giorgi Elsewhere, unseeded Croatian The squad jetted out late in the game where we can make could not be denied. Donna Vekic, who shocked fi fth Wednesday for their fi rst Test a move.” The Italian began fi nding the seed Sloane Stephens in the fi rst series since the ill-fated tour lines again to break back, and round, beat Briton Johanna Kon- of South Africa early this year, There’s always a lot of claimed six of the last eight ta 6-3 7-5 to set up a quarter- which led to 12-month suspen- eyes on the Australian games as she stormed to victory. fi nal with French second seed sions for Steve Smith and David cricket team wherever “It was a very good match,” a Caroline Garcia. Warner and an outpouring of we play, so that will be poker-faced Giorgi said in an on- Konta started poorly, but found public anger. ‘ court interview. “This is a nice her feet briefl y in the second set, no diff erent, and this team Australia have five uncapped is clear on what’s expected court and (today) was very fun.” breaking twice to race into a 4-1 players in their squad for a tour and our standards, and Belarusian wildcard Azarenka lead before imploding with a fl urry in which they plan to adopt a we’ll uphold them. eased past seventh seed Ashleigh of unforced errors that allowed more respectful culture and — Tim Paine, Barty 6-4 6-2. Vekic back into the match. move away from the win-at- Australia captain all-costs mentality blamed for the explosive ball-tampering row. Matt Renshaw, who was “The Australian way has al- dumped ahead of the Ashes late ways been to play hard and fair last year, is likely to open along and that’ll be no diff erent this with Finch, who is an experi- series,” Paine told reporters be- enced one-day and Twenty20 fore departing for the United campaigner but has never Arab Emirates. played a Test. “There’s always a lot of eyes A slimmed-down Usman on the Australian cricket team Khawaja, who says he has lost wherever we play, so that will be shake-up and Darren Lehmann an unnamed opponent during croft missing, along with injured several kilos after stepping up no diff erent, and this team is re- was replaced as coach by Justin his Ashes debut against in Car- fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood his training regime, is expected ally clear on what’s expected and Langer, they open the two-Test diff . and Pat Cummins, it could be to come in a number three with our standards, and we’ll uphold series days after further off -fi eld Cricket Australia has a tough tour for Australia, who Shaun Marsh at four and poten- them.” problems emerged after Moeen launched an investigation, call- have one of their weakest squads tially Head at fi ve. Two reviews into the state of said in his autobiography that ing the comment “unaccept- in years. “We have spoken about part- the game were set up in the af- an Australian player called him able”. There are fi ve debutants — nerships and patience and pres- termath of South Africa — one “Osama” during the 2015 Ashes. Queensland trio Michael Neser, sure, which is going to be a real focusing on the culture within Moeen, a practising Muslim, ‘PARTNERSHIPS, PATIENCE, Brendan Doggett and Marnus key over there,” said Paine. Cricket Australia and the other said he was on the receiving end PRESSURE’ Labuschagne, South Australia’s The fi rst Test is in Dubai from into the team. of the slur, a reference to terror With Smith, Warner and fellow Travis Head and Victoria’s Aar- October 7 with the second in While the team has had a leader Osama bin Laden, from ball-tamperer Cameron Ban- on Finch. Abu Dhabi from October 16.

Injured Indian trio including Pandya out of Asia Cup Italy’s Camila Giorgi hits a return against Caroline Wozniacki (not AFP going to make me come back and the results showed that he in picture) of Denmark during their Pan Pacific Open second round New Delhi stronger!” Pandya tweeted had a tendon tear. He will be match in Tokyo yesterday. (AFP) yesterday. unavailable for the remainder Pandya will be replaced by of the series,” the Board of Con- hree Indian cricketers Deepak Chahar in the squad, trol for Cricket in India said. SPOTLIGHT including star all-rounder the Indian cricket board said in Siddhartha Kaul has been THardik Pandya were a news release. roped into the squad in place of yesterday ruled out of the Asia India, who beat Pakistan by right-arm pacer Shardul Thakur, Cup with injuries, dealing a eight wickets to top Group A, who is nursing soreness in his Shapovalov books blow to the side’s chances in take on Bangladesh in a Super hip and groin. the 50-over tournament. Four tie today. The Indians will Chahar, Jadeja and Kaul were Pandya, 24, was stretchered off play Pakistan again on Sunday. scheduled to join the team later last-eight spot in the ground after suff ering an Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who yesterday. acute lower back spasm during injured his left index finger while India are already without their the game against archrival Pa- fielding against Pakistan, will be charismatic skipper Virat Kohli St Petersburg kistan in Dubai on Wednesday. replaced by Ravindra Jadeja. who has been rested for the six- “All your love and support is “He (Patel) was sent for scans nation tournament. IANS Open semifi nal, conceded his St Petersburg, Russia service game once, while he seized on three out of eight break points he created. BOTTOMLINE ising Canadian tennis In their fi rst-ever meeting, both star Denis Shapoval- players held serve during the fi rst ov yesterday overcame set, forcing a tie break that the Ca- late resistance by Italy’s nadian player won 8-6. MatteoR Berrettini and then eased Berrettini made the most of to a 7-6 (6), 4-6, 6-0 victory in the lone break point he created the St Petersburg Open’s round- during the entire match to clinch Djokovic to provide fi re power of-16. the second set, drawing the Shapovalov, the seventh seed, match level at one set apiece. needed nearly two hours to pre- Shapovalov, however, eased vail over Berrettini, the 62nd- past Berrettini in the decider, ranked in the world, earning a winning six straight games to for Team Europe at Laver Cup place in the quarter-fi nals, one earn a place moving forward. of the ATP World Tour 250 se- In his fi rst tournament ap- AFP crown against Team World ful that the crowd is as involved ries tournaments, held on indoor pearance, Shapovalov is set to Chicago which will be captained by the or more than they were last hard courts, reports Efe. take on Slovakia’s Martin Klizan, legendary John McEnroe. year.” The 19-year-old Shapovalov, who defeated Italy’s Fabio Fogni- Federer, Djokovic, Alexander The inaugural tournament who reached the 2018 Madrid ni 6-3, 6-4. he second instalment of Zverev, Grigor Dimitrov, David took place in Prague in Septem- the Laver Cup comes at Goffi n and Kyle Edmund will ber which Team Europe won 15- just the right time for play for Team Europe. 9. 14-time Grand Slam “We’re here to defend our ti- The format calls for shorter Twinner Novak Djokovic who tle,” Borg said, “And we’re going matches. If the players split sets, is back in top form after winning to keep the cup in Europe.” they go straight to a 10-point the US Open. Jack Sock, Nick Kyrgios, tiebreaker. Djokovic is making his debut John Isner, Frances Tiafoe, The event marks a bit of a in this week’s three-day team Kevin Anderson and Diego homecoming for the South Afri- event which has been dubbed Schwartzman are representing can-born Anderson as the world the Ryder Cup of tennis al- Team World. No.9 spent two years at the Uni- though it lacks the tradition of McEnroe sees the partisan versity of Illinois. golf’s premier event. crowd as a key to Team World’s “My wife’s family is from just “I would like to play with success. 20 minutes north of here,” said (Djokovic),” said event founder “I’m very much looking for- Anderson. and Team Europe star Roger Fe- ward to coaching this team,” said Tiafoe was a late addition to derer. “I hope he feels the same McEnroe. Team World after Juan Martin way.” “We’re excited about get- del Potro pulled out following The exhibition event will take ting the home-court advantage, his stellar run to the fi nal of the place on US soil for the fi rst time hopefully, in Chicago, which is a US Open. this week when 12 of the world’s great sports town. I think we’re The event is named in honour top players square off against looking forward to showcasing of tennis legend Rod Laver, who each other in a three-day team day and pits a team of six of the the rest of the world. our talents this weekend. won a record 200 singles titles, event in Chicago. best ATP Tour players from Eu- Bjorn Borg’s favoured Team “We have four of the six core 11 Grand Slams and fi ve Davis The tournament begins Fri- rope against a six players from Europe will try to defend their guys from last year. We’re hope- Cups for Australia. Gulf Times Friday, September 21, 2018 3 SPORT

NFL Lions want wins, not reunions as Patriots visit Reuters diced up their secondary for four New York touchdown passes. Ravens seeking bounce-back against Broncos Staff ord is even more danger- ous when he’s on. Last season he The Baltimore Ravens have had plenty of time to across the country for its first road game. The att Patricia has was second in the NFL in deep think about their last game, and it probably didn’t good news is the Broncos will face a banged-up more to worry about passing, per Pro Football Fo- make anyone on the team smile. The Ravens (1-1) Baltimore defense. Defensive tackle Willie Henry than matching wits cus, but he’s 32nd through two followed up a Week 1 domination of Buff alo with (abdomen) was one of five players not to practice with his former boss. games. a relative dud in Cincinnati on Sept. 13. So while Wednesday and isn’t expected to play Sunday. MThe Detroit Lions must defeat “As good as there is in foot- the rest is nice, it gave the players and coaches Linebacker C.J. Mosely (knee) could be out for perennial powerhouse New Eng- ball,” Belichick said of Staff ord’s time to go over the mistakes in the 34-23 loss to a couple of weeks with a bone bruise. Baltimore land to avoid falling into an 0-3 ability to throw the deep ball. the Bengals. The focus has turned to the Denver signed linebacker Albert McClellan, who was hole and spending the rest of the “He’s got great weapons. He Broncos, Baltimore’s Week 3 opponent. The Ravens among the team’s final preseason cuts, to provide season trying to climb into the does an excellent job of seeing and Broncos have a rich history - Baltimore upset depth. Denver, on the other hand, is relatively playoff race. That’s more impor- down the fi eld in all situations. the Broncos in Denver in the 2012 Divisional Round healthy. Keenum didn’t practice Wednesday be- tant to Patricia, the team’s fi rst- No matter how much pressure on its way to winning the Super Bowl - but that cause of a sore knee, but coach Vance Joseph said year coach and former Patriots he’s under, he seems to fi nd guys won’t be on the mind of the players. What is on Keenum will definitely play Sunday. Cornerback defensive co-ordinator, than down there.” their mind is getting to 2-1 and forgetting about Adam Jones is still getting into playoff shape after scoring a personal victory over Tom Brady’s stats thus far look losing in Cincinnati. “Everything is tough,” coach signing just before the season, but the only serious Bill Belichick on Sunday night. just fi ne – fi ve TDs, one INT and John Harbaugh told reporters. “Guys make plays, injury is to tackle Jared Veldheer, who is in the “Look, it’s a game. This game a 67.6 percent completion rate – guys make mistakes, games go down to the wire, concussion protocol. Despite the long plane trip is going to be about the players,” but he couldn’t engineer a fi rst- somebody gets blown out that you don’t expect to to Baltimore, the Broncos aren’t planning on flying Patricia said. “It’s not about me, half touchdown drive against the get blown out. You just can’t beat yourself up too out until Saturday. “It’s all about mindset. We’re it’s not about (Pats off ensive co- Jaguars. much, because if you do, that just takes you to a not going to worry about how far we’re traveling, ordinator Josh McDaniels), it’s He could have a new weapon downward path.” what time the game starts - we don’t care,” Joseph not about Coach Belichick and I, 49ers but also overthrew his they do so well is they change at his disposal. The Patriots The Ravens haven’t had much of a rushing game said Wednesday. “It’s going to probably rain on it’s about us doing a good job of receivers on several plays that week in and week out, year in traded a fi fth-round choice to in the first two weeks. They are averaging just Sunday. We don’t care. Our attitude this year is, coaching our team.” could have gone for long touch- and year out,” he said. Cleveland for dynamic but trou- 91.5 yards a game on the ground, with no back ‘We don’t care about where we go or who we play So far, that hasn’t been the downs. Detroit’s pass rush was “They’re always going to play bled wideout Josh Gordon. having more than 48 rushing yards. The Broncos, or when we travel or where we travel.’ We’re just case. The Lions were embar- surprisingly effi cient with six to their strengths. The biggest New England will also try to meanwhile, have found a rhythm with their rookie going to go play.” Baltimore’s issues spilled off the rassed at home by the New York sacks but the 49ers racked up thing for me is not to give too get its running game going. Its backs - the undrafted Phillip Lindsay and and field when the NFl fined the team $200,000 on Jets in their season opener, then 190 rushing yards. much information to our play- ballcarriers are averaging 3.7 third-rounder Royce Freeman. Lindsay is the first Wednesday for improper use of headsets during lost 30-27 to San Francisco after Patricia’s knowledge of the ers where I kind of overdo it and yards per attempt and haven’t undrafted rookie ever to amass more than 100 the preseason. The fine is for violating the league’s trailing by 17 points in the fourth inner workings of New Eng- almost paralyse them in eff ect.” reached the end zone. scrimmage yards in each of his first two games, coach-to-player communications policy, accord- quarter. land’s system should be a bonus The Patriots (1-1) are coming Patricia’s background as the and Freeman has been the early-down back for ing to the NFl Network. The rule prohibits multiple Quarterback Matthew Staf- this week but he doesn’t want to off a 31-20 loss to Jacksonville Pats’ defensive co-ordinator quarterback Case Keenum. Denver is 2-0 after a players from being on the field at the same time ford passed for 347 yards and overemphasise it. in a rematch of the AFC cham- further complicates McDaniels’ last-second win over Oakland and has to travel with the communication devices. three touchdowns against the “With New England, the thing pionship game. Blake Bortles preparations.

BOXING GOLF World No 1 Rose to defend Heavyweight champ Indonesian Masters

Reuters Joshua says Wembley Jakarta orld number one Justin Rose will return to Royale Jakarta Golf Club in December to defend his Indo- nesian Masters title, the organisers Wsaid yesterday. The 38-year-old Englishman, who was return a ‘blessing’ crowned world number one when he fi nished second at the BMW Championship this month, ‘He is one of the lightest heavyweights but that means he has speed’ will feature in the season-ending Asian Tour event, which will be played over December 13- AFP 16. “My win last year was immensely satisfying London – it was the largest winning margin for me in a tournament,” said Rose, who won the 2017 event by eight shots. orld heavyweight cham- “I am excited to be returning to defend my ti- pion Anthony Joshua tle, especially so soon after topping the offi cial has described a return world golf ranking for the fi rst time... It is some- to London’s Wembley thing I am extraordinarily proud of. It is the stuff WStadium for the latest defence of his of boyhood dreams.” title belts in front of a home crowd Rose has won nine times on the PGA Tour, in- tomorrow as “a blessing”. cluding one major, the 2013 U.S. Open. The 28-year-old Londoner will He is also won Olympic gold at the 2016 put his World Boxing Association, Games in Rio. International Boxing Federation and The winner of this year’s $750,000 Indonesia World Boxing Organisation titles on Masters will also secure a place in the World Golf the line against Russia’s Alexander Championships-FedEx St. Jude Invitational Povetkin. “Coming back is a blessing held in July next year. – it’s time to put on a performance,” said Joshua at a Wembley news con- ference yesterday yesterday. BADMINTON The fi ght promises to be Josh- ua’s toughest bout since his thrill- ing stoppage of former champion Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley in Srikanth and April last year. Joshua comes into Saturday’s con- test having won all 21 of his profes- Sindhu enter sional bouts, although his last fi ght, against New Zealand’s Joseph Parker in Cardiff in March, saw him go the quarter-fi nals distance for the fi rst time as a pro be- fore he secured a unanimous points decision. Povetkin, 39, served notice at China Open of his punching power on the under- card of that bout, with a sickening IANS knockout of Britain’s David Price. Changzhou, China Joshua said he also respects Povetkin’s heart and speed, with Britain’s Anthony Joshua (left) poses with his challenger Russia’s Alexander Povetkin (right) during a joint press conference at Wembley stadium in London yesterday. (AFP) the only blemish on the Russian’s ndia’s singles shuttlers Kidambi Srikanth 35-fi ght record a 2013 points defeat and PV Sindhu entered the quarter-fi - by Klitschko. Skills and technique Manuel Charr fails drugs test nals while mixed doubles and men’s dou- apart, we both have a big heart and bles pairs bowed out of the $1mn China can dig deep,” said Joshua. “We both IOpen World Tour Super 1000 tournament yes- World heavyweight champion subsidiary. “I can only ask my fans hardcore doping. In boxers, the against Russia’s Alexander Ustinov showed that against Klitschko. Manuel Charr has had to call off and all the people in Cologne to emphasis is on increasing muscle and claimed to be Germany’s first terday. “The one who’s toughest will come next week’s title defence, and is set believe me and to trust that every- strength,” doping expert Fritz heavyweight champion since Max Srikanth defeated Suppanyu Avihingsanon out victorious. He is one of the light- to be stripped of his WBA belt, after thing will be cleared up. I’m totally Soergel told Bild. The ‘B’ sample Schmeling. It turned out to be a lie, of Thailand 21-12, 15-21, 24-22 in a marathon est heavyweights but that means he testing positive for steroids. The shocked by the news – I have never will now be tested, but if they also because the Beirut-born son of a match which lasted around an hour while Rio has speed. I spar cruiserweights like 33-year-old, who was born in Leba- taken anything.” contain the steroids then the future Syrian family does not own a Ger- Olympic silver medallist Sindhu edged past Lawrence Okolie, who is fast and non but lives in Germany, was due Charr is set to lose the World Box- looks bleak for Charr. “The fight is man passport. Charr’s failed drugs Thailand’s Busanan Ongbamrungphan 21-23, sharp. I work alongside people who to defend his title against American ing Association belt he won last shelved. In my opinion, the WBA will test is the latest twist in a colourful 21-13, 21-18 in another match. have the same strengths.” Fres Oquendo, 45, in Cologne on year, but Britain’s Anthony Joshua is take the belt off Manuel,” Thomas career. In September 2015, he was The seventh seeded Srikanth won the fi rst Povetkin, speaking through a September 29, but the fight is off the WBA ‘Super’ champion and will Puetz, President of the German left fighting for his life after being game comfortably but the Thai player levelled translator, said: “I think I am in very after Charr tested positive for two defend his title in London on Satur- Professional Boxers Federation shot in the stomach following an the match. good shape, I’ve had a good camp. anabolic steroids. day against Alexander Povetkin. (BDB), told SID. “Two substances altercation at a kebab restaurant in The decider could have gone either way but “AJ is one of the strongest in the “Under the circumstances, we Germany’s top selling daily Bild, were founds in one of Manuel’s Essen. He returned to the ring just Srikanth held his nerve to advance in the com- division, I’m happy to have this op- will unfortunately have to cancel Express and magazine Spiegel all samples taken at a training camp seven months later, bearing the petition with a 21-12, 15-21, 24-22 win. portunity and we will give the fans a the world title fight,” Charr told report Charr tested positive for on 31 August, which have been scars of the attack on his abdo- In mixed doubles category, Satwiksairaj good fi ght. The fi ght will show eve- Cologne-based newspaper Express the steroids epitrenbolone and on the banned list for some time.” men, but another setback followed Rankireddy and Ashwini Ponnappa bowed rything. Anthony is a very strong and his management confirmed the drostanolone. “These are both Charr won the vacant WBA belt last earlier last year when both hips had out of the meet, losing to Zheng Siwei and fi ghter but I am just as strong. When title defence was off to SID, an AFP anabolic steroids. That is absolute November with a unanimous win to be replaced. Huang Yaqiong of China 14-21, 11-21 in straight I fought Klitschko, I was much weak- games. er and in worse shape than I am now. “I just love to fi ght, love fi ght ing champions against each other, from the top level.” “We both know what we are in for, The second pair Pranaav Jerry Chopra and N “I never try to say anything ahead week. I’ve got my strength back, my Joshua having won gold at London A crowd of 80,000 is expected on it’s the same with every fi ght. Sikki Reddy lost 16-21, 10-21 to Mathias Chris- of time, you’ll see everything on body has been broken down and put 2012 and Povetkin at Athens 2004. Saturday but Joshua said the burden “Roll with the punches, what tiansen Christinna Pedersen of Denmark. fi ght night.” back like never before,” he added. Joshua’s trainer, Rob McCracken, of expectation remained the more can I do than give my best? I’ll It was end of roads for the men’s doubles pair “It’s time to put on a performance. was in no doubt of Povetkin’s class, same regardless of the size of the go out there and fi nd a way to win. of Manu Attri and B. Sumeeth Reddy as they ‘LOVE TO FIGHT’ “This is not new to me, this feels saying: “This is a fi ghter from a dif- crowd. “I know I have a lot of fi re in my lost their match to Chen Hung Ling and Wang Joshua said Povetkin was one of the like home,” he said ahead of a bout ferent level, with respect to Parker “There’s loads of pressure, tons belly, that’s just as important as Chi-Lin of Chinese Taipei 9-21, 10-21 to crash toughest challengers. that pits two former Olympic box- and (Carlos) Takam. Povetkin comes of pressure, it’s the reality,” he said. skills.” out. Gulf Times 4 Friday, September 21, 2018 RUGBY

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Wallabies seek Rugby pondering instant bounce ahead of ‘emerging’ nations long-term leap

Reuters trolled game that causes opposi- Wellington tion defences serious issues. The Wallabies’ inconsistency, however, is not the only dilemma hile the other Rug- confronting Cheika as he looks for WC: Beaumont by Championship further ahead to an opening coaches are already World Cup clash against Fiji in looking ahead to the Sapporo next September. World Rugby chairman predicts the 2019 World Cup to be the most competitive yet W2019 World Cup in Japan, Aus- He appears to have lost faith in tralia’s Michael Cheika is keep- fl yhalf Bernard Foley and has no AFP ing his focus fi rmly fi xed on the viable alternative to the 62-test Tokyo next two matches. cap veteran, with Kurtley Beale, The Wallabies head to South who took the pivotal role against Africa for a September 29 Port the Springboks and Pumas, bet- orld Rugby chairman Bill Elizabeth showdown in disarray, ter suited to inside centre. Beaumont signalled that having lost at home to Argentina The Wallabies are also strug- more “emerging” rugby na- for the fi rst time since 1983 and gling to fi nd a line-punching tions could be set to host the battling to avoid a wooden spoon centre with Tevita Kuridrani and WWorld Cup as the one-year countdown fi nish. Samu Kerevi both injured, while began yesterday to the 2019 edition in Ja- The 51-year-old’s side, who rampaging fullback Israel Folau pan, the fi rst outside the sport’s strong- have lost fi ve of seven tests this appears to be the only constant holds. year, face a daunting task against threat on attack. With exactly 12 months to go before the a buoyant Springboks side be- Cheika’s persistence in picking battle for the Webb Ellis trophy kicks off fore making a testing trip to Salta two openside fl ankers — captain in Tokyo, Beaumont also predicted one of to take on the Pumas, who are Michael Hooper and the world the most competitive and unpredictable showing a remarkable turna- class David Pocock — in his loose tournaments yet, tipping free-fl owing round under Mario Ledesma. forward trio may give him speed Fiji as a dark horse team to watch. The Pumas have already beat- and ball-poaching ability but a “World Rugby will have to have a phil- en the Springboks in Mendoza lack of bulk at the breakdown. osophical debate going forward” over and then pushed the All Blacks It also reduces the eff ective- where future World Cups should be held, before they upset the Wallabies ness of their lineout, which was Beaumont told reporters at an event to at Robina last Saturday, and are ruthlessly exposed by the All mark the year-to-go celebrations. playing an up-tempo and con- Blacks earlier in the season. “It’s important that we are commer- cially successful but we do need to have that debate whether the next World Cup following France (in 2023) will go to an emerging country or an established country that actually needs a bit of help as well,” he added. “Do you say to Argentina, do you say to Ireland, Canada, the USA, these are countries we’re going to because actu- ally strategically, that is going to make the biggest diff erence in that area?” Beaumont said the decision had been taken to award the World Cup to Japan — far from a traditional rugby stronghold — because of the “huge growth potential” in Asia. Asian rugby offi cials aim to get 1mn more people playing the game and they are nearly 90 percent of the way to achieving that, he said. “In fact, there are over 200,000 more rugby players here in Japan than there were two or three years ago, which is a huge achievement,” said the former Eng- England-based Le Roux, Louw to land captain. However, Brave Blossoms legend Ayu- miss Springboks Tests mu Goromaru told the Japan Times that he was “deeply irritated” by what he said AFP New Zealand. was a lack of progress in promoting the Johannesburg Louw, of Bath, a flanker who game since Japan famously beat South can also operate at number Africa in 2015. eight, started both Tests “The popularity has dropped too outh Africa full-back against Argentina and came quickly. I think that the situation is go- Willie le Roux and loose off the bench in Brisbane and ing back to what it was before the World Sforward Francois Louw Wellington. Cup (in 2015),” Goromaru was quoted as have returned to their English Another two England-based saying. clubs and will not be available Springboks, scrum-half Faf de for the last two rounds of the Klerk of the Sale Sharks and JAPAN FLOP ‘NOT CATASTROPHIC’ Rugby Championship. Franco Mostert of Gloucester, On the pitch, smaller rugby countries are World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont (foreground) and Japan head coach Jamie Joseph (background) pose for a photo next to the The Springboks, who have a will remain in South Africa for closing the gap with traditional giants Webb Ellis Cup during a kick-off event to mark a one-year countdown to the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Tokyo yesterday. (AFP) slim chance of winning the the rest of the Championship. New Zealand, Australia, France and the four-nation southern hemi- Injuries have ruled three local- home nations, and Beaumont predicted onship, losing to Argentina last week for mour, losing 36-34 last week to South to showcase our game.” sphere competition for the based backs, winger Makazole next year’s tournament would be very the fi rst time on home turf in 35 years. Africa. The World Cup kicks off on September first time, host Australia on Mapimpi and centres Lukhanyo tight. “Last World Cup they (Fiji) had a very “You are seeing England in a bit of a de- 20 next year with hosts Japan taking on September 29 and New Zea- Am and Damian de Allende, out He said that “none of the so-called tough group. This time, if they get their cline, what are they gong to be like? New Russia in Tokyo, hoping to emulate their land a week later. of the Tests against the Wal- fancied teams will want to play against act together, they could really get to the Zealand lose a game, everyone goes ‘wow’. heroic win over South Africa four years Le Roux returns to Wasps labies and the All Blacks. Fiji” who have twice upset the odds to quarter-fi nals or even go further,” said Argentina are coming back strongly. Ire- ago. after playing in the four previ- Coach Johan ‘Rassie’ Erasmus reach the quarter-fi nals in rugby’s show- World Rugby Vice-Chairman and former land and Wales look very strong. South “We like the host team to do well. But ous Championship matches has named a preliminary case event. Pumas captain Agustin Pichot. Africa look strong,” said Beaumont. it’s not catastrophic if they don’t,” said this season — a win and loss 17-man squad which will be Fiji kick off their campaign on Septem- Beaumont noted that the mighty All “The actual competition itself will be Beaumont, recalling how England’s pool- against Argentina, a defeat by expanded after three Currie ber 21 against Australia, who have en- Blacks, the World Cup winners in 2011 really good, really tight in all the games stage exit in 2015 “didn’t detract from Australia and a shock win over Cup fixtures this weekend. dured a torrid time in the Rugby Champi- and 2015, had shown a crack in their ar- and it should be an outstanding spectacle what was a fantastic tournament”.

BOTTOMLINE Cipriani axed from England training squad

AFP “That’s the case, 100 per cent. We’ve “It’s the fi rst time in the three years London decided just to have two stand-off s in I’ve been in England that Manu’s been the squad for this particular camp be- fi t,” Jones said. cause we want them to get a lot of train- “He’s put together a series of games ddie Jones says his deci- ing time,” Jones said. and we’re looking forward to him con- sion to axe Danny Cipriani “At the moment we’ve got Owen and tinuing on that run. He’s got the op- from England’s training squad George, who I believe are the fi rst two portunity to come in and show us what wasn’t infl uenced by the fl y- fl y-halves, and then comes Danny. he’s got.” half’sE off -fi eld problems. “Danny’s probably third or fourth Chris Ashton was included despite Cipriani was convicted of com- choice and he knows what he’s got to being midway through a seven-week mon assault and resisting arrest on a work on, which is between Danny and I. ban for a tip tackle made during Sale’s pre-season tour with Premiership club “He’s disappointed but he under- pre-season victory at Castres. Gloucester. stands. He’s desperate to play for Eng- Ashton has yet to make a competitive The 30-year-old was fi ned a total of land, which is terrifi c.” appearance for the Sharks following his £4,000 ($5,300) following the incident Manu Tuilagi makes his fi rst appear- move from Toulon, but Jones will take a outside a nightclub during Gloucester’s ance in an England squad in more than look at the rugby league convert before pre-season tour to Jersey in August. a year after overcoming a dreadful suc- naming his squad for the forthcoming He avoided a ban despite being found cession of injuries. internationals. guilty of conduct prejudicial to the Serious groin and knee problems “It’s a judgement. Selection is a game after England rugby chiefs decid- have prevented the destructive three- judgement, and my judgement is that ed not to impose any further sanctions quarter from making an international Ashton’s going to be important for us in over the incident. start since 2014, his last appearance November,” Jones said. Despite being England’s starting fl y- coming as a replacement against Wales England’s squad for the internation- half in their most recent game against But England boss Jones insists it two years ago. als will be announced on October 18 be- South Africa in June and producing an is form and not Cipriani’s indiscre- The 27-year-old has started all three fore a training camp in Portugal. excellent opening to the season at his tion that has shaped his thinking, with of Leicester’s games this season and The four-Test series features match- new club, Jones has left him out of the Owen Farrell and George Ford the two capped a fi ne performance against es against South Africa, New Zealand, England rugby coach Eddie Jones speaks to the media during a press conference 36-man squad. fl y-halves called up. Newcastle with a try. Japan and Australia. at Twickenham Stadium in London yesterday. (Reuters) Gulf Times Friday, September 21, 2018 5 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT LeBron teams with Coogler for Space Jam 2 AFP He made a well-received sup- Los Angeles porting turn in Amy Schumer’s Trainwreck (2015) and has a Timberwolves’ Butler requests trade, eyes Clippers voice role in Warner Brothers’ A week before the start of training camp, Minneso- Butler joined Minnesota in a trade with the Chicago wo months ago, basket- animated feature Smallfoot, ta Timberwolves guard Jimmy Butler reportedly Bulls in June 2017. He played in 59 games for the ball superstar LeBron which hits US theatres this week. has requested a trade, according to multiple media Timberwolves last season, averaging 22.2 points, James joined the Los He also produced the HBO sources on Wednesday. His favoured destination 5.3 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 2.0 steals per game. Angeles Lakers. Now, series The Shop, in which big is the Los Angeles Clippers, according to a report Butler is entering the fourth season of a five-year, The’s taking on Hollywood in a big names in the sports and enter- from ESPN later in the day. $92.3 million contract he signed with Chicago way. tainment worlds talked about The four-time All-Star informed coach Tom Thibod- in 2015, but he can enter the free agent market The long-awaited sequel to the big issues facing America in eau of his wishes on Tuesday, according to a report next summer by opting out of the final year. He is Space Jam - the 1996 live action- barbershops. earlier in the day from The Athletic. scheduled to earn a base salary of $18.7 million in animated fi lm starring NBA “The Space Jam collaboration The Athletic’s sources said that Butler, 29, gave the 2018-19, according to Spotrac. legends Michael Jordan, Larry is so much more than just me Timberwolves a list of teams he’d consider signing In July, Butler reportedly turned down Minnesota’s Bird, Charles Barkley and Patrick and the Looney Tunes getting with for the long term. An earlier report from ESPN four-year extension off er worth $110 million. Ewing - is fi nally moving for- together and doing this movie,” listed the Clippers, the Brooklyn Nets and the New A first-round draft pick in 2011, Butler was named ward. James told The Hollywood Re- York Knicks as place Butler would want to go, the NBA’s Most Improved Player in 2014-15. He has King James’s production com- porter. before the later report singling out the Clippers. made the All-NBA Third Team twice and the All- pany, SpringHill Entertainment, “It’s so much bigger. I’d just Butler’s interest in the Clippers is fuelled in part Defensive Second Team four times. on Wednesday tweeted an im- love for kids to understand how because Los Angeles will have two max contract age of a locker room featuring HBO’s quirky comedy Random ien villains who steal the talents empowered they can feel and slots available in July, ESPN reported, citing league the names of James, Black Pan- Acts of Flyness - is tapped to di- of other NBA icons. how empowered they can be if sources. The second vacancy could go to All-NBA ther director Ryan Coogler as rect the fi lm for Warner Broth- Space Jam 2 has long been ru- they don’t just give up on their forward Kawhi Leonard, who could be a free agent the producer and... Bugs Bunny ers. moured, but Wednesday’s tweet dreams. And I think Ryan did this summer after his trade from San Antonio to himself as point guard. The original fi lm featured the made it clear the project is a go. that for a lot of people.” Toronto two months ago. “I loved his vision” for Black Looney Tunes characters - Bugs, This is not the fi rst time that Space Jam earned more than Various rumours over the last year have suggested Panther, James said of Coogler to Daff y Duck and friends - who James, who signed with the Lak- $230 million at the box offi ce Butler would also be interested in teaming up with The Hollywood Reporter. recruit Jordan to help them win ers in July, has dipped his toe into worldwide. Boston Celtics guard Kyrie Irving, who also could Independent fi lmmaker Ter- a basketball game against the the acting world, but this would Black Panther has raked in be a free agent after this year. ence Nance - the creator of Monstars, a team of animated al- be his fi rst starring role. more than $1.3 billion.

MLB NBA Mavs’ Cuban to donate $10mn aft er probe into Kipnis’ walk-off workplace harassment

Reuters lion to organisations committed New York to supporting women’s leader- ship and development in sports and combating domestic vio- allas Mavericks owner lence.” slam lift s Indians Mark Cuban will do- The investigators spoke to 215 nate $10 million to current and former Mavericks women’s organisations employees who worked for the followingD a seven-month inves- team during the past two dec- tigation into sexual harassment ades and evaluated more than allegations within the organi- 1.6 million documents, includ- sation, the National Basket- ing emails. ball Association (NBA) said on “The fi ndings of the inde- over White Sox Wednesday. pendent investigation are dis- The investigation followed a turbing and heartbreaking and ‘Couldn’t draw it up much better than that one. That felt good’ Sports Illustrated report in Feb- no employee in the NBA, or ruary that described a culture in any workplace for that matter, the Mavericks’ front offi ce “rife should be subject to the type of with misogyny and predatory working environment described sexual behaviour”. in the report,” NBA Commis- The fi ndings of an independ- sioner Adam Silver said in a ent investigation, carried out statement. on behalf of the Mavericks by “We appreciate that Mark Cu- external law fi rms and overseen ban reacted swiftly, thoroughly by the NBA, were published on and transparently to the allega- Wednesday. The NBA issued a tions fi rst set forth in Sports Il- statement summarising the in- lustrated - including the imme- vestigation’s fi ndings, which diate hiring of Cynthia Marshall said that there was no wrongdo- as CEO to eff ect change, but as ing on Cuban’s part. Mark has acknowledged, he is It added, however, the inves- ultimately responsible for the tigation substantiated numerous culture and conduct of his em- instances of sexual harassment ployees.” and other improper workplace Marshall praised the employ- conduct within the Mavericks ees who had come forward to tell over a period spanning more their stories. than 20 years. “We appreciate the women The investigation found and their courage, and we thank “Mavericks’ management was them, again, for coming for- ineff ective, including a lack of ward,” she said at a press confer- compliance and internal con- ence on Wednesday. trols, and the shortcomings per- The investigation also includ- mitted an environment in which ed recommendations for chang- acts of misconduct and the in- es within the Mavericks’ organi- dividuals who committed them sation, including an increase in could fl ourish”. the number of women on staff , The Mavericks did not re- enhancing the reporting process spond when asked for comment for victims of misconduct and from Cuban or on behalf of the implementing anonymous em- team but Cuban apologised to ployee surveys to evaluate work- the women and their families on place culture. Wednesday after the report was Additionally, the NBA said it released. is requiring the Mavs to give the “I’m just sorry I didn’t see it. league quarterly reports regard- I’m just sorry I didn’t recognise ing the recommendations set it,” he said during an interview forth in the report, to immedi- Cleveland Indians centre fielder Jason Kipnis (centre) celebrates his game-winning grand slam with teammates in the ninth inning against the Chicago White Sox at Progressive on ESPN’s The Jump. ately report any instances or al- Field. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports “I just hope that out of this legations misconduct and train we’ll be better.” all staff issues related to domes- that an Indians pitcher has struck out 10 lead on May 9, have won seven of their The NBA said Cuban had tic violence, sexual assault, and Reuters RESULTS Cleveland batters in a game. past eight games. The Rockies (82-70) agreed “to contribute $10 mil- sexual harassment. Indians 4-1 White Sox Carrasco and Covey had dueling two- have lost fi ve of their last six games and Yankees 10-1 Red Sox hit shutouts heading into the sixth in- are 1 1/2 games out of the NL’s second ason Kipnis hit a walk-off grand ning. Palka then clobbered his 26th wild-card spot. slam with one out in the bottom of Dodgers 5-2 Rockies homer of the season to dead centrer, Puig was not in the starting lineup for the ninth inning as the Cleveland D’backs 9-0 Cubs with the ball travelling an estimated 412 the second consecutive game because of Indians rallied for a 4-1 victory Mariners 9-0 Astros feet to give the White Sox a 1-0 lead. It his struggles against left-handed pitch- overJ the visiting Chicago White Sox on marked the third straight game that Pal- ing and the Rockies going with lefty Tyler Wednesday night at Progressive Field. Rays 9-3 Rangers ka homered in, and it also was his seventh Anderson. But Puig came on as a pinch It was the 17th homer of the season for A’s 10-0 Angels homer over a stretch of 43 at-bats. hitter in the seventh and crushed an 0-1 Kipnis and his second career grand slam. Brewers 7-0 Reds Carrasco has made three starts against off ering from right-hander Scott Oberg It was also the 1,000th career hit for Kip- the White Sox this season, compil- (7-1) with two aboard. It was his 22nd of Braves 7-3 Cardinals nis and the 10th grand slam homer hit by ing a 2-0 record while allowing just one the season. the Indians this season. Josh Donaldson Phillies 4-0 Mets earned run over 20 2/3 innings, striking Buehler had nine strikeouts three led off the ninth with an infi eld single off Padres 8-4 Giants out 31 and walking two. times over his previous fi ve starts, in- reliever Juan Minaya, and Rajai Davis en- cluding Friday at St. Louis when he went Twins 8-2 Tigers tered as a pinch runner. BUEHLER, PUIG HELP DODGERS eight scoreless innings. The right-hand- “Couldn’t draw it up much better than Pirates 2-1 Royals SWEEP ROCKIES er reached double digits for the fi rst time that one,” Kipnis said. “That felt good.” Orioles 2-1 Blue Jays Walker Buehler struck out a career-high in his career when he retired DJ LeMa- Caleb Frare (0-1) then replaced Minaya 12 batters, and Yasiel Puig hit a pinch-hit hieu looking in the fi fth inning. and was greeted by a ground single to left season at Progressive Field. Daniel Palka three-run home run in the seventh in- Buehler almost failed to make it out of by pinch hitter Yandy Diaz that sent Dav- hit a solo homer in the sixth inning for ning as the Dodgers widened their lead in the fi rst inning, loading the bases three is to second. After Melky Cabrera popped Chicago (59-92). The White Sox wasted the National League West with a 5-2 vic- batters into the game. After he gave up a out to Frare trying to sacrifi ce, Ian Ham- an excellent starting performance by Dy- tory over the visiting Colorado Rockies. two-run single to Ian Desmond with two ilton replaced Frare and hit Yan Gomes lan Covey, who held the Indians to two The victory fi nished off the Dodgers’ outs, Dodgers left-hander Zac Rosscup with his fi rst pitch to load the bases. hits and three walks over six scoreless in- three-game sweep of the Rockies after started warming up in the bullpen. Kipnis then worked the count to 3-2 nings. He struck out fi ve and retired the entering the series in second place, a Buehler settled down to give up just and before drilling a changeup 399 feet last 10 batters he faced. Thirteen of his half-game behind Colorado. one more hit the rest of the way. Both of into the bleachers in right fi eld for his outs were on ground balls. They went 12-7 against the Rockies his runs allowed were unearned, due to fourth career walk-off hit. Cleveland starter Carlos Carrasco al- this season and now lead the division by a throwing error by third baseman Jus- Oliver Perez (1-1) picked up the win in lowed one run on four hits and one walk 2 1/2 games, their largest advantage at tin Turner, and he gave up just one walk relief for Cleveland (85-66), which im- over 6 2/3 innings. He struck out 11. It any point this year. The Dodgers (85-68), while throwing 101 pitches over six proved to 8-0 against the White Sox this also marked the 29th time this season who were nine games out of the division innings. Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. Gulf Times 6 Friday, September 21, 2018 SPORT

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Belgium join France atop FIFA rankings

Belgium have joined world champions France as joint leaders of the FIFA world rankings, the first time in the table’s 25-year history that top spot has been shared. Belgium have notched up a pair Manchester City given of wins, including victory over Iceland in the Nations League to bring them level with the French, the team who beat them in the World Cup semi-finals. The only other change in the top 10 sees Denmark (10th, down one place) slip below Spain (9th, unchanged). Out- wake-up call by Lyon side of the top ten, two Nations League wins for Ukraine (29th, up six) over Czech Republic (47th, down three) and Slovakia (26th, unchanged) means that Manager Guardiola could only watch on in horror as Lyon punish a sloppy first 45 minutes they are the biggest movers. from the pre-tournament favourites through goals from Maxwel Cornet and Nabil Fekir Pochettino won’t rush Alli AFP back despite Spurs slump Manchester, United Kingdom Mauricio Pochettino will wait until the last minute before deciding whether anchester City assistant to bring Tottenham midfielder Dele manager Mikel Arteta ad- Alli back from injury for tomorrow’s mitted the English cham- Premier League trip to Brighton. Alli has pions were handed a wake- returned to training after sustaining a Mup call in a shock 2-1 home defeat by hamstring injury on England duty that Lyon to start their Champions League ruled him out of Tottenham’s last two campaign on Wednesday night. Arteta matches. In his absence, Tottenham’s took charge for the evening with Pep losing streak has extended to three Guardiola serving a touchline ban for games after losses to Liverpool and being sent-off in last season’s quarter- Inter Milan, the first time the club have fi nal exit to Liverpool. suff ered such a sequence under Pochet- And Guardiola could only watch on tino. That has piled extra pressure on in horror as Lyon punished a sloppy Pochettino to rush Alli back. fi rst 45 minutes from the pre-tourna- ment favourites through Maxwel Cor- net and Nabil Fekir. West Ham’s Arnautovic a Bernardo Silva pulled a goal back doubt for Chelsea visit in an improved second-half per- formance, but couldn’t prevent City West Ham United manager Manuel Pel- slumping to their fi rst defeat of the legrini is facing a selection headache for season. “When you are not at the races Sunday’s Premier League game against at the start of a game in the Champi- leaders Chelsea as Marko Arnautovic ons League after, it doesn’t matter how could be ruled out with a knee problem. good you are, it is too late,” said Arteta. Arnautovic’s form has been one of the In contrast to their stunning domestic few bright spots in an otherwise dreary form, City have now lost their last four start to the season for West Ham, with Champions League games. the Austrian scoring three of the team’s A decade into their stewardship, five goals in the league so far, including winning the competition for the fi rst in their win over Everton last weekend. time may remain the holy grail for The victory was West Ham’s first of the City’s Abu Dhabi owners. But it seems season in the league and lifted them off City’s fans still need to be convinced the bottom of the table and into 16th with plenty of empty seats dotted place, but Pellegrini said Arnautovic is around the Etihad and the Champions in a race to get fit for Sunday’s home League anthem again booed before match. kick-off . That fl at atmosphere trans- ferred into a City fi rst-half display riddled with uncharacteristic errors. Pinnick re-elected as “Obviously, the ideal scenario is to Nigeria FA president have a full stadium every time and to have people supporting and getting Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) behind the team like crazy,” added president Amaju Pinnick was yesterday Arteta. “I wouldn’t like to use that as re-elected for a second-term in off ice, an excuse because we had this type of despite legal and political doubts sur- crowd in Champions League before Lyon’s Nabil Fekir (right) celebrates with teammates after scoring against Manchester City in the Champions League in Manchester on Wednesday night. (AFP) rounding the vote. Unconfirmed reports and we were able to win the game.” said that Chris Giwa, who has been Lyon have won just two of their goal. We would have taken 2-2 before Guardiola’s ban meant he wasn’t rez on the bench. And it wasn’t until sence of Kevin De Bruyne and the two embroiled in a power struggle with Pin- opening fi ve Ligue 1 matches of the the match but given the way the game even allowed into the dressing room Sane and Aguero were summoned be- combined to get the hosts back into nick, had secured a court order to stop season, but pounced on City’s slop- went we’d have been disappointed not at half-time, and Arteta’s team talk fore the hour mark that City started to the game 23 minutes from time. the elections. Sports Minister Solomon piness. “We need to be capable of to leave with the three points.” got an awfully lot tougher two minutes threaten. By that point, it should have The German got to the by-line and Dalung had cautioned against the vote repeating this performance in order Some calamitous City defending before the break when long-time Liv- been too late as former Manchester his cut-back was swept into the far taking place, citing an earlier Supreme to fulfi l the objectives we have,” said gifted Lyon the perfect start as Fekir’s erpool target Fekir drilled a shot from United winger Memphis Depay hit corner by the Portuguese internation- Court judgement which replaced Pin- Lyon coach Bruno Genesio. low cross should have been easily cut 25 yards into the bottom corner. the post with just Ederson to beat on al. Anthony Lopes twice denied Ague- nick with Giwa as NFF president. “The end of the game was tougher out by Fabian Delph at the back post. Arteta surprisingly resisted the another threatening Lyon counter-at- ro and Sane fi red off target when well- The long-running dispute, stemming as they brought it back to 2-1 and However, the England international temptation to make changes at the tack. Sane’s introduction moved Ber- placed in stoppage time, but Lyon held from Pinnick’s victory over Giwa in brought on talented players. I suff ered swiped at fresh air and Cornet grate- break despite having a cavalry of Leroy nardo Silva into the central role where out to leave City with plenty of work to 2014, led to world football’s governing as I was scared they’d score a second fully slotted into the far corner. Sane, Sergio Aguero and Riyad Mah- he has shone in recent weeks in the ab- do in Group F to progress. body suspending Nigeria in July.

LIGUE 1 48TH ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Lyon fl y fl ag for France as PSG, Five fi ve-star hotels identifi ed to Monaco disappoint in Europe accommodate gymnasts, offi cials AFP Paris By Sports Reporter Doha f only one French club was going to emerge victorious in the Champions League this week, probably very few thought that team here is always a distinct would be Lyon, for all that they possess in standard to the arrange- Itheir ranks a World Cup winner in Nabil Fekir. ments made for any France’s Champions League trio all had ex- sporting event hosted in tremely diffi cult assignments, with Lyon record- TQatar. Similarly, the organising ing a stunning 2-1 win on Wednesday away to Pep committee of the 48th Artistic Guardiola’s Manchester City. That contrasted Lyon’s French coach Bruno Genesio. (AFP) Gymnastics World Champion- with Paris Saint-Germain’s 3-2 defeat in Liver- ships Doha 2018 is making sure pool a day earlier, while Monaco’s limits were ex- After fi ve straight wins in Ligue 1, they were un- that everything connected to the posed as they went down 2-1 at home to Atletico able to deal with the step up against last season’s fi rst such championships in the Madrid. Champions League fi nalists. Their star attack- Middle East lives up to that class. Lyon’s win was their best result in Europe since ing trio of Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Mohamed al-Mesnad, Chair- they reached the Champions League semi-fi nals Cavani did not perform, while they were overrun man of the Event Services Com- in 2010, and came with the pressure growing on in midfi eld. Tuchel has publicly expressed frus- mittee of the Organising Com- coach Bruno Genesio. Their start to the Ligue 1 tration at the club’s failure to sign a new holding mittee of the world gymnastics season has been poor, and they are already eight midfi elder after Thiago Motta’s retirement. And (to be held at the Aspire Dome points behind leaders PSG after fi ve games. But while Marco Verratti was suspended at Anfi eld, from October 25 to November 3) against City, with 10 players aged 24 or under fea- Brazil defender Marquinhos played the hold- said all eff orts are being exerted turing in Genesio’s side, Lyon demonstrated what ing role. “We were maybe a bit too prudent at the by all committees to get all ar- they are capable of. Their goals came from Max- end of the game, but there was also quite a lot of rangements ready well in time. wel Cornet and captain Fekir, who shows no sign tiredness,” said Thomas Meunier, and his team Providing details, he said that of being troubled by the knee issue that saw Liv- could have done with a player capable of holding fi ve fi ve-star hotels in Doha have erpool pull out of a move for him in the summer. possession. Instead, they struggled to cope with been identifi ed where athletes, “Nabil showed that our captain is back, well and Liverpool’s intensity, and they visit Rennes on offi cials and media persons will truly back. He was decisive and was also exempla- Sunday stung by a fourth successive defeat in a be put up for the event. ry when we didn’t have the ball. I am very proud of Champions League game. “We will be hosting the delega- my players,” said Genesio. He has been in charge Rather less was expected of Monaco. Coach Le- tions and other visitors at West- Mohamed al-Mesnad (left), Chairman, Event Services Committee for the 48th Artistic Gymnastics World for two and a half years but is not popular with all onardo Jardim insists his side can qualify for the ern, Radisson Blu, Ezdan, Mov- Championships Doha 2018, during one of the meetings of the organising committee. supporters — disgruntled fans have draped the last 16, but they missed absentees like Rony Lopes, enPick and Holiday Villa. We are Groupama stadium with banners targeting Gen- Aleksandr Golovin, Pietro Pellegri and Stevan Jo- expecting over 1,500 people in- tion plan for the event has been the tournament with the best ef- egations will start on October 19, esio, who has also been accosted by fans while vetic in midweek. Monaco host Nimes today and cluding athletes, administrators, prepared for all visitors in coor- forts and at ease.” but there are some delegations walking in the streets of the city. are in the bottom six in Ligue 1 having not won offi cials and media during the pe- dination with government agen- Al-Mesnad stressed that all that may arrive earlier and set up However, he and his team are now galvanised since the opening weekend. riod of the tournament,” he said, cies such as Hamad International aspects of security are also being preparation camps in Doha, but ahead of another huge match, when they host bit- adding, “there will be press con- Airport and other sectors. discussed in detail and being tak- offi cial access will begin on the ter rivals Marseille in the league. “We need to be FIXTURES (KICK-OFFS GMT) ferences during the next stage in “Transportation will be pro- en care of. “We have taken care of 19th.” Al-Mesnad also praised able to put together a run of these performances, announce the signing with each vided permanently during the all security and safety measures the full co-operation between Today: Monaco v Nimes (1845) and we will need a repeat on Sunday against a team hotel for the tournament”. tournament to registered del- to the fullest extent possible. We the various sub-committees. who are of Champions League standard,” Genesio Tomorrow: Lille v Nantes (1500), Angers v “Unlike others, we shall be of- egates and members of the Inter- are keen to provide all means to “Having worked during the added. Meanwhile, the inquest into PSG’s defeat Toulouse, Montpellier v Nice, Reims v Dijon, Saint- fering fi ve-star services for all, national Gymnastics Federation facilitate the delegations. We will World Championships for Disa- against Liverpool has focused largely on their Etienne v Caen, Strasbourg v Amiens (all 1800) and we are also keen to provide (FIG) to the venues. The trans- ensure that the food provided is bled Athletes 2015, the World problems in midfi eld. The defeat in itself was no On Sunday: Rennes v Paris Saint-Germain (1300), all possible facilities for visitors port service will also include the according to the diff erent cul- Swimming Championships in disgrace, and the result may not ultimately matter, Guingamp v Bordeaux (1500), Lyon v Marseille during the period. media. The Organising Commit- tures of each participating del- 2014, and other major tourna- but the manner of the performance from Thomas With regards to transporta- tee shall ensure that all media egation,” he said. ments, I can say that the coordi- (1900) Tuchel’s side was a cause for concern. tion, he said, “The transporta- members are facilitated to cover “The offi cial arrival of the del- nation is excellent,” he said. Gulf Times Friday, September 21, 2018 7 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PREMIER LEAGUE Southampton short on Mourinho upbeat as strikers for Liverpool match

Reuters Pogba points way for London outhampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini is a doubt for tomorrow’s Premier League trip to LiverpoolS because of a ham- string injury, leaving manager Mark Hughes short of options Man United in Europe up front. Danny Ings, the Saints’ leading scorer with three goals so far this season, is not eligi- ble to play against parent club ‘I’m very, very happy to have scored two goals and to have helped decide the game’ Liverpool, who loaned him to Southampton during the close AFP season. If Gabbiadini fails a late Bern, Switzerland fi tness test, Hughes is likely to name Charlie Austin and Shane Long — who have failed to score ith Paul Pogba putting his any league goals this season — as stamp on games and Jose his strikers against the team that Mourinho in an upbeat has conceded the fewest goals mood, the atmosphere this season. “Gabbiadini pulled Waround Manchester United is mark- up in training today with a low- edly more relaxed than it was just a few er hamstring issue behind the weeks ago. United’s 3-0 win over Young knee,” Hughes said. “He will be Boys in the Champions League in Bern assessed tomorrow morning to on Wednesday night was not complete- see if he is an option.” ly straightforward, with the visitors on Southampton have won one the back foot before Pogba emerged to and drawn two of their fi rst fi ve score twice in the fi nal 10 minutes of the matches and, having surren- fi rst half. dered a two-goal lead in their But Mourinho’s side ended up thor- draw with Brighton and Hove Al- oughly deserving their victory against a bion on Monday, will have to step team that had won nine out of 10 games up their game to get anything at this season and were determined to Anfi eld. impress on their Champions League Liverpool have made a strong group-stage debut. Pogba’s decisive start to the season, winning their contribution while wearing the cap- fi rst fi ve league matches and tain’s armband also stretched to an as- beating Paris St Germain 3-2 in sist for Anthony Martial’s third goal in the Champions League on Tues- the second half, and his performance day for their sixth win in a row in came after he stood out on his 100th ap- all competitions. pearance for the club in last Saturday’s “Without a shadow of a doubt 2-1 victory at Watford. (Liverpool are the biggest chal- “If someone asks me to do that again, lenge we have faced so far this I don’t think it’ll go where it did,” admit- season),” Hughes said. “They are ted Pogba of his terrifi c opening goal at in outstanding form at the mo- the Stade de Suisse, which he followed ment and it was a great perform- by scoring a penalty before half-time. ance (from them) in Europe. It’s “I’m very, very happy to have scored going to be a big test for us, we two goals and to have helped decide the understand that but we are on a game,” said the France World Cup star, decent run. Monday night was a who has four goals in total this season, disappointment but it does not three from the spot. aff ect us confi dence-wise, so we The 25-year-old has not always en- are not as concerned as we might joyed a harmonious relationship with be going up against an in-form Mourinho, being routinely dropped last Liverpool side.” season. In recent weeks, doubts have The Southampton man- been raised about what his agent Mino Manchester United’s Paul Pogba (right) and Anthony Martial celebrate after their win over Young Boys in the Champions League in Bern, Switzerland. (AFP) ager believes Liverpool’s start Raiola might have in mind for Pogba’s proves they can challenge for future. had good stability in midfi eld, allowed Shaw, and left the Stade de Suisse press actly the period in the second half where next, while United are also at home in the Premier League title this Yet in Bern, Pogba delivered for his him to go to these kind of positions.” It room joking with reporters. we scored our third goal and we killed their next Champions League game season. “I think (Liverpool) are manager. “I don’t think he can score is now three straight wins in three away “At half-time I told the players it is the game. against Valencia. A win against the at a point in their development goals every match, but the goal he scored games for United, after Premier League the third time in a row we arrive at half- “In the second half the players were Spaniards will be a big step towards the now where they clearly need to today, the fi rst goal, is not diff erent than successes at Burnley and Watford. time winning 2-0 — against Burnley we responsible, they were ambitious, so I last 16 before a double-header against go for the Premier League title the fantastic save (Ben) Foster had in the After speculation that he could be didn’t fi nish off but we didn’t concede, liked that. But what I like most is that Juventus, as United seek to improve in now,” he added. “They probably last match,” Mourinho said of a player sacked in the wake of the 3-0 home loss against Watford we concede and we after two defeats, three matches away, Europe following last season’s exit to don’t want to say that publicly who also netted for France in the World to Tottenham Hotspur last month, the were in trouble,” he said. and three victories — I don’t say phe- Sevilla in the fi rst knockout round. but I would imagine given they Cup fi nal. Portuguese’s mood has changed for the Martial rounded out the win by mark- nomenal performances but three good, “We had a tough season in the Cham- haven’t won it for 28 years that “If he starts arriving in possible scor- better. He expressed delight at teen- ing his fi rst start in a month by netting solid performances, and let’s go back pions League last season — we want to would be one thing that they ing positions that can be a plus for the ager Diogo Dalot’s debut performance his fi rst goal since January. The manager home Saturday.” do much better this season,” Pogba in- would like to put to bed and win team, so I am happy with that. The team at right-back, was full of praise for Luke added: “I think our best period was ex- Wolverhampton Wanderers are up sisted. if they can.”

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT ‘Like Matthaeus’ – Sanches’ Bale on target as Real down Roma star on the rise at Bayern AFP Madrid AFP Lisbon areth Bale scored as Real Madrid moved on from the departures of ayern Munich coach Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Niko Kovac believes Zidane with a 3-0 win over Roma the German champi- Gon Wednesday night to confi dently launch ons have unearthed the their pursuit of a fourth successive Champi- nextB Lothar Matthaeus as Renato ons League title. Sanches continues to resurrect Isco curled in a terrifi c free-kick just be- his career with a stunning dis- fore half-time at the Santiago Bernabeu, play at Benfi ca. with Bale powering in a second and Mariano The 21-year-old sealed Bay- Diaz striking late as Real made a convincing ern’s 2-0 win at Benfi ca on start to their Group G campaign. Wednesday night as the Bavarian “I thought the performance was very giants won their opening Cham- good tonight; the only disappointment was pions League group game. that we didn’t score more,” said Bale, who After Robert Lewandowski struck for the fourth time in fi ve matches. gave Bayern an early lead, Sanch- “Real Madrid will always be Real Madrid, no es fi nished a move he started after matter who leaves. We keep on trying to win, a powerful burst through mid- keep on trying to score goals.” fi eld, by tapping home a cross Julen Lopetegui fi elded 10 of the 11 players early in the second half. His goal who began the 3-1 victory over Liverpool in capped an outstanding display Benfica’s defender Ruben Dias (left) vies for the ball with Bayern last season’s fi nal, with Bale — the two-goal and completes Sanches resurrec- Munich’s midfielder Renato Sanches during the UEFA Champions hero after coming off the bench in Kiev — tion after two torrid seasons since League match in Lisbon on Wednesday night. (AFP) taking the place of the departed Ronaldo. joining Bayern as an 18-year-old Keylor Navas was selected in goal ahead from Benfi ca in the summer of tugal. “It’s true that people fl y youngster. of close-season signing Thibaut Cour- Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale 2016 for 35mn euros ($40.1mn). off him left and right — just like “These are the kind of stories tois, while Roma boss Eusebio Di Francesco celebrates after scoring against “It’s so special for me, I’ve they used to do with Lothar Mat- that football writes. He looks in handed a senior debut to 19-year-old mid- Roma in Madrid. (Reuters) played for Benfi ca for ten years, thaeus. I’m delighted for Renato shape and crowned his perform- fi elder Nicolo Zaniolo. Last season’s semi- it’s where I learnt to play foot- — I said yesterday that he was ance with a goal,” Matthaeus said fi nalists quickly found themselves subjected ball and has a special place excellent in pre-season and it on tv. to sustained pressure, as Bale drilled nar- in my heart, I’m very happy,” wouldn’t be long before he plays. “It was a great gesture from the rowly wide of Robin Olsen’s left-hand post he beamed. So masterful was I wanted him to score two, but Benfi ca fans,” Matthaeus added within the opening fi ve minutes. Sanches’ midfi eld performance he only managed one,” he added referring to the home crowd’s Sweden international Olsen, the replace- at the Estadio da Luz that he was with a grin. standing ovation. ment for Alisson following his move to on the stroke of half-time when he majesti- space down the left by Modric. Aleksandar treated to a standing ovation Sanches deservedly revelled Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Liverpool, stuck out a strong hand to deny cally whipped a free-kick over the wall from Kolarov’s vicious strike from distance drew by the home crowd and Bayern in the praise at Benfi ca after two Rummenigge later singled out Isco after he was slipped in by Luka Modric, 20 yards. Turkish winger Cengiz Under went another smart stop from Navas, with Olsen coach Niko Kovac was reminded disappointing years, fi rst warm- Sanches during his traditional the UEFA Player of the Year. Dani Carvajal close to an equaliser early in the second half pulling off an even better save to keep out a of Bayern and Germany legend ing the bench at Bayern and then speech at the post-match ban- should have done better with a header when after a darting run and stinging shot drew an left-footed eff ort by Toni Kroos. Mariano, Matthaeus. last season on loan at Swansea, quet. “Renato did not have such left unmarked at the far post, while Olsen excellent stop from Navas. wearing the number seven shirt vacated by “Renato has an exceptionally but is now thriving under Kovac. an easy time with us, and also at tipped over from Sergio Ramos from a corner Bale then saw a defl ected eff ort bounce Ronaldo, rounded out the win in stoppage good technique, very good speed Matthaeus, who captained Ger- Swansea, but you took the chance as Real asserted their dominance. back off the crossbar, but the Welshman time with a searing shot into the top corner and a great body,” said Kovac of many to the 1990 World Cup ti- brilliantly — you deserve it,” said An Isco snapshot forced Olsen to turn be- doubled Real’s lead on 58 minutes with an from the edge of the box in his fi rst game the Euro 2016 winner with Por- tle, led the plaudits for the burly the Bayern boss, to loud applause. hind, but the Spain midfi elder put Real ahead angled low fi nish after he was released into back at Real since rejoining from Lyon.

Friday, September 21, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Ronaldo red card to be reviewed by UEFA next week AFP calendar year, as well as “overall Lausanne behaviour on and off the pitch.” The 33-year-old was perhaps unfortunate that German referee EFA have opened a Felix Brych opted for a red, rather disciplinary case over than a yellow, card but there was Cristiano Ronaldo’s red still risk in engaging with Muril- card in the Champions lo. Journalists in charge of voting ULeague which will be assessed for the Ballon d’Or might also on September 27, European foot- take note of Ronaldo’s reaction, ball’s governing body said yes- which saw him fall to the ground terday. Ronaldo was sent off in in disbelief and then yell into the the 29th minute of Wednesday’s air in frustration. 2-0 win away to Valencia after It was a bad night in an oth- a tussle with defender Jeison erwise stellar 2018 for the Por- Murillo, with the former Real tugese, who won the Champions Madrid star leaving the pitch in League with Real Madrid in May tears. The Portugal captain fell to and has scored 36 goals in 33 the ground in disbelief and then Juventus’ Cristiano Ronaldo games this year. He has won the yelled into the air in frustration, breaks down after receiving a Ballon d’Or fi ve times, the joint although Juventus overcame his red card against Valencia. (AFP) most with Lionel Messi. dismissal thanks to a pair of Mi- This was Ronaldo’s 11th red ralem Pjanic penalties. on the stock market yesterday card, but fi rst in the Champions It was the 11th red card of Ro- before closing at 1.581 euros. League, with a suspension now naldo’s career, but fi rst in the It represented an increase of set to reduce his scoring power in Champions League, and will see more than 180% since late June the group stages. UEFA’s Control, him miss Juve’s next group game when rumours began circulating Ethics and Disciplinary Body can against Swiss side Young Boys in of Ronaldo’s arrival at the club, also increase the ban if they deem Turin. He will fi nd out next week with shares then trading at 0.64 it a “serious off ence”. whether his one-match ban is euros. The Italian side’s coach Mas- extended. While Ronaldo should escape similiano Allegri lamented the An increase would also rule an increase on his one-match lack of a Video Assistant Referee him out of a return to Old Traf- ban in the Champions League but against Valencia, which he be- ford to face former club Man- Juventus’ star summer signing lieves would have spared his key chester United. Ronaldo’s arrival might not get off so easily in the player. UEFA’s Executive Com- at Juventus has raised expecta- race for the Ballon d’Or. Ronaldo mittee are due to meet in Lyon on tions of a fi rst Champions League is among the frontrunners for the September 27, where it is believed title since 1996, with share prices prestigious prize, which con- the issue of implementing VAR peaking at a record 1.8046 euros siders performances during the will be discussed.

QNB STARS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Bilodid makes judo Arabi cruise to easy history as world’s youngest champion

AFP win over Shahania Paris aria Bilodid of Ukraine made judo history yes- Qatar Sports Club and Al Khor play out a goalless draw in another match terday by becoming the youngest world cham- Dpion at the age of 17. By Sports Reporter Doha Bilodid, aged exactly 17 years and 345 days, secured the world title in the under 48kg category l Arabi put their QNB Stars when she beat Japan’s defending League campaign back on track champion Funa Tonaki by ippon. with a routine 3-0 win over Al Before Bilodid the record had Shahania yesterday. It was a been held by Japan’s Ryoko Tani, much-neededA victory for Arabi, who had who claimed the fi rst of her seven lost their previous match to Al Rayyan. world titles at the age of 18 years They were also at the receiving end of and 27 days, in 1993. 1-10 thrashing at the hands of Al Sadd in Bilodid, whose father Gen- Week 2. nadiy is a two-time world judo Tonaki was awarded the silver But since then Arabi have improved champion in the lightweight cat- medal while Argentina’s Paula a lot and that showed in their display at egory (73kg), made her mark on Pareto, the Olympic champion their home ground yesterday. Against the sport last year when, aged 16, and 2015 world champion, and Shahania they controlled the game from she became the second youngest Kazakhstani Otgontsetseg Gal- the beginning. Mailson opened the scor- European champion in history. badrakh took the bronze medals. ing in the 22th minute, and Mohamed Salah el-Neel doubled the advantage in the 57th minute. Alvaro Mejia’s own goal ROUND-UP in the 84th minute completed a forgetta- ble outing for Shahania. For Shahania it was a disappointing match, especially after their impres- Al Sadd brace sive win over Qatar SC in their previous match. Al Shahania, though, have made steady progress this season despite the for Qatar Clasico absence of any big name in their ranks. In an earlier match, Qatar SC and Al Khor played out a goalless draw. Qatar SC Al Arabi’s Mailson (left) celebrates after scoring against Al Shahania yesterday. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil without al-Haydous and Al Khor now have four and two points respectively. Both teams created chances Salem Khalifa. Their new recruit Wagner l Sadd are gearing up AL KHOR SIGN BRAZILIAN even though Qatar SC dominated the ball. Ferreira’s resultant free-kick went out off for their QNB Stars MIDFIELDER WAGNER They had 60 per cent at half-time and a defl ection. Star Cameroonian striker League Week 6 match Al Khor roped in Brazilian mid- which was reduced to 52 per cent at the Samuel Eto’o, who was substituted after (Qatar Clasico) against fi elder Wagner Ferreira dos San- end of the match. 70 minutes, twice and Iraqi forward Hus- AlA Rayyan, to be played at the Al tos from Vasco de Gama in a bid And that showed Al Khor’s perform- sein Ali once tested Al Khor goalkeeper Sadd Stadium tomorrow. Al Sadd to strengthen the squad. ance with renewed vigour in the second Mohammed al-Bakri in the fi rst half. started their preparations for the Wagner signed the deal in the half even though chances created by ei- Qatar SC’s Syrian striker Osama Omari much-awaited game soon after presence of Al Khor Sports Club ther side were few and far between in the too had come close to scoring, but for the qualifying for the AFC Champi- president Hassan Jumaa al-Mo- latter part. While most of the chances be- alertness of Qatar SC goalkeeper Jassim ons League semi-fi nal by defeat- hannadi and team manager Mo- longed to Qatar SC, Al Khor forced more al-Hail. Al Khor’s best opportunity to ing Iran’s Esteghlal. hamed Ibrahim. corner kicks – nine as against the rivals’ score fell to Wagner whose header from All their players are ready for The 33-year-old began his fi ve. Both teams were under new coaches, close was parried by Al Hail. The Brazilian the match with the exception of senior career at Brazilian club Yousef al-Noobi replacing Abdulla Mu- midfi elder had another chance, but he hit striker Hassan al- Haydous, who America-MG in 2002 before barak at Qatar SC and Omar Najhi coming the ball wide of the post after receiving a picked up an ankle injury during moving to Cruzeiro and many in place of Adel Sellimi. measured cross from Salem Khalifa. the Esteghlal game in Doha on other sides. Qatar SC produced a gritty perform- In today’s matches, Al Sailiya will take Monday. Al Sadd have 10 points Al-Mohannadi expressed the ance after 68 minutes when Sandro Fer- on Al Ahli at Al Ahli Stadium, while Al from four matches, the same as club’s satisfaction on the signing reira was red-carded by referee Abdul- Kharaitiyat lock horns with Umm Salal at Al Duhail but are ahead on goal of Wagner and wished him suc- rahman al-Jassim for fouling Al Khor’s Al Khor Stadium. Action from the match between Qatar Sports Club and Al Khor. diff erence. cess in Qatar.

FOCUS Ferreira and Rodolfo in stern test of tactics at Qatar Clasico he battle lines have been players, and has succeeded in mak- to the AFC Champions League who had long professional stints drawn for the Qatar Clasi- ing many youngsters come through semi-fi nal, defeating Iran’s Es- with top Argentinian club Boca co between Al Sadd and Al the ranks. And there has been a re- teghlal 5-3 on aggregate. By con- Juniors and Spain’s Villarreal. Rayyan. The high-profi le markable technical improvement trast, Arruabarrena, who succeed- He started his coaching career in gameT is a grand fi esta on and off in Al Sadd’s game under him. ed Danish great Michael Laudrup 2011 and has experience in the Gulf the pitch. Qatar Clasico will also The 72-year-old is a result- at Al Rayyan ahead of the 2018-19 region, having trained Al Wasl in be noted for the technical con- oriented master tactician. He season, is a coach of the younger Dubai. The credit for making the Al frontation between the two team has been in the profession since generation. Rayyan defence stingy goes to the coaches — Jesualdo Ferreira of Al 1981 and coached teams in Spain, He started off his Qatar stint in 43-year-old. They have conceded Sadd and Rodolfo Arruabarrena of Greece and Egypt besides his na- great style by guiding The Lions just two goals, the same as Al Sadd Al Rayyan. tive Portugal. to the Sheikh Jassim Cup triumph and Al Duhail, and that is the least Much-experienced Ferreira, His most successful period was over Al Duhail on 1st August. Al number of goals conceded so far in who took charge of The Wolves in when he guided native side Porto Rayyan won 5-3 on penalties after this season’s QNB Stars League. November, 2015, has brought them to three consecutive league titles the teams were tied 1-1 in regular Both coaches have high creden- much success. The Portuguese is between 2006 and 2009. time. Arruabarrena is a former Ar- tials and it has to be seen who will like a father and philosopher to the Ferreira has just guided Al Sadd gentinian national team left-back have the last laugh this time?