TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2019 SPORT 07 He just wouldn’t shut up for most of my time out there. I FOOTBALL could accept it from just about Paine hits out at Davis Cup Finals Asian Cup 2023 qualifiers any other opponent. Truly. Not Stokes for ‘cheap in Madrid Qatar vs Afghanistan in shot’ at Warner from him, though. . ACTION Group Stage Tajikistan TODAY’S Kings snap Boston’s 10-game win streak

AFP taking 16 in a row early in the Trae Young scored 31 points and LOS ANGELES, 2017-18 campaign. Cam Reddish added 13 as the Hield’s three-pointer with Hawks lost their third straight Bahamian guard Buddy Hield 1:52 remaining gave the Kings a Thank God we were game. Atlanta was blown out in scored a season-high 35 points 96-95 lead. Los Angeles for the second con- and the Sacramento Kings Boston’s Jayson Tatum able to pull off secutive night after losing by 49 snapped the ’ answered with a jumper but this win. Definitely points to the Clippers. 10-game NBA win streak with a Hield, who went 14-of-24 needed this win. Also, Denver’s Jamal Murray 100-99 home triumph on from the floor, struck again scored 39 points and Paul Millsap Sunday. with a fadeaway only for We’ve got to stay added 23 to lead the Nuggets Sacramento center Richaun Boston to answer on a Daniel locked in and stay over host Memphis 131-114 for Holmes sank two decisive free Theis dunk, giving the Celtics focused and be ready their fifth win in six road con- throws with 13 seconds a 99-98 edge with 52 seconds for every challenge tests. Jaren Jackson led the Griz- remaining to give the Kings their remaining. zlies with 22 points. Tobias fifth win in seven games after an Holmes was fouled going for every night: Hield Harris scored 27 points to lead 0-5 start. a by Boston’s Marcus six Philadelphia players in “Thank God we were able to Smart and sank two free throws had 14 points and Theis con- double figures as the 76ers rolled pull off this win. Definitely to put the Kings ahead by the tributed 14 points and 10 to a 114-95 triumph at Cleveland. needed this win,” Hield said. final margin. rebounds for the Celtics. Cameroon center Joel Embiid “We’ve got to stay locked in Smart missed a jumper for Elsewhere, LeBron James added 14 points for the 76ers and and stay focused and be ready the win at the final buzzer and scored 33 points as the Los Australia’s Ben Simmons had 10 for every challenge every night. Sacramento had the victory. Angeles Lakers cruised to a points and 11 assists for Phila- “We know what we’re doing. Serbian swingman Bogdan 122-101 win over the struggling delphia. Collin Sexton led the We’re going to try to take it one Bogdanovic had 12 points and 10 Atlanta Hawks. The Lakers Cavaliers with 17 points. With game at a time and we’ll be fine.” assists for the Kings while jumped out to a 25-point lead in Orlando clinging to a three-point Boston fell to 10-2, having not Serbian forward Nemanja Bjelica the first quarter and never lead, Magic guard Markelle Fultz lost since their season opener added 12 points and 14 rebounds looked back. Rajon Rondo scored made a and dunk then sank three-and-a-half weeks ago at for Sacramento. 15 points and Anthony Davis a with 36 seconds Philadelphia. Boston guard Kemba Walker added 14 as the Lakers posted remaining to lift the hosts over Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield (24) goes up for the shot over The Celtics, led by Jaylen added 15 points and nine assists, their 11th win in their last 12 the Washington Wizards 125-121 Boston Celtics guard Brad Wanamaker during the second quarter Brown’s 18 points, saw the end Smart had nine assists, Brown games since a season-opening in a matchup of struggling of their NBA game at Golden 1 Center on Sunday. of their longest win streak since grabbed eight rebounds, Tatum loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. Eastern Conference clubs. Super Bowl champ Patriots use trick play to edge Eagles

AFP the opening kickoff of the third LOS ANGELES, NFL Results quarter and marched 84 yards Results from National in 10 plays, capped by a Nick Folk kicked three field goals Football League: deception move as Edelman and Julian Edelman executed a Sunday’s games received a lateral from Brady trick play as the New England Atlanta Falcons 29 Carolina and tossed a 15-yard touchdown Patriots clinched their 19th Panthers 3 to Phillip Dorsett. straight winning NFL season Buffalo Bills 37 Miami James White converted the with a 17-10 victory over Phila- Dolphins 20 two-point conversion run for a delphia on Sunday. Dallas Cowboys 35 Detroit 17-10 lead in front of a crowd of Wide receiver Edelman Lions 27 69,700 at Lincoln Financial Field threw a pass for a touchdown Denver Broncos 23 in Philadelphia. and quarterback Tom Brady was Minnesota Vikings 27 Folk booted field goals of 35, 26-of-47 for 216 yards for the Houston Texans 7 Baltimore 22 and 39 yards for the Patriots’ Patriots, who are now just one Ravens 41 first-half points. winning season shy of the Dallas Jacksonville Jaguars 13 Brady was 11-of-25 in the Cowboys’ all-time record of 20 Indianapolis Colts 33 first half, setting a dubious career in a row, a run that began in New Orleans Saints 34 high for most incompletions in 1966. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17 the first half with 14. “Good read on the play,” New York Jets 34 The Eagles got the ball back Patriots coach Bill Belichick said. Washington Redskins 17 one last time in the waning “Keeps his quarterback rating up Arizona Cardinals 26 San seconds of the fourth quarter there pretty high. Great play by Francisco 49ers 36 but a final desperation throw Julian.” Cincinnati Bengals 10 was knocked down as time Eagles quarterback Carson Oakland Raiders 17 expired. Wentz was 20-of-40 for 214 New England Patriots 17 “That’s a really good Vegas Golden Knights centre Jonathan Marchessault (81) looks to skate past Calgary Flames defenceman yards and a touchdown pass to Philadelphia Eagles 10 defence,” Wentz said. Rasmus Andersson during the second period of their NHL game at T-Mobile Arena on Sunday. Dallas Goedert but the Eagles Chicago Bears 7 Los Angeles “They did a good job taking dropped to 5-5 after winning Rams 17 away things we wanted to do. their previous two games. But we have to be better.” Both teams were coming off Elsewhere, Lamar Jackson a bye week for the showdown, The Patriots rebounded threw four touchdowns and pro- which was a rematch of the mightily with Brady leading the duced 308 total yards as the Bal- NHL: Dach scores pair as thrilling 2018 Super Bowl which team to a gritty Super Bowl win timore Ravens clobbered the the Eagles won 41-33 to claim over the Los Angeles Rams Houston Texans 41-7 in a high- the team’s first NFL earlier this year. profile matchup between a pair Blackhawks beat Sabres championship. On Sunday, the Patriots took of rising quarterback stars. REUTERS in Buffalo’s home victory NEW YORK NHL Results Results from the NHL games against Ottawa on Saturday on Sunday night. Rookie center Kirby Dach Chicago 4 Buffalo 1 Dach, meanwhile, extended scored twice and goaltender Las Vegas 6 Calgary 0 his points streak to four games. Corey Crawford stopped 33 of He has four goals and two 34 shots to lead the host assists during that span. Dach Chicago Blackhawks past the Another Dach backhander is the fourth Blackhawks player Buffalo Sabres 4-1 on Sunday got past Sabres goaltender to record a point streak of at night for their fourth straight Carter Hutton at 12:32 of the least four games at age 18. victory. second. Moving toward the Hutton made his 200th The Blackhawks improved right face-off circle, Dach col- career NHL start. The eight- to 6-1-1 in their past eight lected a pass from Zack Smith year veteran started his first games while the Sabres fell to and snuck past a defender game during the 2012-13 1-5-2 over the same span. before beating Hutton stick season as a member of the Buffalo outshot Chicago side. Blackhawks. 34-27 but couldn’t capitalize Patrick Kane extended his Chicago went 1-for-5 on the against Crawford, who is 11-0 points streak to nine games power play, while Buffalo was in his career against the with an unassisted power-play 0-for-4. Sabres. tally at 3:42 of the third period, Blackhawks defenseman Skating down the left side, his club-leading 11th goal of the Duncan Keith contributed a Dach sped past former Black- season. likely goal-saving play midway hawks defenseman Henri Jok- Jonathan Toews added through the second period. iharju and whipped a another unassisted goal 5:15 An Andrew Shaw giveaway backhand shot that deflected later before Eichel put Buffalo with a Chicago power play in off Buffalo forward Jack on the board by scoring unas- its waning moments gave the New England Patriots cornerback JC Jackson (27) breaks up a pass attempt in the end zone to Eichel and into the net at 15:43 sisted off a turnover at 9:39 of Sabres a 2-on-1, but Keith Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Nelson Agholor during the fourth quarter of their NFL game at of the first period to open the the third. sprawled to stop any shot Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday. scoring. Eichel scored all four goals attempt. 08 SPORT TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2019

Rajeh wins Prix De Sa Majeste Le Roi Mohamed VI in Casablanca, Morocco

Abdulrahman Al Mansoor, Director of Al Shahania Stud of H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani, receiving the winners’ trophy at the Grand Prix de Sa Majesté Le Roi Mohammed Vi (Gr3 PA) at Casablanca, Morocco on Sunday. In the blue and white stars of H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani, Rajeh (Jaafer ASF), the leading Purebred Arabian 3-year-old in France, made easy work of the opposition in Casablanca to emerge on top. The two-time Group 1 winner ridden by Harry Bently, Rajeh sat on the rail throughout the race before easing to an 8-length victory. The F. Sanchez-trained IBN Gadir (Mared Al Sahra finished in second place under I. Mendizabal, with the S. Corette-trained Fawzl Al Mels (Baseq Al Khalediah) in third under T. Zergane. QSL to participate in Stage set for keen Round 3 Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup festival at contests of Ooredoo Cup Yarmouk School

THE PENINSULA points), Al Gharafa (one point) Al Duhail THE PENINSULA DOHA (one point) and Al Sailiya (no point). DOHA Al Khor and Al Arabi are also on The stage is all set for the 2018-19 same number of points, but the former As part of its commitment towards Corporate Social Ooredoo Cup Round 3 fixtures, to be occupy the second position on better Responsibility and in co-operation with the Yarmouk held on November 22 (three matches goal difference (+7 compared to Al Preparatory School for Boys, the Qatar Stars League in Group B), and on November 23 (three Arabi’s +1). (QSL) will, for the second year in a row, participate in a matches in Group A). Similarly, Al Gharafa and Al Duhail football festival to be organised by the school, under the The fixtures are Al Khor vs Al are level on points. However, reigning auspices of Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Gharafa (16:00) at Al Wakrah Stadium, champions Al Gharafa are placed on November 21. Al Sailiya vs Al Duhail (16:00) at Al Ahli above Al Duhail by virtue of having The festival will include many football-related events, Stadium and Qatar SC vs Al Arabi better goal difference (-3 as against Al with the participation of a number of sports, arts and (18:10) at Al Ahli Stadium on Friday Duhail’s -7). media personalities, as well as a number of school (Group B), Al Shahania vs Al Wakrah In Round 2 Group A action on students. (16:00) at Al Wakrah Stadium, Al Ahli Friday, Al Wakrah played out a goalless The festival coincides with the start date of FIFA vs Al Sadd (18:10) at Al Ahli Stadium draw with Umm Salal, Al Rayyan World Cup in Qatar three years from now. Its main and Umm Salal vs Al Rayyan (18:10) at defeated Al Ahli 4-1 and Al Sadd beat objective is to send a strong message that the World Cup Al Khor Stadium on Saturday (Group Al Shahania 3-1. is for Qatar, the Arab world and all countries. And also A). In Round 2 Group B action on Sat- that Qatar is steadily on its way towards organising the Al Rayyan and Qatar SC are leading urday, Al Gharafa lost 0-3 to Qatar SC, Arab world’s first World Cup, which will leave a lasting Group A and B respectively with six Al Arabi beat Al Sailiya 2-1 and Al legacy for the entire region. points each. Duhail lost 0-7 to Al Khor. On his part, QSL’s Executive Director of Marketing, Al Rayyan are followed by Al The Ooredoo Cup, formerly QSL Sales and Communication Hassan Rabiah Al Kuwari Wakrah (four points), Al Ahli (three Cup, provides younger players with welcomed the initiative, which is not new to the Yarmouk points), Al Sadd (three points), Umm more playing time and exposure. School that is at the forefront of organising such Salal (one point) and Al Shahania (no The tournament, which has a group- important events. He stressed that the QSL was keen to point) in Group A. cum-knockout format, offers new participate in the festival and similar events, in line with Al Ahli and Al Sadd both have same opportunities for sponsors, partners its community role. number of points, but the former are and supporters to highlight their Yarmouk School’s Sports Education Co-ordinator placed higher on better goal difference brands. Abdullah Mubarak said: “We’re pleased to organise this Al Rayyan and Al Ahli players vie for ball possession during their (-1 as against Al Sadd’s -2). The top four sides from each group festival, which will see the participation of several sports Ooredoo Cup Round 2 match at Al Ahli Stadium, on Friday in this Al Khor (four points) are second in will progress to the knockout and educational bodies, and we hope that it serves the Group B, followed by Al Arabi (four quarterfinals file picture. purpose.” Qatar Stars League takes part in World Leagues Forum

THE PENINSULA DOHA directly to FIFA on the redistri- bution model in order not to jeopardise competitive balance The Qatar Stars League (QSL) at the domestic level and to participated in the Annual emphasise solidarity. Meeting of World Leagues Forum They discussed ways of (WLF), held over two days in exchanging experience to Marrakesh, Morocco, and hosted develop women’s football. by the Moroccan Professional The forum members League, with attendance of 34 expressed their concern about professional leagues from all racism in football. Determined continents. to fight against this inacceptable The Qatar Stars League delegates, who attended the Annual Meeting of World Leagues Forum in Marrakesh, Morocco, pose for a group picture. The event featured work- phenomenon, they decided to set shops as well as exchange ses- up a Leagues’ ‘Task Force sions with FIFA and International opment Ahmed Khellil Abbassi. adopted by FIFA, issuing cards the Bundesliga, whose term by which the leagues and FIFA Against Racism’ to collect data Football Association Board A number of important issues for agents and setting ceiling for had ended. However, he will will work together to improve across their members, identify (IFAB) and discussions on pro- were discussed, most notably the commissions. continue as vice-chairman of governance structures and best practices and make fessional football. co-ordination between profes- Enrique Bonilla, Executive WLF. standards in the game recommendations. The QSL delegation consisted sional leagues and IFAB, mech- President of the Mexican The delegates welcomed worldwide. The QSL’s participation in the of its CEO Mr. Hani Taleb Ballan anism of the work of players’ League, was appointed as the the recent agreement between Leagues also discussed the forum was in line with its and Executive Director of Com- agents and support within the new Chairman of WLF. He suc- the WLF and FIFA on the devel- 2021 FIFA Club World Cup in keenness to strengthen relations petitions and Football Devel- framework of development ceeds Christian Seifert, CEO of opment of professional football China. They will make proposals with leagues around the world. Joseph to take Japan to next Rugby World Cup

AFP expectations for rugby in Japan World Cup held in Asia and raised the profile of rugby in a capability, which took the Japan TOKYO and I’m very honoured that I can outside the traditional rugby baseball-mad country. team to the world’s top level in lead the team towards the next heartlands. Japan beat Ireland Japan Rugby Football Union just three years.” Joseph said he Jamie Joseph (pictured) said World Cup.” 19-12 and Scotland 28-21 to top President Shigetaka Mori said the was proud of having led the yesterday he will stay on as Joseph was among 26 New their pool and lift their world association hoped to see Joseph Blossoms to their best World Cup coach of Japan through the next Zealanders invited by the All ranking to an all-time high of take the team even further. showing, but warned “we have Rugby World Cup in 2023, a Blacks to replace Steve Hansen, sixth. They eventually lost in the “I hope he will make the many more issues to tackle if we decision that rules him out of the who stepped down at the end of quarter-finals against South team stronger in the next four look ahead to the future”. vacant All Blacks coaching role. the World Cup this month. Africa, the tournament’s eventual years. I look very much forward “That’s why I decided to Joseph, who led Japan to The former All Black oversaw winners. to seeing how strong the Japan choose the path of taking on a their first World Cup quarter- a campaign by Japan that But the Brave Blossoms’ per- team will be under the leadership challenge again with the Japan final last month, said in a exceeded all expectations and lit formances captured the hearts of Mr Joseph,” Mori said. team. I hope to make the team statement: “I have great up the tournament -- the first of fans across the nation and “We highly value his even stronger.” TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2019 SPORT 09

Paine says Australia’s Australia’s Emily gets home one-year ban summer may for posting be his last team online

MELBOURNE AFP REUTERS SYDNEY

Australia’s Tim Paine has said the Australian wicketkeeper-batsman upcoming Test series against Emily Smith was yesterday handed Pakistan and New Zealand may a one-year ban under cricket’s be the last time he captains the anti-corruption code for posting side at home as he enters the her team line-up on Instagram an twilight of his career. FROM LEFT: Pakistan pacers Imran Khan, Shaheen hour before its official release. Paine, who turns 35 next Afridi, Muhammad Musa, Naseem Shah and Muhammad Nine months of the strict month, was named captain after Abbas during a training session in Sydney. penalty was suspended, meaning former skipper Steve Smith was the Hobart Hurricanes player handed a one-year ban in March effectively cannot pad-up for three 2018 for ball tampering and the months, ruling her out of the rest wicketkeeper became the first of the season. Australian captain after Steve Smith, Warner to test The 24-year-old was found Waugh to retain the Ashes. guilty of putting the team line-up Smith’s explosive return to the on her personal social media Test side, where he scored 774 account before its scheduled runs in the Ashes, triggered calls release for their clash against to restore him as captain and young Pakistan quicks Sydney Thunder on November 2. Paine said talk about who even- Despite the game being tually takes over was bound to REUTERS washed out, she was still punished. happen, especially considering his MELBOURNE runs as Australia reached the tall Shaheen has only three some of their batting Cricket Australia’s code prohibits age. one-day World Cup semi- Tests to his name and is on the team-mates. “disclosing inside information to “It might be (my last summer), finals in England, while Smith comeback trail after suffering The recalled Joe Burns will any person (with or without I’m not too sure,” Paine told Australia’s Steve Smith and amassed 774 runs in a magical a bout of dengue fever. again try to lock down a long- reward) where the participant reporters. David Warner will look to give Ashes series that saw Tim Throwing the untested term gig as Warner’s opening knew or might reasonably have “But... I’m enjoying doing it. I Pakistan’s raw attack a Paine’s team retain the urn in Musa, another 19-year-old partner, while middle order known that such disclosure might feel good physically (and) men- baptism of fire in a two-match September. beanpole, into the Gabba for- batsman Travis Head is under lead to the information being used tally. So while that continues, I’m series starting on Thursday as But both batsmen will be tress, let alone the 16-year-old scrutiny after being retained in relation to betting in relation to scoring enough runs and keeping the batsmen play their first eager to make their mark in Naseem, would seem an even in the wake of his lean Ashes any match or event”. well enough then I’d like to Tests on home soil since front of home fans at the bigger gamble. series. The governing body’s head of continue. serving bans for ball- Gabba on Thursday, and in the “It looks like (Naseem) Pakistan coach Misbah- integrity Sean Carroll acknowl- “I know when you get to my tampering. day-night Test in Adelaide Shah bowls with some good ul-Haq, who captained them edged Smith had no intent to do age that can change really quickly. Former captain Smith and from November 29. pace,” Smith told reporters in to a 3-0 whitewash defeat in wrong. I’m really looking forward to this Warner have not been seen in Lefthander Warner will be Brisbane. their last trip to Australia in But he said: “CA’s rigorous summer, beyond that I haven’t Test whites at home since particularly keen to fire after “Being as young as he is, 2016/17, will have faith that anti-corruption player education looked too far. I know what I want January 2018 when both a poor Ashes series boasting he probably hasn’t bowled skipper Azhar Ali and the top programme means that players to do and what I want to achieve. scored half-centuries at the a solitary half-century. lots of overs consistently, so six batsmen can produce are well aware of their obliga- “I think when you’re the Aus- Sydney Cricket Ground at the That could spell trouble it’ll be about making him competitive totals against tions... and there is no excuse for tralian captain and the Australian end of a triumphant Ashes for a rebuilding Pakistan come back and bowl as many Australia. breaches regardless of the reasons keeper, they’re two of the most series. squad that have a pace unit spells as he can and see if he Getting 20 wickets in both for information being disclosed.” critiqued roles in Australian sport Much water has since featuring three teenagers as can maintain it.” tests will be another matter, “We hope this serves as a and at the moment I have to hold passed under that bridge, with well as Mohammad Abbas and Australia have never lost though, on taxing pitches that reminder to all that the anti-cor- them both. I know I’m going to be the pair sidelined for 12 Imran Khan. a Test series to Pakistan on demand pace and patience. ruption code is critical to pro- in the crosshairs for people all the months for their roles in the While Abbas and Imran home soil but surrendered “It’s hard work on these tecting the integrity of the game,” time.” Newlands scandal and a both have experience bowling their first to an Asian side over big fields, hard pitches,” said he added. Paine said Australia’s top pri- much-reduced Australia con- against Australia, much faith the 2018/19 home summer Pakistan bowling coach Nine months of the strict ority now was to return to the demned to struggle in their has been placed in 19-year- when beaten by Virat Kohli’s Waqar Younis. top of the test rankings and win absence. They have since old left-armer Shaheen Afridi India. “It takes a lot out of you as penalty was suspended, the World Test Championship made successful returns to the and the uncapped duo of Australia are a lot stronger a teenager and we have to meaning the Hobart (WTC). Australia are ranked fifth international arena on foreign Muhammad Musa and with Smith and Warner in the keep our fingers crossed that Hurricanes player in the world and trail leaders shores. Naseem Shah. side, however, even if they stay fit and can challenge effectively cannot pad-up India by 244 points in the WTC Warner plundered 647 Though highly rated, the question marks hang over the Australians.” for three months. standings. Imran Khan advises Sarfaraz to focus on domestic cricket

AGENCIES he should focus on domestic LAHORE cricket.” Sarfaraz was relieved of his Pakistan’s Prime Minister and duties as Pakistan captain last legendary cricketer Imran Khan month in all three formats after believes Sarfaraz Ahmed a sustained drop in both per- (pictured) can make a comeback sonal form and the team’s for- and his axing does not neces- tunes in all three formats. sarily spell the end of his inter- He also lost his place in the A man walks past cricket themed mural paintings on the walls of Eden Gardens ahead of the first pink ball day-night Test between national career. T20 and Test squads for Paki- India and Bangladesh, in Kolkata, yesterday. The Test will start on November 22. Khan, who heads top office stan’s tour of Australia, and has of the country, has almost spent the last three weeks cap- completely stayed away from taining Sindh in the Quaid-e- any public comment on the Azam trophy, where, with 92 England take on NZ with new philosophy nation’s cricket team since he runs in four innings, his batting became the prime minister. But, returns have been somewhat taking a weekend off from modest. Khan threw his weight REUTERS takes to get a good score on any squat or these sort of things,” political duties, he touched upon behind Misbah, praising both his WELLINGTON given wicket,” Root said. Williamson told Radio New a number of recent develop- integrity and ability. “It would be nice to get used Zealand of his injury. ments in Pakistan cricket, also “It is a constructive move to England’s two-match series in to batting for 120 overs more We have to try to “If it doesn’t get too aggra- backing the embattled head appoint Misbah as he is an New Zealand is not part of the regularly, especially in the first vated... then it’s fine. You are coach and chief selector Misbah- honest and unbiased person who World Test Championship but innings. bat longer. It doesn’t always managing bits and pieces ul-Haq to come good. has loads of experience behind will be no less significant for the “And it doesn’t just apply to matter how long it of your body.” “I don’t think the per- him. I think Misbah will turn out tourists as they prepare to our batting. It’s with the ball as takes to get a good Williamson will share the formance and form of a player to be a good choice and Pakistan showcase a more patient brand well. We have to be prepared to score on any given scoring burden with Henry should be judged by T20 cricket will improve and do well in Test of cricket under their new coach go at two an over and build Nicholls and Tom Latham -- all but through Test and one-dayone day and ODI criccricketket underunder him.him He in Mount Maunganui on pressure in different ways.” wicket: Joe Root three Test batsmen ranked in the cricket,”cricket,” ESPN-ESPN- hashas thisthis tatalentlent in hhimim tthathat he can Thursday. England are also leaning top 10 -- as well as veteran Ross cricinfocricinfo quotedquoted groom thethe pplayerslayers anandd also With Australia retaining the more toward youth, packing Taylor. Khan as improve their performance.”performance Ashes earlier this year, England, seven under-25 players in their overseas Test series, might have They also have a potent pace saying.saying. KhanKhan aalsolso exexpressedpressed confi-co under new coach Chris Sil- 15-man squad. Four of them -- to shoulder the extra burden. attack, as England found out in “He“He dence in the revamped domesticdom verwood, have embarked on a Ollie Pope, Sam Curran, Dominic Currently ranked second in Auckland last year when Tim can come structure - whichwhich hhee hhadad hhimselfim two-year project to reclaim the Sibley and Jofra Archer -- could the world, one place above Southee and Trent Boult bundled back to the heavilyheavily cchampionedhampioned - bbackingack urn in 2020-21. see action in Mount Maunganui England, New Zealand have lost them out for 58 in the first nationalnational it to produce long-termlong-term reresultss Jettisoning the aggressive this week. only one of their last 15 Tests on innings. Neil Wagner, known for teamteam,, bbutut thatthat improve performancesperformance of style championed by his prede- Root will be back at his pre- home soil. Their batting has been his penchant to bounce out rightright now thethe nationalnational sside.ide. cessor Trevor Bayliss, Sil- ferred number four against New bolstered by skipper Kane Wil- batsmen, completes New Zea- “If“If our ddomesticome verwood has advocated a more Zealand, ahead of Ben Stokes, liamson’s timely recovery from land’s three-pronged seam cricketcricket improves,impro conservative approach to Test while Dom Sibley will partner a hip injury ahead of the inau- attack while Lockie Ferguson, then PakPakistanis cricket, with skipper Joe Root Rory Burns at the top, but Eng- gural Test at his home ground. their World Cup hero, will be cricketcricket willwill also emphasising the importance of land’s bowling unit looks less “It doesn’t restrict my looking forward to a Test debut movemov patience ahead of the series. intimidating in the absence of movement too much, it’s only in following his maiden call-up. forward.”forwa “We have to try to bat longer. James Anderson and Mark Wood. certain specific positions, it’s Hamilton hosts the second It doesn’t matter how long it Archer, playing his first more that happens in a wide Test from November 29. 10 SPORT TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2019 Debutant Tsitsipas clinches ATP Finals title REUTERS or fatigue as he wore down Thiem with celebrates with ball boys and girls after winning the ATP LONDON his courageous all-court attacking game Finals at the O2 Arena in London, on Sunday. Tsitsipas beat Austria’s Dominic to pocket a $2.6m winner’s cheque. Stefanos Tsitsipas confirmed his meteoric Thiem to win the match 6-7, 6-2, 7-6. Thiem, who has been battling a cold rise into the highest echelon of men’s all week, was hanging on at times in the tennis by battling back to beat Austrian first set, saving break points at 1-2 and 3-4. Dominic Thiem 6-7(6), 6-2, 7-6(4) in a But he edged the tiebreak. Tsitsipas compelling title duel at the ATP Finals on saved one set point with an athletic volley Sunday. but then offered up another chance The 21-year-old debutant, the which Thiem took by landing a powerful youngest of the eight qualifiers for the first serve. elite season-ender at the O2 Arena, dis- Tsistipas’s response was emphatic. played resilience and flair in equal He won 16 of the first 18 points of a measure to become the youngest second set he bagged in 25 minutes. champion since Lleyton Hewitt in 2001. Under siege Thiem showed guts to Thiem edged an intense first set full hold serve at the start of the decider but of powerful baseline rallies but Tsitsipas, when he slapped a backhand into the net the first Greek player to qualify for the to hand Tsitsipas the first break in the ATP’s blue-riband event, was undaunted third game it appeared the match was and responded in style. slipping away. As Thiem’s level dipped, Tsitsipas The Austrian, whose run to the final surged into a 4-0 lead in the second set will see him end the year ranked fourth and then led 3-1 in the decider. in the world, then went for broke, Twice runner-up Thiem throwing the kitchen sink at Tsitsipas as was not finished though and fought back his rocked the Greek and to take the match into a tie-break. Tsitsipas won the NextGen Finals title for event. But I’m so relieved by the out- Tsistipas was the youngest player to he levelled the set at 3-3. World number six Tsitsipas, the the best up-and-coming players on the standing performance and the fight I reach the final on debut since American Twice Tsitsipas nervelessly held serve crowd favourite, led 4-1 but was pegged men’s Tour. showed today.” Jim Courier in 1991. to stay afloat as the final moved into a back to 4-4 before reeling off the last After a sensational week in London, Thiem will rue the 40 unforced errors He was also playing for the third suc- final-set tiebreak for the first time since three points, sealing victory when Thiem Tsitsipas looks poised to lead the charge that undermined him on Sunday but cessive day after losing a superb group 2005 and only the fourth time in the ballooned a forehand wide. for the young guns in 2020. back-to-back wins over match against Nadal on Friday and event’s 50-year history. It is the fourth successive year the “I have no clue how I played so well and this week proved eclipsing six-time champion Federer in Despite being pegged back to 4-4 he tournament has had a first-time winner in the second set,” Tsitsipas said on court. that, at 26, he is moving into his prime the semi-finals. reeled off the next three points to seal his and incredibly it is just one year since “I was nervous playing in such a big years, and not just on his favoured clay. But he showed few signs of nerves third title of the year. Nadal ends year Tsitsipas title triumph shows as number one for fifth time young guns are ready to rule AFP ATP YEAR-END PARIS RANKINGS: REUTERS “The question to be asked is remains a massive challenge, even if LONDON where is the road going after he did down Federer in Australia. 1. (ESP) 9,985 pts Rafael Nadal was confirmed Djokovic, Federer and Nadal and after “That’s a really difficult task to do 2. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 9,145 as the year-end world Rafael Nadal will end the year as the this week I think we are in safe for players,” he said. “For us, for the 3. Roger Federer (SUI) 6,590 number one for the fifth time world’s top-ranked player and the “big hands,” former world number one young guys, it’s all about time. I don’t 4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 5,825 (+1) after the ATP released its three” retained their stranglehold on Boris Becker said. know. We will have to beat them or The question to 5. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 5,705 (-1) season-closing rankings the titles, but when With the likes of Medvedev and wait for them.” be asked is where 6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5,300 yesterday. Stefanos Tsitsipas was crowned ATP fellow Russians On the evidence of the past seven 7. (GER) 3,345 is the road going The Spaniard did not Finals champion on Sunday it felt like and , Canadian duo days the waiting game may be about after Djokovic, make it beyond the group 8. (ITA) 2,870 a watershed moment. Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis to come to an end. stage of last week’s ATP 9. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,540 “I believe I’m really close on being Shapovalov, Australia Federer and Nadal Finals in London but Novak 10. Gaël Monfils (FRA) 2,530 crowned a Grand Slam champion. I and Italians Matteo Berrettini and after this week 11. (BEL) 2,335 Djokovic’s failure to reach know these are strong words that I and Jannik Sinner, not to I think we are in the semi-finals meant Nadal 12. (ITA) 2,290 say, but I do feel like I belong to be mention German Zverev, gath- closed the year with 9,985 13. (JPN) 2,180 there,” the 21-year-old Greek boldly ering en masse, change is safe hands: Boris points, 840 clear of the Serb. 14. Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 2,125 claimed after beating Dominic Thiem. brewing. Becker Nadal draws level with 15. (CAN) 2,050 There have been false dawns Thiem, beaten in suc- rivals Djokovic and Roger before of course. Germany’s Alex- cessive French Open finals ATP WORLD TOUR Federer, who have also fin- ander Zverev, like Greek Tsitsipas, by Nadal, believes next RECENT YEAR-END FINALS WINNERS ished the year in top spot five was also 21 last year when he beat year could herald a new NO. 1 RANKED PLAYERS: times, and moves one Novak Djokovic to win the season- Grand Slam champion. behind six-time end-of-year 2005 Roger Federer ender in London. “I think that for sure 2009 Nikolay Davydenko number one Pete Sampras. 2006 Roger Federer Zverev could not back it up in this we can do it next year. 2010 Roger Federer Nadal and Djokovic have 2007 Roger Federer year’s Slams, two of which were won We are all playing great 2011 Roger Federer been this year’s two dom- 2008 Rafael Nadal by the 33-year-old Nadal and two tennis,” Thiem said. 2012 Novak Djokovic inant players after winning 2009 Roger Federer by the 32-year-old Djokovic. They “Sascha (Zverev), Stefanos, 2013 Novak Djokovic two Majors each. 2010 Rafael Nadal have 19 and 16 majors each while me, some other guys. I’m 2014 Novak Djokovic Djokovic won the Aus- 2011 Novak Djokovic Roger Federer, at 38, will still believe pretty sure that we’re going 2015 Novak Djokovic tralian Open and Wim- 2012 Novak Djokovic he can add to the record 20 he has to see a new and young 2016 Andy Murray bledon with Nadal cleaning 2013 Rafael Nadal accumulated during his extraor- Grand Slam champion next ATP FINALS WINNERS up at Roland Garros and the 2014 Novak Djokovic dinary career. year.” 2017 Grigor Dimitrov US Open. 2015 Novak Djokovic But for the first time, that golden Tsitsipas wisely pointed 2018 Alexander Zverev Federer ends the season 2016 Andy Murray trio will be having an anxious glance out, however, that over 2019 Stefanos Tsitsipas at number three for the 2017 Rafael Nadal over their shoulders. The past week best-of-five-set matches, second year running. The 2018 Novak Djokovic in London has revealed a new fear- beating the big three Swiss, who turned 38 in 2019 Rafael Nadal lessness in the generation of 20 some- August, has cut down his things expected to fill the void when Tour commitments to focus they call it a day. on events around Grand Slams. Austrian Thiem, who at 26 is an He reached the semi-finals of the French Open where established force, got the ball rolling he lost to Nadal and the last eight at Flushing Meadows when he beat Federer on the opening where he lost in five sets to world number 20 Gregor day of the ATP’s exclusive Dimitrov. In between he lost an epic Wimbledon final year-ender. against Djokovic, the first to be decided by a tie-break The following day Germany’s in the fifth set, suggesting that he still has hopes of a 21st Zverev beat Nadal for the first time major title in 2020. in his career while earlier that day Dominic Thiem, who took a set off Nadal in the final of Tsitsipas marked his tournament the French Open, moves up to number four after reaching debut by beating 23-year-old Russian the final of the ATP Finals where he lost to Stefanos Daniil Medvedev, who reached this Tsitsipas. year’s US Open final, for the first time The 21-year-old Greek closes the year at number six, It did not stop there. Thiem then just behind Daniil Medvedev, after his triumph in London. beat Djokovic and Medvedev should Former world number one Andy Murray began the have beaten Nadal, losing from 5-1 year ranked at 240 and the up in the decider. prospectprospecct ofof retirement.retiremement.ntt. On Saturday, Tsitsipas silenced AsAs hehe struggledstrugggled withith the Federer fan club to eclipse the six- ssurgeryurgery on a hiphiip injuryiinjuury time champion in straight sets to andand the subsequentsubsequent recu-recuece reach the final -- beating the Swiss perationperation hehe hadad slippedslips pped maestro with the kind of attacking toto 550303 iinn SeSeptemberptemmbe game Federer has trademarked. beforebeefore a dramaticdramaticcr returnreturn With Nadal and Djokovic bumped toto thethe courts,courts, whichwhich pro-pro out in the group, Federer’s semi-final ducedduuced a rremarkableemarkabl defeat meant it was only the third victoryvictory at tthehe EEuropeanuropean time since 2002 that at least one of Open in AntwerpAntwerp,Antwerp, lif liftedted that trio had not reached the final. himhim to a year-endyear-end That may have disappointed 126. some, but the quality and intensity of Sunday’s final in which Tsitsipas beat Thiem 6-7(6), 6-2, 7-6(4) to become the youngest champion at the season- ending tournament since 2001, had Stefanos Tsitsipas celebrates with World No.1 Rafael Nadal the O2 Arena audience enthralled. the ATP Finals winner’s trophy. TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2019 SPORT 11

QOC President H E Sheikh Joaan honours Qatar’s Asian Shooting Championships medallists Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) President, H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, poses with the Qatari shooters, who won medals at the recently-concluded Asian Shooting Championships 2019 held at Losail Shooting Range. First Vice-President of the QOC, Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al Thani, QOC’s Second Vice-President, Dr. Thani bin Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, QOC’s Secretary-General, Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain, and Qatar Shooting Federation President, Ali Mohammed Al Kuwari, were also present. H E Sheikh Joaan praised the Qatari shooters for their outstanding performance, and also congratulated Mohammed Al Rumaihi, who won the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games quota for Qatar during the event. The QOC President said the medals are the beginning of the journey and Qatar is counting on such champions in the upcoming continental and international tournaments.

Netherlands Brazil win U-17 World Cup title back where

REUTERS they belong: BRASILIA Van Dijk Brazil staged a remarkable comeback for the second time in REUTERS a week to beat Mexico 2-1 in AMSTERDAM front of their own fans and win the FIFA U-17 World Cup for a Defender Virgil van Dijk says fourth time. the Netherlands are “back Just three days after they where they belong” after recovered from being 2-0 down sealing automatic qualification to beat France 3-2 in the semi- for the 2020 European Cham- finals, Brazil scored two goals in pionship. the last 10 minutes to overcome The Dutch, who did not their Latin rivals. qualify for Euro 2016 or the Although Brazil had more of 2018 World Cup, sealed the early chances, Mexico took progress to the finals of next the lead at 66 minutes when year’s tournament with a game Bryan Gonzalez rose between to spare after Saturday’s 0-0 two defenders to head a cross draw against Northern Ireland. from the left into the net. With the finals being held Kaio Jorge equalised from at 12 venues across Europe, the the penalty spot with six minutes Netherlands could play their remaining after the Video group stage matches at the Assistant Referee (VAR) advised Johan Cruyff Arena in officials to pull play back fol- Amsterdam, with the draw lowing a challenge on Veron. being made on November 30. Then three minutes into “I’m very delighted that we stoppage time, substitute Lazaro are back at the Euros, back ran on to a cross ball and calmly where we belong I think,” Van fired home, to the delight of the Dijk told reporters. Brazil’s players celebrate with the FIFA U-17 World Cup trophy. home crowd. “It means a lot to the The Flamengo forward had convenient for them,” said an They grew after that,” he said. team in the final of the 2012 from behind to beat the Nether- people. I’ve heard we’re going also come off the bench to score unhappy Mexican coach Marco The win was revenge of a Olympics. lands 3-1 and take third-place. to probably play all our group the winner in Thursday’s last- Ruiz. sorts for Brazil, who lost 3-0 to Earlier in the day, Arnaud Dutchman Sontje Hansen games in Amsterdam, it will be minute win over France. “We had the game under Mexico in the under-17 final in Kalimuendo-Muinga scored a won the golden boot for the top massive. “They use the VAR when it is control until the VAR decision. 2005, as well as to their under-23 hat-trick to help France come goalscorer with six goals. “It was a big thing for us to miss those tournaments, it was tough... We have missed two, maybe we have to get used to it again.” Loew ‘to try things out’ against Northern Ireland Ronald Koeman’s side are second in Group C, two points REUTERS “It will certainly be the case matches in March. We can use it (the behind leaders Germany -- the BERLIN where I will make one or two game)ga to try things out.” Bale, Ramsey ready only side to beat them in the changes,”changes,” Loew told reporters “We want to be top, ahead of the qualifiers. Germanyany coachcoach JoachimJoachim LoewLoew yesterdayyesterday wwhenhen asaskedked DutchD but we can also win a lot of Van Dijk, who will miss (pictured)red) will use ttheirheir finfinalal whetherwhether the ggrouproup win or thingsth from this game,” Loew added. to start in Wales’ their final qualifier against Euro 2020020 quaqualifierlifier agaiagainstnst thethe chancechance to test some The Germans suffered a shock winless Estonia today due to Northernern IrelandIreland todaytoday to youngyoung playersplayers was group-stagegr exit at last year’s World crucial qualifier personal reasons, said there try outt various game plaplansns importantimportant totoday.day. CupCu and were relegated in the inau- was still room for improvement. with ann eye on next yearyear’s’s “To“To give some guralgu Nations League, promoting a REUTERS “We know we can improve, tournamentament as thethe teteamam pplayerslayers the chance to majorm overhaul of the team. LONDON can do a lot better in certain have alreadyalready qualified.qualified. playplay.. I still want to see They have bounced back to aspects of the game,” he added. Thee Germans,Germans, whowho beatbeat ssomeome plaplayers,yers, gigiveve tthemhem qualifyqu for Euro 2020 with just one Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey are both ready to start Belarusus 4-0 on SaturdaSaturdayy to tthehe ttrustrust aandnd tthehe losslo and six wins from seven quali- for Wales in their decisive Euro 2020 qualifier against book theirtheir ticketticket forfor EuroEuro spacespace ttheyhey mmayay fiersfie so far. Hungary today, manager Ryan Giggs has said. 2020, will secure toptop need.need. NextNext Loew, however, has had to deal Real Madrid forward Bale featured for an hour in spot inn tthehe grougroupp yearyear wewe withw a long list of absences in the Wales’ 2-0 victory over Azerbaijan on Saturday after with a winwin.. havehav e pastpa months and said his team had spending a month on the sidelines with a calf problem. It means a lot to Loew,o ew, twot w o aalreadyl made the year a success. The 30-year-old was replaced by Ramsey, who the people. I’ve however,e ver, “A big compliment to the team has struggled with niggling injuries in recent months heard we’re going looks moremore becausebe qualifying for a tournament and made just eight appearances for Juventus this interestedsted inin is always above everything else and season. to probably play all giving some thisth young team with young players “The lads who go minutes needed minutes. It’s a bit our group games playersers at the start of their process did it of a balancing act, the players I know who can’t play 90 in Amsterdam, it more timeime well.w minutes - that will obviously influence the selection,” will be massive. It on thethe “We have the chance to qualify Giggs told a news conference yesterday. pitchc h asas group winner. I am satisfied in a “Gareth and Aaron were in that scenario. They are was a big thing for with an difficultdi year. both ready to start.” us to miss those eye oonn “We started overhauling the The win in Azerbaijan along with Croatia’s victory tournaments, it the nextext teamte and then more than 10 players over Slovakia in Group E means Wales can secure auto- six monthsnths arear injured. So we had changes to matic qualification for Euro 2020 by beating Hungary was tough: Virgil of preparationeparation theth changes and did it very well,” he in Cardiff. van Dijk for thee tournament.tournament. added.add SPORT

PAGE | 09 PAGE | 10 Australia’s Smith Tsitsipas title and Warner triumph shows to test young young guns are Pakistan quicks ready to rule

Tuesday 19 November 2019 FIFA Club World Cup 2019: Amazing experience awaits fans

FIFA Islands and water sports DOHA Given its geographic location, rich marine life, and crystal-clear waters, Qatar is an ideal From sightseeing trips and nature tours that destination for water sport lovers, who can enjoy cover all aspects of local life to unlimited fishing trips, rowing boats, water skiing, kite- shopping opportunities, Qatar offers visitors a surfing, paragliding, and scuba diving among wide variety of activities, with something for shipwrecks or coral reefs. Qatar also has a everyone. The FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019, number of unique islands like Palm Island, the which will be held from December 11-22, will artificial Pearl Island, and the Zekreet peninsula, undoubtedly afford football fans everywhere which boasts picturesque beaches and natural the chance to enjoy a unique experience. rock formations. Generosity and hospitality Historical sites and castles Bedouins are known for their hospitality and Lovers of archaeology and antiquity can see traditionally sharing their food with their guests. many historical sites telling the story of Qatar’s This culture is still deep rooted in Qatari society distant past, such as the UNESCO world heritage and permeates all aspects of life in Qatar. site Al Zubarah and its unique fort. There is also Offering Arabic coffee and sweets to guests the Museum of Islamic Art, Katara Cultural remains an expression of hospitality. Qatari Village, and Souq Waqif, all among Qatar’s most cuisine is rich and unique, with its dishes influ- popular tourist attractions. The country is also enced over the years by the gastronomical home to several ancient forts that were used as delights of the Indian Subcontinent, Iran, the military or civilian installations, such as the Doha Levant and North Africa. Fort, Barzan Towers and Umm Salal Fort. Resorts and beaches Desert adventures and dune challenges Qatar has many wonderful resorts where In addition to the spectacular beaches and people can relax and escape the hustle and bustle islands, Qatar also has some beautiful desert and of everyday life. rocky terrain. Visitors can enjoy desert safari These include the Sealine Beach Resort, one trips, ride camels and camp under the stars in a FIFA Club World Cup Trophy Tour stops at QOC Headquarters of the finest coastal strips near the capital. Vis- Bedouin tent, or perhaps visit Khor Al Udayd, itors can also spend time at the Al Ghariya Resort which features sand dunes in stunning forma- The President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, and QOC Secretary- on the seafront, where there are many walk tions and has been dubbed ‘the Inland Sea’. There General Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain posing for a photograph with the FIFA Club World Cup Trophy when areas like the Doha Corniche, a waterfront prom- is also Al Jassasiya, a magnificent area of rock the Trophy Tour stopped at the QOC Headquarters yesterday. Qatar will host the FIFA Club World Cup 2019 enade extending for several kilometres along carvings, where visitors can see examples of pre- from December 11 to December 21. Doha Bay. historic sculptures. High-flying Qatar eye win over Afghans

THE PENINSULA would have been within three points DUSHANBE, TAJIKISTAN of second-placed Oman coming into India look Tuesday’s fixtures had they managed Qatar will be playing to post another to hold on. to shock confident win against Afghanistan The players have a busy As it stands, Anoush Dastgir’s side today when the two sides battle for schedule coming up. Qatar are now five points behind Oman and hosts Oman points in their 2022 FIFA World Cup has played good football in six behind Qatar, giving them almost and 2023 Asian Cup joint qualifier. the last two or three months. no margin for error coming into the THE PENINSULA MUSCAT The Group E match will be played We respect Afghanistan. We final four matches of this round of the at Republican Central Stadium with hope to collect maximum qualification race. kick-off set for 1200GMT. Reigning Asian champions Qatar India will aim to pull-off a shock Qatar, coached by Felix Sanchez, points. All the players are fit will also have the services of Akram Afif, when they face Oman, one of the beat Afghanistan 6-0 after star striker and raring to go: Sanchez who was shortlisted for the AFC Player two heavyweights of Asian Almoez Ali grabbed a hat-trick in of the Year award three days ago. Qualifiers Group E, when they Doha more than two months ago. Three days ago, Qatar beat Sin- take on the hosts in Muscat Captain Hassan Al Haydos, defender coming up. Qatar has played good gapore 2-0 in a friendly match at Al today. Abdel Karim Hassan and Boualem football in the last two or three Duhail Stadium in Doha. While India inflicted a late blow Khoukhi also scored in that months. We respect Afghanistan,” the Qatar coach Sanchez decided to on Afghanistan last time out, it encounter. Spaniard added. rest his regular players including was they who suffered a similar All the above players will be at “We hope to collect maximum forward Ali, defender Pedro Miguel, fate when they met Oman on coach Sanchez’s disposal when the points. All the players are fit and Khoukhi and Tarek Salman, but Matchday One, with Erwin two sides arrive for the match on raring to go,” the Qatar coach said. Mohammed Muntari (32) and an own Koeman’s side snatching a 2-1 neutral soil since Afghanistan can’t However, Afghanistan return for goal from Shahdan bin Sulaiman (43) win having trailed with eight host matches in the country. their second trip to Dushanbe’s saw Qatar post an easy win. minutes remaining in Guwahati. “We are confident of a good per- Republican Central Stadium in five Qatar have played four matches That win proved to be the formance. We beat Singapore three days after a last-minute goal from and won three – they have beaten start of a strong campaign for days ago and the players are looking Seiminlen Doungel helped India Afghanistan 6-0, Bangladesh 2-0 and Oman, who have since breezed confident,” coach Sanchez said salvage a 1-1 draw last Thursday. Oman 2-1 while playing out a goalless to two big wins in Muscat and yesterday. Doungel’s equaliser was a bitter draw against India – to lead Group E pushed Qatar all the way in a 2-1 Qatar’s coach Felix Sanchez speaks “The players have a busy schedule pill to swallow for Afghanistan, who with 10 points. defeat in Doha. Koeman’s next to Qatari forward Almoez Ali brother Ronald has had a suc- during a pre-match press conference cessful international career by in Dushanbe, Tajikistan yesterday, leading their native Netherlands ahead of their 2022 FIFA World Cup to UEFA Euro 2020 qualification, and 2023 Asian Cup joint qualifier and the elder sibling of the family against Afghanistan. could be on the way to going one better by leading Oman to a QATAR VS AFGHANISTAN maiden FIFA World Cup. Venue: Republican Central Stadium, Oman’s form on home soil Dushanbe has certainly been impressive, Kick-off time:5:00pm Qatar time racking up seven goals in two wins, including four in the OMAN VS INDIA second half against Bangladesh Venue: Sultan Qaboos Sports on Thursday, while India have Complex, Muscat now gone more than two years Kick-off time: 6:00pm Qatar time since emerging victorious as the away team. As ever, they will rely 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP AND 2023 on the goals of the talismanic ASIAN CUP JOINT QUALIFIER Sunil Chhetri, who has called on GROUP E STANDINGS his teammates to remain disci- plined in a match he has desig- P W D L PTS nated as a ‘must not lose’. 1: Qatar 4 3 1 0 10 It was that discipline which 2: Oman 4 3 0 1 9 helped India restrict Qatar to a Qatari players in action during a practice 3: Afghanistan 4 1 1 2 4 0-0 draw on Matchday Two, session on the eve of today’s 2022 FIFA 4: India 4 0 3 1 3 and it is likely a similar per- World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup joint qualifier 5: Bangladesh 4 0 1 3 1 formance will be required to against Afghanistan. challenge the in-form Omanis.