Confident Nadal sounds Australian Open warning PAGE 18 MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 2019

Ace rallyist Nasser al Attiyah and Mathieu Baumel ASIAN CUP 2019 PAGE 19 top Stage Six of in VS BAHRAIN (7 PM) steamroll Korea 6-0, storm into knockout stage Awesome Almoez slams four, Khoukhi and Hassan one each for Al Annabi to top group AFC AL AIN

ALMOEZ ALI was the star of the show on Sunday afternoon as he scored four and set up a fifth in Qatar’s 6-0 defeat of DPR (North) Korea as Felix Sanchez’s side moved to the top of the Group E standings and into the knockout stage of the AFC Asian Cup 2019. The Al Duhail striker, now the tournament’s leading scorer with five goals in two games, shone as his partner- ship with Akram Afif down the left destroyed the DPR Ko- rean defence repeatedly while Boualem Khoukhi and Ab- delkarim Hassan also put their names on the scoresheet. Victory means Sanchez’s side have secured themselves a top two finish in the group and their win also ensures will progress to the last 16. The teams face off on Thursday to determine who will top the group, with Qatar’s huge win meaning a draw in Abu Dhabi will be enough to take pole position. Qatar’s Abdelkarim Hassan (No. 3) is swarmed by teammates after he scored in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Group E match against North Korea After labouring in the at the Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain, UAE, on Sunday. (AFP) opening hour of their 2-0 win over Lebanon, Qatar were tak- themselves further behind ing no chances against DPR when Afif lifted the ball high Almoez Ali of Qatar celebrates one of his four goals against North Korea, with Sanchez restoring over the advancing Ri Myung Korea in their 2019 AFC Asian Cup Group E preliminary match in the influential Hassan to the Guk and Khoukhi headed in Al Ain, UAE, on Sunday. (EPA-EFE) starting line-up and the West from close range. Asian side possessed a greater Qatar refused to relent as level of urgency as a result. they sought to boost their goal Defying odds, sound of silence Within nine minutes the difference ahead of their cru- AL-AIN: Almoez Ali scored a record-equalling four goals but Qataris were in front as Afif cial meeting with Saudi Ara- barely raised a cheer on Sunday as Qatar hammered North glided past Sim Hyon Jin be- bia, with Ali completing his Korea 6-0 at a stadium that was virtually empty due to the fore delivering a low cross to hat trick 10 minutes into the Gulf blockade. Ali that he controlled with his second half with an easy finish Almoez became only the fourth player to score four goals in a right before stroking past Ri after Afif’s perfectly weighted single game at the tournament. But there was little excitement Myong Guk with his left. through ball. in Al Ain’s 16,000-seat Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium. Two minutes later and Qa- The 22-year-old added fur- With the North Korean public also forbidden to travel, the tar doubled their lead, with the At the Whistle ther misery for DPR Korea five crowd was always going to be small. An estimated 300 people threat this time coming down Qatar 6 (Almoez Ali 9’, minutes later when he linked watched the game, including two groups of North Korean fans the right. Hassan’s sweeping 11’, 55’, 60’; Boualem up again with Afif, who led a equipped with flags and occasionally cheering in unison. ball found Hassan al Haydos, rapid-fire counterattack for the Qatar coach Felix Sanchez said his team had steeled them- the Qatar captain, and his low Khoukhi 43’; Qataris before rolling the ball selves to play without their supporters, which could be a prob- centre gave Ali the perfect op- Abdelkarim Hassan through to Ali and he smashed lem in tighter games as the tournament wears on. portunity to strike from close 68’) North Korea 0 his shot across Ri Myung Guk “We don’t have our supporters here but we know that they’re sup- range. Once again he was clini- and inside the far post. porting from Qatar, they’re following us,” he said after the game. cal, netting for the third time Ali turned provider in the The players know this is the scenario and they deal with it.” in the tournament. 68th minute when his pass al- German Mark Slonek, one of the small number of neutrals in the A string of yellow cards for lowed Hassan to storm through oval, all-seater ground, said it was a pity that more fans were not Ri Un Chol, Jong Il Gwan and Qatar’s midfielder Boualem Khoukhi (No. 16) fights for the ball with North Korea’s Chol Bom Kim to the DPR Korea defence and slot there to watch. “It’s a real shame,” said the 43-year-old IT admin- Ri Il Jin suggested DPR Korea score the third goal of the match for his side on Sunday. (AFP) home Qatar’s sixth and the east istrator from Stuttgart. It was a far cry from the nearly 34,000 were about to lose control, but Asian side’s misery was com- fans at the tournament’s curtain-raiser in Abu Dhabi, while more eventually Kim Yong Jun’s Ri Un Chol tried his luck from to find the top corner. erwise disappointing half for pounded in injury time when than 76,000 attended the 2015 final in Sydney. (AFP) side settled and almost pulled outside the area and his right That, though, was to prove DPR Korea. With just two Joang Il Gwan was sent off for themselves back into the game. foot drive only narrowly failed a brief bright spot in an oth- minutes remaining, they found second bookable offence. Benali’s nine goals fire Qatar to crucial win over Egypt Maroons hold rivals scoreless for 10 minutes before racing to a six-goal lead in the 2nd half

TNN/IHF DOHA Scoreline Qatar (Youssef Benali 9, GETTING their campaign Fankis Marzo 6, Rafael back on track, a rejuvenated Qatar shook off Egypt in the Capote 5, Allaedine Berrached second half of their IHF World 2, 2, Anis Handball Championship Pool Zouaoui 2) beat Egypt D match with pivot Youssef (Ahmed Alahmar 6, Mohamed Benali slamming in nine goals Shebib 5, Eslam Eissa 4, to boost them to a 28-23 win at the Royal Arena in Copen- Yahia Omar 3, Yehia Elderaa hagen on Sunday. 3) 28-23 (Half Time 15-12). Benali did the star turn for the former silver medallists as Qatar’s Youssef Benali shapes up to score past Egypt goalkeeper Karim Hendawy during their IHF Men’s World Championship 2019 Group D match at the Royal Arena in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Sunday. (Right) the strapping pivot converted Benali celebrates with teammates after scoring. Qatar won the match 28-23. 9 of his 12 attempts to lead the charge. Frankis Marzo netted ter the first game. I want to first game. It was important Valero. I have a great respect to get back in the reckoning. Towards the close, Wajdi minutes, while they went on to half a dozen and thank my team mates for for us to show that we are able for what you (Valero) have But Egypt fought hard and on Sinen fired from the centre to hammer six of their goals dur- added five, while Alladine Ber- playing so well. We showed to play this way. We had an ex- achieved in the sport of hand- eight occasions both teams make it 15-12. However, Egypt ing this time, racing to a com- rached, Ahmad Madadi and that we deserve more in this cellent concentration through- ball. I take the result on my were locked on par. kept coming back and cutting manding 23-17 advantage. shared six. competition.” out the game.” shoulders. I didn’t prepare the Berrached and Capote the margin after the match re- Egypt made four attempts Speaking of his top show, Qatar coach Valero Rive- Rivera was also compli- team good enough.” cracked a goal each to put sumed in the second session. during this stage and three Benali later said, “Today was ra, said, “It was an important mented by his counterpart, Having suffered an open- Qatar two goals ahead (13-11) Qatar then swung the of them were blocked by a very good match for us. We match for us as we didn’t play David Davis, coach of Egypt, ing match heartbreak against with less than five minutes left game after 36 minutes. They Qatar’s veteran goalkeeper tried to change our level af- the way we intended in the who said, “Congratulation to Angola, Qatar were desperate in the first half. held the rivals scoreless for 10 Danijel Saric. Sports Monday, January 14, 2019 17

PSG STARS ARRIVE IN DOHA FOR WINTER TOUR

Paris Saint-Germain players and coaches have arrived in Doha for their annual Winter Tour of Qatar. Over four days, the team will make use of the outstanding training facilities at the Aspire Zone and benefit from the country’s ideal weather con- ditions. This trip will be an opportunity for the Club to meet its local supporters. All of the players will be present and plenty of entertainment will be organised to treat the Paris Saint-Germain supporters in Qatar to some memorable experiences. Les Parisiens are scheduled to have an open session at the iconic Khalifa International Stadium. KAS Eupen move a dream come true, says Msekni regularly and will Meanwhile, Eupen coach The Tunisian missed the 2018 FIFA give me that,” Msekni said. and former Real Madrid “It’s been a good experi- and Chelsea legend Claude World Cup due to a knee injury ence at Duhail and I had an Makelele has hailed his new agreement already with the signing as competitive and ex- AYENI OLUSEGUN league titles and a CAF Cham- club (Al Duhail) to consider perienced who will help ease DOHA pions League. offers from other clubs. I hope the club’s reliance on 37-year- With Al Duhail, the Tu- to enjoy the experience with old Luis Garcia for goals. The YOUSEF Msekni has said his nisian recorded his best per- Eupen which I chose based on Spaniard has scored seven loan move from Al Duhail to formance in front of goal last their ambitions. They have a goals this season, two ahead Belgian top flight side KAS season, bagging 25 goals to lot young players and I know of ’s Yuta Toyokawa Eupen is a dream come true finish second in the top scor- I can help the team and con- who has four. during his official unveiling at ers’ chart just behind team- tribute.” “Yousef is a good player. the Aspire Zone on Sunday. mate Youssef El Arabi. The midfielder’s injury He is competitive and experi- Eupen, owned by Aspire He was also part of Djamel was a big blow to the Carthage enced although playing in Eu- Zone Foundation are in Doha Belmadi’s team which won Eagles ahead of the World rope is different, I’m sure he for their annual winter break. the league, Qatar Cup and Cup and with the African Cup wants to get better as a player The club has witnessed a Emir Cup in 2018. of Nations set for this sum- and we will help him get bet- steady rise in their fortunes His move however, raised KAS Eupen manager Claude Makelele and Yousef Msekni during a press conference at the Aspire Zone on mer, Msekni said he will be ter. He could have gone to the but are currently 10th in the a few eyebrows as the Tuni- Sunday. (HANDON K JOSEPH) ready for the tournament. Bundesliga or somewhere else 16-team Jupiler League. sian captain who missed the “Injuries are part of the but he chose our club. Msekni joined Al Duhail 2018 FIFA World Cup due a claim the Tunisian national this move and it’s not easy opportunity for me. game. Now I’m healthy and “Obviously at internation- in 2012 after enjoying a tro- to a knee injury has been re- team captain dismissed as considering my injury. My It’s difficult to play in the I can’t wait to get on the field al level he is up there and he phy-laden spell at Esperance portedly courted by clubs in mere speculation. dream is to play in one of the and for me I again and to play for Tunisia will bring a different dynamic of Tunisia where he won four the English Premier League, “I am very happy to make big leagues and Eupen is a big wanted a place where I’ll play at the AFCON,” he added. to our team.”

AFC Asian Cup 2019 De Gea masterclass ‘Lucky’ Japan edge Oman as United beat Spurs to make knockout stages

AFP ABU DHABI

GENKI Haraguchi smashed home a controversial penalty as former champions Japan scraped a 1-0 win over Oman to book their place in the last 16 of the Asian Cup on Sunday. Earlier, Almoez Ali plun- dered four goals for Qatar as the 2022 World Cup hosts hit North Korea for six to progress from Group E. Japan, who have scooped Asian football’s biggest prize on four occasions, enjoyed their share of good fortune against Oman in Abu Dhabi. Haraguchi Genki of Japan in action during the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Haraguchi clipped the Group F match against Oman in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. (EPA-EFE) crossbar after just two min- utes before Takumi Minamino television and for me it was another gear if they are to fluffed a handful of golden op- 100 percent a penalty. Against threaten Iran, who are purr- portunities. a team like Japan you need a ing, and a South Korea side That profligacy almost little bit of luck and we didn’t set to be boosted by the arrival came back to haunt the Blue get it. Now we have to pick our- of Tottenham forward Son Samurai as Oman flooded for- selves up for the last game and Heung-min. ward and Muhsen Al-Ghas- make Oman proud.” “It was tougher than we sani shaved the post from an Japan reached the knock- thought it would be,” Japan Manchester United’s Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea saves a freekick from Tottenham Hotspur during their English Premier League match at acute angle. out stages of last year’s World captain told Wembley Stadium in London on Sunday. (AFP) But Haraguchi settled Ja- Cup but they squeaked past AFP. “We were a little bit lucky pan’s nerves in the 28th min- Turkmenistan 3-2 in their with the penalty we had -- and AFP under their temporary manager goal after being played in by Son the far corner -- Lloris got fin- ute, converting from the spot opening Group F game and the one not given as well. LONDON in a contest seen as his first ma- Heung-min. gertips to the ball but was un- after he had appeared to go were poor against Oman, who “But we should have scored jor test since he took over from Minutes later the visitors able to keep it out. down easily under minimal almost equalised when Raed two or three more. That’s why MANCHESTER United proved the sacked Jose Mourinho last had a chance to take the lead Pogba, whose relationship contact from Oman captain Saleh’s acrobatic late volley we struggled at the end of the on Sunday that their recovery month. when Ashley Young’s cross fell with Mourinho had deteriorated Ahmed Al-Mahaijri. flashed wide. game in the last 10 minutes.” under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is “We won the game against a to Jesse Lingard, who fired over sharply, looks rejuvenated un- Oman had extra reason to But the Japanese remain Japan will take on either no flash in the pan, with Marcus top team, we controlled the first from the corner of the six-yard der Solskjaer -- he has been in- feel aggrieved when their own unbeaten in seven matches Saudi Arabia or Qatar after Rashford pouncing to seal a 1-0 half but in the second half they box. volved in eight goals under the penalty claims were waved since took qualifying for the knockout win in a thrilling contest against had chances,” De Gea told Sky United, with Lingard, An- interim boss, with four goals away just before half-time charge after the World Cup and stage for the eighth consecu- Tottenham. Sports. “I was feeling very well thony Martial and Rashford and four assists. after looked have now lost just one of their tive time. The two sides went toe-to- with the first two saves, it was a racing forward at every op- Tottenham came out of the to have handled a Salaah Al- last 30 games at the Asian Cup, In the day’s late kickoff, toe in an open game but while great game. portunity, looked dangerous blocks smartly after the restart Yahyaei drive. excluding penalty shootouts. Eldor Shomurodov bagged a both teams had multiple chanc- “I don’t even remember and Martial forced Lloris into a and Kane looked certain to level “We were unlucky with the Japan are seeking to make first-half brace as Uzbekistan es, United goalkeeper David some of the saves so I can’t pick smart low save with his legs. from close range but De Gea handball,” shrugged Oman up for their Asian Cup flop four crushed Turkmenistan 4-0 de Gea proved the difference, a best. The manager brought The game lost a little of saved brilliantly with his left foot coach Pim Verbeek, whose years ago when they lost on in a clash of former Soviet re- making a string of phenomenal some happiness, the players are its frantic intensity midway before pulling off a fine save to team were beaten 2-1 by Uz- penalties to the United Arab publics to progress and go top saves. playing well and the team is very through the first half. deny an Alli headed effort. bekistan last week. Emirates in the quarter-finals. of Group F ahead of Japan on Interim manager Solsk- strong now. The decisive moment in the Ashley Young sent over an “I just saw it again on the But they will need to find goal difference. jaer has installed Rashford as “This is the real Manchester match came shortly before half- inviting cross that Pogba headed his number one striker and United.” time. straight at Lloris and the Spurs was richly rewarded when the Earlier, Mauricio Pochet- Lingard cut out a careless goalkeeper had to be alert to tip Quick read 21-year-old scored the decisive tino’s Tottenham settled quickly cross-field ball from Kieran over another Pogba effort that goal in the 44th minute. into their fluid passing game at Trippier and nudged the ball to came at the end of a long spell of Defending champs Al Gharafa to host Al Ahli in QSL Cup quarters Paul Pogba sparkled for Wembley, enjoying the bulk of Pogba, who had time to look up United possession. United, engaged in a personal possession. and measure a raking cross-field Spurs, roared on by a pas- DOHA: The Qatar Stars League announced the QSL Cup quarterfinal fixtures following the conclusion duel with Spurs goalkeeper They went close to taking pass to Rashford, racing down sionate home crowd, were build- of group-stage games. Qatar Sports Club, Al Gharafa, Al Duhail and Al Kharaitiyat had progressed from Hugo Lloris for periods of the the lead when Harry Winks, the right. ing up a head of steam and Alli Group A, while Al Rayyan, Al Khor, Al Ahli and Al Sadd were the teams which qualified from Group B. second half. seemingly unsure whether to Rashford still had plenty had a golden chance to equalise The quarter-finals will be played on January 18 and 19. The final will be February 22. United’s victory is their fifth shoot or cross, fired the ball to do but kept his nerve to fire but De Gea was again equal to FIXTURES: Al Rayyan vs Al Kharaitiyat, Al Gharafa vs Al Ahli, Qatar SC vs Al Sadd, Al Duhail vs Al Khor. successive Premier League win across the face of the United right-footed past Lloris and into the task, saving with his legs. 18 Monday, January 14, 2019 Sports

AUSTRALIAN OPEN Roger ‘shocked’, 7th heaven Novak ‘hurt’ by Murray retirement beckons bombshell AFP MELBOURNE

ROGER Federer admitted on Swiss maestro Sunday he was shocked that Roger Federer Federer, tennis was to lose “legend” during a training Andy Murray this year while session ahead of long-time friend Novak Djok- the Australian Open ovic said the bombshell news in Melbourne on had “hurt” him. Sunday. (EPA-EFE) Both paid tribute to the former world number one on Djokovic the eve of the year’s first Grand Slam with Federer adding that the Scot should be “incredibly proud” of what he had achieved.

Serbian Novak Djokovic in Melbourne on Sunday. (AFP)

Andy Murray of Britain takes a break during practice at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on Sunday. (EPA-EFE)

Murray on Friday admit- ted that his chronic hip injury Confident Nadal sounds a warning had not been eased by surgery a year ago. He then choked AFP against Denis Istomin on Wimbledon in July the Serb back tears and broke down as MELBOURNE Monday – rolled back the rose inexorably back to num- he revealed that he hoped to years on Rod Laver Arena to ber one by losing only three end his storied career at Wim- ROGER Federer and Novak lift an emotional 20th Grand further matches – one of bledon, but the Australian Djokovic are both gunning for Slam. which was to Zverev at the Open beginning on Monday a record seventh Australian It put him on a par with ATP Finals. career,” Djokovic said as he thigh strain although he re- after an impressive warm-up to could be his last event because Open crown from Monday, other six-time Australian Djokovic won his third prepared to open his assault turned for an exhibition in reach the final of Perth’s mixed the constant pain was so bad. but Andy Murray will make his Open winners Djokovic and US Open in September to on a seventh crown against Sydney and insisted at the teams Hopman Cup, despite his “I was disappointed and last appearance in Melbourne Roy Emerson – although the put him on 14 Grand Slams American Mitchell Krueger on weekend his fitness woes were terrible record at Grand Slams. sad, a little bit shocked, to as the era of the “Big Four” Australian great’s victories all – three behind Nadal and six Tuesday. behind him. He has never got beyond know now that we’re going draws to a close. came before the Open era. behind Federer. “It opened a lot of doors for “I feel good. If I am not the third round in Melbourne to lose him at some point,” Number one Djokovic By contrast, the 31-year- And Djokovic said he me. It allowed me to believe in feeling good, I will not be and faces ’s Aljaz Be- Federer told reporters. and third seed Federer face old Djokovic endured a mis- was delighted to be back in myself that I can actually win here,” he said before revealing dene in his opener on Tuesday. “But we’re going to lose a stern challenge from the erable early Melbourne exit Melbourne where his rise to the biggest tournaments in the he had remodelled his serve. Last year, seeded four, he everybody at some point. It’s likes of youthful force Alex- in 2018, followed by elbow greatness all began in 2008 world, challenge the best play- “There are always things crashed out in the last 32 to just now that it’s definite,” he ander Zverev, seeded four, surgery and a string of disap- with his first Grand Slam ers in the world.” to improve,” said the Span- South Korea’s Chung Hyeon and added, acknowledging that the who is still looking for a first pointing results that saw him win. “It was my first major iard, who faces Australian has only reached one quarter-fi- era of the “Big Four” – himself, major to cement his place drop outside the top 20. trophy, that obviously served Rafa ‘feels good’ wildcard James Duckworth nal in 14 major appearances. Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and as torch-bearer for the next But since winning a fourth as a great springboard for my Federer, now 37, remains the on Monday. Home fans will look to Murray was drawing inexora- generation. chief threat to the Serb and he Djokovic picked young new Sydney champion and bly to a close. But Murray dropped a sounded a warning Sunday. guns Zverev of , 27th seed Alex de Minaur, who World number one Djoko- pre-Grand Slam bombshell, “I’m playing good tennis. Borna Coric of , Ka- faces ’s Pedro Sousa vic played Murray in a practice breaking down during a tear- I’m confident that I think it ren Khachanov of and on Monday, and the tempera- match three days ago and said filled press conference as he needs a good performance Greece’s Stefano Tsitsipas as mental Nick Kyrgios. it was obvious that there were revealed chronic hip pain by my opponent probably key threats to the top three. Kyrgios has a tough open- serious problems. means he will retire after to beat me,” said the Swiss “It’s just a matter of time ing match against former “You didn’t need to be on Wimbledon – if he can carry master, who warmed for Mel- when we will see some of them world number three Milos court to notice that he’s strug- on that long. bourne with victory in Perth’s competing in the last stages of Raonic and then a possible gling, that he’s not moving as And question marks re- Hopman Cup. Grand Slams,” said Djokovic. clash with former Austral- well as he normally does,” said main over the fitness of world Second-ranked Nadal, 32, Zverev, 21, starts the Aus- ian Open champion Stan Djokovic, 31, who is just a week number two Rafael Nadal pulled out of Brisbane with a tralian Open full of confidence Wawrinka in round two. younger than Murray. who pulled out of his Bris- bane warm-up but arrived in Melbourne professing he was “fully fit” and promising to un- leash a remodelled serve. It all means the era of the Rafael Nadal of Serena shooting for Slam history “Big Four” is almost over af- in Melbourne ter a season in which Federer on Sunday. (AFP) AFP as the greatest of all time, was – who opens his title defence MELBOURNE an unknown quantity in Mel- bourne after sitting out the SERENA Williams has adopted end of the 2018 season follow- Men’s Singles Draw a low profile ahead of the Aus- ing the US Open blow-up. tralian Open, but rival players “I haven’t seen her play a STARTING MONDAY (X DENOTES SEEDING): Sam Querrey (USA) v Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA) C Eubanks (USA) v Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO x19) admit the American’s shadow match, so I don’t really know,” Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) v Mitchell Krueger (USA) Stan Wawrinka (SWI) v Ernests Gulbis (LAT) Gael Monfils (FRA x30) v Damir Dzumhur (BIH) looms large in Melbourne as Wozniacki said when quizzed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) v Martin Klizan (SVK) Nick Kyrgios (AUS) v Milos Raonic (CAN x16) Cameron Norrie (GBR) v Taylor Fritz (USA) she eyes a record-equalling about the American’s form. Taro Daniel (JPN) v Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS) Borna Coric (CRO x11) v Steve Darcis (BEL) Tatsuma Ito (JPN) v Daniel Evans (GBR) Pablo Andujar (ESP) v Denis Shapovalov (CAN x25) Albert Ramos-Vinolas (ERP) v Marton Fucsovics (HUN) Denis Istomin (UZB) v Roger Federer (SWI x3) 24th Grand Slam crown. The Danish third seed David Goffin (BEL x21) v Christian Garin (CHI) Laslo Djere (SRB) v Evgeny Donskoy (RUS) Kevin Anderson (RSA x5) v Adrian Mannarino (FRA) Williams won her 23rd title preferred to concentrate on Marcel Granollers (ESP) v Marius Copil (ROU) Filio Krajinovic (SRB) v Marco Cecchinato (ITA x17) Frances Tiafoe (USA) v Prajinesh Gunneswaran (IND) and seventh at Melbourne Park her own prospects, dismiss- Jiri Vesely (CZE) v Ryan Harrison (USA) Lucas Pouille (FRA x28) v Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ) Feliciano Lopez (ESP) v Jordan Thompson (AUS) while eight weeks pregnant two ing concerns health problems Lloyd Harris (RSA) v Daniil Medvedev (RUS x15) Maximilian Marterer (GER) v Gleb Sahharov (FRA) Andreas Seppi (ITA) v Steve Johnson (USA x31) Fabio Fognini (ITA x12) v Jaume Munar (ESP) Alexi Popyrin (AUS) v Mischa Zverev (GER) years ago, and now attempts to were affecting her game. Grigir Dimitrov (BUL x20) v Janko Tipsarevic (SRB) Nicolas Jarry (CHI) v Leonardo Mayer (ARG) Benoit Paire (FRA) v Dominic Thiem (AUT x7) Pablo Cuevas (URU) v Dusan Lajovic (SRB) match Margaret Court’s mark She achieved a career Ilya Ivashka (BLR) v Malek Jaziri (TUN) Marin Cilic (CRO x6) v Bernard Tomic (AUS) Jason Kubler (AUS) v Thomas Fabbiano (ITA) of 24 singles majors on the Aus- milestone last year to claim her Luca Vanni (ITA) v Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x23) Andrey Rublev (RUS) v Mackenzie McDonald (USA) Philipp Kohlschreiber (GER x32) v Zhe Li (CHN) Michael Mmoh (USA) v Radu Albot (MDA) Reilly Opelka (USA) v John Isner (USA x9) tralian’s home soil. maiden Grand Slam at Mel- Guido Pella (ARG) v Joao Sousa (POR) M Kecmanovic (SRB) v Fernando Verdasco (ESP x26) Kyle Edmund (GBR x13) v Tomas Berdych (CZE) The 37-year-old’s last out- bourne Park, but also revealed Ivo Karlovic (CRO) v Hubert Hurkacz (POL) Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP x22) v Andy Murray (GBR) Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (ESP) v Robin Haase (NED) ing on tour was her meltdown she was suffering the debilitat- Kamil Marchrzak (POL) v Kei Nishikori (JPN x8) Federico Delbonis (ARG) v John Millman (AUS) Marc Polmans (AUS) v Denis Kudla (USA) in losing the US Open final to ing auto-immune condition Alexander Zverev (GER x4) v Aljaz Bedene (SLO) Yoshihito Nishioka (JPN) v Tennys Sandgren (USA) Rudolf Molleker (GER) v D Schwartzman (ARG x 18) Jeremy Chardy (FRA) v Ugo Humbert (FRA) Peter Gojowczyk (GER) v Karen Khachanov (RUS x10) Alex de Minaur (AUS x27) v Pedro Sousa (POR) Naomi Osaka in September rheumatoid arthritis. But the Alex Bolt (AUS) v Jack Sock (USA) Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE x14) v Matteo Berrettini (ITA) Mirza Basic (BIH) v Henri Laaksonen (SUI) and she enters the season- 28-year-old insisted she was Bjorn Fratangelo (USA) v Gilles Simon (FRA x29) Viktor Troicki (SRB) v Roberto Garballes Baena (ESP) Matthew Ebden (AUS) v Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) opening Slam as the 16th seed. Chasing managing her illness and was Chung Hyeon (KOR x24) v Bradley Klahn (USA) Stefano Travaglia (ITA) v Guido Andreozzi (ARG) James Duckworth (AUS) v Rafael Nadal (ESP x2) Yet she has proved in the relishing the prospect of de- past that such numbers mean Court fending her crown. little to her and Osaka said Serena Williams’ “All I can say is that I feel Women’s Singles Draw most in the locker room be- 2017 triumph good. I feel like I’m hitting the lieved the veteran remains the Down Under gave ball well,” she said. STARTING MONDAY (X DENOTES SEEDING): Zarina Diyas (KAZ) v Aleksandra Krunic (SRB) Maria Sakkari (GRE) v Jelena Ostapenko (LAT x22) one to beat in Melbourne. Wozniacki’s vanquished Simona Halep (ROU x1) v Kaia Kanepi (EST) Bianca Andreescu (CAN) v Whitney Osuigwe (USA) Maria Sharapova (RUS x30) v Harriet Dart (GBR) “I’m pretty sure (that’s the her the outright opponent in last year’s final, Sofia Kenin (USA) v Veronika Kudermetova (RUS) Mona Barthel (GER) v Anastasija Sevastova (LAT x13) Sorana Cirstea (ROM) v Rebecca Peterson (SWE) case),” said the Japanese star. Open-era record Simona Halep, arrives in Aus- Alize Cornet (FRA) v Lara Arruabarrena (ESP) Elise Mertens (BEL x12) v A Karolina Schmeidlova (SLO) Vera Lapko (BLR) v Johanna Larsson (SWE) “But there’s a group of for singles majors tralia with the world number Venus Williams (USA) v Mihaela Buzarnescu (ROU x25) Lin Zhu (CHN) v Margarita Gasparyan (RUS) Alison Van Uytvanck (BEL) v Caroline Wozniacki (DEN x3) Carla Suarez Navarro (ESP x23) v Clara Burel (FRA) Pauline Parmentier (FRA) v Anatasia Potapova (RUS) Sloane Stephens (USA x5) v Taylor Townsend (USA) players that I think everyone ahead of Steffi one ranking and her confi- Samantha Stosur (AUS) v Dayana Yastremska (UKR) Destanee Aiava (AUS) v Madison Keys (USA x17) Ons Jabeur (TUN) v Timea Babos (HUN) thinks is very difficult to play Graf’s 22, leaving dence overflowing after win- Eugenie Bouchard (CAN) v Peng Shuai (CHN) Dominika Cibulkova (SLO x26) v Zhang Shuai (CHN) Marketa Vondrousova (CZE) v Evgeniya Rodina (RUS) against, especially in Grand only Court’s tally ning the French Open. Tatjana Maria (GER) v Serena Williams (USA x16) Kristyna Pliskova (CZE) v Anna Blinkova (RUS) Heather Watson (GBR) v Petra Martic (CRO x31) Daria Kasatkina (RUS x10) v Timea Bacsinszky (SUI) Viktoria Kuzmova (SLO) v Kateryna Kozlova (UKR) Slams,” Osaka added. of 24 titles – 13 The Romanian said she Anett Kontaveit (EST x20) v Sara Sorribes Tormo (ESP) Natalia Vikhlyantseva (RUS) v Varvara Lepchenko Viktorjia Golubic (SUI) v Elina Svitolina (UKR x6) Serena’s 2017 triumph was untroubled by the back Kirsten Flipkens (BEL) v Aliaksandra Sasnovich (BLR) of which were Johanna Konta (GBR) v Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS) Petra Kvitova (CZE x8) v Magdalena Rybarikova (SLO) Down Under gave her the injury that curtailed her Monica Puig (PUR) v Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (RUS) Zheng Saisai (CHN) v Garbine Muguruza (ESP x18) Irina-Camelia Begu (ROM) v Anna Petkovic (GER) earned in the Alison Riske (USA) v Kiki Bertens (NED x9) outright Open-era record for 2018 season and was men- Camila Giorgi (ITA x27) v Dalila Jakupovic (SLO) Belinda Bencic (SUI) v Katerina Siniakova (CZE) singles majors ahead of Steffi amateur era tally stronger as a result of last Iga Swiatek (POL) v Ann Bogdan (ROU) Yulia Putintseva (KAZ) v Barbora Strycova (CZE x32) Julia Goerges (GER X14) v Danielle Collins (USA) before 1968 – for Madison Brengle (USA) v Misaki Doi (JPN) Lesia Tsurenko (UKR x24) v Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS) Ysaline Bonaventure (BEL) v Sachia Vickery (USA) Graf’s 22, leaving only Court’s year’s loss in the decider. Karolina Muchova (CZE) v Karolina Pliskova (CZE x7) Monica Niculescu (ROM) v Amanda Anisimova (USA) Bethanie Mattek-Sands (USA) v Zoe Hives (AUS) tally of 24 titles – 13 of which her to chase. Russian Maria Sharapova Naomi Osaka (JPN x4) v Magda Linette (POL) Katie Boulter (GBR) v Ekaterina Makarova (RUS) Jessika Ponchet (FRA) v Caroline Garcia (FRA x19) were earned in the amateur era has failed to impress since Tamara Zidansek (SLO) v Daria Gavrilova (AUS) Anna Kalinskaya (RUS) v Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x11) Donna Vekic (CRO x29) v Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) before 1968 – for her to chase. returning from a doping ban Laura Siegemund (GER) v Victoria Azarenka (BLR) Ashleigh Barty (AUS x15) v Luksika Kumkhum (THA) Paula Badosa Gilbert (ESP) v Kimberly Birrel (AUS) Stefanie Voegele (SUI) v Hsieh Su-Wei (TPE x28) Ellen Perez (AUS) v Wang Yafan (CHN) Beatriz Hadda Maia (BRA) v Bernarda Pera (USA) Defending champion Car- and, now ranked 30, is looking Wang Qiang (CHN x21) v Finoa Ferro (FRA) Astra Sharma (AUS) v Priscilla Hon (AUS) Polona Hercog (SLO) v Angelique Kerber (GER x2) oline Wozniacki admitted Ser- Serena Williams of the US hits a return during a practice session in some way from the player who ena, already hailed by many Melbourne on Sunday. (AFP) won five Grand Slams. Sports Monday, January 14, 2019 19

Attiyah maintains his grip on the Dakar Rally despite hot battle with Loeb in the sixth stage

Toyota’s driver Nasser bin Saleh al Attiyah of Qatar and co-driver Mathieu Baumel of compete during Stage 6 of the Dakar Rally between and San Juan de Marcona, Peru, on Sunday. Attiyah led Sebastien Loeb but after 272 kms on the timed section, the latter hit the Attiyah poses for a photo with a fan during the rest day of the 2019 Dakar Rally, in Arequipa, Peru, on front. Attiyah however stayed clear of overall classification main challenger Stephane Peterhansel till the time going to the press. Saturday. (EPA-EFE) Would be happy De Kock feels clean if Dhoni bats at sweep will be ‘tough’ four, says Rohit IANS was his preferred No.4 bats- SYDNEY man. India were reduced to 4/3 South African hits fourth century to place the hosts in strong position; Pak three for 153 at close INDIA vice-captain Rohit at one stage chasing 289 for vic- Sharma feels that MS Dhoni tory before Rohit, who scored AFP Shadab finished with should bat at No. 4, although his 22nd ODI hundred, and JOHANNESBURG three for 41 while medium- adding that the iconic former Dhoni stitched together a 141- pacer Faheem Ashraf took skipper is ready to fit in any- run stand for the fourth wicket. QUINTON de Kock hit an im- three for 42. where for the team’s cause. “If you look at his (Dhoni’s) perious century to put South Sarfraz set a record for a Dhoni laboured to a 96-ball overall batting, his strike rate is Africa in a powerful position Pakistan wicketkeeper by tak- 51 before departing as India lost around 90. Today was a differ- on the third day of the third ing five catches in each innings. the first of the three One Day ent scenario, when he came out and final Test against Paki- His total of ten dismissals in Internationals to by to bat we had already lost three stan at the Wanderers Sta- the match was one better than 34 runs at the Sydney Cricket wickets and Australia were dium on Sunday, then warned the record previously shared by Ground (SCG) on Saturday. bowling pretty well. You just that completing a series clean Rashid Latif and Kamran Ak- In a World Cup year, there cannot go out and get 100-run sweep would not be easy. has been debate as to where partnership easily. So we took a Set to make a daunting 381 De Kock’s 129 and a Dhoni -- whose strike rate has little bit of time and even I did to win, Pakistan were 153 for gone down in the recent past -- not score as quickly as I normal- three at the close, needing an- double strike by Dale should bat. ly do,” Rohit said. other 228 runs. Steyn kept “Personally, I always feel “I took my time too because De Kock’s 129 and a double on course but Asad Shafiq that Dhoni batting at number we wanted to get that partner- strike by Dale Steyn kept South and Babar Azam batted four will be ideal for the team ship and losing another wicket Africa on course but Asad brightly towards the close but we have got Ambati Rayudu at that point, the game would Shafiq and Babar Azam batted to give Pakistan some who has done really well now at have been dead there and then. brightly towards the close to number four. It totally depends So, we had to play dot balls and give Pakistan some hope. hope on what the captain and coach build a partnership. “It’s going to be quite think about it. Personally ask- “It was great to see him tough,” said De Kock. “The mal. ing, I would be happy if Dhoni come and bat at number five. pitch has flattened out. It’s defi- Pakistan only made one bats at four,” said Rohit, who We lost three wickets but he is nitely got better, surprisingly. total over 200 in their first five scored 133 off 129 deliveries. keen to get those runs as well. I thought with the new ball it innings in the series and had Rohit differed with his cap- Over the years, he has shown he would do a lot more than it did.” not batted for longer than 70.4 tain Virat Kohli who had previ- is ready to bat anywhere for the Imam-ul-Haq and Shan overs. ously said that Ambati Rayudu team and score runs,” he added. Masood got Pakistan off to their Steyn’s two wickets took his best start of the series, putting South Africa’s batsman Quinton de Kock raises his bat to celebrate his century during the third day of the total in Tests to 433, bringing on 67 for the first wicket. third cricket Test match against Pakistan at Wanderers cricket stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday. (AFP) him level with Sri Lanka’s Ran- They were largely untrou- gana Herath and Stuart Broad bled by South Africa’s all-pace we’ll have to box cleverly to- dent. cessive six off leg-spinner Shad- of England in joint eighth place Rayudu reported for attack until Steyn changed ends morrow,” said De Kock. “We’ve done it before. Two ab Khan, after facing 138 balls on the all-time Test wicket-tak- and dismissed both openers in Pakistan bowling coach guys are batting really well. If and hitting 18 fours and a six. ers list. quick succession. Azhar Mahmood said the re- they can bat for a long period suspect bowling action When Azhar Ali fell cheap- maining Pakistan batsmen of time we’ve got a really good SCOREBOARD AFP tions,” cricket’s world govern- ly to Duanne Olivier for the would need to follow the ex- chance.” NEW DELHI ing body said in a statement. fourth time in the series, glov- ample of De Kock and Hashim Mahmood said at least SOUTH AFRICA (1ST INNINGS): 262 (Amla), 7-223 (Philander), 8-302 (De Kock), 9-302 The 33-year-old’s action ing a bouncer to wicketkeeper Amla, who enabled South Afri- one of the remaining batsmen PAKISTAN (1ST INNINGS): 185 (Rabada) INDIA’S Ambati Rayudu has must be tested within 14 days, SOUTH AFRICA (2ND INNINGS, OVERNIGHT 135-5): Bowling: Mohammad Amir 20-2-56-2, Mohammad De Kock, a South African win ca to recover from a precarious would have to get a century. D. Elgar c Sarfraz Ahmed b Mohammad Amir 5 Abbas 18-3-73-1 (1w), Hasan Ali 17-1-83-1, Faheem been reported for a suspect but he is allowed to bowl until seemed certain. 93 for five. “If these guys do the same A. Markram c Sarfraz Ahmed b Mohammad Abbas 21 Ashraf 14-3-42-3 (2w), Shadab Khan 11.3-0-41-3. bowling action in the first one- the results are out. But Shafiq raced to 48 not While Amla patiently com- thing that Amla and De Kock H. Amla c Sarfraz Ahmed b Hasan Ali 71 day international against Aus- Rayudu bowled just two out off 47 balls, while Azam piled 71 off 144 balls, the left- did we’ve got a chance,” he said. T. de Bruyn c Asad Shafiq b Faheem Ashraf 7 PAKISTAN (2ND INNINGS): tralia, the International Crick- overs, giving away 13 runs, in Zubayr Hamza lbw b Faheem Ashraf 0 Imam-ul-Haq c De Kock b Steyn 35 looked comfortable in making handed De Kock played flu- Mahmood agreed with De T. Bavuma c Sarfraz Ahmed b Shadab Khan 23 Shan Masood c De Kock b Steyn 37 et Council said on Sunday. the ODI on Saturday, which 17 not out. ently as the pair put on 102 for Kock that the pitch was play- Q. de Kock c Hasan Ali b Shadab Khan 129 Azhar Ali c De Kock b Olivier 15 The part-time spinner’s ac- India lost by 34 runs. Realistically, though, the the sixth wicket. De Kock also ing easier but he cautioned that V. Philander lbw b Mohammad Amir 14 Asad Shafiq not out 48 tion was flagged by match of- Adelaide will host the sec- odds favour the home team shared an eighth wicket stand there was some uneven bounce K. Rabada c Shadab Khan b Faheem Ashraf 21 Babar Azam not out 17 ficials, citing concerns about ond ODI on Tuesday, and the D. Steyn not out 0 Extras (lb1) 1 with only captain Sarfraz of 79 with Kagiso Rabada. towards the close on Sunday. D. Olivier c Sarfraz Ahmed b Shadab Khan 1 Total (3 wkts, 40 overs) 153 its legality, after the match in final game of the series will be Ahmed, a couple of all-round- “Our plan was to get them De Kock reached his fifty off Extras (b2, lb6, nb1, w1) 11 Fall of wickets: 1-67 (Imam), 2-74 (Masood), 3-104 Sydney. played in Melbourne on Fri- ers and the tail to come. out so we would be chasing 270- 49 balls and his fourth Test cen- Total (80.3 overs) 303 (Azhar) “Rayudu’s bowling action day. “We’ll have a chat about it 280 but credit goes to De Kock tury off 121 deliveries. Fall of wickets: 1-24 (Elgar), 2-29 (Markram), 3-45 Bowling: Steyn 12-1-37-2, Philander 10-3-28-0, will now be scrutinised further Rayudu has scored 1,447 tonight. They have a couple of and Amla,” said Mahmood, He was finally caught in the (De Bruyn), 4-45 (Hamza), 5-93 (Bavuma), 6-195 Olivier 8-2-41-1, Rabada 10-1-46-0. under the ICC process relating runs in 46 ODIs, while taking decent batsmen in the mix so who said he remained confi- deep, trying for a second suc- to suspected illegal bowling ac- three wickets. Khelaifi fastest in Class 1 at National Sprint first round TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK return to the action and beat RESULTS DOHA Fakhreddine Bejaoui by over a second to claim the victory. MANATEQ QATAR NATIONAL SPRINT (FIRST ROUND) 2.Mohammed al Jabir (QAT) Corvette - ABDULLA al Khelaifi laid Bejaoui, who topped the Class 1 49.140 (2nd) 1.Abdulla al Khelaifi (QAT) WESTFIELD SPORT - 49.509 3.Walid Salem (QAT) CAMARO - 54.589 (1st) down the marker as the West- practice session with 51.983, (1st) field Sport driver won the was among the four drivers 2.Fakhreddine Bejaoui (QAT) RENAULT CLIO - 50.992 Class P1 opening round of the Manateq who could not finish the first (3rd) 1.Hassan Hussain (QAT) SUBARU BRZ - 54.328 (2nd) Qatar National Sprint at the round due to some one reason 3.Elie Daccache (QAT) RENAULT CLIO - 51.729 (3rd) 2.John Benidict Kapanan (QAT) RENAULT CLIO SPORT 4.Mack Cortel (QAT) GT86 - 52.290 (2nd) - 59.621 (1st) Losail International Circuit. or other. But on his return, his 5.A. Aziz al Jabri (QAT) TOYOTA GT86 - 52.322 (3rd) Khelaifi appeared at the best time of 50.992 came in Class P2 track once and clocked a the third run in Renault Clio. Class 2 1.Dennis Nikitopoulos (QAT) 370Z - 50.807 scorching 49.509 seconds - a The third place went to 1.Mohammed al Khayarin (QAT) MITSUBISHI EVO 8 - (2nd) 46.978 (2nd) 2.Maher Serre (QAT) GOLF R - 51.274 (2nd) lap time his Class 1 rivals could Elie Deccache, who was also 2.Nadim Ziade (QAT) EVO 8 - 49.319 (3rd) 3.Mohammed al Jabir (QAT) NISSAN 350Z - 51.285 not match. He did not have to behind Renault Clio wheel. He 3.Mohammed al Delaimi (QAT) EVO 10 - 50.108 (2nd) (3rd) 4.Ibrahim al Mannai (QAT) MITSUBISHI EVO 10 - 50.760 (2nd) Class P3 5.A.Aziz al Jabri (QAT) NISSAN 370Z - 51.140 (3rd) 1.Francesco Fornaciari (QAT) LOTUS EXIGE - 47.959 (3rd) Class 3 2.Saad Fahad (QAT) PORCHE GT3 - 48.712 (2nd) 1.Mohammed al Khayarin (QAT) Chevrolet Corvette - 3.Abdulla al Abbasi (QAT) LOTUS EXIGE - 49.994 (3rd) 47.093 (2nd)

Winners of various groups with QMMF President Abdulrahman al Mannai and other officials after the prize vette, he posted an impressive run of 54.589 distribution ceremony at Losail. lap of 47.093 in his second of- Hassan Hussain (Subaru ficial run to stay unbeaten in BRZ), Dennis Nikitopoulos pulled off 51.729 in his third the Class 2. In his second run, Mohammed al Delaimi (Evo the rest of the session. (Nissan 370Z) and Franc- run to finish ahead of a pair he posted 46.978, which re- 10) were grabbed the second Mohammed al Jabir got esco Fornaciari (Lotus Exige) of Toyota GT86 drivers Mack mained the quickest lap across and third spots, respectively. the second place, clocking a topped the P1, P2 and P3 cat- Cortel and A.Aziz al Jabri. all sections in the opening Khayarin emerged as the lap over two seconds slower, egories, respectively. Abdulla al Khelaifi in his Westfield Sport during the opening round of Mohammed al Khayarin, round. quickest driver in the Class 3 while Walid Saleem was third The second round is sched- the Manateq Qatar National Sprint first round at Losail. driving Mitsubishi Evo 8, won Nadeem Ziade (Evo 8) and as well. Driving Chevrolet Cor- in Camaro with his opening uled on February 2. 20 Monday, January 14, 2019 The Last Word

THE SECOND QATAR-US STRATEGIC DIALOGUE Qatar, US stress keenness to cement ties further Pompeo reiterates the importance of unity within GCC

QNA the financing of terrorism. DOHA Diplomacy is Pompeo stressed the impor- Qatar’s choice to tance of unity and cooperation QATAR and the re- resolve crises and among the GCC members, urging iterated the depth and importance to put an end to the them to leave differences aside in of the strategic relations between humanitarian suffering that order to meet the challenges and the two countries and their keen- achieve common goals. ness to enhance cooperation in people are going through, He pointed out that the dis- diverse fields for mutual benefits. which is the common putes between the GCC countries Qatar and the US also affirmed denominator between the do not allow building of strong al- the importance of the second policies of Qatar and the US liances to deal with common chal- round of Qatar-US Strategic Dia- lenges and enemies. logue in Doha, which reflects the — Deputy Prime Minister and He said that besides security historic ties between the two coun- Minister of Foreign Affairs and defence issues, he discussed tries and contributes to developing HE Sheikh Mohammed bin the areas of trade, investment and bilateral cooperation. Abdulrahman al Thani Qatari efforts in promoting trans- Deputy Prime Minister and parency and protection of foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs HE workers. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrah- Pompeo underlined that the man al Thani said at a joint press We’re hopeful that resignation of General Anthony conference with US Secretary of the unity of the Zinni, the US’ special envoy to State Mike Pompeo that Qatar’s GCC will increase resolve the Gulf crisis, does not partnership with the US is strong, reflect any change in US policy, based on solid foundations, mu- in the days and weeks and efforts and strategy in the Middle tual understanding and common months ahead East or its commitments to the re- interests. gion, adding that the US continues Sheikh Mohammed welcomed — US Secretary of State its strong dialogues with various Mike Pompeo, who was on his first Mike Pompeo countries of the crisis. visit to Doha to participate in the On the ‘Ministerial to Promote Qatar-US Strategic Dialogue. The a Future of Peace and Security in Strategic Dialogue included seven and working with the US to se- (PHOTOGRAPHS BY JALAL PATHIYOOR) the Middle East’ to be held in Po- sessions covering economic, com- cure peace in Afghanistan as well land’s Warsaw, he said the confer- mercial, cultural, educational, po- as the ongoing consultations with ence would work to provide secu- litical, defence and sports relations the US, alliances and friends from rity in the region and the world at between the two countries. other countries on a number of is- FM meets US secretary of state large, stressing that the coalition The minister of foreign affairs sues related to Syria and the Mid- DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani met with that continues to fight IS around said that three agreements were dle East peace process. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of the second round of Qatar-US Strategic Dialogue in Doha the world will be a part of that. signed in the framework of the Sheikh Mohamed reiterated on Sunday. They discussed the bilateral ties and the means to promote them, in addition to a host of regional and He added that countries from Strategic Dialogue in the fields of that diplomacy is the choice to re- international issues of common concern. The two sides also discussed the means to strengthen joint efforts to Asia, Africa, and all across the education and culture, as well as solve crises and to put an end to establish peace and security in the region. They emphasised the strength of the Qatar-US relations, and said they world will participate in the con- a memorandum of understanding the humanitarian suffering that were looking forward to positive outcomes from the Qatar-US Strategic Dialogue. (QNA) ference, pointing out that it will on supporting defence activities at people are going through, which work on many issues, including Al Udeid Air Base. is the common denominator be- how to get the Islamic Republic of On his meeting with Pompeo, tween the policies of Qatar and Iran to behave properly. Sheikh Mohammed said they the US. Regarding the US position discussed all issues of common Pompeo described Qatar as ‘24% of Qatar’s foreign investments are in US’ on the killing of journalist Jamal interest, especially those relat- a “great friend of the United Khashoggi, Pompeo revealed that ed to the region and its security States”. The US secretary of state QNA 658 private US companies are sultation and discussion sessions talks continue with Saudi Arabia’s starting with the GCC, the peace referred to what US President DOHA operating in Qatar. were held during the strategic dia- Crown Prince Mohammad bin process in the Middle East, the Donald Trump said, when he Speaking to reporters on the logue to enhance coordination in Salman, and this issue would be reconciliation process in Afghan- hosted HH the Amir at the White NEARLY 24 per cent of Qatar’s total sidelines of the second Qatar-US different areas including counter- raised in the talks to be held with istan, the Syrian crisis and com- House last year, that there are foreign investments are in the US Strategic Dialogue held in Doha terrorism efforts. the Saudi side during his visit to bating terrorism. special things that are happening alone, while the US investments Sunday, Khater expressed satisfac- In the field of education, the kingdom. He said that Qatar looks for- in the bilateral relations between in Qatar total around QR26.3 bil- tion with the level of the Qatar-US Khater said that Qatar hosts six He concluded: “We’re hopeful ward to a new and stronger phase the two countries including coop- lion, the official spokesperson for ties, while looking forward to more American universities in the Educa- that the unity of the GCC will in- of bilateral relations between the eration in combating terrorism the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE cooperation for the prosperity of tion City, which are all working crease in the days and weeks and two countries and to continue co- and illegal trafficking in persons, Lulwah al Khater has said. the Qatari and American people. effectively to enhance the quality months ahead.” ordination on all issues of mutual as well as cybersecurity and other He also noted that more than Khater said a number of con- of education and research. Pompeo left Doha on Sunday concern. areas. evening. He was seen off at Doha He said Qatar is still concerned He pointed out that the agree- International Airport by Secre- with the mediation processes it ments signed between Qatar and the signing of a memorandum of Pompeo commended Qatar’s He also referred to the MoU tary-General of the Ministry of has led and is still leading, citing the US on Sunday would deepen understanding (MoU) on expand- commitment to improving and signed between Qatar and the US Foreign Affairs HE Dr Ahmed bin the ongoing Qatari mediation in bilateral relations, noting that ing the US presence at Al Udeid modernising the Al Udeid Base in the field of combating terrorism Hassan al Hammadi and Charge the Darfur region of Sudan, the the focus was on security and de- Air Base, which was discussed last and its contribution as a member and its financing as the US-Qatar d’Affaires of the US Embassy in hosting of Taliban’s political office fence partnership. He mentioned year. of the coalition to defeat the IS. efforts helped in better targeting of Doha HE William Grant. US investors urged to take advantage of Qatar’s advanced logistics

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK cementing partnerships and coop- DOHA eration between the US and Qatar. He also highlighted the key MINISTER of Commerce and In- role that the private sector is play- dustry HE Ali bin Ahmed al Ku- ing in promoting joint investment wari has invited US investors to in the industrial sector, while in- take advantage of the advanced viting US investors to Qatar. logistics that Qatar offers in order The minister stressed that the to tap into regional and interna- event provided a valuable plat- tional markets. form for Qatari and US private Kuwari was speaking at the sector representatives to engage closing ceremony of the second in discussions that will pave the Qatar-US Strategic Dialogue, in way for successful investment the presence of US Deputy Secre- partnerships to serve the aspira- tary of Energy Dan Brouillette, in tions of both nations. Doha on Sunday. “As we mark nearly 50 years The ceremony was attended of diplomatic relations between by a number of government repre- the US and Qatar, it is remark- sentatives and businessmen from able how our relationship has Qatar and the US. grown across multiple levels,” During the ceremony, Kuwari said Brouillette. “US companies praised members of the US Cham- stand ready to support Qatar in its ber of Commerce, the US-Qatar efforts to expand LNG production Business Council, Qatar Chamber over the next five years. We look and the Qatari Businessmen As- forward to building on the mo- sociation for their unwavering mentum of today’s Strategic Dia- commitment to the promotion of logue with our great ally, partner Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed al Kuwari speaks at the closing ceremony of the second Qatar-US Strategic Dialogue in Doha on Sunday. bilateral ties, and their success in and friend – Qatar.”