SPORT Tuesday 6 December 2016 PAGE | 27 PAGE | 28 Westbrook scores Champion Anitata fifth straight attends trainingg triple -double camp at Aspire Qatar 2022 to boost growth of football

Armstrong Vas Qatar in 2022 will accelerate in all eight venues,” he said. The Peninsula the global development of Asked as to whether eight football.” will be the ideal number for the he 2022 FIFA World Al Thawadi said SC had World Cup Al Khater said the Cup in Qatar will be been involved with past editions SC would be guided by the a stimulant for the Soccerex and wished that del- views of FIFA about the final global development egates attending the 2016 Asian stadium count for the event. of football, Hassan Al forum in Qatar will derive max- Turning his attention to crit- T Thawadi, the Secretary-General imum benefits from the sport icsof the World Cup Al Khater of the Supreme Committee for networking event. said: “Unfortunately, we have Delivery & Legacy (SC), said After his opening address, been under malicious and yesterday. the SC Secretary-General pre- unwarranted attack from some Speaking on the opening sented the inaugural Duncan sections." day of the two-day Soccerex Revie Award to Richard Tims, "I believe we have always Asian Forum 2016 yesterday Al Chairman of Sheffield FC. responded to criticism that is Thawadi said the first ever A host of panel discussions constructive. I appeal to all to World Cup in the Middle East took place on the opening day come to Qatar and see the sit- will fast track the growth of with SC Assistant Secretary uation for yourself and then emerging football markets, a General for Tournament Affairs, come forward with construc- vision of late Duncan Revie, Nasser Al Khater, kicking off the tive criticism rather than founder of Soccerex. first panel session. resorting to the easier option of “Duncan had the foresight Khater in his address to del- criticising with little or no The Secretary-General of Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, Hassan Al Thawadi, and vision in the 1990s to form egates said Qatar is on its ways basis.” Soccerex, an event which has towards bringing about social, presenting the first Duncan Revie Award to Chairman of Sheffield FC, Richard Tims, during the The SC official said national been at the forefront during the economic and environmental opening ceremony of the Soccerex Asian Forum at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Doha yesterday. team will do well on home turf process of the globalisation of change in line with the coun- Soccerex Chairman, Tony Martin (right) is also present. Picture by: Salim Matramkot/The Peninsula in the quadrennial event, six football which started during try’s 2030 National Vision. years from now. that decade in England,” Al Tha- “The World Cup is a cata- and technological initiatives “The idea was to look at a been successful endeavours,” “I am confident that the wadi said. lyst to accelerate the emergence built around the hosting of the multi-pronged approach he added. national team will reach far in “Now we are living in an age of Qatar as a knowledge-based World Cup have proven to be towards sustainable growth and Al Khater reiterated Qatar’s 2022 and that the tournament of many football markets. The economy by 2030 and our very successful in the country projects such as Generation commitment towards building will do to Qatar football what it hosting of the World Cup in human, social, environmental and the region,” Al Khater said. Amazing and Challenge 22 have sustainable stadiums for 2022. did to the Japanese national “We are not merely build- team after 2002,” he said. ing stadiums but scripting well-researched legacy plans into the designs of every sin- gle stadium and precinct,” he said. “There have been instances “The World Cup is of some World Cup stadiums a catalyst to not having been used following accelerate the the event. However, Qatar will be different. We have consulted emergence of with local communities and Qatar as a have built precincts with amen- ities such as schools. knowledge-based “We are also building mod- economy by 2030 ular seating in stadiums which and our human, can be dismantled after the tournament so that we need not social, be saddled with white ele- environmental and phants. Some stadiums will be technological fully dismantled and re-used after the tournament." initiatives built Al Khater said sustainabil- around the hosting ity is also the guiding principle of the World Cup in the construction of the sta- diums for 2022. have proven to be “We are not merely build- very successful in ing stadiums but scripting well-researched legacy plans the country and into the designs of every single the region,” Nasser stadium and precinct,” said Al Al Khater Khater. Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez demonstrates his Al Khater said the eight pro- skills during the Soccerex Asian Forum in Doha yesterday. posed host venues for 2022 are progressing at a right pace. “We are ahead of schedule

Tickets for Barcelona - Al Ahli go Umm Salal to host Juventus FC on sale at Villaggio and Gulf Mall kids football training camp The Peninsula The Peninsula The gradual release of ticket batches highlights the mm Salal sports Club, in ickets for the Qatar Air- organisers' and Qatar Air- collaboration with one ways Match of ways’ efforts to provide an U of the most popular TChampions between FC opportunity for a greater football clubs in the world, Barcelona and Al Ahli Saudi number of fans from various Juventus, will conduct the FC will be sold at Villaggio segments of the community Juventus FC Football Camp in and Gulf malls starting from to buy a ticket for the match. Doha, offering a unique and today, from 4-9pm. As the official sponsor of exciting opportunity to kids in The match will be played the two football giants, Qatar Qatar from December 12 to 22. in Doha on December 13 at the Thani Bin Jassim Airways will host the match. The training camp will be under official and qualified sessions per day during the Stadium (Al Gharafa Stadium) with the kick off set Through Qatar Airways Holidays (www.qatarai- open for boys and girls, aged coaches from the youth teams 11-day period. The kids will for 7pm. rways.com/cup) or accredited travel agents in the between 5 to 17 who want to of Juventus and will have also receive a valuable certif- The ticket booths can be accessed through gate Arabian Gulf, fans of the two teams can get special improve their level of play, will exclusive access to Juventus icate from Juventus and an 2 of at Villaggio and Gulf malls. offers and promotions, including flight tickets, hotel have the opportunity to expe- FC training methods which Adidas Kit upon completion of The initial three batches of tickets released accommodation, and match tickets. rience specialized football allows them not only to dis- the training camp. on Qatar Football Association’s (QFA) website Both clubs had highly successful campaigns training with the Italian giants cover new techniques but also Organisers say that limited were sold out within a matter of few hours. Its is last season, winning the domestic double, and the who boast of a golden history improve their mental and opportunities are available and said that a total of approximately one million match in Qatar gives fans from the region and of almost 120 years. physical skills. more details can be obtained visitors have visited QFA’s website to try and buy beyond the opportunity to see the players in action The participants will train There will be two training by contacting 55706022. a ticket. in the host nation of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. SPORT TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER 2016 27 Matsuyama wins World Challenge

Purple patch Matt Kuchar and Rickie Fowler WORLD CHALLENGE SCORES shared third on 275. Woods was Japanese standout 15th on 284 after a closing 76. Scores after Sunday's final round of the Hero holds off Sweden's Matsuyama was headed back World Challenge, an invitational event at par- Stenson to win his to Japan after the Challenge to 72 Albany Golf Club (USA unless noted): fourth title in the visit family and friends in a break 270 - Hideki Matsuyama (JPN) 65-67-65-73 past two months before returning to the tour next 272 - Henrik Stenson (SWE) 67-71-66-68 year. Ranked a career-best sixth 275 - Rickie Fowler 68-70-68-69, Matt Kuchar in the world, Matsuyama began 67-67-71-70, Dustin Johnson 66-66-72-71 the day with a seven-shot lead 277 - Bubba Watson 72-63-75-67, Jordan Spie- Nassau Bahamas th 68-69-70-70, Brandt Snedeker 72-64-69- and made it eight with a birdie 72 AFP at the par-5 third. 279 - Louis Oosthuizen (RSA) 67-67-73-72 Stenson, Matusyama's final- 280 - Patrick Reed 72-69-71-68 ideki Matsuyama round playing partner, closed the 281 - J.B. Holmes 64-73-70-74 won his fourth title gap with a birdie at the par-5 282 - Zach Johnson 72-69-70-71 in the past two sixth but Matsuyama held tough 283 - Brooks Koepka 72-68-72-71, Jimmy months on Sunday, by sinking an eight-foot par putt Walker 70-74-66-73 284 - Tiger Woods 73-65-70-76

holding off Swe- at the eighth. 286 - Russell Knox (SCO) 69-72-71-74 Hden's Henrik Stenson to capture Stenson eagled the par-5 289 - Emiliano Grillo (ARG) 70-72-75-72 the Hero World Challenge by two ninth to pull within six shots at strokes. the turn despite Matsuyama It was Matsuyama's first vic- making a birdie at the ninth. WORLD RANKINGS tory at the 18-player invitational Matsuyama chipped from event hosted by Tiger Woods, one bunker to another at the 10th 1. (1) Jason Day (Australia) 11.60 who made his comeback this on his way to a double bogey that 2. (2) Rory McIlroy (Britain) 10.38 week after a 16-month back trimmed his lead to five after 3. (3) Dustin Johnson (US) 10.03 injury layoff. Stenson made bogey. 4. (4) Henrik Stenson (Sweden) 9.11 Hideki Matsuyama (right) of Japan poses with the trophy and host Tiger Woods after winning 5. (5) Jordan Spieth (US) 8.62 Matsuyama won in October Stenson tapped in for birdie the Hero World Challenge at Albany, the Bahamas in Nassau, Bahamas, on Sunday. 6. (6) Hideki Matsuyama (Japan) 7.72 at the Japan Open and World at the 14th while Matsuyama 7. (7) Adam Scott (Australia) 6.70 Golf Championships HSBC made bogey, closing the Asian 8. (8) Patrick Reed (US) 5.66 Champions and last month at the at the 16th to pull within two birdie chance. Matsuyama, 24, par 270 after a closing one-over ace's lead to three strokes with 9. (9) Alexander Noren (Sweden) 5.52 Taiheiyo Masters in Japan. He shots of the Japanese standout answered by chipping within par 73 while Stenson shot 68 to four to play. At the par-5 15th, 10. (10) Bubba Watson (US) 5.42 also was second in Malaysia in and tension built after each inches of the cup on his third stand on 16-under 272 after 72 Stenson three-putted for par to 11. (12) Rickie Fowler (US) 5.29 October during his hot streak. parred the par-3 17th. shot. Stenson, 40, lipped out on holes. miss a chance at trimming the 12. (11) Danny Willett (Britain) 5.23 13. (13) Paul Casey (Britain) 4.94 Reigning British Open cham- At 18, Matsuyama found the his birdie putt and both closed "I've played very well," Mat- margin after Matsuyama botched 14. (14) Sergio Garcia (Spain) 4.87

pion Stenson, down by as many right rough and went over the with pars. suyama said. a bunker shot, chipping into deep 15. (15) Justin Rose (Britain) 4.83 as eight shots earlier in the green with his approach while When the drama concluded, US Open champion Dustin rough on a slope above the sand round, sank a six-foot birdie putt Stenson gave himself a 10-foot Matsuyama finished on 18-under Johnson and fellow Americans trap but rescuing par from there. Qatar's Saleh tops in a golf Tiger upbeat after mixed tournament in Riyadh fortunes on Bahamas return

Riyadh Bahamas QNA Reuters

atar national team stand- iger Woods' (pictured) out Saleh Al Kaabi played return to competition after Qnear-flawless golf in the Tan absence of nearly 16 round that mattered most to pull months was a mixed bag, though off a three-stroke come-from- the former world number one behind victory in the 2nd Annual said he had a great week sim- SGF Open Golf Championship ply competing at the Hero World 2016 at Dirab Golf & Country Challenge in the Bahamas. Club on the outskirts of The roller-coaster nature of Riyadh. his form over the four days at Saleh Al Kaabi was dialed in the Albany course on the island for the final round, as he fired a of New Providence was sharply sparkling bogey-free 5-under illustrated by the fact that he led 67 to finish the three-day the elite field with birdies (24) Qatar's Saleh Al Kaabi is seen in this file picture along with 54-hole prestigious event on and double-bogeys (six). two-over total of 218. compatriot Ali Al Shahrani, While Woods showed to shake off the rust after a made some really silly mistakes. Al Kaabi was six strokes flashes of the brilliant golf he lengthy stint on the sidelines due I played the par-fives, quite down to overnight leader Saudi tournament, with Almulla drop- In contrast, Al Kaabi had no produced while accumulating to back-related issues. frankly, awful." Arabia’s Othman Almulla at the ping three shots with mistakes, hitting the ball pure 14 major titles, he also delivered "I am just so thankful to be In the twilight of his career start of the day. consecutive bogeys on Nos. 4 on a day the cool wind blew in the inept, often finding sandy back out here playing again," at age 40, Woods knows that Al Kaabi opted to play and 5 and double bogey on 8. glorious sunshine. Playing in a waste areas off the tee or with Woods told reporters after clos- time is not on his side but he aggressively to have any chance Leader in the first two days, group ahead of Almulla, Al Kaabi approach shots, and occasion- ing with a four-over 76 on intends to play as much tour- at catching Othman, attacking Almulla went south Saturday, took the lead with a birdie on ally bladed bunker shots over Sunday to finish 15th in a final nament golf as he can next the pins in wild abandon for couldn’t convert birdie chances par-5 13 where he hit a 5-iron greens. field of 17. year as he strives to work his birdies on 2, 3 and 9. on 13 and 15 and even dropped approach that found the green, He sank a few long-range "I made some birdies this way back up the world rank- At the turn, the two players a shot on 18 for a final round 76 after a monster drive, and made putts but too often was unsteady week, and I felt like I did really ings from a mind-boggling were even at 4-over for the and 221 total. two putts. from inside six feet as he tried well in that regard but I also 898th. Westbrook in rare territory with fifth straight triple-double

Los Angeles half, for the Pelicans, who trailed by as Carmelo Anthony scored 20 points AFP many as 15 but cut the lead to seven apiece to lead the Knicks to a 106-98 points with three minutes remaining. victory over the Sacramento Kings. ussell Westbrook became the first Davis had a chance to trim the def- It was the third time in four games player since Michael Jordan in icit to five, but he missed back-to-back that Rose scored 20 points. Brandon Jen- R1989 to notch five straight triple- shots on the same possession. nings added a season-high 19 points and doubles in the NBA, his latest on Sunday Westbrook then produced a fast- Kristaps Porzingis chipped in 15 points, powering Oklahoma City to a 101-92 vic- break finger roll to stretch the edge back 14 rebounds and four blocked shots for tory over the Pelicans in New Orleans. to 93-84 with 2:39 to play. the Knicks, who handed Sacramento Westbrook scored 28 points, pulled An Oladipo free throw and two their third straight defeat. down 17 rebounds and handed out 12 three-pointers from Hield pulled New The Orlando Magic ended a seven- assists for his 10th triple-double of the Orleans within 94-90. But they would game run of futility against Detroit, season and his fifth in a row. get no closer and Westbrook's three- downing the Pistons 98-92 thanks in His streak is the longest since Jor- pointer in the final minute put the game large part to a stellar performance from dan posted seven straight in 1989. away. Serge Ibaka. Ibaka scored 21 points with "It's just a blessing," Westbrook said. "I don't think I have any words to seven rebounds, four assists, four "I'm very, very blessed to be able to play describe him," Kanter, the Thunder's blocked shots and three steals for the the game I love. Like I've said before, I Turkish centre, said of Westbrook. "Eng- Magic, who hadn't beaten the Pistons never take it for granted. Every time I Indiana Pacers guard Jeff Teague (44) gets by Los Angeles Clippers forward lish is my second language." since November 17, 2014. step on the floor, I'm blessed beyond Luc Mbah a Moute (12) for a basket in the second half of the game at Gentry said the Pelicans did about "I don't care about the stats," Ibaka belief." Staples Center. Pacers won 111-102. all they could do. said after the Magic won for the third Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry said "I thought we did about as good of time in four games after a four-game before the game that in his opinion wasn't as much fun watching Westbrook Oklahoma City, who withstood 37 points a job on Russell in the first half as you slump. "We've been looking for those Westbrook is "the best athlete in the unleash his talents on his own team. and 15 rebounds from Pelicans star can do," he said. "That being said, the wins for a long time now. That's the most NBA". Thunder centre Enes Kanter Anthony Davis. guy still ends up with 17 rebounds, 11 important thing for me because I know "It's fun watching him play against recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds. Vic- Rookie Buddy Hield broke out of a assists, 27 points or whatever it is." when the team wins, everybody looks everybody else," Gentry said, though it tor Oladipo added 15 points for slump with 16 points, all in the second In New York, Derrick Rose and good." 28 SPORT TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER 2016

The Peninsula

ubbed as the ‘great- est female hammer thrower’ of all time, decorated Polish Champion Anita Olympic champion D Anita Wlodarczyk has arrived in Doha to take part in a three- week training camp at Aspire Academy. She was accompanied attends training by her coach, Kaliszewski Kysz- tof and physiotherapist, Diorian Lomza. The training camp, which is designed to prepare Wlodarczyk for the upcoming athletics season, will run until camp at Aspire December 18. During her three week stay at Aspire, Wlodarczyk also held training sessions on December 4 and 5 for Aspire Academy’s Wlodarczyk was crowned history to throw the hammer Aspire Academy, Wloldarcyzk the new athletics season. There’s academic and social education, student-athletes, offering champion in the 2012 and 2016 over 80m. She currently holds said, “I’m taking part in this no doubt that Aspire Academy by drawing lessons and insights insights and expertise for the Olympics, and with record- the women's world record of three-week training camp at offers some of the best training from the best experts in their young athletes to draw lessons breaking performances she 82.98 m. Aspire Academy’s world-class facilities in the world. The first respective fields. from. became the first woman in Commenting on her visit to facilities to prepare myself for time I visited the Academy was in 2008 with my fellow athlete, the late Kamila Skolimowska, Polish and the visit left me with very Olympic special memories.” champion, She added, “As part of my I’m taking part in dubbed as visit to Aspire Academy, I have this three-week the ‘greatest also held training sessions with training camp at female hammer the Academy’s student-athletes. thrower’ of I’m thrilled to share my experi- Aspire Academy’s all time, ences and lessons learned with world-class Anita these young athletes. I hope my facilities to Wlodarczyk words inspire them, and I look (centre) poses forward to seeing them compete prepare myself for for a photograph in the Olympics on a profes- the new athletics with sional level.” season. There’s no student-athletes This visit comes as part of of Aspire Aspire Academy’s ongoing mis- doubt that Aspire sion to attract the best athletes Academy Academy offers to Doha through its world-class in Doha. facilities, thus contributing to some of the best Wlodarczyk the development of the sports training facilities arrived in Doha sector in Qatar, and to support in the world: Anita to take part student-athletes in reaching in a three-week their full potential. Wlodarczyk training camp Such programmes aim to at Aspire develop students holistically, Academy. providing individuals with a comprehensive sporting, I'd prefer to win game Lazio apologise than score, says Zlatan for Lulic London to score but win the game... We have to Reuters fight more and do more to get the three comments points we need," Ibrahimovic told United anchester United striker Zlatan website (www.manutd.com). Ibrahimovic would have preferred United have drawn six of their last Milan M a victory for his team to scoring a eight league games and lie sixth in the Reuters goal in the 1-1 draw against Everton in the table. Premier League on Sunday. "It was very disappointing obviously azio have apologised for com- The Swede cleverly flicked the ball over because the last couple of games in the ments made by left back Senad onrushing Everton goalkeeper Maarten league have not had the outcome that we LLulic after he said AS Roma Stekelenburg to put United ahead at Good- wanted especially after a good perform- defender Antonio Ruediger was sell- ison Park but Marouane Fellaini's late foul ance," said Ibrahimovic who is United's ing socks and belts two years ago. on Idrissa Gueye gave Leighton Baines the leading scorer in the league with eight Lulic's remarks were interpreted chance to equalise from the spot. goals this season. as racist by the Italian media, includ- "I scored but in the end it only got me United host fifth-placed Tottenham ing the Gazzetta dello Sport and the team one point. I would prefer not Hotspur on Sunday. newspaper, as they seemed to imply the Germany player, who is black, used to be a street vendor. "I apologise in the name of the club and in the name of Senad Lulic," said Lazio spokesman Arturo Diaco- nale after his side lost 2-0 to Roma Barcelona's Brazilian forward in a bad-tempered Serie A clash on Neymar eyes the ball during the Sunday. Spanish League football match "His comments were made in the against Real Madrid CF at the heat of the moment after losing a Camp Nou Stadium in Barcelona on derby. Lulic's words were over the Saturday. top but based on previous comments by Ruediger. "The important thing is to recog- nise the error. We want competition Barcelona dismiss to be in an atmosphere of fair play which is Lazio's style," added Diaconale. Earlier, Lulic told the Mediaset Neymar injury fears Premium channel: "Ruediger was provoking us even before the game. Two years ago he was selling socks Barcelona and were able to confirm that and belts in Stuttgart. AFP the trouble he is feeling is due "Now he acts like he is some sort to muscle fatigue in the groin of phenomenon. It's not his fault, it's arcelona striker Neymar area," the club said in a those around him who didn't teach is suffering from muscle statement. him any manners." Bfatigue but no serious "They also determined that On his way out of the stadium, the injury after Saturday's 1-1 draw there is no sign of any injury," Bosnia international was asked by with arch rivals Real Madrid, it added, with Neymar to reporters if his words were racist and the club said yesterday. undergo physiotherapy over replied: "White people also sell socks". The Brazil star was substi- the course of the next few days Roma and Ruediger, who was tuted just before Sergio before returning to training. born in Berlin to a German father and Ramos's dramatic late equal- The 24-year-old is sus- Manchester United's Zlatan Ibrahimovic Sierra Leonean mother, have not iser in El Clasico and had pended for Tuesday's final scores their first goal against Everton commented. complained of pain in his right Champions League group during their Premier League match which Ruediger, 23, made his profes- leg. game at home to Borussia ended in a 1-1 draw at Goodison Park on sional debut for VfB Stuttgart in "The FC Barcelona medi- Moenchengladbach as well as Sunday. 2012 and left them to join Roma last cal services conducted tests on Saturday's visit to Osasuna in year. Neymar this Monday morning La Liga. TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER 2016 SPORT 29

Belgian match Conte comes on top as Man City and abandoned as firecrackers, Liverpool slip in League title race lighters thrown Brussels London AFP AFP he Belgian League clash anchester City lost their cool between Charleroi and in a damaging defeat against TStandard Liege was title rivals Chelsea, Liverpool abandoned on Sunday after surrendered ground on the firecrackers and cigarette leaders after an incredible lighters were thrown by fans Mcollapse at Bournemouth, while Alexis of the bitter rivals. Sanchez kept Arsenal firmly in the hunt. Standard were leading 3-1 Here are five things we learned in the when the game was called off Premier League this weekend: in the 67th minute, having City need to regain composure already been halted twice. It is saying something when the Lighters and firecrackers calmest person in the vicinity of a touch- were thrown at Charleroi line shoving match is Diego Costa, but that Chelsea's manager goalkeeper Nicolas Penne- was the situation Manchester City found Antonio Conte celebrates teau, which led to Standard's themselves in at the end of their ill-tem- their third goal against coach and players making a pered 3-1 home defeat by Chelsea. Manchester City, scored public appeal for calm via the City dominated the game, took the by Eden Hazard during stadium speakers. lead and might have had three penalties, their Premier League Then, Standard goal- but Chelsea's clinical counter-attacking match at Etihad Stadium keeper Guillaume Hubert was ensured it was Antonio Conte's side who in Manchester, England on targeted by a beer glass and prevailed, safeguarding their position at Saturday. flare leading to the game the league summit. being called off. City's frustrations told in stoppage time when Sergio Aguero's brainless lunge on David Luiz and Fernandinho's angry Premiere League connected to the Hammers had managed just been sent on by Mourinho, gave away shove on Cesc Fabregas earned both play- to get to the Chile forward all evening. the penalty that Leighton Baines con- Dropped Draxler ers red cards that will keep them out for City's frustrations told in Sanchez was at his majestic best with a verted to rescue a point. four and three games respectively. stoppage time when Sergio 14-minute treble in the second half, leav- Leicester headed in wrong repeats wish to Liverpool tripped up by Achilles heel Aguero and Fernandinho ing West Ham boss Slaven Bilic to admit direction If ever a game highlighted Liverpool's earned red cards that will he felt humiliated. A 'relegation six-pointer' for the quit Wolfsburg Achilles heel is their defence and endan- keep them out for four and Fellaini blunder adds to Mourinho champions this early in the season is wor- gers their title hopes this one will be it. three games respectively. woe rying indeed and losing 2-1 to a Credit to substitute Ryan Fraser and Just when Jose Mourinho must have Sunderland side that takes the ordinary Berlin AFP his Bournemouth team-mates for the Bournemouth proved that thought Manchester United's luck was out of extraordinary makes Leicester look gutsy fightback but an absent left-back turning for the better, the Old Trafford like they have returned to the strugglers Liverpool's Achilles heel is in James Milner twice allowed them to get chief was undone by his decision to turn of old. The Foxes have made the worst ome of Europe's top their weak defence. behind the defence and led to goals. to the error-prone Marouane Fellaini in start to a season of any Premier League clubs will again be mon- The positive is that even without Sunday's 1-1 draw at Everton. champion with only 13 points from a pos- Sitoring Julian Draxler in Philippe Coutinho Liverpool are as enter- Sanchez swaggers for stylish United had taken a first half lead sible 42 and are just two points above the January's transfer window taining and ruthless up front though Reds Gunners through Zlatan Ibrahimovic and enjoyed drop zone. The problems run deep from after the Germany forward boss Jurgen Klopp may rue taking Sadio When Alexis Sanchez posed for a more good fortune when Marcos Rojo Jamie Vardy's goal drought to Riyad Mah- repeated his wish to quit Mane off as early as he did after his team selfie with a group of ball-boys after his escaped a red card for a terrible tackle. rez being totally out of sorts and new Wolfsburg after being conceded three goals in the last 14 min- hat-trick in Arsenal's 5-1 win at West Ham Yet United were still frustrated in the players such as Ahmed Musa taking a long dropped for the first time. utes of their stunning 4-3 defeat. on Saturday, it was the closest anyone 89th minute when Fellaini, who had only time to settle. Juventus, Arsenal and Paris St-Germain have all previously been linked to the precocious attacking mid- fielder, who has made 27 appearances and scored three La Liga: Top six fail to win in El Classico week goals for Germany. The 23-year-old, who cost Wolfsburg €35m Madrid Atletico suffer taste of their Betis to take his tally for the season ($37.3m) from Schalke in AFP own medicine to 12. August 2015, was dropped A fine weekend for Real was Granada off the bottom for the first time for Satur- eal Madrid remain six points rounded off by Atletico Madrid's Granada sprung a huge surprise day's 3-2 home defeat clear at the top of La Liga failure to break down Espanyol in by bagging their first league win at against Hertha Berlin after Rafter Sergio Ramos's late lev- a 0-0 draw that left Los Rojiblan- the 14th attempt as Sevilla's strug- a series of lacklustre eller earned a 1-1 draw at Barcelona cos still nine points off the top. gles on the road continued with a performances. in El Clasico on a weekend in which Atletico boss Diego Simeone 2-1 defeat. Wolfsburg's coach Valer- none of the top six won. spoke admiringly of the visitors' Sevilla's focus may have been ien Ismael, who replaced the Madrid resistence shines defensive solidity in extending their disrupted by a huge Champions sacked Dieter Hecking in through unbeaten league run to eight games. League clash at Lyon on Wednes- October and has won just one A recurring theme of Real's Simeone is still to find the bal- day with a place in the last 16 on the of his six games in charge, now 33-game unbeaten run has ance between retaining the line. took the decision to drop been late goals bailing out Zined- defensive structure that has char- However, Granada have been Draxler. ine Zidane's men. acterised his five-year reign, whilst on a slow but steady upturn under When he came on for the The Frenchman hailed his side's also giving freedom to the likes of Lucas Alvarez in his second spell at last 12 minutes, Draxler was heart, whilst Ramos claimed a never Antoine Griezmann and Yannick the club with just one defeat in their booed and whistled by Wolfs- say die attitude is part of the club's Carrasco. Griezmann has now gone last four. burg fans every time he DNA. That resistence is making the seven La Liga games without Sporting win six-pointer received the ball at the difference for Real this season in scoring. Sporting Gijon eased the Volkswagen Arena and the contrast to most of the past decade Awesome Aspas mounting pressure on coach and defeat left his club just above when Barca have proved the more Whilst Diego Costa continues former Barcelona defender Abe- the relegation places. reliable for the week in, week out to shine in firing Chelsea to the top lardo with a first win since "You can only imagine grind of La Liga. of the Premier League, Celta Vigo's September in the first real relega- what these whistles do to a This time round a series of minor Iago Aspas is emerging as the nat- tion six-pointer off the season. person," said Draxler. errors are mounting in a major prob- uralised Brazilian biggest rival to Carlos Carmona scored twice "I already made my feel- lem for the champions. Neymar and start up front for Spain. as Sporting shot up to 17th with a ings clear in the summer and Lionel Messi missed huge chances Aspas scored on his interna- 3-1 win over Osasuna, but a third I stand by that." Zinedine Zidane to kill the game off, whilst Javier tional debut against England last defeat in as many games under new In August, Draxler went Mascherano's slip allowed Ramos a month and scored two more beau- boss Joaquin Caparros leaves the public about his desire to free header for the equaliser. ties in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Real Navarrans bottom of the table. leave Wolfsburg. Nice stay top as Marseille earn welcome win

Paris on Saturday with Paris Saint-Ger- and Clinton Njie scored late goals Montpellier to lose ground in the AFP main four points adrift of the after Benoit Pedretti was sent off title race. leaders after falling 3-0 at for Nancy. However, the action was ice held top spot in France Montpellier. It was just a fifth win in 16 overshadowed by incidents in with a 3-0 win at home Nice captain Dante admitted matches for Marseille this season Metz where Lyon goalkeeper Nagainst Toulouse on Sun- the win was a psychological boost as the fallen French giants Anthony Lopes was taken to day as Marseille claimed just a ahead of next weekend's clash climbed back into the top half of hospital with hearing problems second victory in seven Ligue 1 with the champions at the Parc the table, 18 points behind lead- after home fans targeted the matches by beating Nancy 3-0. des Princes. ers Nice. Portugal international with First half goals from Alassane Toulouse, the only team to Rennes moved up to fourth firecrackers. Plea and Younes Belhanda set have beaten both Monaco and as second-half goals from Paul- Fortunately, the 26-year-old Nice on their way with Ivorian Paris Saint-Germain this cam- Georges Ntep and Kamil Grosicki confirmed there would be no Jean Michael Seri rounding off paign, remain stuck in eighth earned them a 2-0 win at home lasting damage, but Metz could with his ninth goal of the cam- place. to Saint-Etienne. face heavy sanctions from Lyon's goalkeeper Anthony Lopes reacts after a firecracker paign on 65 minutes. Earlier Florian Thauvin struck On Saturday, Radamel Fal- authorities including forfeiting Nice have a three-point just after half-time at the Stade cao scored twice as Monaco a game they had led 1-0 before exploded beside him during their match against Metz in advantage on second-placed Velodrome before fellow Premier thrashed Bastia 5-0, but PSG it was abandoned in the 31st French L1 at Saint Symphorien Stadium in Longeville-Les- Monaco who whipped Bastia 5-0 League cast-offs Bafetimbi Gomis crashed to a 3-0 defeat at minute. Metz, France on Saturday. 30 SPORT TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER 2016

Flawless Napoli, Benfica and Besiktas battle Atletico hunt perfect six at for last 16 slots in Champions League Bayern

Paris Champions Berlin AFP League AFP s Paris Saint-Germain The winner of tletico Madrid can joust with Arsenal for Benfica-Napoli in make club history at top spot in their Lisbon will qualify as ABayern Munich today group, Napoli, Ben- group winners and If as the Spaniards look for a fica and Besiktas will Besiktas lose, both record sixth group stage win battleA it today for last 16 Cham- will progress. with both teams through to pions League slots. the last 16. The Group B trio all have A minute's silence will Diego Simeone's team everything to play for in their be held before all arrive in Munich as the only final pool games as the only one matches as a mark of side with a 100 percent of the eight first phase groups record in Europe after five respect for aircrash where no side has yet secured a wins from five. victims, Brazilian side berth. The Group D leaders are Portugal's Benfica, European Chapecoense. six points clear of second- champions back in 1961 and 1962 placed Bayern, who they beat in their halcyon days but who have poor omen. Back then, they lost 1-0 in Madrid in September, underachieved since, should have 7-0 on aggregate -- to Kiev. thanks to Yannick Carrasco's secured their passage on match- Turkish daily Sabah first-half winner. Only five day five but threw away a expressed concern on Sunday teams have achieved the feat three-goal lead at Besiktas. about the weather in Kiev pre- of winning all six Champions That Turkish comeback, dicting that sub-zero League group stage games: rekindling memories of Liver- temperatures and snow could Real Madrid (twice), AC Milan, pool's historic 2005 Istanbul spell "danger". Paris Saint-Germain, Spartak triumph, has left the group out- The paper added Aras Ozbi- Moscow and Barcelona. Benfica's Victor Nilsson-Lindelof (centre) and teammates stretch during a training session, come on a knife-edge with liz, Anderson Talisca and Caner Bayern have their own on the eve of their UEFA Champions League match against SSC Napoli at the club's training Besiktas knowing that a win at Erkin are on the treatment table record run to maintain in eliminated Dynamo Kiev will and set to miss out. grounds in Seixal, Lisbon, Portugal. Munich as their 4-1 victory send them through. The winner of Benfica- over PSV in October was their In contrast, the final round Napoli in Lisbon will qualify as record haul of 115 goals for the position and a theoretically welcome Borussia 14th straight home win in the of games pits Benfica against a group winners, while a draw club after scoring in Friday's 3-0 softer second round draw. Moenchengladbach. Champions League -- a com- Napoli side who beat them 4-2 would be enough to send the lat- romp over Inter Milan. It's been tight at the top Atletico Madrid won Group petition best. back on match-day two in Italy ter through given their "As far as we're concerned, throughout in Group A where D by a distance and they prepare The match at Munich's -- while Besiktas were dropping head-to-head edge. If Besiktas we have to go there looking for there is nothing to choose to do the double over runners- Allianz Arena is a dead rub- home points against Kiev. lose, both will progress the win," said Napoli coach Mau- between Arsenal and PSG, both up Bayern Munich. Rostov will ber and regardless of the The Turkish side's subse- regardless. rizio Sarri. through and level on points look o avoid defeat at PSV Eind- result Atletico will progress quent win in Italy threw the Whereas, Benfica warmed "It will be a difficult game, ahead of final games at Basel and hoven and see their adventures as group winners with Bay- group wide open and the 14-time up for the game by losing their but it could be two games in one. home to Ludogorets, both win- carry on albeit in the Europa ern second. But the national champions' refusal to unbeaten record in Portugal in For the first 70 minutes it could less makeweights. League. Bavarians have a score to surrender against Benfica means slumping to unheralded Marit- all be normal, then go one way Barcelona have already won A minute's silence will be settle after September's they now fancy their chances. imo at the weekend, Napoli or the other in the final 20 Group C at the expense of Man- held before all matches as a defeat in Madrid and semi- Besiktas will hope that their broke back into the top four in minutes." chester City who nonetheless mark of respect for Brazilian side final exit last season at the best previous showing -- a 1987 Serie A when Slovakia midfielder Beyond the tightest group of accompany the Catalan club Chapecoense, whose squad was hands of Atletico and Anto- European Cup quarter-final Marek Hamsik moved to within the season, the final round of through regardless of what hap- decimated by last week's ine Griezmann. appearance -- will not prove a 11 goals of Diego Maradona's games is all about securing pole pens as City host Celtic and Barca aircrash. Atletico lost last season's final to neighbours Real in Milan on penalties having squeezed past Bayern in the UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE semis. FIXTURES TABLES Atletico have lost their Today(all 19:45 GMT): UEFA Champions League group tables ahead of last two matches in Munich Group A this week's final round of matches. and their contrasting domes- At Basel, Switzerland P W D L G/F G/A Pts tic and European fortunes so Basel (SUI) vs Arsenal (ENG) Group A far this season continued as At Paris Paris SG 5 3 2 0 11 5 11 they were held to a 0-0 draw Paris SG (FRA) vs Ludogorets (BUL) Arsenal 5 3 2 0 14 5 11 by Espanyol at home on Group B Ludogorets 5 0 2 3 4 13 2 Saturday. At Lisbon Basel 5 0 2 3 2 8 2 Benfica (POR) vs Napoli (ITA) Group B The result leaves them At Kiev Napoli 5 2 2 1 9 7 8 nine points adrift of runaway Dynamo Kiev (UKR) vs Besiktas (TUR) Benfica 5 2 2 1 9 8 8 Spanish league leaders Real Group C Besiktas 5 1 4 0 9 8 7 Madrid. At Manchester, England Dynamo Kiev 5 0 2 3 2 6 2 Simeone has named a full Manchester City (ENG) vs Celtic (SCO) Group C strength 20-man squad for At Barcelona, Spain Barcelona 5 4 0 1 16 4 12 the trip to Germany. Barcelona (ESP) vs Borussia Moenchengladbach Manchester City 5 2 2 1 11 9 8 (GER) Moenchengladbach 5 1 2 2 5 8 5 However, key players like Group D Celtic 5 0 2 3 4 15 2 Diego Godin, Carrasco and At Munich, Germany Group D Griezmann may be rested

Bayern Munich (GER) vs Atletico Madrid (ESP) Atletico Madrid 5 5 0 0 7 1 15 with nothing riding on the

At Eindhoven, Netherlands Bayern Munich 5 3 0 2 13 6 9 match and a crucial La Liga

PSV Eindhoven (NED) vs Rostov (RUS) Rostov 5 1 1 3 6 12 4 trip to Villarreal to come on PSV Eindhoven 5 0 1 4 4 11 1 Monday. El Jaish and Lekhweiya players in action in this file photo during the previous Qatar Stars League season. Top of the table clash between Troubled Al Kharaitiyat El Jaish and Lekhwiya in QSL meet stumbling Al Ahli The Peninsula quality to beat the drop. “The season still has some The Peninsula QSL Round 10 El Jaish will need the former truggling Al Kharaitiyat way to go and we have time. Corinthians attacker to be fir- have yet to register a win That said we need to start pick- ound ten of the QSL season ing on all cylinders if they are under new coach Ahmad ing up points. I have confidence The tie will see first S has thrown up a number of to open up a seven point gap at Al Ajlani and will be eager to in the group that we will find R key matches at the top of and second face off in the top of the table. kick-start their season when our stride in these coming the table, and it’s no wonder that what promises to As for Lekhwiya they are hot they take on Al Ahli today games.” celebrate the very best the top of the table clash between on the heels of their rivals, Al Ahli manager evening at Al Khor stadium. Al Ahli lost narrowly 1-0 to of Qatari football El Jaish and Lekhwiya is rightly despite dropping points against Yusef Adam Thunders boss Al Ajlani El Jaish last time out, head the QSL spotlight game. league. Al Khor and Al Rayyan in recent gave this thoughts to the local coach Yusef Adam is aiming for The tie will see first and sec- Lamouchi will turn to weeks. Last time out Djamel media ahead of the game. a win against Al Kharaitiyat ond face off in what promises the clubs sensational Belmadi’s side brushed a side Al “We are aiming to prepare “There is no doubt that the to celebrate the very best of leading scorer Sailiya with a professional 3-0 the team despite the short three points are very crucial to Qatari football. El Jaish have Romarinho who has win. period of time between the us in the coming game versus been nothing short of perfect Lekhwiya looked superb in matches. Al Ahli are a tough Al Kharaitiyat.” ten goals so far. this season under Sabri Lam- attack and crucially registerd a side with strong strikers, and “We are aiming to get back ouchi and have opened up a four clean sheet, which will please the match will be a test of our to winning ways it has been point lead at the top of the QSL points, despite not playing too Belmadi after looking leaky at the abilities. The aim of course is to sometime that we have won in standings. well. El Jaish will have to up back in recent weeks. get the win and improve our the QSL,” added the Qatari Last time out El Jaish needed their game against their rivals Lekhwiya midfielder Karim standing in the QSL” revealed coach during the press a last gasp Lucas Mendes free- who they share their home sta- Boudiaf has been leading my Al Ajlani conference. kick to secure all three points in dium with. example in the centre of the “ We are improving game The games are coming thick a scrappy win again Al Ahli. Lamouchi will turn to the clubs park for the Red Knights. by game, Our next focus will and fast for Al Ahli and Adam Coach Sabri Lamouchi will leading scorer Romarinho to score The Qatar internatiaonal now be Al Ahli and improve concluded that a run of wins be pleased with the fighting the goals against Lekhwiya. The midfuielder has two goals in from last time.” could pull his side up into the qualities exhibited by his side Brazilian has been sensational in QSL games and will be aiming Ending the press confer- top four places. Al Kharaitiyat manager and by coming away from Al the league this season and has ten to add to his tally in the derby ence, the Tunisian tactician “It’s all about consistancy,” Ahli stadium with all three goals so far. game against El Jaish. Ahmad Al Ajlani insisted that his side has the he added. TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER 2016 SPORT 31

"Duncan Revie (the late Soccerex founder) Xavi leads the way had the foresight and vision in the 1990s to form Soccerex, an event which has been at the forefront during the process of the globalisation of football which started during that decade with football tips in England. Now we are living in an age of many football markets outside Europe developing their own leagues and owning clubs in Europe. The hosting of the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 will accelerate the global development of football." Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez Legacy (SC) speaks during the Soccerex Asian Forum in Doha yesterday. "The World Cup is a catalyst to accelerate the emergence of Qatar as a knowledge- based economy by 2030 and our human, Rizwan Rehmat He's only 19. Akram has else. I am very proud of being social, environmental and technological The Peninsula Qatar u-23 potential. He's playing in the part of Aspire to disseminate initiatives built around the hosting of the Spanish league. He has a culture of football. So many player Akram World Cup have arcelona legend strong personality. He under- efforts are exerted in Qatar. Afif celebrates proven to be very Xavi says young stands the game. He will pave There are so many ideas to after scoring in Qatar players have the way for (future) Qatari explore," Xavi said. this file photo. successful in the the potential to players. I didn't see a huge "There are players in the country and the compete against gap between the standards Under 23 and Under 19 teams region. The idea was Bthe best but he urged the new of (young) European and who can be very important to look at a multi- generation to 'achieve a Qatari players," Xavi said. in 2022. There are coaches pronged approach higher tactical standard' to "I work with them (the in Aspire and the QFA such towards sustainable create a lasting impression in young players). I work with as Felix Sanchez who are growth and projects the football world. the youth coaches. Akram very important, and I am such as Generation Speaking on day one of and Moiz have the opportu- working in coaching with the Amazing and the Soccerex Asian Forum, nity and they must take this Under 23 team and enjoying Challenge 22 have Xavi said Qatar - the 2022 opportunity. I know the it," Xavi said. been successful FIFA World Cup hosts - are coaches talk to them regu- "There are great players endeavours." going in the right direction by larly," he said. and six years to go until 2022. Nasser Al Khater, SC Assistant Secretary investing in young players. Xavi could barely hold his Those in the current National General for Tournament Affairs "The technical side in praise when asked about Team and the youth teams football is very important. We Qatar's football will be a great combination can see the (Qatar) players infrastructure. to compete in the home "Al Sadd is doing great this season. We are good physically. They "The Aspire Academy is World Cup.” have played strongly. We have got new prepare well but they need what you call state-of-the- Away from his profes- players. We are in second place. We have to achieve a higher tactical art infrastructure. I have seen sional duties, it is still football to wait and see level. We have good poten- top football facilities in so for the European giant who what happens - Al tial (but) we have to hone many countries. But the level heads SC's 'Generation Rayyan won the QSL their skills," Xavi said here is not seen anywhere Amazing' Project. title last year. We yesterday. "This is a project have strong sides "In the past, Qatar was achieved through enjoyment, like Al Gharaga, not required to do so well, but by being on the pitch. I love Lekhwiya and El with World Cup coming up this role. At Aspire Academy, it was a moment of pride." a means for happiness that Jaish. We have a in 2022, Qatar national team Akram has I give my skills. I have come "People there remem- can change people's lives. We very good coach. He has to do well," he added. here to transfer my knowl- bered me as a Barca player. have to guide people," he is experienced. He Xavi, who captains Qatar potential. He's edge," Xavi said. I am not as popular as the said. has a great Stars League (QSL) giants Al playing in the "The football family has current Barca lot, but what "This is a very important personality. He can Sadd, spends his time with Spanish League. given me a lot. I am blessed. really made me happy was project for us. What we want Qatar's junior ranks and the I am paying back to commu- that they remembered me," to achieve is to share our make an impact on national Olympic squad, giv- He has a strong nities here and around the he said when recalled his trip experiences and we are going the players." ing his invaluable tips to personality. He world," he said. to Jordan as the ambassador to do that next week," he said Xavi Hernandez, former Barcelona player players like Akram Afif and understands the "I think about football of 'Generation Amazing' of the December 13 clash and current Al Sadd captain Ali Moiz. whole day. I enjoy it. I think project. between Barcelona against The duo guided Qatar game. He will about Al Sadd. I think about "Now I would like to Saudi giants Al Ahli in Doha. "Xavi is a legend, he played with Messi and U-19 squad to the FIFA U-20 pave the way for Aspire. Yes, I give proposals. make others happy. I want to "This project will con- against Ronaldo. Every time we see him World Cup held in New Zea- (future) Qatari Because that's how you encourage other people to tinue. We have trained so and train with him we learn from him. He land last year. translate ideas into reality. I play football. Everybody many people. This is what follows our development closely, and he "We are working on dif- players: am very happy when I par- should experience this. They we want to achieve - we has a great experience in football. In the ferent players to make a good Barcelona ticipate with different teams. need to practice their pas- want football to be played in Asian U-23 squad for the 2022 World I was able to make so many sion. Some people do not different parts of the world. tournament he was Cup squad. I talk to him legend Xavi people happy. So many peo- understand that you change We have to give back to the with us in the (Akram). He's an exceptional ple suffered from social the lives of people on a daily community what we got coaching staff and it talent. He has all the capabil- issues. It (football) is a source basis. when we were youngsters. ities. He needs to work of happiness," he said. "I have seen the impact This is the spirit of this was a fantastic seriously. He's a young man. "When I went to Jordan, in so many areas. Football is project," Xavi said. experience for me. He will be a great coach. He faced many challenges during his career and was able to overcome them." Akram Afif, Qatar national team player

"As a young kid I couldn’t have imagined that one day I would be receiving passes from a legend and team-mate like Xavi, and Raul before him. It is really an honour to be on the pitch at the same time as him, especially since I am a Barcelona fan in international club football. Every weekend we used to see Xavi on TV, and now he’s with us in the training sessions and the matches. We have learned a lot from him, and it’s an The founder of Temba Sports Services, honour to have him Mohammed Al Mousawi, holding the in the same team." Supercoppa Italiana trophy during Hassan Al Haydos, Qatar national team the exhibition on the sidelines of the skipper Soccerex Asian Forum at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Doha yesterday. LEFT: Officials witness the computer illustrations of the Qatar 2022 Stadiums. Pictures by: Salim Matramkot/The Peninsula