SUNDAY 16 JUNE 2019 SPORT 17 I’m a little hot right now. Right now I’m still in the ball game. Tiger Woods says after a TODAY TOMORROW There’s so many guys with a bogey-bogey finish in second India vs Pakistan West Indies vs Bangladesh chance to win. We’ve got a round of US Open. 22nd ODI 23rd ODI long way to go. in Manchester in Taunton 12:30pm (Qatar time) 12:30pm (Qatar time) Woodland fires 65 to grab US Open lead REUTERS The six-under 65 equals birdies at 15 and 16 to get right back PEBBLE BEACH the lowest round ever at into contention. “You’re going to make Gary Woodland shot out of the US a US Open held at Pebble bogeys around here, that’s Open woodwork with an error-free Beach set by Tiger Woods what’s going to happen six-under 65 to steal the halfway lead in 2000 and matched by obviously I played a very from Justin Rose on Friday, while a Justin Rose on Thursday. solid round up until that US OPEN (LEADING SCORERS) fuming Tiger Woods insisted he was point,” said McIlroy. still in the ball game after a bogey- “I bounced back well, 33 - Gary Woodland (USA) 68-65 bogey finish. his first with a tie for sixth at the PGA those birdies on 15 and 16 135 - Justin Rose (ENG) 65-70 Out in the morning wave, over- Championship followed by a tie for were huge to get me right 136 - Louis Oosthuizen (RSA) 66-70 night leader Rose set the target with eighth in the same event this year. back into this golf tournament,” he 137 - Aaron Wise (USA) 66-71, Rory McIlroy (NIR) a grinding one-under 70 and saw off “It’s not something that you’re added. 68-69 all his early challengers on a chilly proud of,” said Woodland. “From all Koepka, bidding to become the 138 - Chez Reavie (USA) 68-70, Chesson Hadley day on the Monterey peninsula. those experiences you learn. first player in over a century to sweep (USA) 68-70, Brooks Koepka (USA) 69-69, Matt But as the sun sank into the “I don’t have to be perfect with three consecutive US Opens, also Kuchar (USA) 69-69, Matt Wallace (ENG) 70-68 Pacific Ocean, Woodland knocked my ball striking because I have other battled to stay in contention, turning 139 - Adam Scott (AUS) 70-69, Jon Rahm (ESP) him from his perch in style by rolling things that can pick me up, that’s in a 69 for a second straight day to 69-70, Sergio Garcia (ESP) 69-70, Henrik Stenson in a monster 50-foot birdie putt at been a big confidence boost for me, leave him on four-under, five back (SWE) 68-71, Scott Piercy (USA) 67-72, Zach John- the last to get to nine-under 133 and knowing I don’t have to be perfect I of the leader. son (USA) 70-69, Xander Schauffele (USA) 66-73, take a two-shot lead over the can still contend and have a chance “I feel great. I’m excited. I’ve got Englishman. to win.” a chance,” enthused Koepka. Graeme McDowell (NIR) 69-70 The 65 equalled the lowest round Lurking three back was South “That’s all you can ask for. I just 140 - Sepp Straka (AUT) 68-72, Francesco Molinari ever at a US Open held at Pebble African Louis Oosthuizen, shot a 70, need to make a few putts.” (ITA) 68-72, Carlos Ortiz (MEX) 70-70, Dustin John- Beach set by Woods in 2000 and with his erstwhile compatriot Aaron Woods began his day five off the son (USA) 71-69140 - Harris English (USA) 71-69, matched by Rose on Thursday. Wise and Northern Irishman McIlroy pace but picked up what would be Jim Furyk (USA) 73-67, Matthew Fitzpatrick (ENG) Having finished no higher than a one shot further adrift at his only birdie at his second hole 69-71, Brandon Wu (USA) 71-69 tie for 23rd in eight previous US five-under. before stringing together 14 pars 140 - Sepp Straka (AUT) 68-72, Francesco Molinari Opens, Woodland went about his McIlroy, US Open winner in 2011, and stumbling to the finish with (ITA) 68-72, Carlos Ortiz (MEX) 70-70, Dustin John- business in anonymity as headliners had a heart-stopping afternoon back-to-back bogeys that left son (USA) 71-69140 - Harris English (USA) 71-69,

Brooks Koepka, Rory McIlroy, Phil plunging up and down the leader- him fuming. Jim Furyk (USA) 73-67, Matthew Fitzpatrick (ENG)

Mickelson and Woods took the board before signing for a two-under A one-over 72 left 69-71 spotlight. 69. The wild ride began when he Woods at level par, nine Only three times in 26 rounds at picked up two birdies on an error free shots off the pace the US Open had Woodland scored outward nine and another at 11 to and with work under 70 but the 35-year-old get within one of the lead. do if he is to American hardly put a step wrong at Without a bogey since his contend for a 16th the Pebble Beach Golf Links with not opening hole on Thursday, McIlroy major. a single bogey on his card. picked up his second on the 13 and “I’m a little hot right now,” For much of his career Woodland disaster struck at 14 when he took a growled Woods. “Right now I’m still Gary Woodland putts on the eighth hole has been a non-factor at the majors. double-bogey and skidded out of sight. in the ball game. There’s so many during the second round of the 2019 Without a top 10 finish in his first The 30-year-old quickly pulled guys with a chance to win. We’ve got US Open at Pebble Beach on Friday. 27 majors up to last year, he earned out of the tailspin with back-to-back a long way to go.”

Repsol Honda Team’s Spanish NBA: Injuries, free agency rider Marc Marquez (left), Petronas Yamaha SRT’s French cloud Golden State future rider Fabio Quartararo REUTERS There are no guarantees A five-year max deal for NEW YORK (centre) and that stars Klay Thompson would come in at Monster Energy Thompson and Kevin about $190m. Kerr called Yamaha’ Spanish The Golden State Warriors’ Durant would return for Thompson “one of the great com- rider Maverick offseason of uncertainty has the 2019-20 season. petitors I have ever been around,” Vinales celebrate begun. and the Warriors might have good after the One day after the Toronto news on that front, inasmuch as Catalan MotoGP Raptors eliminated Golden State players in back-to-back Finals the guard’s father, Mychal qualifying from the NBA Finals in six games, games, unheard of. It will Thompson, told the San Fran- Warriors coach Steve Kerr and probably never happen again. cisco Chronicle on Friday that session, general manager Bob Myers met We’re in new territory now.” there is “no question” his son will yesterday. with the media on Friday, Thompson and Durant could re-sign with the Warriors. although few answers are each miss all or most of next Kerr, however, seemed readily available for a dynasty season, although they still would resigned to losing centre that faces multiple key have ample suitors in free agency. DeMarcus Cousins, who signed questions. “We value those guys at the a discounted $5.3m, one-year There were no guarantees highest level,” Myers said. deal last summer as he was that stars Klay Thompson (unre- “Those are guys you do eve- coming off a torn Achilles. stricted free agent) and Kevin rything you can to keep within Golden State has reached the Quartararo pips Marquez Durant ($31.5m player option) your organisation.” NBA Finals in five consecutive would return for the 2019-20 If Durant declines his player seasons, winning tht title in 2015, season -- and that was before option, he could re-sign with the 2017 and 2018. The Warriors can to secure Catalan GP pole each sustained a major injury in Warriors on a maximum deal count on the tandem of stars the Finals. Durant ruptured his worth about $220m over five Stephen Curry and Draymond right Achilles tendon in Game 5; years. Green next season, but almost AFP only had surgery on his right arm Thompson tore his left anterior “The injury throws every- everything after that is some- MONTMELO, SPAIN 10 days ago, opting for an oper- CATALAN GRAND PRIX GRIDS cruciate ligament in Game 6. thing for a loop, so I have no idea thing of a mystery. ation now rather than waiting MotoGP, Front row “Everything that happened what Kevin is going to do,” Kerr “We talk often about how French Yamaha rider Fabio for the forthcoming summer 1. Fabio Quartararo (FRA/Yamaha-SRT) 1min up until five days ago was just said. lucky we are to play basketball Quartararo edged world break. 39.484sec, 2. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) basketball and people and “I know that we all want him for a living, coach basketball for champion and hometown “We’re on pole again, it’s at 0.015 sec, 3. 3. Maverick Vinales (ESP/ bumps in the road,” Kerr said. back. We think this is a great sit- a living... but it can be taken favourite Marc Marquez of fantastic. I was wondering what Yamaha) 0.226 “But when you’re talking uation for him and vice versa. away quickly,” Kerr said. Honda to grab pole position for condition I’d be in after the 2nd row about two career-altering Hopefully, we get him back and “This week has been proof the Catalan MotoGP yesterday, surgery but I love this circuit,” 4. Franco Morbidelli (ITA/Yamaha-SRT) injuries to two of your best keep this thing going.” of that.” just 10 days after undergoing said Quartararo, whose other 0.227, 5. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) surgery on his arm. pole this season came at Jerez. 0.269, 6. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) It was Quartararo’s second Marquez was also pleased 0.293 pole of the season and came with his front row berth. 3rd row after he dominated the first two “We’ve been struggling all 7. Danilo Petrucci (ITA/Ducati) 0.360, 8. free practices for Sunday’s race weekend but got things together Alex Rins (ESP/Suzuki) 0.386, 9. Cal where Marquez wants to snap a at the right moment,” he said. Crutchlow (GBR/Honda-LCR) 0.667 five-year winless streak in his “It was about time, but I’m 4th row home region. happy with the results even if I Joining the pair on the front think I should be on pole, given 10. Jorge Lorenzo (ESP/Honda) 0.715, 11. row is another Spaniard, how good I was feeling on the Joan Mir (ESP/Suzuki) 0.756, 12. Pol Es- Yamaha’s Maverick Vinales. bike. pargaro (ESP/KTM) 0.941 Moto2, Front row Golden State Marquez, who last won at the French fans have been Warriors guard Klay Montmelo circuit in 2014, leads waiting for a win since 1999 1. Augusto Fernandez (ESP/Kalex) 1min 44.170sec, 2. Thomas Luethi (SUI/Kalex) at Thompson reacts the world championship when Regis Laconi won at after being fouled rankings ahead of this seventh Valencia on a Yamaha. 0.021sec, 3. Sam Lowes (GBR/Kalex) 0.029 Moto3, Front row by Toronto Raptors GP with 115 points, Italy’s Ducati The competition also cele- guard Danny Green rider Andrea Dovizioso, who is brates 70 years this weekend 1. Gabriel Rodrigo (ARG/Honda) 1min during game six of on the second row today in sixth, since its first race, the Tourist 48.450sec, 2. Ai Ogura (JPN/Honda) at

the 2019 NBA Finals in second on 103. Trophy of the Isle of Man. It was 0.021sec, 3. Tony Arbolino (ITA/Honda) at Oracle Arena on The 20-year-old pole sitter held on June 13, 1949 and won 0.314 Thursday. is way off in the rankings and by Britain’s Freddie Frith. 18 SPORT SUNDAY 16 JUNE 2019

Rain threat looms in the mother of all battles between arch-rivals India, Pakistan ready for ‘marquee’ clash

AFP India Virat Pakistan’s MANCHESTER Kohli attends a Sarfaraz training session Ahmed Virat Kohli will have history on at Old Trafford during nets his side when India take on arch- Stadium yesterday It’s been competitive We have to overcome yesterday. rivals Pakistan in a World Cup ahead of their for years. It’s a our mistakes because blockbuster today -- a clash that 2019 World Cup is always more than just a game match against marquee event all India are also a of . Pakistan today. over the world, an very strong team. On the pitch, India have won honour to be a part of We will assess our all six of their meetings against their neighbours in World Cups the big game. Brings performance and as they look to maintain their out the best in all of then we will plan: perfect record in Manchester. us: Virat Kohli Safaraz Ahmed India beat Pakistan in their most recent encounter at the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates last year. But at least Pakistan can look back for inspiration to the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy in England, when they thumped their fierce rivals by 180 runs. “May there be peace and tranquility while the two Asian matches so far. The number-two and excitement surrounding the it’s calm and relaxed. The atmos- past a powerful Indian side. don’t care,” Harron Memon, an giants fight it out on the cricket ranked side won their opener high-octane clash, with more phere from the outside, for the first “We have to overcome our Indian fan in Nottingham said. field,” former India captain against South Africa and then than a billion people set to tune time, it’s a bit intimidating, but mistakes because India are also “We have always domi- Bishan Singh Bedi said. beat defending champions Aus- in, but said the “intimidating” we’ll look to execute well. a very strong team. We will nated India in cricket. Call it “And may the better team tralia before a no result against atmosphere would bring out the “It’s been competitive for assess our performance and then war or sport, we are certainly win without losing out on the eti- New Zealand. best from his players. years. It’s a marquee event all we will plan,” he said. going to win it come Sunday,” quette of cricket.” Pakistan, by contrast, are “For Sunday, we know we’re over the world, an honour to be Passionate fans of both sides a Pakistan supporter wrote on Kohli’s side have lived up to struggling in the 10-team table there when it comes to the a part of the big game. Brings out want local bragging rights even Twitter. their billing as one of the with just one win -- an upset mindset. Just about going out the best in all of us.” if their team ultimately goes on The weather in Manchester favourites along with holders against England, two defeats and there and having a game plan, Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz to lose the tournament. today is expected to be cloudy Australia and hosts England, with a washout. executing it,” said Kohli. Ahmed said his team needed to “We want to win this match with chances of light rain two wins and a washout in three Kohli downplayed the frenzy “As soon as you enter the field, learn from their mistakes to get even if Kohli loses the Cup, we throughout the match hours.

South Africa Finch and Starc shine as ease to first win

REUTERS Australia beat Sri Lanka CARDIFF

South Africa finally got a World AFP SCOREBOARD Cup win under their belts as LONDON Australia Sri Lanka they eased to a nine- David Warner b de Silva ...... 26 D Karunaratne c Maxwell b Richardson ...... 97 triumph over Afghanistan Australia captain Aaron Finch Aaron Finch c Karunaratne b Udana ...... 153 b Starc ...... 52 yesterday to keep alive their and pace bowler Mitchell Starc Usman Khawaja c Udana b de Silva ...... 10 c Carey b Behrendorff ....16 hopes of reaching the semi- stole the show as the World Cup Steve Smith b Malinga ...... 73 c Carey b Starc ...... 30 finals. holders eased to an 87-run win Glenn Maxwell ...... 46 c Carey b Cummins ...... 9 Leg-spinner Imran Tahir over Sri Lanka at the Oval Shaun Marsh c Siriwardana b Udana ...... 3 Milinda Siriwardana b Starc ...... 3 took 4-29, engineering an Alex Carey run out ...... 4 c Warner b Starc ...... 7 yesterday. Pat Cummins run out ...... 0 (not out) ...... 16 Afghani collapse after a Finch equalled his career- Mitchell Starc (not out) ...... 5 c Finch b Richardson ...... 8 75-minute rain break as they best one-day international score Extras: (4LB, 1NB, 9W) ...... 14 c Khawaja b Richardson ...... 1 were dismissed for 125. Chris with a masterful 153 and Steve Total: (for 7 ) ...... 334 c Carey b Cummins ...... 0 Morris contributed with Smith chipped in with 73 as Aus- Did not bat: Jason Behrendorff, Kane Richard- Extras: (2LB, 6W) ...... 8 figures of 3-13 and Andile tralia scored an imposing 334-7. son Total: (all out) ...... 247 Phehlukwayo took two Fall of wickets: 1-80, 2-100, 3-273, 4-278, Fall of wickets: 1-115, 2-153, 3-186, 4-205, Needing a World Cup record 5-310, 6-317, 7-320 5-209, 6-217, 7-222, 8-236, 9-237, 10-247 wickets. run-chase to claim a shock win, Bowling: Lasith Malinga 10-1-61-1, Nuwan Pra- Bowling: Mitchell Starc 10-0-55-4, Pat Cummins The South Africans set Sri Lanka got off to a flying start deep 10-0-88-0, Isuru Udana 10-0-57-2, Thisara 7.5-0-38-2, Jason Behrendorff 9-0-59-1, Kane about chasing a slightly thanks to a first-wicket part- Perera 10-0-67-0, Dhananjaya de Silva 8-0-40-2, Richardson 9-1-47-3, Glenn Maxwell 10-0-46-0. adjusted target of 127 from 48 nership of 115 between captain Milinda Siriwardana 2-0-17-0. Result: Australia wins by 87 runs overs in cautious fashion, and Kusal reaching 131-1 with 19 overs to Perera. the West Indies and Pakistan. “Through the middle overs spare. But Perera departed for 52 Their lone defeat in the today we were excellent with the Hashim Amla and Quinton and when Karunaratne fell on 10-team tournament came way we pulled it back with our de Kock shared a 104-run 97 the game swung back in Aus- against India and their latest pace bowlers and Maxy (Glenn opening wicket partnership tralia’s direction. victory puts them well on course Maxell). Mitch was all over them, before De Kock was dismissed Starc was the catalyst, with for a semi-final berth. he is a world-class bowler.” Sri for 68. a fiery spell of three wickets in “I thought we were a tad Lanka, who lost their last seven Amla finished on 41 not out six balls, Australia eventually short with the new ball and it’s wickets for 42 runs, have only and Phehlukwayo hit a six for dismissing Sri Lanka for 247 so hard to pull it back after one win from their five matches, the winning runs to end thanks in large part to his 4-55 that,” said man-of-the-match a disappointing run that includes unbeaten on 17. from 10 overs. Finch. two washouts. Kane Richardson added “We were a bit slow to They face a struggle to reach three wickets of his own as Aus- change our plans and lost a bit the semi-finals with only four SCOREBOARD Australia’s Aaron Finch celebrates his century druing the ICC tralia made it four wins from of momentum.” matches left, a spell that features Afghanistan Cricket World Cup match against Sri Lankaat the Kia Oval, London, their five group matches after “With each game we’re encounters with title contenders H Zazai c van der Dussen b Rabada ...... 22 Britain, yesterday. previously beating Afghanistan, improving,” he added. England and India. Noor Ali Zadran b Tahir ...... 32 Rahmat Shah lbw b Morris ...... 6 H Shahidi c du Plessis b Phehlukwayo ....8 Pakistan’s Mohammad Asghar Afghan c & b Tahir ...... 0 Amir during an indoor Mohammad Nabi b Phehlukwayo ...... 1 training session at Old Amir targets India, inspired Ikram Ali Khil c Amla b Morris ...... 9 Trafford Stadium in Gulbadin Naib c Markram b Tahir ...... 5 Manchester, yesterday Rashid Khan c van der Dussen b Tahir ..35 by memory of late mother Hamid Hassan c du Plessis b Morris...... 0 Aftab Alam (not out) ...... 0 Extras: (4LB, 3W) ...... 7 AFP for his success, wanting him to washed out by rain. There is no MANCHESTER take five wickets in every match need for extra motivation against Total: (all out) ...... 125 he played. fierce rivals India, but Amir Fall of wickets: 1-39, 2-56, 3-69, 4-69, Pakistan pace spearhead “My mother will definitely be admits there is even more 5-70, 6-70, 7-77, 8-111, 9-125, 10-125. says the praying for me from the pressure on Pakistan, given Bowling: Kagiso Rabada 8-1-36-1 (2w), memory of his late mother will heavens,” Amir said. defeat could signal an early end Beuran Hendricks 5-1-25-0 (1w), Andile spur him on in the high-voltage “She would always be found to their chances of reaching the Phehlukwayo 8-1-18-2, Chris Morris 6.1-2- World Cup clash against arch- before the television and all the semi-finals. 13-3, Imran Tahir 7-0-29-4. rivals India in Manchester today. time praying for my success and “The kind of rivalry between South Africa The 27-year-old is back in her biggest wish was that I get Pakistan and India was evident Hashim Amla (not out) ...... 41 form after taking a career best five wickets, so when I got five I at my home and she always Quinton de Kock c Nabi b Naib ...... 68 5-30 against Australia in a losing cried and remembered her wanted me to come strong Andile Phehlukwayo (not out) ...... 17 cause on Wednesday following words.” against India,” recalled Amir of Extras: (1LB, 4W) ...... 5 a wretched run that saw him take Pakistan are in a precarious his mother. Total: (for 1 wkt) ...... 131 just five wickets in 14 one-day position, with just three points “As a cricketer when you internationals prior to the World from their opening four games hold a bat or a ball and are at a Fall of wickets: 1-104. Cup. after losing to the West Indies ground then every match is the Bowling: Aftab Alam 5-1-16-0 (2w), Ha- Amir said his mother, and Australia, surprisingly same. But fans, channels of both mid Hassan 4-1-11-0, Rashid Khan 7-0-45- Naseem Akhtar, who died in beating hosts England and seeing the sides, media and now social 0 (1w), Gulbadin Naib 6-0-29-1, Moham- March this year, always prayed their match with Sri Lanka media create a hype.” mad Nabi 6.4-0-29-0 (1w). Result: South Africa won by nine wickets SUNDAY 16 JUNE 2019 SPORT 19

Kawashima Ready to take on Paraguay: Boudiaf passing on THE PENINSULA in their ranks, are Asian Cup Boudiaf said featuring at doubt that the players have experience RIO DE JANEIRO champions while Paraguay are Copa America would help the shown great commitment in two-time winners of the hugely side prepare a strong side for the training camps we have to young Qatari midfielder Karim Boudiaf popular tournament. the 2022 World Cup. had recently. The players have says his young team-mates are Boudiaf refused to be drawn There is no doubt “No doubt, the tournament a great understanding and the ‘ready’ for their Copa America that all South American teams that our first match is the best preparation for the backroom staff is also very pro- team-mates debut today when they take on remained tough opponents will be difficult but 2022 World Cup in Qatar. We fessional in their approach. Paraguay in a Group B clash. against their Asian rivals like have played a friendly against There is great harmony among AFP “The team is ready as far as Qatar or Japan. we will deal with the Brazil. We are playing against the side,” Boudiaf said in an SAO PAULO our preparations go or as far as “This is an open tour- situation carefully. sides that have a different interview to a local Arabic fitness is concerned,” Boudiaf nament. All sides are tough. We hope to keep school of thought as far as their daily. Following Japan’s training said in an interview There are no weak sides. The our concentration style of play concerned. That’s “My relationship with all the session, Eiji Kawashima cut a yesterday. key is to play with confidence the long-term plan,” Boudiaf players is more than wonderful. lonely figure trotting gently “We are glad that (defender) and according to the plans set from the first minute said. My team-mates Abdul Aziz around the pitch as his team- Bassam (Al Rawi) is also back by the coach,” Boudiaf said. and continue in that “Playing against Brazil was Hatem, Ahmed Fathi, Ahmed mates headed to the changing in training and hopefully we will “Yes, there is no doubt that fashion: Boudiaf very good for our experience. Moin, Assem Madibo and rooms at Sao Paulo FC’s training deliver a strong performance,” our first match will be difficult Such matches take away the Abdullah Abdul Salam, we all complex. he added. but we will deal with the situ- fear you may have of top sides. have great understanding,” he The 36-year-old goalkeeper Qatar,with feared strikers ation carefully. We hope to keep pressure is there, on and off the We were able to push them and said. stands out amongst the youthful like Almoez Ali and Akram Afif our concentration from the first field,” Boudiaf said. play to our strengths,” Boudiaf Boudiaf said the team’s Japanese squad brought to Brazil minute and continue in that “We have the will to give our said of the 2-0 loss last week. arrival in Brazil two weeks to make a second appearance fashion,” he said. best. We are the Asian Cup cham- “Overall we were very before the event ‘helped the as guests in the Copa America. “We know that the pions. Winning that title has given organized and for some minor squad immensely’. Alongside fellow veteran world is watching us but let us all the confidence we need. It mistakes, we did well. “I think the camp in Brazil Shinji Okazaki, 33, Kawashima me tell you a very important is an honour to be Asian cham- Hopefully we was very important for us. It is a rarity in this 23-man squad point - there are no easy pions and we intend to do our won’t make helped us get into the right where the average age is just games these days. You have country those mood and we have kept our- 22. to arrive prepared and for proud,” he mistakes.” selves busy the right way,” In fact, when coach Hajime all possibilities. The said. “There is no Boudiaf said. Moriyasu named his 23-man squad last month, it contained only six players to have already won a Japan cap. Between them, Kawashima and Okazaki have almost four times as many caps as the rest of the 21 players put together. But the Strasbourg shot- stopper isn’t taking his selection for granted with young pair Keisuke Osako (21) and Riosuke Kojima (22) chomping at the bit for their chance. Even if he doesn’t play, Kawashima is ready to help whoever gets to stand between the sticks for the Blue Samurai. “I try to tell them my expe- rience and also it’s important for Japanese football that the young goalkeepers get more expe- Qatari midfielder Karim Boudiaf (centre) takes part in a training session along with his team-mates in Rio de Janeiro ahead of their opening match of the 2019 Copa rience,” he told AFP. America against Paraguay, which will be played at the historic Maracana Stadium today. “We’ll see the course and what kind of decision the coach takes, but I will try to contribute to my team.” Football Ukraine’s Viktor Korniienko Japan’s primary goal at this fans at celebrates with the trophy and tournament is to gain experience Lagoona Ukraine team mates after winning the for its under-23 team that will Mall Under-20 World Cup at the represent the nation at their win U20 Lodz Stadium in Lodz, Poland, home Olympics in Tokyo next yesterday. Ukraine beat South year. Korea 3-1 in the final. Amongst their squad here is teenage sensation Takefusa World Cup Kubo. The “Japanese Messi,” as he is known, signed for Real Madrid on Friday. The 18-year-old, who was once on Barcelona’s books as a child, only made his interna- tional debut last month in a 2-0 win over El Salvador. Copa América and Africa Cup of Nations And despite their inexpe- rience, Japan are aiming high. “This young group needs experience, so me and Okazaki Lagoona Mall to tried to give the experience to the group because it’s a tough tournament,” said Kawashima. show live action Japan face a tough ask with champions Chile, record 15-time on giant screens winners Uruguay and Ecuador in Group C. THE PENINSULA DOHA Lagoona Mall, Doha’s popular shopping and lifestyle desti- Cameroonian players visit Aspetar for nation, in association with the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) are inviting all football fanatics, together with their family and friends, to support and cheer their beloved teams screening ahead of Africa Cup of Nations during the 2019 Copa América and Africa Cup of Nations on a giant screen set up in the North Court Lobby of the mall. THE PENINSULA the player for the French club PSG The Qatar National Tourism Council, as part of its “Summer DOHA A Cameroonian player undergoing said: “We are here doing medical in Qatar” campaign, is supporting Lagoona Mall’s commitment medical tests at Aspetar. tests ahead of the Africa Cup of to bringing the spirit of the game to football fans in Qatar. The Cameroonian national football Nations and I’m pleased that eve- With a focus on building in-country offerings, QNTC sup- team has completed a compre- rything has gone well. It’s one of ports sports and other activities, building a variety of pro- hensive three-day medical the world’s most intense and grams in urban and family entertainment with products screening session at Aspetar, the exciting football competitions, so appealing to all ages. orthopaedic and sports medicine we’re all relieved to experience the This year’s Copa América began on Friday and will be hospital. high standard of service and sports running untill July 07. The Africa Cup of Nations will start on The top-class medical medicine quality in preparation for June 21 and the final match is scheduled for July 19. screening comprised of Cardiac the competition.” For the first time in its history, the Qatar national team screening, a detailed medical and Carlos Kameni, Cameroonian will face South America’s best football teams with daunting injury questionnaire, laboratory goalkeeper, and Turkish club Fen- matches against Paraguay, Colombia and the star-studded tests, dental assessment, Biodex erbahçe SK goalkeeper stated how Argentina. muscle assessment, physiotherapy impressed he was to witness the Fans who are still buzzing from Qatar’s inspirational functional assessment, spirometry, facilities at Aspetar and praised the victory during the AFC Asian Cup 2019, will have the chance visual acuity assessment, medical warm hospitality he received upon once again to cheer for the country’s national team in a and musculoskeletal examinations, his arrival at the hospital. momentous event marking one step closer in the World Cup all undertaken by an experienced ’s doctor Prof journey. sports medicine physicians and William Ngatchou said: “I’m Mall-goers are also set to live the excitement of the 32nd cardiologists. thrilled to be at Aspetar. In our edition of the Africa Cup of Nations which will be contested The medical screenings are conditions that also require regular attend training camp in preparation field, this is a highly regarded insti- by a record 24 teams vying to be crowned as champions of essential in identifying medical con- screening investigations. After one for the upcoming Africa Cup of tution. We are starting the assess- the continent. ditions that form a risk while par- working day, the screening results nations which is scheduled to take ments of Cameroon’s players and All eyes will surely be on Mohamad Salah and his Liv- ticipating in football. The obvious were imported into a report place in Egypt from 21 June – 21 Aspetar is well-equipped to carry erpool club-mate, Sadio Mane, who are leading Egypt and example of this; is an underlying explaining the medical status of July. out the tests FIFA requires. The Senegal’s teams respectively. With such big names falling cardiac condition that may place a each player with the recommenda- Speaking about his experience players have been very happy to within this year’s selections, the competition will surely leave player at risk during exercise. tions for any further action. at Aspetar, Eric Maxim Choupo- witness such world-class service, everyone off their feet. However, there are many other The team travelled to Doha to Moting, Cameroonian attacker, and as have I.” SUNDAY 16 JUNE 2019 20

PAGE | 17 PAGE | 19 Woodland fires Copa America: 65 to grab We are ready lead at for Paraguay, Pebble beach says Boudiaf

Suarez in Copa America: Asian champs race against time after Qatar take on Paraguay today knee injury AP BELO HORIZONTE, BRAZIL THE PENINSULA RIO DE JANEIRO Al Annabi meet former winners in Group B clash Luis Suarez is again racing Qatar’s young side will be aiming against time to be fit for a for a positive result with a fighting tournament with Uruguay. performance when they make Five years ago, it was their Copa America debut in a meniscus surgery to his left match against former champions knee that jeopardized Sua- Paraguay today. rez’s participation at the Qatar, with strikers like World Cup in Brazil. Now it Almoez Ali and Akram Afif in their is an arthroscopy procedure ranks, have picked up pace in their FROM LEFT: on his right knee that has training sessions ahead of their Qatar’s affected his preparations for Copa America opener. Abdelkarim the Copa America in the After their match on Sunday, Hassan, Pedro same country. the Asian Cup champions will play Miguel and Suarez had the operation against Colombia on June 19 and Akram Afif in about a month ago and it will take on former World Cup action as coach remains unclear if the Bar- champions Argentina on June 23. Felix Sanchez celona striker will start for Coach Felix Sanchez’s side are looks on during Uruguay in its opener against placed in Group B along with a training Ecuador today in Belo Argentina, Paraguay and session in Rio Horizonte. Colombia. de Janeiro on He played for about 30 The 2019 edition of Copa the eve of their minutes in the 3-0 win over America will take place at six sta- opening match Panama in a friendly last diums in five cities with the par- of the 2019 Copa week, scoring a goal shortly ticipation of 12 teams. America against after going on in Qatar and Japan are the Paraguay, which Montevideo. invited teams for this year’s Copa will be played “I’m always motivated America. at the historic and positive that if you do Qatar will become the ninth Maracana things the right way you can team outside of CONMEBOL to Stadium today. arrive in good condition,” the compete at the event. Mexico, 32-year-old Suarez said. Costa Rica, the United States, Hon- Uruguay coach Oscar duras, Panama, Japan, Jamaica Tabarez has yet to announce and Haiti are the other eight. conditions as Asian Champions in Qatar will debut against preparation saying the entire Copa America champions twice his team for Sunday’s match Al Annabi are joining conti- a difficult Group, experts say. Paraguay today at the squad for the new challenge. in 1953 and 1979, are looking to at thehe MMineiraoineirao StadiumStadium,, and nental giants Japan at this year’s The Qatari team is taking part Maracana Stadium “Copa America is a tough com- avoid early hiccups and produce Suarezarez couldcould startstart onon thethe event which kicked off on Friday upon an invitation sent to the petition that will provide every a positive result at Al Annabi’s bench.ch. with a match between hosts Brazil Asian champion by the South and then play against player with tough tests. It will help expense. UruguayUruguay and Bolivia. American Football Confederation Colombia on June 19 us build capacity to take on The South Americans have is thehe CCopaopa Japan, who were beaten by (CONMEBOL), to be the first Arab at the Morumbi before tougher teams,” Salman said posted only one victory in their America’serica’s Qatar beat in the Asian Cup final team to participate in this battling former World yesterday. last eight games, but in their last mostst suc-suc- this year, made their Copa America tournament. “Playing on Brazilian grounds match before the Copa America cessfulssful debut in 1999. Meanwhile, it was announced Cup champions Argentina like the famous Maracana Stadium they beat Guatemala 2-0. nationtion The key to Qatar’s chances on Friday that key defender at the Arena Do Gremio is a great challenge for our players. New coach of Paraguay withh 15 today will be tall striker Ali who Bassam Al Rawi has been on June 23. We hope to give our best and to Eduardo Berizzo will be expecting titles,es, one scored 9 of the 19 goals of his team declared fit for the team’s enjoy this atmosphere in this his- to have his top players deliver a morere thanthan in the last Asian Cup. Ali’s main ally opening match. toric stadium,” he added. commanding performance against Argentina.entina. is Afif, who gave 10 assists for his Asian Cup hero Al Rawi was returned to training, the team “I hope we will succeed and Qatar. team. injured before the team’s interna- announced yesterday. achieve a positive result,” Salman Strikers Tonny Sanabria and With this couple, Qatar will tional friendly against Brazil on Qatari defender Tariq Salman said. Angel Romero will be the ones to seek to show their quality and their June 5. The 21-year-old has yesterday underlined the team’s Paraguay, who were crowned look at. SC and QFA launch exhibition in Sao Paulo Coutinho brace powers Brazil to 3-0 victory in Copa opener

REUTERS Philippe Coutinho (right) scores Brazil’s second SAO PAULO goal against Bolivia during the opening match of Copa America at the Cicero Pompeu de Toledo Philippe Coutinho scored a Stadium, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Friday. second half double and Everton added a cracking third as Brazil recovered from a sleepy start to beat Bolivia 3-0 in their Copa America opener on Friday. Both sides were poor in the first period but the game briefly Football fans inspect the models of Qatar 2022 World Cup stadiums came alive five minutes into the at an exhibition held at JK Iguatemi Shopping mall in Sao Paulo, Brazil, second half when Coutinho yesterday. The Supreme Committee for & Legacy and the Qatar slotted home a VAR-assisted Football Association yesterday launched the exhibition to highlight penalty. football culture and the country’s preparations for the 2022 FIFA Coutinho grabbed a second World Cup. The installation also features FIFA World Cup memorabilia, with a close-range header three crowd-sourced photographs which highlight football culture in Qatar minutes later before Everton and details about Qatar’s Asian Cup victory. rifled home a third from outside the box with five minutes remaining. “In the end, with a bit of patience, we opened things up, we had more of the ball and we created plays,” captain Daniel Alves told reporters. “We deserved a big victory.” Brazil, who stared with Wearing white shirts for the at the other end after starting The match was the first of Roberto Firmino up front and first time in more than 60 years, brightly. this year’s tournament, which Fernandinho in midfield in the home side huffed and puffed Peru play Venezuela in is being held in Brazil for the place of the injured Arthur, but rarely threatened and even Porto Alegre on Saturday in the first time since 1989. All 10 failed to inspire the strangely after they went 2-0 up, they second Group A game. South American teams are par- subdued crowd of just 46,342 lacked ideas and urgency. Brazil’s next match is ticipating along with guest at Sao Paulo’s Morumbi Bolivia, who last won the against Venezuela in Salvador nations Qatar and Japan. stadium. title in 1963, rarely threatened next Tuesday.