FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 3 OOLYMPICSLYMPICS | Page 6 Duhail face 100 days to Shorta, seek go: IOC hopes early lift in health plans will tough group sway opinion

Thursday, April 15, 2021 CRICKET Ramadan 3, 1442 AH Babar hits 122 as GULF TIMES Pakistan chase mammoth target SPORT Page 4 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Man City set up PSG semi with 2-1 win at Dortmund Liverpool rue a host of missed chances as Real Madrid hold out for goalless draw to progress 3-1 on aggregate

Agencies Dortmund/Liverpool

anchester City scored twice in the second half through Riyad Mahrez and MPhil Foden to beat Borussia Dort- mund 2-1 yesterday and reach the Champions League semi-fi nals for the fi rst time in six years. Foden, who scored City’s win- ner in their 2-1 fi rst-leg victory, fi red in off the post in the 76th minute after Mahrez had con- verted a 55th-minute penalty awarded for a handball by to secure a 4-2 aggregate tri- umph. Dortmund had gone ahead when striker Erling Haaland chased down a deep cross, the Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah reacts to a missed opportunity during the ball falling to Jude Bellingham UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid and the teenager curling his shot in Liverpool yesterday. (Reuters) into the top corner in the 15th minute for his fi rst Champions a 14th crown as European cham- Klopp went for it on the hour League goal. pions. mark as Milner and Kabak made leaders City, However, Zinedine Zidane way for the introduction of Thia- eliminated in the quarter-fi nals warned after Saturday’s 2-1 El go and Diogo Jota. of the competition in the previ- Clasico win over Barcelona that Yet, even without three of their ous three years, will face Paris his players were at their “physi- fi rst-choice back four, Madrid Saint-Germain in the semi-fi - cal limit” and the visitors looked were comfortable defending deep nals after the French champions jaded as they were happy to sit on as Firmino, Salah and Jota all had knocked out holders Bayern Mu- their fi rst leg lead. eff orts blocked behind in quick nich on Tuesday. The closest Madrid came to succession. scoring was when Kabak inad- Vinicius Junior’s double in the LIVERPOOL DRAW A BLANK vertently defl ected a Benzema fi rst leg proved to be the diff er- AS REAL MADRID ADVANCE cross off the outside of his own ence between the sides, but the Liverpool were left to rue a host post with Becker wrong- Brazilian fl uff ed his one big chance of missed chances as Real Madrid Manchester City’s Phil Foden (right) celebrates scoring a goal with teammate Kyle Walker (centre) and manager Pep Guardiola during the UEFA footed. to grab an away goal as Alisson held out for a 0-0 draw at Anfi eld Champions League quarter-final second leg against Borussia Dortmund in Dortmund, Germany, yesterday. (Reuters) Chances continued to come smothered at his feet midway to progress to the semi-fi nals of and go for Liverpool as Salah through the second-half. the Champions League 3-1 on two years ago. out the cauldron of noise that has the path of Salah, but Liver- Milner made his presence felt snatched at another eff ort that Benzema also should have aggregate. Madrid were far from their accompanied famous European pool’s one consistent performer within a minute with a late lunge fl ew high and wide. done better when he mistimed Mohamed Salah and Georginio best, but did not need to be to set nights at Anfi eld in the past. in the fi nal third this season fi red on and nearly in- Wijnaldum scored twice in the a free header 10 minutes from Wijnaldum were guilty of wast- up a semi-fi nal clash with Chel- Despite the empty stands due straight at Thibaut Courtois. fl icted a diff erent type of damage famous fi ghtback against Barce- time. ing glorious opportunities to get sea as Los Blancos extended their to coronavirus restrictions, Liv- Klopp surprisingly repeated his on Madrid 10 minutes in when lona in 2019. But a blistering fi rst 45 minutes Jurgen Klopp’s men back into unbeaten run in all competitions erpool fl ew out of the traps and decision from the fi rst leg to leave his long range eff ort forced Cour- However, the Dutch interna- in the Spanish capital last week the tie as they failed to replicate to 14 games. should have halved their defi cit Thiago Alcantara on the bench tois into another fi ne save. tional was not as clinical against proved to be enough for Zidane a remarkable recovery from 3-0 Klopp admitted before the within two minutes. with James Milner this time tak- Real’s fi ne run has propelled another Spanish giant as he to win a 14th of his 15 Champi- down to beat Barcelona 4-3 on game that his players had to cre- Sadio Mane knocked Ozan ing the place of the Spanish in- them back into contention to de- blasted the best chance of the ons League knockout ties in two aggregate at the semi-fi nal stage ate their own atmosphere with- Kabak’s long ball perfectly into ternational in midfi eld. fend their title and claim fi rst-half over from close range. spells as Madrid boss.

AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Al Sadd fi ght back to hold Foolad in opener

AFC in the playoff , was unable to have the 81st minute, but he would not mi’s close-range eff ort with the Riyadh an early infl uence on the pro- miss seven minutes later when he latter then feeding Yohan Boli, ceedings. found the back of the net with his who made a run inside the box Foolad came closest in the 38th strike from inside the box, with before fi ring wide. oualem Khoukhi scored minute when Zobeir Niknafs let Baghdad Bounedjah picking up Al Rayyan dominated pro- in the 89th minute as Al loose a strike from outside the the assist. ceedings with Boli in the thick Sadd fought back to hold box but Al Sadd custodian Me- Al Sadd will take on hosts Al of action once again just after Foolad Khouzestan 1-1 in shaal Barsham tipped the ball Nassr next on Saturday, while the half-hour mark but his eff ort BGroup D of the 2021 AFC Cham- over the bar. Foolad will face Al Wehdat. from outside the area left much pions League at the King Fahd The deadlock continued well to be desired. Stadium yesterday. into the second half but with a FC GOA, AL RAYYAN PLAY FC Goa fi nally got their shoot- It was heartbreak at the end for noticeable change in Foolad’s OUT GOALLESS DRAW ing boots on fi ve minutes before Iran side Foolad, who looked to approach, who were now on the Al Rayyan played out a goalless the interval when Alexander Ro- have sealed a famous win against front foot. draw with India’s FC Goa as they mario’s attempt from distance the Qatar champions. Their aggression paid off in kicked off their AFC Champions was parried away by Al Rayyan Al Sadd started strongly by the 61st minute as Mehran Der- League campaign in a Group E tie custodian Fahad Younis for a pressing Foolad into their own akshan delivered a curling cross at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru corner. half, but the Iranian side were into the box which Boualem Stadium yesterday. The hosts then had to endure able to hold their ground as they Khoukhi cleared but a prowling The draw means both the teams some tense moments in the clos- eventually pushed the Qataris Chimba rose high to head home are third in the group, two points ing stages of the half when Dheraj back, setting the stage for an ex- to hand Foolad the lead. behind Iran’s Persepolis, who de- Singh was called into action once citing tie. Al Sadd immediately shifted feated Al Wahda of UAE 1-0 in again to save Hadhrami’s angled The Qatar Stars League cham- gears and came close 10 minutes their match earlier yesterday. long-range eff ort before Ab- pions made multiple inroads later when a string of passes led to Al Rayyan started brightly and delaziz Hatim’s drive from dis- into the fi nal third with Rodrigo substitute Ali Asad on goal but the had their fi rst look at goal on six tance sailed over the crossbar. Tabata testing Foolad goalkeeper midfi elder was caught off side. minutes with captain Yacine Bra- Al Rayyan next face last year’s Mohsen Foroozan with a long Foolad were reminded not to himi pulling his eff ort wide from AFC Champions League run- range strike in the 20th minute. underestimate Al Sadd’s abil- outside the area. ners-up Persepolis, while next Foolad did have their moments ity to make a comeback with Two minutes later, FC Goa on the cards for FC Goa is an- but Brazilian striker Chimba, Khoukhi testing goalkeeper goalkeeper Dheraj Singh came off other stern test against Henk Ten Al Sadd’s Nam Tae-hee (right) vies for the ball with Foolad Khouzestan’s Saleh Hardani Kherad during the who scored twice against Al Ain Foroozan with his free-kick in his line to block Naif al-Hadhra- Cate’s Al Wahda on Saturday. AFC Champions League Group D match in Riyadh yesterday. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, April 15, 2021 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Flick mulls future PSG show their at Bayern Munich AFP Kahn. No date has been set, “but Berlin I have time. If he (Kahn) feels like chatting with me, he’s welcome to do so,” Flick added. ansi Flick has admit- Before kick-off in Paris, Flick ted he is mulling over was eager to play down his feud mettle with Bayern his future as Bayern with Salihamidzic. “This is not Munich coach after about ‘Brazzo’ (Salihamidzic) or Hthe holders were knocked out of me, it’s about the club. He does the Champions League by Paris his job, I do mine,” said Flick. Saint-Germain at the quarter- “We are concentrating on what is fi nals stage. Bayern’s 1-0 return- important for the club,” he add- leg win in Paris on Tuesday was ed, insisting “there is always too Munich scalp not enough to overturn last much being read into” the rela- week’s 3-2 fi rst-leg defeat in tionship between the pair. Munich as PSG moved into the However, former Bayern cap- Success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16 semi-fi nals on away goals at the tain Lothar Matthaeus expects Germans’ expense. Flick to leave at the end of the AFP “Everyone understands that season. “That was Hansi Flick’s Paris I am thinking about my future,” last Champions League game as Flick said after Eric Maxim coach of FC Bayern,” Matthaeus Choupo-Moting’s goal against said in his role as a Sky pundit af- aris Saint-Germain’s relation- his former club proved insuffi - ter the game. ship with the Champions League cient at the Parc des Princes on He is convinced Flick has al- over the last decade has been Tuesday. Flick has been under ready spoken to the German fraught with disappointment noticeable strain in recent weeks Football Association (DFB) about Pand littered with spectacular defeats, but with tensions running high be- replacing Loew as head coach of an aggregate victory against holders Bay- tween him and Bayern sports di- the national side. Matthaeus, 60, ern Munich is the most signifi cant of the rector Hasan Salihamidzic. The who captained West Germany to Qatar era as they aim to fi nally get their 56-year-old Flick has also been the 1990 World Cup title, said RB hands on the trophy. tipped to become Germany’s Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann Against the team that Mauricio next head coach when Joachim is being lined up to replace Flick. Pochettino kept insisting was the best Loew steps down after the Euro However Nagelsmann later in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 2020 fi nals this summer. denied the claim, the 33-year-old 1-0 defeat in last season’s fi nal in Lisbon. For now, Flick, whose Bayern insisting that “there were and are It was not achieved without suff ering, as contract runs until 2023, says he no talks” with Bayern. At Bayern, they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 “fi rst wants to process the elimi- Flick has clearly grown frustrated win in the fi rst leg in the Munich snow nation” and “assess the situa- with Salihamidzic, his immediate last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday’s tion. I also have my own ideas.” boss, over recruitment. return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting Ultimately, a PSG side boast- Salihamidzic has said 32-year- scoring Bayern’s goal against his old side. ing the talent of and old Jerome Boateng will not be But while in previous years PSG might Kylian Mbappe was too good for off ered a contract extension have collapsed under the pressure, this a depleted Bayern team miss- for next season, while Flick has time they held on to win their quarter- ing injured top scorer Robert made it clear he wanted to keep fi nal tie on away goals and set up a semi- Lewandowksi. Under Flick, Bay- the experienced centre-back. fi nal against Manchester City or Borussia ern won all six titles available Flick’s predecessor Niko Kovac, Dortmund. in the last 12 months, defeating now coaching French side Mo- Following the Qatar Sports Invest- PSG in last season’s Champions naco, can sympathise with Flick. ments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long League fi nal in Lisbon. “You want to be involved in time struggling to make an impact in However, elimination from squad planning,” Kovac said. Champions League knockout ties. They both the Champions League and “We all know how it works in threw away fi rst-leg leads to lose on away German Cup means only the Munich” where Salihamidzic, goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-fi - is still in play with not Flick, is in charge of recruit- nals and to Manchester United in the last leaders Bayern fi ve points clear ment. With their dreams of de- 16 in 2019. and on course to win the German fending the Champions League There was the humiliation of the “re- league for the ninth straight year. now snuff ed out, Flick says win- montada” against Barcelona in 2017 too, Flick hinted he is unhappy ning the Bundesliga is “our mini- when a 4-0 fi rst-leg lead in the last 16 with the situation at Bayern: mum goal and not a consolation was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss. Europe’s elite club competition that can “My family, no matter what I prize”. This time they held on, despite captain convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe would do, would always support The team has to brush off the Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Ver- and Neymar to sign contract extensions. me... what matters to them is disappointment and focus on ratti both missing the second leg, and de- The two most expensive signings in that I enjoy my job”. winning on Saturday at Wolfs- spite Neymar missing a host of chances in football history when they arrived in Par- Clear the air talks are planned burg, who are third in the Bun- the fi rst half. is in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both in Munich between Flick and desliga. “We have to function “This club has been growing every day, out of contract at the end of next season. Bayern board member Oliver again,” said a glum-faced Flick. year on year,” said Presnel Kimpembe, the It remains Barcelona’s dream to bring skipper against Bayern whose late hand- Neymar back, while Mbappe has long ball was responsible for their dramatic been linked to Real Madrid. exit against United two years ago. “We “Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for bounced back (from previous failures). wanting to leave because we have every- Tonight (Tuesday) was war, and we won thing in place here to win the Champions that war.” The success against the holders League,” beaming PSG president Nasser comes after they eliminated Barcelona in al-Khelaifi said. the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou “We are a top team now, with all re- in the fi rst leg. spect for the other teams out there. Ney- That was also a case of exacting re- mar said that his contract extension was venge, with the Catalans having beaten ‘not a topic anymore’ and that he felt the French side in the knockout rounds happy and ‘at home’ at PSG. three times in the previous decade. “I don’t think this is even a topic any In both of those ties PSG have shown more. I obviously feel very comfortable at a resilience that has been lacking before, Paris Saint-Germain’s Qatari president Nasser al-Khelaifi (right) and Paris mayor Anne home at PSG,” Neymar said. “I feel hap- and they have beaten two of the great tra- Hidalgo watch the Champions League quarter-final second leg match between Paris pier than before.” ditional powerhouses of European foot- Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich at the Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris. (AFP) PSG smashed the world record trans- ball en route to the last four, having also fer fee when they spent 222 million euros beaten Manchester United away in the run to the fi nal, as impressive as it was, just as their hegemony at home is under ($265.60 million) in 2017 to bring Neymar group phase. featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta threat — after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight from La Liga giants Barcelona. “We have deserved to win these two and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen years, they are currently three points be- The Brazil international has since won ties, but I don’t think that makes us fa- as contenders to win the trophy. hind leaders Lille with six games remain- three league titles, two French Cups vourites now,” said coach Pochettino, and The latter two victories came in one- ing. and was also part of the PSG team that Bayern Munich’s German head coach Hans-Dieter Flick (left) gives yet there is a signifi cance to the teams off ties in the ‘Final Eight’ in Lisbon. Nevertheless, the Champions League is reached the Champions League fi nal last instructions to defender Jerome Boateng during the Champions they have knocked out. Last year their PSG’s European run this season comes really all that matters, and it is success in season. League quarter-final second leg against PSG. (AFP)

FOCUS Rome ‘fully confi rmed’ as host Kamara ‘vindicated’ aft er Kudela handed 10-match ban for racism city for Euro 2020, says UEFA AFP from happening in our club ever again.” Paris Kudela was provisionally banned for Rome: Rome’s Stadio the fi rst leg of Slavia’s quarter-fi nal Olimpico has been “fully against Arsenal in London last Thurs- confirmed” as a venue for angers said Glen Kamara had day. That match will be deducted from Euro 2020 matches after the been vindicated after UEFA the 10-match ban. Italian government guaran- banned Slavia Prague defender However, Kudela’s ban also applies teed the presence of at least Ondrej Kudela for 10 European to international matches, meaning he is 25% of fans, UEFA announced matchesR yesterday for racially abus- likely to miss this summer’s European yesterday. ing the Finnish midfi elder in a Europa Championship where he was expected Rome was one of four of League match. Kamara has been sus- to have been in Czech Republic’s squad. the 12 host cites threatened pended for three matches in UEFA club Kamara’s ban only applies to club com- with having its matches competitions for an “assault” on Kudela petitions so he will be free to represent removed because it could not that reportedly took place in the tunnel Finland at Euro 2020. give assurances that specta- after the match at Ibrox on March 18. The 25-year-old and his Rangers tors would be allowed into Rangers forward Kemar Roofe was teammates reacted furiously as they grounds given the ongoing also handed a four-match ban for his claimed Kudela had cupped his hand Covid-19 situation. high challenge that left Slavia goalkeep- and whispered a discriminatory slur Three other cities — Munich, er Ondrej Kolar with a fractured skull in into the midfi elder’s ear. Former Neth- Bilbao and Dublin — have until the bad-tempered last 16, second leg erlands midfi elder Clarence Seedorf April 19 to provide UEFA with tie. “We welcome the suspension im- said yesterday that players should be additional information on posed on Ondrej Kudela. This not only immediately sanctioned if they cover their plans for spectators. vindicates Glen Kamara’s evidence but In this file photo taken on March 18, 2021, Rangers’ Glen Kamara (centre) and Slavia Prague’s Ondrej Kudela clash during the their mouth while talking to an oppo- Rome is set to host the underlines the severity of the comment, UEFA Europa League last 16 second leg match at the Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow. (AFP) nent or the referee, as Kudela did. opening fixture for the given the number of games has been Seedorf, a four-time Champions tournament, between Turkey imposed by UEFA,” Rangers said in a for discriminatory behaviour “made nocence. “I am taken aback by the fact I’m very sorry.” League winner, told a Council of Europe and Italy, on June 11. It was statement. a mockery of UEFA’s claims on taking that the UEFA disciplinary committee Slavia chairman Jaroslav Tvrdik said meeting on combatting hate speech: also picked to host Italy’s “Nevertheless, we believe the sanc- racism seriously.” has arrived at a diff erent conclusion the Czech champions would respect the “There is a lot of talk but not enough other group matches against tions imposed on our two players (Glen Slavia, who won the match 2-0 to than its inspector. He said there was no decision, although Kudela can still ap- being done. The need is obvious and Switzerland and Wales, as Kamara and Kemar Roofe) are severe. advance to the quarter-fi nals 3-1 on convincing evidence to support the rac- peal. “I deeply regret that and apologise very urgent. From a players’ perspec- well as a quarter-final. UEFA We have written to UEFA, seeking clari- aggregate, have denied the claims, and ism charges against me, which I still re- to Glen Kamara for a situation that has tive, I have seen stuff with players president Aleksander Ceferin fi cation in writing on the basis that we said earlier this month they would fi le a ject,” said Kudela. clearly caused distress to him and his speaking and covering their mouth dur- has warned that countries intend to appeal the suspensions on criminal complaint against Kamara for “I am aware it was a mistake to go teammates, as well as everyone associ- ing matches. When we’re talking about that failed to off er guarantees both of players.” the alleged clash in the tunnel. to Glen Kamara and tell him anything. ated with Slavia and Rangers,” Tvrdik sport it has to be completely transpar- on supporter numbers could Kamara’s lawyer Aamer Anwar said In a statement issued via his lawyers, There were emotions in the game and said in a statement. “I am taking posi- ent, so why would I cover my mouth if I be dropped as hosts. that handing Kudela the minimum ban Kudela reiterated his protestation of in- unfortunately I cannot take this back. tive steps to prevent such a situation need to talk with my adversary?” Gulf Times Thursday, April 15, 2021 3 FOOTBALL

AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QSL committee holds co-ordination meeting with club coaches

Doha: The Qatar Stars League (QSL) committee held a Duhail face Shorta, seek meeting with the coaches of the QNB Stars League clubs, through visual communica- tion technology, as part of the process of continuous co- ordination and co-operation to reach the best technical, early lift in tough group administrative and organi- sational levels, and within the process of continuous ‘Our first goal is to advance from the group stage. We have been preparing for the last three weeks’ development of Qatari profes- sional football. AFC The meeting was held in Jeddah the presence of Executive Director of Competitions and Football Development at l Duhail and Al Shorta will Qatar Stars League, Ahmed both be aiming for three points Khalil Abbasi, Executive when they face off in their Director of Competitions and opening 2021 AFC Champi- Football Development at Qa- onsA League Group C match at the King tar Stars League, and Director Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah today. of the Football Development With only the group winners assured Department at the Founda- of advancing into the Round of 16, both tion, Miguel Heitor. will have little margin for error in a pool During the meeting, the that also includes Iran’s Esteghlal and most important observations, Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli. technical impressions and Al Duhail head into the tournament statistics about the 2020-2021 off a domestic season which saw them season competitions were relinquishing their tag as Qatar Stars discussed, as well as the pro- League champions, with Al Sadd clinch- posed ideas for development, ing the title in resounding fashion. Sabri in order to benefit from the Lamouchi’s Al Duhail fi nished second, a coaches’ great experiences whopping 13 points behind Al Sadd, and in the development process will be hoping to make an impact in the and within the framework 2021 AFC Champions League after hav- of technical and profes- ing missed out on the knockout stage sional work, and within the last year. In their ninth successive AFC Foundation’s endeavour to Champions League group stage, the Al- be the best Asian QNB Stars moez Ali-powered Al Duhail’s previous League inside and outside the best was making the quarter-fi nals in stadium, as well as address- 2013, 2015 and 2018. ing the general vision and “Our fi rst goal is to advance from the features of the calendar for group stage,” Lamouchi declared. “We the new season. have been preparing for the last three Abbasi said: “We are always weeks and we had a lot of good matches. keen to strive to develop our Covid-19 has aff ected football for more tournaments, including the than a year but now we have adapted QNB Stars League, and we are and are ready for everything. The group keen to communicate with is strong and there will be big competi- our club partners, including tion. Al Ahli have good Asian experience the coaches, who are consid- but we want to advance from the group ered an essential element and and to do so, we must make a good start partner in our system. tomorrow.” We appreciate and value Iraq’s Al Shorta head into the tourna- their suggestions and com- ment 10 points off the pace in the Iraqi ments which are taken into Premier League, a title they won in 2019 consideration and studied.” and are defending after the last sea- From everyone in the institu- son was cancelled due to the Covid-19 tion, because of their great pandemic. There was, however, cheer technical expertise,” stress- for them in the 2019 AFC Champions ing that communication is League with Al Shorta recording their done on an ongoing basis to fi rst win in the tournament since it was exchange ideas, opinions and rebranded. The win wasn’t enough to discussions for the benefit of take them into the Round of 16 then and the various football tourna- Al Shorta will be targetting to change Al Duhail players train yesterday in Jeddah, on the eve of their AFC Champions League Group C match against and Al Shorta. ments in Qatar, and supports that this time around. their development. Al Shorta head coach Aleksandar Ilic players to be ready for the matches Esteghlal FC square off against Al Ahli quarter-fi nals while Esteghlal exited and Sepahan, but still very much in the Meanwhile, QNB Stars said his team are determined to hit the which are going to be played in a tight Saudi FC in another Group C match the competition in the Round of 16. title race. League teams and Second ground running. “It is very important period. The match schedule is very today, The two met at the same stage Both will be hoping for better for- Al Ahli are out of the running in Division clubs take part in the to have good performances in all the heavy and this means that we should be last season with Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli tunes in their latest campaign, with the Saudi Pro League with Lauren- QFA Cup, which begins today. matches and if we do so, then the results prepared physically.” winning 2-1 on Matchday Two and Es- Esteghlal coming into the tournament tiu Reghecampf’s side seventh in the The tournament will kick-off will eventually come. The group is dif- teghlal of of Iran responding with a 3-0 on the back of some decent form in the standings. Al Ahli, however, are an ex- with a match between Al Ahli fi cult and our fi rst match will be against ESTEGHLAL, AL AHLI SAUDI triumph on the fi nal matchday. Iran Pro League. Farhad Majidi’s side perienced side and the AFC Champions and Mesaimeer, followed by a strong team,” said Ilic. TARGET EARLY LEAGUE CHEER Both advanced to the knockout stage, are third in the Iran Pro League, seven League could well be the perfect setting Al Khor and Al Bidda clash. “We will try our best to prepare the There will be a feeling of deja vu when with Al Ahli’s campaign ending in the points behind co-leaders Persepolis FC for them to prove their quality.

EUROPA LEAGUE FOCUS Arteta wants Arsenal’s stars to deliver Southgate warns AFP England stars to London Arsenal’s Spanish manager Mikel Arteta. (AFP) behave during Euros ikel Arteta has challenged Arsenal’s under-performing AFP including Jack Grealish, Kyle stars to save the club’s season London Walker and James Maddison have in the Europa League quar- also been in trouble for fl outing Mter-fi nal second leg against Slavia Prague Covid-19 regulations this term. today. Arteta’s side have no margin for er- areth Southgate has “One of the key areas was that we ror after being held to a 1-1 draw by Slavia warned his England didn’t have availability of players in the fi rst leg at the Emirates Stadium. squad to behave during at certain times for on and off The Gunners, languishing in ninth Euro 2020 after several the fi eld misdemeanours,” added place in the Premier League, must win Gof his players were involved in Southgate. the Europa League to qualify for next sea- disciplinary issues this season. “Coming into the summer son’s Champions League. But Leicester England boss Southgate was we’ve got to make sure we arrive and Rangers have already been knocked frustrated to have to deal with into the camp giving ourselves out of the competition by the Czech team the fall-out from Manchester the best chance to focus on foot- this term. United defender Harry Maguire’s ball and that helps to create a Next season is likely to be Arsenal’s arrest following a street scuffl e calmer environment for every- fi rst without European football since the while on holiday in Greece. body to go into the tournament.” 1995-96 campaign if they don’t survive Manchester City midfi elder If Southgate can ensure a trou- against Slavia. Arsenal boss Arteta is well Phil Foden and Manchester ble-free Euro 2020, he believes aware the critics are sharpening their United forward Mason Green- his 2018 World Cup semi-fi nal- knives after his disappointing fi rst full wood broke coronavirus proto- ists have a shot at winning a ma- season in charge. cols while on England duty in jor tournament for the fi rst time “Internally, you know what you are do- considering the possibility of failing to leg of their tie at the Stadio Olimpico in United are huge favourites to reach the Iceland and were subsequently since the 1966 World Cup. Eng- ing and you can have many diff erent ways qualify for Europe. Rome. semi-fi nals following their simple win sent home. With the delayed land will face Croatia, Scotland of judging that but at the end of the day, Arteta is unsure if Arsenal captain Italy’s last remaining representative in over Granada in Spain last week, which Euro 2020 less than two months and the Czech Republic in Group externally results are the only important Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Dan- Europe came away from the Johan Cru- should put an end to the surprise pack- away, Southgate wants to be able D, with all those games played at thing to give the perception that we are ish midfi elder Martin Odegaard will be fi t yff Arena with a thrilling come-from- age’s fi rst ever season of European foot- to prepare for the matches with- Wembley Stadium. moving forward in the right direction,” for the tie. Aubameyang and Odegaard, behind 2-1 win after being under the cosh ball. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side are safe- out any off -fi eld dramas. Hoping to ride on the wave of he said. who is on loan from Real Madrid, missed for much of the match and are close to a ly tucked in the Champions League places “We’ve had issues in the au- support from home fans who are The Spaniard would buy himself some training on Tuesday because of illness likely last-four clash with Man United af- behind Premier League leaders Man- tumn. That’s always very diffi cult beginning to enjoy life again af- time if Arsenal progress to the last four and an ankle injury respectively. The ter reaching the semis of the Champions chester City and looked in rude health in for coaches to deal with. It puts ter months of coronavirus lock- and for that to happen he will need big Gunners, however, have been buoyed by League in 2018. sweeping past Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 at you in really diffi cult positions,” down, Southgate said: “I feel as performances from a squad that has the availability of Bukayo Saka and Emile Roma have had a poor domestic season the weekend. Southgate said on Tuesday. “I if over the last two or three years, struggled for consistency. “It’s very im- Smith Rowe after injuries. and sit seventh in Serie A — seven points United will be without key players can only compare that with the team has become relevant to portant for us and this is our club. There’s off the Champion League places — after Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Scott March where we came in with no people again, and people are ex- no individual interest, it’s all a collective ROMA HOPE TO HOLD OFF coming up short in almost all of their fi x- McTominay through suspension but dramas coming into the camp. cited about the players. interest that we want to do well in every AJAX IN HUNT FOR SEMIS tures against their rivals for the European two away goals in the fi rst leg will likely It’s just a much better environ- “One day I’ll be doing a job that competition,” Arteta said. “The game can Meanwhile, Roma are hoping to reach spots, so today’s second leg could defi ne be enough to see England’s second-best ment to prepare for football. We nobody will be bothered about put us in a position to go into the semi-fi - the semi-fi nals of a European competi- their season. team through at Old Traff ord. were only having to make foot- the outcome, and that will be a nal of a European competition. This is ex- tion for the second time in four seasons as Ajax are almost guaranteed to retain Meanwhile, Villarreal gun for their ball decisions, prepare the team, pretty dull existence, whereas actly where this club has to be and that’s they host continental heavyweights Ajax, their Eredivisie title and warmed up for fi rst ever major trophy, a Europa League talk about football topics. That’s here we’ve got the chance to make why we have to do our best to earn that.” while Manchester United look set for the their trip to the Italian capital with a triumph that would continue three-time something I talked to the players some history. We’ve never been to Arteta knows the stakes will be high in last four. 1-0 win over RKC Waalwijk thanks to a winner Unai Emery’s strong record in the about after the autumn. In the a European fi nal with England... Prague, but he is trying to keep calm. “I Ajax may be four-time European goal from club-record signing Sebastien competition. Gerard Moreno’s only goal autumn discipline off the pitch so our record compared to lots of don’t want to put it in my mind or trans- champions and one of the most exciting Haller, who cannot play against Roma in Zagreb last week gave the La Liga outfi t and on the pitch created really nations we perceive ourselves to mit it to any of the players or anybody at sides of recent seasons but it is Roma who after being accidentally left off his club’s an away goal and a great chance of reach- the biggest issues for us.” be bigger than is actually not good the club,” he said when asked if he has have the advantage going into the second European squad list. ing the last four. A host of England players in this competition.” Gulf Times 4 Thursday, April 15, 2021 CRICKET

T20 SPOTLIGHT Ex-Zimbabwe captain Streak banned eight Babar hits 122 as years for corruption

AFP mation Streak acknowledged Paris receiving two bitcoins subse- quently converted into $35,000 in cash). He admits deleting his ormer Zimbabwe cricket correspondence with Mr X be- Pakistan chase captain Heath Streak fore an interview with the ICC’s was yesterday banned for Anti-Corruption Unit. Alex eight years on corrup- Marshall, general manager of the tionF charges, the International ICC’s Integrity Unit, said: “As Cricket Council announced. “Mr a former captain and coach, he Streak chose to admit the charges held a position of trust and owed and agreed the sanction with the a duty to uphold the integrity of ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corrup- the game.” mammoth target tion Tribunal hearing,” an ICC He added: “The off ences did statement said. not aff ect the outcomes of any The Zimbabwe coach from relevant matches and Mr Streak ‘I keep trying to learn and add new things to my game, and I will trying to do the same’ 2016 to 2018, his ban extends un- has agreed to assist the ICC til March, 2029. Streak, 47, was anti-corruption education pro- AFP found guilty of breaching fi ve gramme for which we are grate- Centurion, South Africa rules of the ICC’s Anti-Corrup- ful. He has also expressed his tion Code related to betting. remorse and contrition and en- He disclosed inside informa- tered this agreed sanction deci- abar Azam gave a batting mas- tion in relation to matches in sion to avoid the need for a full terclass to lead Pakistan to a the 2018 Tri-Series involving disciplinary process. The sanc- nine-wicket win in the third Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri tion refl ects this co-operation.” Twenty20 international against Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghani- Streak was handed the Zim- SouthB Africa at SuperSport Park in Cen- stan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 babwe reins in October, 2016, turion yesterday. Babar hit 122, his fi rst and the APL 2018, the statement as replacement for the sacked T20 international century, and shared a revealed. Dav Whatmore. The former record Pakistan fi rst wicket partnership He also “facilitated or at- fast bowler retired from playing of 197 with Mohamed Rizwan (73 not out) tempted to facilitate” the intro- in 2005 after a 12-year career, as Pakistan chased down a challenging duction of four players including claiming 216 wickets in 65 Tests, target of 204 with two overs to spare. a national captain to a third party and 239 wickets in 189 one-day Virtually the only fl aw in a dazzling for inside information for bet- internationals. batting display by the Pakistan captain ting purposes. He was also found He remains the only Zimba- was when he was dismissed with only guilty of obstructing the ICC’s bwean bowler with more than seven runs needed, nudging an attempted investigation, and failing to de- 100 Test wickets. As well as two ramp shot off Lizaad Williams to South clare a “gift, payment, hospital- spells as coach of Zimbabwe he African wicketkeeper and captain Hein- ity or other benefi t” from passing also coached Bangladesh be- rich Klaasen. on inside information. tween 2014-2016, and acted as Rizwan embraced his captain as he In the ICC’s rap sheet Streak is bowling coach for the Kolkata started on his way back to the dressing said to have been in contact via Knight Riders team in the 2018 room while several South African players Whatsapp with “an Indian gen- edition of the IPL and the Kabul ran to congratulate him after an innings tleman, Mr X” in 2017. Accord- Zwanan team in the 2018 APL. of almost fl awless timing and placement. ing to the ICC, the conversations Heath could also face a crimi- He hit 15 fours and four sixes off 59 balls. between Streak and Mr X on the nal prosecution in the Zimbabwe Speaking in Urdu at the post-match social media platform spanned 15 courts. “The (sports) ministry presentation, Babar said he was delight- months. has requested the National Pros- ed with his performance. “I stick to my “During these discussions, Mr ecuting Authority to ascertain strengths,” said Babar who earlier yes- X made it clear to Mr Streak that whether any criminal laws, par- terday had replaced India skipper Virat he was involved in betting on ticularly those relating to cor- Kohli as the world’s top-ranked one-day cricket, and also requested de- ruption, have been breached international batsman. tails of Mr Streak’s bank account by Heath Streak,” said Gerald “I had been waiting for this for a long outside Zimbabwe, which Mr Mlotshwa, the president of the time. I keep trying to learn and add new Streak provided,” the ICC said. country’s Sports and Recreation things to my game, and I will keep trying In payment for inside infor- Commission. to do the same,” he added. Babar gave credit to Rizwan, who for the second time in the series remained unbeaten in a successful run chase. He pointed out that Rizwan was fasting during Ramadan but nevertheless was involved throughout the match both as Pakistan’s Babar Azam (right) plays a shot as South Africa’s wicketkeeper Heinrich Klaasen looks on during the third Twenty20 wicketkeeper and batsman. international match at SuperSport Park in Centurion yesterday. (AFP) It was the ideal riposte by Pakistan, who took a 2-1 lead in the four-match the 189 for six they made against the same Markram (63) and Janneman Malan (55). while Rizwan survived a straightforward series after being well-beaten in the sec- opponents in Johannesburg four days ago. By contrast, Babar praised his bowl- catching chance to backward point off ond match in Johannesburg. Babar and It continued a run of outstanding form ers for coming back strongly after being Beuran Hendricks when he had 51. Rizwan shared the fourth-highest part- by Babar in Centurion after he hit 103 and punished by the South African openers. nership in all T20 internationals, while 94 in two one-day internationals earlier South Africa fi nished with 203 for fi ve BRIEF SCORES Babar made the highest individual score in the tour. The fi nal T20 international but it was not enough on a ground with a South Africa 203 for 5 in 20 overs by a Pakistan batsman, beating 111 not out will be played at the same ground tomor- reputation for high scoring. “We maybe by Ahmed Shehzad against Bangladesh in row. “They batted really well, they made lost a bit of momentum at the end,” said (J. Malan 55, A. Markram 63, H. van der Dhaka in 2014. Babar’s previous highest a lot of good balls look bad,” said Klaasen. Klaasen. “We tried a lot of things but our Dussen not out 34; Mohamed Nawaz 2-0- score was 97 not out against the West In- The skipper admitted South Africa display in the fi eld was poor.” 38) lost to Pakistan 205 for 1 in 18 overs dies in Karachi in 2018. It was Pakistan’s had failed to capitalise on a hard-hitting Two misfi elds in the second over ena- (Mohamed Rizwan not out 73, Babar Heath Streak has been charged with disclosing inside information highest successful run chase, eclipsing opening stand of 108 between Aiden bled Pakistan to get off to a quick start, Azam 122) by nine wickets during international matches in 2018. (AFP)

IPL Babar ends reign of Kohli as top ODI batsman Shahbaz scripts Bangalore’s comeback against Hyderabad Agencies All-rounder Ahmed joined Kohli, who Karachi: Pakistan captain Babar Azam re- Chennai played some stylish fl icks, pushing RCB to 47-1 placed Indian maestro after more at the end of the powerplay. Nadeem came in to than three years as the world’s number one bowl his second over and got rid of Ahmed after batsman in one-day international rankings, oyal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won he deposited the left-arm spinner’s delivery to the International Cricket Council announced their second consecutive game af- Rashid Khan, who took a fi ne running catch in yesterday. ter beating the Sunrisers Hyderabad the outfi eld, giving SRH their second wicket. The 26-year-old becomes the fourth Pa- (SRH) in the in RCB had to switch back to defence, with kistani batsmen to get the top spot in ODIs ChennaiR yesterday. Maxwell and Kohli building a steady partner- and the first since Mohamed Yousuf in 2003. RCB produced a monumental comeback ship and were going at 6 runs per over until “Pakistan captain Azam has ended Kohli’s with the ball after Shahbaz Ahmed struck the half-way mark. Maxwell decided he’d had long reign at the top of the ICC Men’s ODI thrice in one over and managed to defend a to- enough as the right-hander smacked 2 sixes player rankings,” the ICC said in a statement tal of 149 against SRH Chasing a total of 150, and a four off Nadeem while Kohli creamed a from its Dubai headquarters. the SRH openers – David Warner and Wriddhi- four as the two scored 22 runs off the 11th over. Azam knocked 103, 32 and 94 in a three- man Saha – got off to a cautious start, scoring However, SRH managed to scalp a big wick- match series in South Africa which Pakistan 13 in the fi rst two overs. et of Kohli after the right-hander top edged won 2-1 last week. By ending Kohli’s su- Mohamed Siraj built the pressure early on one into the outfi eld where Vijay Shankar did premacy that lasted more than three years, with the new ball, forcing Saha to play a rash a remarkable job to complete the catch. The Azam has followed compatriots Zaheer Ab- shot which went straight into the hands of Kohli dismissal was followed by another break- bas (1983-84), Javed Miandad (1988-89), and Maxwell at backward point in the third over. through, as Rashid Khan got AB de Villiers out Mohammad Yousuf (2003) as the number However, SRH attacked the pace of Kyle Jamie- for 1 in the 14th over to push RCB on the back- one ODI batsman. son, smashing 17 off the 4th over with Warner foot. With 5 overs to go, the SRH bowling attack In Tests, Azam’s best position was fifth and Manish Pandey hitting a six each. had the majority of work done and was incred- and he is currently ranked sixth, while in The SRH skipper shifted the gears and the ibly complimented by the outfi elders with the T20Is he has previously been number one fi fty was up for the Sunrisers, inside the pow- sharp catches. Washington Sundar fell victim and now ranks third, the ICC added. “This is erplay. Both – Pandey and Warner – looked ex- to yet another outstanding grab by SRH after another milestone in my career,” Azam was tremely comfortable in the middle and put the Manish Pandey held on to one diving forward, quoted as saying by the Pakistan Cricket pressure on the RCB spinners. The fi fty-run helping Rashid get his second wicket. Board. He committed to working harder partnership was up between the two as RCB While Maxwell kept the boundaries coming, and achieving consistency with the bat continued to search for. the breakthrough he was running out of partners after Natara- so he could “hold on to the ranking for an At the halfway mark, SRH were 77/1 and jan dismissed Daniel Christian for 1. Jamieson extended period of time”. were pacing the chase to perfection. Warner, played a helping hand to Maxwell, smashing 2 “I will savour the moment, as it has come leading from the front, then notched up his boundaries before he was dismissed by Holder after I was first appointed the white-ball 49th half-century in IPL. However, Jamieson in the fi nal over of the innings. captain, and that too on the back of my provided RCB a much-needed breakthrough as However, Maxwell managed to make the performances that helped Pakistan become he dismissed Warner in the 14th over. most of the Holder over, smashing 13 runs as the first Asian side to win two ODI series in SRH though were still in control of the chase, he brought up his fi rst half-century for RCB South Africa.” with 42 needed from the fi nal fi ve overs. RCB Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Shahbaz Ahmed (centre) celebrates with captain Virat Kohli (left) as well as of the season. The right-hander was Since making his ODI debut in 2015, Azam skipper Kohli then handed the ball to Shahbaz and Mohamed Siraj after taking a Sunrisers Hyderabad wicket. (Sportzpics for IPL) dismissed off the fi nal delivery of the innings has progressed rapidly, scoring three hun- Ahmed in the 17th over and it turned out to be a after guiding RCB to 149/8. dreds in successive ODIs against the West match-changing move as the left-arm spinner Shankar, courtesy a running catch from Kohli Earlier, RCB, who were put in to bat, made Indies in 2016. He was fastest to 13 ODI cen- scalped 3 wickets in an over. in the 18th over and later, Siraj dismissed Jason one change to their playing XI, bringing in BRIEF SCORES He dismissed Jonny Bairstow and Pandey Holder after he holed out in the deep in the pe- in place of Rajat Patidar. turies, which he made against South Africa Royal Challengers Bangalore 149/8 in 20 earlier this month. Azam has so far scored on consecutive deliveries and then got Abdul nultimate over. While Kohli opened his account with a bound- overs (Glenn Maxwell 59, Virat Kohli 33; Jason 3,808 runs in 80 ODIs, with 13 hundreds. Samad out on the fi nal delivery, with all three Harshal Patel had 16 runs to defend in the fi - ary straight down the ground, Padikkal struck Holder 3/30) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad 143/9 With his prolific scoring, Pakistan appointed batsmen attempting to clear the ropes. The nal over. While he bowled a no-ball, he kept his a couple of fours on the other end. However, him skipper for all three formats. pressure built on SRH as they further lost two composure and scalped two wickets, helping Bhuvneshwar Kumar dismissed the left-hand- in 20 overs (David Warner 54, Manish Pandey wickets. First, Harshal Patel got rid of Vijay RCB seal a stunning 6-run win. er with a back of a length delivery. 38; Shahbaz Ahmed 3/7) by 6 runs Gulf Times Thursday, April 15, 2021 5 SPORT

NBA MLB Duvall’s 7 RBIs help Marlins blast Braves Durant drops 31 as Reuters drove in runs in the bottom of Atlanta the fourth, but Miami broke the game open with three runs in the sixth and three more in the iami left fi elder seventh. Adam Duvall had two home runs and GIANTS WIN SQUEAKER matched a club OVER REDS Nets thump Wolves Mrecord with seven RBIs to help Wilmer Flores broke a seventh- lead the visiting Miami Marlins inning tie with a sacrifi ce fl y to a 14-8 win over the Atlanta and Jake McGee extended his ‘WHEN HE’S PLAYING LIKE THIS, WE’RE A TOUGH TEAM’ Braves on Tuesday. season-opening hitless streak Duvall was 4-for-5, hit his Tuesday night as they combined AFP third and fourth home runs, and to deliver the San Francisco Gi- Los Angeles added a double to lift his batting ants a 7-6 victory over the visit- average from .160 to .267. ing Cincinnati Reds. Miami came up with season Mike Yastrzemski, Brandon evin Durant scored 31 points as highs with the 14 runs and hits Crawford and Evan Longoria the Brooklyn Nets bounced back (17), and seven of its starting homered for the Giants, who saw from defeat to the Los Angeles position players got at least one a four-game winning streak end Lakers with a blowout victory hit. Third baseman Brian Ander- in Monday’s series opener. Joey Kover the Minnesota Timberwolves on son was 3-for-5, including his Votto and Mike Moustakas went Tuesday. Durant led the scorers in a 127- fi rst homer and three RBIs, and deep for the Reds, who have lost 97 victory for the Nets in a game that had Miguel Rojas was 3-for-6 been postponed 24 hours after unrest in with an RBI and two runs RESULTS Minneapolis triggered by the deadly po- scored. lice shooting of 20-year-old Black man The winning pitcher Marlins 14-8 Braves Daunte Wright during a traffi c stop on was John Curtiss (1-0), Cardinals 14-3 Nationals Sunday. who pitched 1 2/3 score- Dodgers 7-0 Rockies Durant, making only his third appear- less innings in relief of Pa- ance since returning from a near two- blo Lopez. Curtiss allowed Giants 7-6 Reds month injury layoff , wasted no time in one hit and struck out two. Red Sox 4-2 Twins asserting himself, scoring eight points in Lopez pitched four in- Mets 4-3 Phillies the fi rst fi ve minutes on court. nings and gave up six runs The Timberwolves, who have the worst on nine hits and one walk. Mets 4-0 Phillies record in the NBA with only 14 victories He struck out six. A’s 7-5 D’Backs this season and 41 losses, were never in Atlanta starter Max Mariners 4-3 Orioles contention and trailed by a massive 45 Fried (0-1) gave up eight points at one stage in the fourth quarter. runs, seven earned, on Orioles 7-6 Mariners Durant got help from guard Joe Harris, nine hits in four innings. Rangers 8-3 Rays who fi nished with 23 points and Landry He walked two, struck Blue Jays 7-3 Yankees Shamet, who added 19 off the bench. De- out three and allowed two Andre Jordan also cracked double fi gures home runs. Fried’s ERA, Cubs 3-2 Brewers with a 13-point contribution. which was 2.25 last sea- Indians 2-0 White Sox Anthony Edwards, the Wolves’ No.1 son, soared to 11.45. Tigers 8-2 Astros pick in last year’s draft, led the home Atlanta grabbed a 3-0 side’s scorers with 27 points. lead in the fi rst inning on Royals 3-2 Angels Durant said the Nets had blocked out a home run by Ozzie Al- Pirates 8-4 Padres the backdrop of racial tension in Minne- bies and a two-run shot apolis which forced the postponement of from Marcell Ozuna, his fi rst. three of four since a 6-1 start. the game on Monday. But Miami answered with three The game was tied at 6-all before in the second on a solo homer by Cionel Perez (1-1) walked Dono- Anderson, an RBI double from RESULTS van Solano and Yastrzemski to Rojas and a single from Starling lead off the last of the seventh. Celtics 116-115 Trail Blazers Marte. After Mauricio Dubon’s fi eld- Nets 127-97 Wolves Miami took a 4-3 led on Du- er’s choice grounder advanced vall’s home run in the third, but Solano to third, he scampered Clippers 126-115 Pacers Atlanta matched it in the bottom home with the go-ahead run on Lakers 101-93 Hornets half on Travis d’Arnaud’s RBI Flores’ fl yball to center fi eld. Hawks 108-103 Raptors single. The Marlins scored four Tyler Rogers worked around runs in the fourth with a two-out a Eugenio Suarez double in a Suns 106-86 Heat rally. Duvall drove home two runs scoreless eighth, before McGee, Jazz 106-96 Thunder with a double in the left-fi eld who had thrown 5 1/3 hitless corner and Anderson knocked in innings in his fi rst six outings, two more with a single. worked his magic again in the “I think guys are obviously aware of Freddie Freeman and Ozuna ninth for his fi fth save. what’s going on in our country, we have conversations about this all the time,” Durant said. “But once we step on the fl oor we understand what our job is.” The former NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant of the Brooklyn Nets looks to pass against Jarred Vanderbilt of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter of meanwhile said the Nets were simply the game at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Getty Images/AFP) happy to have avoided a wasted trip. “I’m glad the NBA made the game hap- cus Aldridge. “Guys have stepped up,” loss to the Washington Wizards to score tough team,” Clippers coach Tyronn Lue pen and that we didn’t come out here for Nash said. “We’ve got a lot of wins this a 106-96 win over the Oklahoma City said of George’s performance. nothing and we fi nished it off ,” said Du- season where we’ve been undermanned. Thunder. Bojan Bogdanovic led Utah’s In Charlotte, Kyle Kuzma’s 24 points rant. “I felt good out there. I feel like my I’m proud of the eff ort and tonight was scoring with 23 points while Donovan helped the Los Angeles Lakers to a 101-93 wind and legs are getting under me with another one where we took care of the Mitchell fi nished with 22 points for the defeat of the Hornets. each and every minute I’m playing.” task in front of us.” Jazz, who head the Western Conference While Kuzma led the Lakers scorers, it The Nets face a crunch clash with the Nash, a two-time former NBA MVP, with a 41-14 record. was Alex Caruso’s 13 points off the bench Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday where meanwhile ruled out making himself The Los Angeles Clippers meanwhile that tipped the contest the Lakers way. fi rst place in the Eastern Conference will available for the injury-hit Nets. rolled to a sixth straight victory with Caruso drained a three-pointer to be at stake. The Nets and Sixers are neck- “I’d be great for four or fi ve minutes their 126-115 win on the road at the Indi- put the Lakers 95-91 ahead with 45 sec- and-neck with identical 37-16 records. and then the wheels would fl y off ,” the ana Pacers, Paul George leading the way onds remaining and then added two free Nets coach Steve Nash was pleased by 47-year-old joked. “Think I’ll save the with a 36-point haul with seven rebounds throws to give his team a six-point cush- his team’s emphatic victory, which came world that horror show.” and eight assists. It was George’s fourth ion. “He does so much dirty work for Adam Duvall of the Miami Marlins reacts after hitting a three run despite a raft of absent players including In other games on Tuesday, the Utah straight with 30 or more points. us, it’s ridiculous,” Vogel said of Caruso. home run in the seventh inning of an MLB game against the Atlanta Kyrie Irving, James Harden and LaMar- Jazz shrugged off Monday’s surprise “When he’s playing like this, we’re a “Everybody’s happy for him.” Braves at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia. (Getty Images/AFP)

NHL Gaudreau nets OT winner as Flames edge Leafs Reuters came at a price, as Washington gave the Red Toronto RESULTS Wings forwards Jakub Vrana and Richard Panik plus a fi rst-round pick in the 2021 draft and a Flames 3-2 Leafs second-round selection next year. ohnny Gaudreau scored 36 seconds into Rangers 3-0 Devils Mantha, who fi nished with a team-high six overtime to give the visiting Calgary Capitals 6-1 Flyers shots, recorded his assist during the four-goal Flames a 3-2 victory over the Toronto fi rst period that helped Washington take com- Maple Leafs on Tuesday. Bruins 3-2 Sabres mand. His goal came in the second period on a JFollowing a 1-8-0 stretch, the Flames have Panthers 3-2 Stars blistering shot from between the circles that now won consecutive games. The win moves Predators 7-2 Lightning beat Philadelphia goalie Brian Elliott. Calgary six points behind the Montreal Cana- John Carlson played in his 800th career game diens for the fourth and fi nal North Division limit the high-powered Leafs off ense to just 13 – all with the Caps – and reached another mile- playoff berth. shots in the fi rst two periods. stone with his two assists. That gave him 400 Gaudreau and Elias Lindholm each had a goal However, the Maple Leafs rebounded with 12 for his career. and an assist for Calgary. Juuso Valimaki scored shots in the third period, highlighted by Ker- Conor Sheary added a goal and two assists for the Flames’ other goal. foot’s goal at the 6:17 mark. Washington while Backstrom, Alex Ovechkin Zach Hyman had a goal and an assist for the Toronto couldn’t score during a four-minute and Tom Wilson each recorded a goal and an as- Maple Leafs, while John Tavares had two assists. power play during the fi nal period. The Maple sist. Carl Hagelin scored the other Caps’ goal. Alexander Kerfoot also scored for Toronto. Leafs have just a single goal from 38 power-play Washington now has won three straight and Toronto lost for the second consecutive night, chances over their last 16 games. scored 18 goals in doing so. Goalie Ilya Sam- after dropping a 4-2 result in Montreal on Mon- Flames goalie Jacob Markstrom stopped 24 of sonov made 29 saves and earned the victory. day. The Leafs are 9-1-2 over their last 12 games. 26 shots for the win. Washington also scored three power-play Milan Lucic played in his 1,000th NHL game, David Rittich stopped 25 of 28 shots in his goals for the second straight game. The Caps and marked the occasion with the primary assist Maple Leafs debut. Acquired in a trade with went 3-for-3 in this one after fi nishing 3-for- on the game’s opening goal. Calgary on Sunday, Rittich looked solid making 6 in extra-man chances in Sunday’s 8-1 win at At 4:37 of the fi rst period, Lucic passed to a the short-notice start against his former team. Boston. Sheary started the four-goal fi rst pe- wide-open Valimaki in the opposite circle. Vali- The Maple Leafs won the overall season series riod with a goal at 7:07. The Flyers tied it after maki had plenty of room to blast a one-timer for with the Flames by a 6-2-1 margin. a turnover by Samsonov while trying to clear, his second goal of the season. and Sean Couturier then defl ected a James van The Leafs equalized six minutes later. Morgan MANTHA POSTS STRONG DEBUT Riemsdyk shot past the goalie. Rielly’s shot defl ected off the boards and right AS CAPITALS DEFEAT FLYERS But it was all Caps after that. Wilson and to Hyman at the side of the net. Hyman depos- Newly-acquired forward Anthony Mantha fi n- Backstrom scored power-play goals – the lat- ited the chance to extend his points streak to ished with a goal and an assist as the Washing- ter coming off of a quick cross-crease pass from six games.After Mitch Marner received a trip- ton Capitals started quickly and defeated the Ovechkin – before Hagelin gave Washington a ping penalty 27 seconds into the second period, visiting Philadelphia Flyers 6-1 Tuesday night. 4-1 lead with 1:39 left in the fi rst period. Wash- Lindholm needed only seven seconds of power- The Caps made a deal with Detroit for Man- ington fi nished with 19 shots in the period. play time to restore Calgary’s lead. tha just before Monday’s trading deadline, put Mantha scored his goal in the second period The Flames deployed a defense-fi rst strategy, him on the second line with Nicklas Backstrom before Ovechkin beat Elliott through a narrow Johnny Gaudreau (right) of the Calgary Flames celebrates his overtime winning goal against the using some aggressive neutral-zone checking to and T.J. Oshie, and everything clicked. Mantha window on the short side in the third. Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. (Getty Images/AFP) Gulf Times 6 Thursday, April 15, 2021 OLYMPIC GAMES

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT India set ‘double 100 days to Games: IOC digit’ medal goal Reuters “We want to make this Olym- Siliguri, India pic memorable. It’s the athletes who’d ensure that the Ol- ympic becomes one of the most ndia set itself the goal of im- cherished Olympics for India.” proving its Olympic medal Indian Olympic Association hopes health plans tally to a “double digit” in president Narinder Batra shared Tokyo with the country’s top Rijuju’s optimism. Isports offi cials pledging every “We at IOA are very much help to the athletes with 100 days confi dent that in the Tokyo to go to the Games. Olympics, we’ll better all our The world’s second most pop- records and fi nish with double ulous nation has been an Olym- digit medals,” said Batra, who will sway opinion pic laggard and the six medals also heads the International the team won in London 2012 re- Hockey Federation (FIH). main the best outing for a nation Rijuju said India’s Olympic ‘Sydney (2000 Olympics) was not looking good... once we got to 100 days it turned’ of 1.4bn. preparations in the past had not “As a large nation, India should always been ideal but his minis- Reuters play a greater role in the entire try would ensure athletes could Tokyo, Olympic movement, and one of make the most of their remaining the things through which we can 100 days of practice. do it is by winning more medals,” “In earlier Olympics, there hile most Japanese sports minister Kiren Rijuju told were complaints of some short- residents remain a webinar. “Our share of Olympic coming or the other. But we’ve opposed to the To- medals must increase. ensured it’s not the case this time kyo Games going “We need to set a national around,” he added. Wahead in 100 days’ time, the In- record in Tokyo Olympics. India “The ministry has provided ternational Olympic Commit- must cross double digits. We’ll everything that is required and tee hopes the mood will shift look after every need of the ath- will continue to do so. It’s now when people realise how much letes, they just need to perform. time for the athletes to deliver.” emphasis has been placed on minimising the risk of Covid-19 infections. SWIMMING John Coates, the IOC’s chief co-ordinator for Tokyo, also said stories of Japan’s sporting success, such as Hideki Mat- Australia ramps suyama’s Masters triumph on Sunday, would boost support for the Games, which were post- up preparations at poned by a year due to the pan- demic. With just over three months national trials to go before the opening cer- emony, organisers face a deluge (From left) Japan Olympic Committee president Yasuhiro Yamashita, Tokyo , Tokyo 2020 organising committee Reuters stock of the performances, and of challenges with the pan- vice-president Toshiaki Endo, Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly President Ryoichi Ishikawa and Kunihiko Koyama, chairperson of special Melbourne, Australia we’ll talk to them and see what demic aff ecting decisions on committee on measures to promote the Olympic and Paralympic Games of Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, pose with the statues of Miraitowa kind of support they might need everything from athlete safety and Someity, the off icial mascots for the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympics Games yesterday. (AFP) to just continue their preparation to spectator numbers to ticket ustralian swimming to ensure that they get to the Ol- sales as well as local public sup- the village and their sporting will check its progress ympics and perform.” port for the Olympics. Torch relay cancelled in Japanese city over virus surge venues. in the leadup to the Men’s Olympic 100 metres A Kyodo News poll this week “They will not go downtown Olympics at national freestyle champion Kyle Chalm- showed more than 70 percent of A western Japanese city the celebration for the arrival of was supposed to go through to celebrate. That will be miss- championshipsA on the Gold ers and women’s 400m freestyle people in Japan want the Tokyo cancelled the Tokyo Olympics the flame in a way that will not — the hometown of ing (from the Olympics),” he Coast this week with swimmers world champion Ariarne Titmus Olympics to be cancelled or de- torch relay over spiking coro- involve ordinary spectators,” golf hero Hideki Matsuyama — said. adapting to the Tokyo Games’ will be closely monitored as they layed. navirus cases yesterday, the said Tokihiro Nakamura, gover- on April 21. Those measures are all part of scheduling. come back from shoulder injuries. Tokyo on Monday began a second area to scrap the event nor of . It was barred from public roads a detailed plan drawn up by or- Competition got underway Chalmers returned to the pool month-long period of quasi- as the clock ticks down to the Emergency medical services in in the Osaka region this week, ganisers to ensure the Games are yesterday with the heats in the at the New South Wales state ti- emergency measures to blunt a postponed Games. the region are “under extreme with torchbearers instead run- not postponed or cancelled and evening sessions and fi nals held tles in March following surgery, fourth wave of infections and The decision comes 100 days pressure” as Covid-19 cases ning in a closed park in front of people in Japan should be in no in the morning as they will be in while Titmus is making her re- more than 90 percent of re- before the 2020 Olympics rise, Nakamura said. a limited number of family and doubt about the emphasis the Tokyo. turn to competitive swimming spondents felt anxiety about the begin and accompanies fresh He said the decision has been friends. IOC has placed minimising the Australia holds its Olympic after three months off with her resurgence. concerns about the viability accepted by the Tokyo 2020 The ongoing pandemic is playing risk of infection, Coates said. swimming trials in June, and own shoulder problem. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike of the event, with virus cases organising committee, which havoc with preparations for the With some experts concerned results are expected to be mixed “Talking to their coaches, said at a ceremony marking 100 surging in Japan and abroad. did not immediately comment. Olympics and fuelling uncertain- Tokyo is on the cusp of an “ex- at the championships this week they’re on track. They’re here, days to go yesterday that the “We will cancel the torch relay The torch relay kicked off on ty about whether the huge event plosive” jump in Covid-19 cases, with swimmers at diff erent stag- they’re ready to compete,” said fi ght against “an invisible en- in Matsuyama city. We will hold March 25 in Fukushima and can, or should, take place. Coates was asked whether there es in their preparations. Taylor. “They’ve been training, emy” had been a major ordeal were any thoughts of cancelling But the meeting will be an im- they’re back to full training loads for humanity but that she was the Games. portant milestone for a number and obviously they’re just being determined to make the event a “Once these stories start Every Games participant will Games. Organisers are yet to de- “Defi nitely not. I know Japa- of competitors, head coach Ro- mindful... but they’re all good to success. coming out to the public I am miss the usual celebratory at- cide what to do with the domes- nese organisers are not consid- han Taylor said yesterday. go.” Coates said in a media con- very confi dent public opinion mosphere across the city and at tic audience. ering cancellation,” he said. “Some may have rested a lit- Australia was a distant second ference call that there was still will turn,” Coates said. “Sydney their competitions, while test- “The athletes will still com- “We continue to receive tle bit for this meet, some may behind the United States on the time to get the public to back (2000 Olympics) was not look- ing will be extensive. pete in the very best conditions,” the fullest support. All of the not have depending on who they medals table at the Rio Olympics the Olympics and that overcom- ing too good before but once we International spectators have Coates said. “There will be no plans are in a worst case situ- are,” Taylor told reporters. pool, with three gold among 10 ing a negative perception of the got to 100 days it turned.” been banned and the IOC had to foreign spectators or mem- ation and we hope to influence “They’ll go home and take medals in total. Games was nothing new for the Tokyo will be like no other Ol- shorten its invitation list to only bers of their families to support public opinion through safety IOC. ympics, however. key essential individuals for the them. They will be confi ned to measures.”

New Zealand starts vaccinating With 100 days till Tokyo Games, French Committee confi dent French Tokyo-bound athletes Poland to vaccinate athletes athletes will be vaccinated for Tokyo

New Zealand has started administering Covid-19 vac- Poland will vaccinate its Olympic athletes and national The French Olympic committee is confident that all cinations to athletes ahead of their departure for the soccer team against Covid-19, Prime Minister Mateusz French athletes can be vaccinated against Covid-19 Tokyo Games, the country’s Olympics chief said yester- Morawiecki said yesterday, as the nation eyes medals before this year’s Tokyo Olympics, its president said day. “We’re really satisfied the government was able to with just 100 days to go until the Tokyo Games. Priori- yesterday. “The time has come that we allow the athletes put us in that category of national significance, so that’s tising athletes for vaccination has proved controversial who go to Tokyo to be vaccinated in a timely manner,” now underway and athletes have been worked through in some countries. This month Japan denied it was Denis Masseglia said at an event marking 100 days to according to when they might be departing,” New Zea- prioritising its athletes after a media report suggesting go until the Games. “The end of April, beginning of May land Olympic Committee Chief Executive Kereyn Smith this was the case sparked public outcry. “To ensure would be the right time. I am optimistic that the athletes told reporters in Auckland. “Some are still qualifying and the comfort of our athletes who are to give us joy and will be vaccinated.” France is however not expecting to some still have events and activities to prepare, so over hope in Tokyo, we decided to vaccinate the entire Ol- open vaccination to under-50s before mid-June. “We’re the next few months we will see that gradually rolling ympic team... and also our national soccer team, which almost about to open vaccination to everyone. There is out.” More than 200 athletes are expected to represent will represent Poland during the European Champion- no reason that the athletes going to Tokyo, maybe 500- In this August 10, 2016, picture, Australia’s Kyle Chalmers poses with New Zealand at the July 23-Aug 8 Games. ship,” Morawieck told a news conference. 600, cannot be vaccinated (in due time),” said Masseglia. his gold medal on the podium of the men’s 100m freestyle final at Rio 2016 Olympic Games. (AFP)

BOTTOMLINE Every second counts for Mohamed as Tokyo ticks closer

Reuters counts is something that I defi - It features the fateful kick and with Ivory Coast-born Mahama London, United Kingdom nitely apply to my personal life the tearful, gut-wrenching post- Cho his rival for the place. and my training life,” the 2016 match interview. “I think my history speaks for silver and 2012 bronze medallist “I was just half a second away itself. European titles are some- ith 100 days to go told Reuters. from being Olympic champion thing I’ve already won so it’s until the Tokyo Ol- “The table was ready and set and accomplishing my dream,” about being ready for the Olym- ympics, British for me to go become Olympic he gasped then. “I don’t want to pics,” said Mohamed. taekwondo athlete champion and in the last second cry on TV but I’m so distraught.” He is aware of the irony that WLutalo Mohamed is determined it was snatched away. Mohamed sees the advert as silver made him more famous to make every second count. “Even one second can make all motivational fuel, particularly than gold would have done but That has become his man- the diff erence. Every rep in the during the recent Covid-19 pan- is now keen to complete the col- tra since the 2016 Rio de Janeiro gym counts, every kick counts demic and lockdown when his lection. Games when he had gold in his when I’m kicking the pad, every immediate goals were thrown out “It’s very diffi cult for me as a grasp only to lose it after taking punch counts, every lift counts, of the window and uncertainty professional athlete, as a winner, a devastating kick to the head in every extra bit of nutrition took over. to say that the silver was better the fi nal second while leading. counts... that’s the lesson I really Recovering from an injury that than the gold. If I could go back in As Cheick Sallah Cisse sprint- learned then. ruled him out of this month’s time and correct it, I absolutely ed off the mat in joyous celebra- “Every second counts so re- European championships in Bul- would,” he said. tion at Ivory Coast’s fi rst ever membering how marginal the garia, the Briton said he felt fi tter, “Yes, I think it’s true I have gold, a stunned and disbelieving gains and losses are, I think has faster and stronger and intended become more known but also it’s Mohamed was left sobbing in the made me a better man and a bet- to go on until at least Paris 2024. made me a better athlete thanks arms of his father. ter athlete.” Britain’s most successful male to the hard lesson I learned in The 29-year-old Briton, who Mohamed, who is an ambassa- taekwondo athlete, who in 2012 2016, that every second counts.” has moved up a weight divi- dor for Tokyo 2020 Olympic and was controversially given the nod sion from his previous 80kg but Paralympic sponsor Bridgestone, for the London Games ahead of In this May 24, 2020, picture, whose ticket to Tokyo has yet to revisited the Rio drama in an ad- world number one Aaron Cook, taekwondo athlete Lutalo be confi rmed, will not be making vert for the Japanese tyre maker was relaxed about the selection Mohamed trains at his home that mistake again. before the Games were post- process. in Walthamstow in London, “The lesson of every second poned last year. A decision is expected in May, England. (Reuters) Gulf Times Thursday, April 15, 2021 7 SPORT

RUGBY Spots up for grabs for France Tests: Wallabies coach Reuters Sydney Lions coach Gatland warns English clubs over player release Warren Gatland said on Tuesday will be at least two fewer games Edinburgh.” allabies coach that English Premiership clubs than on the trip to his native Former Wales coach Gatland Dave Rennie said could scupper their players’ New Zealand in 2017, when estimated between 16-20 mem- a player can “make chances of representing the he guided the side to a drawn bers of his squad could come a statement” in the British and Irish Lions in South series against the All Blacks. from the Premiership. “If some Wfullback position in the weeks Africa if they fail to release them If a compromise, which could of those players are not avail- leading up to their July Tests before a warm-up match. Lions involve cash payments from able for that preparation time... against France and tipped winger head coach Gatland accepts he the Lions to Premiership clubs, unfortunately some of those Jordan Petaia as a potential can- may not have a full squad for the cannot be found it won’t only be players may miss out. didate for the number 15 jersey. match against Japan at Murray- England players whose chances “I think the Lions are talking to Utility back Reece Hodge was field on June 26 – the same day are at risk. Scotland captain PRL (Premiership Rugby Lim- ruled out of the remainder of the as the Premiership final. Stuart Hogg and Wales fly-half ited) this week and I’m just hop- Melbourne Rebels’ Super Rugby Yet, even players at Premier- Dan Biggar, who play for Exeter ing we’ll get some resolution.” campaign with a knee injury and ship clubs not involved in the and Northampton respectively, England finished fifth in this is in a race to be fi t for the visit final could be unavailable for could miss out. year’s Six Nations, with captain of France. the match in Edinburgh, as it “It’s not just the English players,” Owen Farrell and Maro Itoje Tom Banks is the only special- is scheduled outside World Gatland said. – once regarded as nailed-on ist fullback named in Rennie’s Rugby’s window for interna- “We understand about the certainties for the Lions – not 40-player squad that took part tional games. Premiership final and play- at their best. “It’s probably not in a three-day camp in Sydney Gatland, however, wants to max- ers in that, but we hope to be like it was 12 months ago where this week. imise his time with the squad together for a couple of weeks some of them would have been Rennie said Petaia played a thin position for us,” Rennie any of those (positions). “He’s been sensational in all given the July-August tour has of preparation leading into the the first names on the sheet,” his “best game this year” in told Australian media. “That’s a “He’s been working hard on departments,” Rennie said. “He already been shortened. There warm-up game against Japan in Gatland said. (AFP) Queensland Reds’ 24-22 victory position someone could make a his kicking game and it was good has real clarity on his game.” over ACT Brumbies last week- statement in over the next nine to see that on the weekend in a The role of hooker is another end when he scored a try as the weeks. pretty pivotal moment.” area of concern for the Walla- Brandon Paenga-Amosa and is wide open,” Rennie said. “But used last year are out of the mix Reds secured a home fi nal in Su- “He (Petaia) probably played Rennie also praised fl yhalf bies. Rennie brought four un- Jordan Uelese, though he left the we have picked the guys who we but there is a little bit of a signal per Rugby AU. his best footy on the wing/full- James O’Connor, whose late capped hookers into the camp door open for them to fi ght their think are playing the best footy. there – we’re looking with an eye “I think fullback is probably back. He’s a player that can play penalty led the Reds to the win. and left out Folau Fainga’a, way back into his plans. “Hooker “It doesn’t mean the guys we to the future.”

GOLF MOTORSPORT Hamilton and Verstappen take Matsuyama targets their battle to Imola

Reuters off Verstappen against the odds Rome in Bahrain after the Dutchman had dominated the weekend but Mercedes know they have some taly’s Imola circuit provides catching up to do. Olympic title aft er a fresh challenge for sev- “We may have won the fi rst en-times world champion round, but we’re under no illu- Lewis Hamilton and young sions that this will be a straight- Ipretender Max Verstappen as forward season,” said team boss the pair prepare for round two Toto Wolff . of their Formula One battle this “The car is still lacking pace weekend. over a single lap and Red Bull ap- The circuit, with the Santerno pear to have the edge right now. Masters triumph river running alongside and a We’re pushing hard to close the verdant backdrop of trees and gap, and this is a challenge we parkland, is a marked contrast relish.” ‘I’VE PROVED THAT A JAPANESE CAN WEAR THE GREEN JACKET’ to Bahrain’s desert Sakhir track Hamilton’s team mate Valtteri that hosted the opener won by Bottas, who took pole at Imola AFP Mercedes’ Hamilton. last year when the race returned Tokyo The fast and fl owing anti- after a 14-year absence, also has clockwise layout is also narrow- something to prove after fi nish- er and bumpier than Bahrain, ing third in Bahrain. ewly minted Masters and with fewer opportunities So too does Mexican Sergio champion Hideki Mat- to overtake which means track Perez, lining up for his second suyama set his sights position and strategy will play a race as a Red Bull driver after go- on Tokyo Olympics bigger part. ing from last to fi fth in Bahrain. Ngold yesterday after returning Red Bull’s Verstappen has “I think it’s going to be very to Japan clutching his victor’s started the last two races – Abu tight with Mercedes and we’re green jacket in triumph. Dhabi at the end of last season going to see if the fi ght is circuit Matsuyama spoke to reporters and then Bahrain in March – on related,” said Perez. “It will be online from quarantine having pole position and the 23-year- interesting to see how we are in returned to his home country old will be looking to complete Imola, on a very diff erent track the previous day, after becom- his hat-trick. to Bahrain, and see how we com- ing the fi rst Japanese man to win His car should be well-suited pare against them.” a major. A calm but tired-look- to the circuit characteristics, Imola is also a home race for ing Matsuyama – wearing his with the Honda engine also Ferrari, with Spaniard Carlos green jacket – told reporters he looking a match for Mercedes. Sainz racing in Italy for the fi rst “doesn’t want to pick up a club” “I’m feeling really relaxed go- time since he moved to Ma- while he enjoys his victory. ing into this race weekend in Im- ranello from McLaren, and Red But the 29-year-old is eyeing ola, I’m looking forward to going Bull-owned Faenza-based Al- more major titles – and Olym- back there,” said Verstappen, phaTauri. pic gold on home soil – in the who crashed out 12 laps from AlphaTauri’s Yuki Tsunoda, months and years to come, and the end last year after a sudden the Japanese who in Bahrain be- hopes he can inspire a new gen- rear tyre failure while in second came the 65th rookie to score on eration of Japanese golfers. place. his F1 debut, has tested at Imola “I’ve proved that a Japanese “We had a positive start to the and could again be one to watch. can wear the green jacket,” said season so hopefully we can keep The race, whose full title of Matsuyama, adding that the that up but it won’t be easy and ‘Formula One Grand Prix of huge reaction in golf-mad Japan we need everything to work per- Made in Italy and Emilia Ro- has brought home the size of his fectly to beat our main competi- magna’ is unlikely to be favoured achievement. tion.” much by television commenta- “I used to want to be like Tiger Hamilton, winner last year at tors, will again be held behind Woods, so if kids now want to Imola after a two-day weekend closed doors due to the Covid-19 be like me, that would make me without Friday practice, held pandemic. very happy.” Matsuyama said he started to feel good about his chances after the last day of practice, follow- Nibali’s Giro participation in doubt ing a frustrating result at the Italian rider Vincenzo Nibali has broken his wrist in training to put previous week’s Valero Texas his participation in next month’s Giro d’Italia in doubt, his Team Trek Open. But he still had to contend Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama attends an online press conference in Tokyo yesterday. (AFP) Segafredo revealed yesterday. with the pressure of his fi nal The Sicilian was transported to hospital in Lugano, Switzerland, round at Augusta, admitting he “I’ve done bad things like horizon is the coronavirus-de- suyama had stayed in the foul Matsuyama had come close where he resides, after a fall ahead of next week’s Tour of the Alps. “felt nervous from the fi rst hole throwing clubs plenty of times layed Tokyo Olympics, which he mood that he found himself in to making a breakthrough at a “Unfortunately Vincenzo Nibali fell this morning during training and to the last”. before, and I want to try to make has his sights set on winning. at the Texas Open the previous major before, fi nishing second at hit his right wrist,” his team said in a statement. “Clinical exams have Now he is trying to come sure I don’t let anyone see me “Quite honestly, I don’t know week. the US Open in 2017. revealed a compound fracture of the radius of the right wrist. “An to terms with the scale of his doing that now.” what’s going to happen with the A good start that eventually Now he is aiming for more osteosynthesis surgery has been scheduled for tomorrow (Thurs- achievement, and knows he will Olympics yet, but I think I will fell apart made him “grouchy”, success after having his fi rst day) to reduce the fracture. “After this it will be possible to consider be under the microscope like OLYMPIC AMBITION be chosen to play,” he said. and he took his frustration out taste, and he intends to stick the recovery and Vincenzo’s participation at the Giro.” never before. Matsuyama said he is not sure “I want to be careful not to get on his caddy and other mem- around for a long time to come. Nibali won the Giro in 2013 and 2016. This year’s race runs from May “I want to keep putting eve- if he will play in the Wells Fargo injured before then, and I want bers of his team. “Then I start- “From now on, if I don’t keep 8 to 30. Nibali had just returned from training in Tenerife and had rything into my golf, the same Championship starting May 3, to set the gold medal as my tar- ed wondering why I was doing playing well, people won’t think been due to compete in the five-day Tour of the Alps, formerly the as I always have, but I think I will but he intends to enter the AT&T get.” that,” Matsuyama said. I’m aiming for it,” he said. ‘Giro del Trentino’ between Austria and northern Italy, which he has get a lot more attention now,” he Byron Nelson starting May 13. It could all have been so dif- “I’m glad I got it out my sys- “I want to keep playing well won twice. (AFP) said. One other tournament on the ferent if the normally stoic Mat- tem before the Masters started.” for the next 10 or 15 years.”

Briton Pidcock claims ‘surprise’ maiden Ineos win

Tom Pidcock said he was “surprised” to “I waited and waited and when Wout went, the other contenders on a narrow, cob- the strongest guy won. “I look forward to beat on the home straight I kind of got a little boxed in and then bled climb 37km from home before their coming back racing on these roads at the of the Classic, the Brabantse Pijl, rushed and came past him,” Pidcock said. cat-and-mouse run in. UAE Team Emirates World Championships later in the year.” Thomas Pidcock yesterday for his first win at Ineos since “Beating Wout van Aert in a sprint is a rider Trentin described Pidcock as a Dutch rider Gijs Leemreize of Jumbo-Vis- celebrates as he turning professional in February. surprise, but luckily for me he went early,” worthy winner after the Italian briefly led ma became the first man to be disqualified crosses the The 21-year-old Briton outlasted the field he added. alone before allowing the pair to catch him for using a dangerous riding position. fi nish line on an energy-sapping course where Italy’s In his first season at Ineos, Pidcock has im- to distance the rest of the peloton. The downhill supertuck frame sitting during the Matteo Trentin came third. Van Aert, 26, pressed with huge rookie performances at “When I saw Van Aert and Pidcock coming position and the time-trial arms on the ‘Brabantse Pijl’ and Pidcock had the lead on the field with the Strade Bianche (5th) and the Kuurne- across I decided to ease up a little bit and handlebars stance are now both banned one day-race the younger man lurking at the Jumbo- Brussels-Kuurne (3rd). try and recover,” Trentin said. by the International Cycling Union. yesterday. (AFP) Visma rider’s wheel over the final 200m. Pidcock, Van Aert and Trentin dropped “The legs were a bit tired in the end and (AFP)

Thursday, April 15, 2021 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING Sheikh Mohamed’s Sahran, Al Shaqab’s Almajar lead sweeps in French wins

Agencies Tarbes, France

is Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani celebrated a homebred 1-2 on Tues- Hday when the four-year-old colt Sahran led home Nafe’eh in the Prix Val d’Adour — Wathba Stal- lions Cup, a conditions race for four-year-old and older Pure- bred Arabians. Almajar too led home an unprecedented 1-2-3 for Al Shaqab Racing’s four-year- Valentin Seguy (left) rides Sarhan to victory in the Prix Val d’Adour — Wathba Stallions Cup in Tarbes, France, old homebreds in the Prix Kris on Tuesday. PICTURES: Robert Polin Gary Sanchez (left) rides Almajar to Prix Kris II – Wathba Stallions Cup victory in Tarbes, France, yesterday. II – Wathba Stallions Cup at the venue. unchanged throughout the back to cross the line by a two-length Bred by Sheikh Mohamed, he is Almajar, trained by Elisabeth zam just in behind. Almajar was he remains a complicated horse, Running over 2,300m in straight. margin. Al Shaqab Racing’s by Al Shahania Stud sire Mared Bernard, was a two-length win- very keen throughout the race very keen. The more he runs, the Tarbes, France, Sahran, drawn Sahran moved up to join Julien homebred Gassab, ridden by Jer- Al Sahra, who stands at Haras de ner in front of the Fourcy-trained and jockey Gary Sanchez let him more diffi cult it will be to hold on on the outside, initially found Auge and his partner Nafe’eh in ome Cabre, was a further three- Thouars in France. pair of Hazzam and Murjan. come to join the leader in the fi nal to him at the start,” Bernard said himself in mid-division un- the fi nal turn and both horses quarters of a length behind in A little more than 90 min- Drawn on the outside of 13 turn. In the straight, he quickly after the win. der jockey Valentin Seguy, but were travelling easily. In the third for Thomas Fourcy. utes, earlier, Almajar also had runners, Almajar was quickly found himself in front as Leena Almajar ran twice as a three- moved forward when reaching straight, the two runners in the This was a fi rst win for the triumphed in conditions race away coming to sit in second faded and showed that he had year-old, fi nishing fourth on his the turn to sit in second just be- blue and white stars battled to- Francois Rohaut-trained Sahran, for four-year-old and older place, just on the fl anks of the plenty of quality to retain his ad- debut before winning his second hind colour companion Nafe’eh gether. However once inside the who was placed on three of his Purebred Arabians but over leader Leena. Murjan sat in third vantage to the line. start at Pau in December. Both — positions which remained fi nal 200m, Sahran pulled clear fi ve starts as a three-year-old. 1,500m. or fourth on the rail with Haz- “I liked the style of his win, but events were over 1,400m.

TENNIS FOCUS Evans eager to get vaccinated ahead of Djoko, Nadal off the Wimbledon mark in Monte Carlo No 1 downs teenager Sinner and Spaniard takes out Delbonis, both in straight sets

AFP

ovak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sin- ner 6-4, 6-2 in Monte NCarlo yesterday on the Serbian world number one’s fi rst ap- pearance since claiming the Australian Open in February. And the man he is seeded to meet in the fi nal, Rafael Nadal, encountered even less resist- ance in brushing aside Federico Delbonis 6-1, 6-2 on his delayed return after injury since losing in the quarter-fi nals in Melbourne. Reuters tested positive for Wimbledon.” Sinner, 19, shot to prominence London, England Evans said he had witnessed by making it into this month’s the celebrations back home to Miami Open fi nal. mark the reopening of England’s The world number 22 had ritain’s Dan Evans said businesses after three months seen off Spain’s Albert Ramos- he would be “heart- of lockdown but said he “won’t Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, broken” to test positive be socialising any time soon” to 6-4 at this Masters 1000 event for Covid-19 ahead of avoid getting infected. to book his fi rst ever date with WimbledonB in June and is eager Organisers of Wimbledon, Djokovic. to get vaccinated as soon as pos- which was cancelled last year But it proved a one-sided Serbia’s Novak Djokovic returns the ball during his second sible. due to the pandemic, have said contest at the Monte Carlo round singles match against Italy’s Jannik Sinner (not Evans’ comments come af- players must stay at offi cial ho- Country Club, with Djokovic pictured) at the Monte Carlo Masters yesterday. (AFP) ter world number two Daniil tels during the grasscourt Grand sweeping into the next round in Medvedev tested positive on Slam as part of safety measures. one hour and 34 minutes. Monday and was subsequently But Evans, who reached a ca- “Solid” is how Djokovic de- withdrawn from this week’s reer-high ranking of 26 in Febru- scribed his own performance. Monte Carlo Masters. ary, said he would not be against “I have to be satisfi ed consid- Some of the top players at the top players being given a “bit of ering I think I had a tough draw Sinner said his focus was “al- Hurkacz, Sinner’s Miami con- next month and what would be a problem. Miami Open recently expressed a leeway”. for the fi rst round, playing Sin- ways about improving”. queror, for a place in the quar- record 21st Grand Slam. But in his fi rst match since reluctance to get vaccinated but “I would have no issues if some ner, who is in form, who is strik- “That’s what I’m trying to do. ter-fi nals. The Mallorcan was in action defeat to Stefanos Tsitsipas in Evans, Britain’s top ranked male of the top guys were given a bit of ing the ball very well. Try to learn from this match to- Later yesterday, Nadal took three days after practising with the Australian Open quarter-fi - player at No 33, was not among leeway, past champions, where “I knew it was going to be a day as well, even if sometimes just 81 minutes to send world Daniil Medvedev, the Russian nals, Nadal struck 16 winners to them. they can stay at a house,” said the challenge. I walked into the court it’s tough to accept,” added the number 87 Delbonis packing, second seed who was forced to beat Argentina’s Delbonis. “I’m very eager to get vacci- 30-year-old. “I think they would with the right intensity, right fo- Italian. with Grigor Dimitrov waiting for withdraw after testing positive “It was a good start, always nated, if I can,” he told reporters on be pretty responsible, not be out cus. I just started my clay court The 18-time Grand Slam him in the next round. for Covid-19 on Monday. good to come back to compe- Tuesday after beating Dusan Lajo- for dinner. campaign, so it’s a long way to champion Djokovic will next Nadal is in the hunt for his 12th The world number three tition with a victory,” said the vic at the ATP Masters 1000 event “It’s going to be a diff erent Paris (and the French Open). face for the fi rst time Briton title in the Principality ahead was forced to skip a number of 34-year-old. in Monte Carlo, his fi rst Tour-level Wimbledon... I don’t really know Hopefully I’ll be able to play con- Daniel Evans - a “very smart of his pursuit of a 14th French scheduled tournaments since “I think I played a solid match victory on clay in four years. what to expect, but yet I’ll expect sistently well and stay healthy.” player” - who ousted Hubert Open crown at Roland Garros Australia with a lingering back and I hope to keep going.” “It would be heartbreaking if I they’ll do a good job.”

SPOTLIGHT Qatar and Russia affi rm commitment to bilateral sports

n the occasion of the UN’s event for QNSD allowed the partici- to the forefront of developing bilateral International Day Of Sport pants to overcome these challenges as relations. For Development And Peace, there is no doubt that sport has always “There are already strong ties be- which was recently cele- played an important role in every socie- tween Qatar and Russia. Through bratedO globally during the fi rst week of ty, whether in the form of competition, QRCC and QR Sports, these ties are be- April, Qatar and Russia affi rmed their physical activity or play. ing more profoundly developed,” Lata commitment to bilateral sports en- Renowned athletes like Olympic gold added. gagements between the two countries. medal winners Nikita Nagorniy and As consecutive host nations of the In 2013, the United Nations chose Beslan Mudranov alongside with other FIFA World Cup, Qatar and Russia have this particular date because the fi rst prominent athletes from across the been a part of one of the biggest sport- modern Summer Olympic Games were world participated in the event. ing events in the world, using their opened in Athens on April 6, 1896. The The event was designed to help the platforms to spread the message about day is designed to raise awareness of community grow in four main areas: the importance of sport in today’s the importance of sport and physical mindfulness, motion, inspiration and world in arenas of global harmony and activity for education, human develop- nutrition. The fi ve-day event saw more sustainable development. ment, health and peace. than 12,000 total participants, that As the host nation of the 2022 FIFA The embassy of Qatar in Russia, with could attend offl ine sports such as yoga, World Cup, Qatar gave fans a taste the support of QR Sports, a subsidiary trampolining and ice-skating as well of things to come in 2022 during the of the Qatari-Russian Centre for Co- follow online training and educational 2018 FIFA World Cup held in Russia. operation (QRCC), celebrated Qatar’s programs all through the website. With exhibits like Qatar Elements, the National Sport Day (QNSD) in Russia QR Sports also collaborated with Qatar National Sport Day celebrations in Russia. world’s fi rst fl oating multimedia mu- in February 2021. The initiative was the Supreme Committee for Delivery seum and Qatar-Russia portals, fans hosted under the theme Team in Mo- and Legacy alongside football stars Qatar National Sports Day celebrations All online classes are currently avail- promote sustainable development and experienced Qatari culture and life tion, which calls for the community to Tim Cahill and Roman Pavlyuchenko in Russia. able to the public via @qnsd.ru on In- peace as well as solidarity, and respect. fi rst-hand. unite through sports despite challenges who discussed playing in the Premier Those attending had access to on- stagram, where people from around the That was the aim of the QNSD event in Since 2019, some of the biggest Rus- that humankind faces. League, football knowledge, and the line classes such as yoga with Olympic world can learn the tools to practice Russia and we are incredibly proud of sian football teams have also played With the spread of the Covid-19 upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qa- silver medallist and three-time world physical and mental well-being. the outcome,” said Kirill Lata, Head of the Match Premier Cup tournament in pandemic, accessing and enjoying tar. They also discussed the importance champion Nikita Nagorniy or practise “Sport has the power to change the QR Sports. Qatar. Zenit St Petersburg’s U-17 team sport has become diffi cult for most of sport to the Qatari and Russian pop- their ice skating skills at the Taganskiy world. It is a fundamental right, a pow- This is not the fi rst time Qatar and also participated in the Al Kass Inter- around the world. However, QR Sports’ ulations and the positive impact of the Park ice rink. erful tool to strengthen social ties and Russia have partnered to bring sport national Cup in 2020.