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Friday, January 10, 2020 FOOTBALL Jumada I 15, 1441 AH Duhail up against GULF TIMES determined Sailiya in Qatar Cup today SPORT Page 7

TENNIS / QATAR EXXONMOBIL OPEN Kecmanovic beats rain and Fucsovics to reach semis Serbian 20-year-old won his quarter-final against the Hungarian qualifier in under an hour on a rain-aff ected day

By Anil John Doha

erbia is the envy of the tennis world. It’s only the 118th-biggest nation on the planet with a popula- tionS of a little over seven million people, but its conveyor belt of talent just keeps thundering on uninhibited. In fact that has been the case for quite a few years now, and it’s no surprise that its team have made it to the quarter-fi nals of the inaugural ATP Cup in Aus- tralia, led, of course, by the World No. 2 and 17-times Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. A world away in Doha, a 20-year-old tyro once again displayed his amazing poten- tial. After beating third-seeded Jo-Wilfred Tsonga in the second round in a late match on Wednes- day, Miomir Kecmanovic yester- day blew away qualifi er Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 6-0 to reach the semi-fi nals of the Qatar Exxon- Russia’s Andrey Rublev waits for the rain to stop during his match Mobil Open. against Pierre-Hugues Herbert (not pictured) of France yesterday. It took him just 55 minutes. With the threat of rain hovering He saved a few fi rst set points able to talk to him and that he can over Qatar, Kecmanovic seemed in the match against the French- tell you his advice and his experi- in a hurry in the second set, re- man which he credited to mental ences. lentlessly putting pressure on his strength. “So it’s pretty cool to have him Hungarian opponent and hitting “I try to not panic in those around.” winner after winner and close moments and to kind of, I guess, out the match seconds before it read where the opponent is going TODAY’S ORDER OF PLAY started pouring again. to serve. Because all three times I CENTER COURT (starts at 1pm) The match had started almost managed to return the fi rst serve Corentin Moutet (FRA) vs Fern- two hours late because of rain in in. And, you know, he was serv- ando Verdasco (ESP) the afternoon, upsetting the tight ing pretty good. And it was defi - Followed by schedule, and with organisers Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic returns during the Qatar ExxonMobil Open match against Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics (not pictured) at Khalifa nitely a mixture of both. 1-Stan Wawrinka (SUI) vs Aljaz ending yesterday’s programme International Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha yesterday. PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil “But I’m happy that I was able Bedene (SLO) at 8.30pm, they were hoping for to stay composed and to be in the Followed by a sunny Friday to complete the Andrey Rublev in the semi-fi - ter-fi nals or better four times last practice with. perfect or let’s say be my normal moment. And, you know, thank- Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) vs backlog of matches, with players nals, which could turn out to be season, achieving new career- “And I defi nitely think I’ve game that I could take it far if that fully, I was to be able win.” Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA) or facing the prospect of having to an “exciting’ clash, according to high rankings 15 times before maybe, like, sped up my game a happens.” The youngster also spoke on 2-Andrey Rublev (RUS x2) play the quarter-fi nals and semi- Kecmanovic. peaking at World No. 47 in Sep- little bit because they take time After beating Tsonga on his friendship with Djokovic. Followed by fi nals in a matter of a few hours. “I played him a long time ago in tember. away for you, you know, so much. Wednesday, Kecmanovic had “Yeah, we’re good friends. We 1-Stan Wawrinka (SUI) or Aljaz Kecmanovic, however, had no juniors, but I haven’t played him During the off -season, he And I think I’ve kind of got a little said he felt a surge in confi dence practice in Dubai now in the off - Bedene (SLO) vs Corentin Moutet complaints. since then. But, yeah, it would managed to get some practice bit used to it and maybe it’s now and motivation. season. And he’s a really great (FRA) or Fernando Verdasco “Yeah, it was pretty good tim- defi nitely be an exciting match. with Roger Federer and Djokovic, a little bit easier to play against, “It was defi nitely one of my guy, you know. He’s somebody (ESP) ing, you know,” Kecmanovic said But, you know, he still has to win. which helped him fi ne-tune his you know, some of the other better wins. You know, I’ve had that I have learned a lot from. after beating the rain and Fucso- “But, yeah, I’m defi nitely game. guys. some exciting wins last year. And “And he’s defi nitely a big in- COURT 1 (Play starts 12.30pm) vics. “Good thing that I was able looking forward to coming out “Yeah, I was practising with “But it’s defi nitely something to start the year off with such a spiration back home for every- Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA) vs to fi nish before this (rain) hap- again and, you know, to playing Roger and Novak, and Karen I still have to work on and defi - big name, it’s defi nitely motivat- body, so it’s really cool to have 2-Andrey Rublev (RUS) pened.” my best game.” (Khachanov), too, so it was defi - nitely, I think, something that ing me and giving me a lot more somebody like him that you can Note: Doubles also start at He could run into second seed Kecmanovic reached the quar- nitely a good group of guys to will, if I can, you know, let’s say confi dence to keep going.” call your friend and that you’re 12.30pm

SPOTLIGHT PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil Teenager Nawaf relishes ATP Tour debut in Doha n a tournament fi lled with Nawaf lost both the matches, he’s Squash Complex as a spectator. been serving up notice in top established ATP Tour veter- confi dent that the experiences He immediately took to tennis junior events, fi nishing runner- ans, the youthful presence of will only help him in the future. when he fi rst attended this event up last year at the prestigious Les 14-year-old Rashed Nawaf “It’s a turning point in my ca- as a young boy and his passion for Petits As tournament and in the offI ered a unique change to the reer,” Nawaf said. “It’s a big step the sport hasn’t wavered since. 14-and-under draw at the Or- draws at the Qatar ExxonMobil playing these huge names and “I was always at this tourna- ange Bowl. Open in Doha. being surrounded by big stars. I ment growing up and it played But while Nawaf is pleased The Qatari teenager was re- was impressed with their level a big role in my love for tennis,” with his progress, his ambitions warded for his junior success by of tennis and so many aspects of Nawaf said. “I went with my fa- are much loftier. He hopes that making his tour-level debut on their game. The pressure is hard ther to watch this tournament someday lifting the title in Doha home soil. Nawaf competed in in singles, but it’s a bit less in and really liked it, so I told him will be just one accomplishment the singles qualifying draw and doubles. You have the support of that I wanted to play.” in a fruitful ATP Tour career. faced a Top 100 player in Brazil- a partner and it helps, especially At age 12, the Qatar Tennis “I believe it’s the dream of eve- ian Thiago Monteiro, then paired with someone like Malek.” Federation sent him to train at the ry tennis player to be one of the with Tunisian Malek Jaziri in Nawaf’s debut in Doha was world-renowned Mouratoglou best singles players in the world doubles and battled a pair of elite particularly fi tting because he’s Tennis Academy in France, where and win a Grand Slam,” Na- doubles players in Henri Kon- been a regular visitor to the Kha- he still resides. Nawaf’s game waf said. “It’s the same for me.” tinen/Franko Skugor. Although lifa International Tennis and quickly blossomed there and he’s (ATP) Gulf Times 2 Friday, January 10, 2020 TENNIS Sights from Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2020 PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Serena drops set before Australia and Russia storm reaching Auckland quarters

AFP burst into the limelight last year with a win Auckland over Venus Williams on her way to Wim- bledon’s fourth round as a qualifi er. Against into ATP Cup semi-fi nals Siegemund, she fi nished with seven double AFP erena Williams rallied from a set faults and 49 unforced errors, which she Sydney down to beat journeywoman Chris- put down to youth and inexperience. tina McHale at the WTA Auckland Classic yesterday, but said it was Third seed Naomi Osaka was taken to dynamic Nick Kyrgios justS the workout she needed. three sets for the second match in a row be- and dogged Alex de Mi- With her focus on winning a 24th Grand fore eventually overcoming the USA’s Sofi a naur powered Australia Slam at the Australian Open, Williams said Kenin. Kenin won the fi rst set in a tiebreak into the ATP Cup semi-fi - she needs all the court time she can get after before Osaka took control, winning 6-7 nalsA yesterday with an epic 2-1 win a long off -season since losing September’s (3/7), 6-3, 6-1. Osaka will play sixth seed against the Tim Henman-led Brit- US Open fi nal. Kiki Bertens in the quarter-fi nals after the ain, and they were joined by Russia It took the top seed two hours to put away Dutchwoman beat Estonia’s Anett Kon- who overpowered Argentina. the 27-year-old McHale and advance to a taveit 6-3, 2-6, 7-5. The home team clinched the tie quarter-fi nal with Germany’s Laura Siege- after an 18-16 third-set tiebreaker mund, who ousted teen prodigy Coco Gauff in the doubles to set up a potential in the second round. Williams was broken Barty not concerned despite blockbuster last-four clash against three times before losing the fi rst set 3-6 early Brisbane exit Rafael Nadal’s Davis Cup-winning but recovered to take the next two sets 6-2, Spain who face Belgium today. 6-3 in the all-American aff air. World number one Ashleigh Barty re- Russia, spearheaded by world “I really need to play matches like that to mains upbeat about her Australian Open number fi ve Daniil Medvedev won get to my goals,” said the 23-times Grand preparations despite losing her opening both their singles to sweep past Ar- Slam winner, who is determined to equal match of the season at the Brisbane In- gentina. Their reward is a semi-fi - the record of 24 held by Australian great ternational yesterday. American qualifier nal against either Novak Djokovic’s Margaret Court. Jennifer Brady notched up her first-ever Serbia, or Canada. “Tournament time is super-important, win over a top-10 player when she beat Kyrgios crushed Cameron Nor- match time is good. After losing that fi rst Barty 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) at the Pat Rafter Arena. rie in the opening singles 6-2, 6-2 Nick Kyrgios of Australia carries teammate Alex de Minaur after winning their doubles match against Jamie Murray set I’m just glad to be still in the event.” It was Barty’s first match on home soil before Dan Evans came through a and Joe Salisbury of Britain at the ATP Cup in Sydney yesterday. (AFP) McHale used her speed around the court since becoming world number one, memorable showdown against De in extended rallies which often produced played at the venue she trains at and in Minaur 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 7-6 (7/2) to they were able to turn it around... it (of Medvedev’s match) was high- really and I only got through by the unforced errors from the 38-year-old Wil- front of thousands of her adoring home set up the decisive, winner-takes- could have gone either way.” class tennis from both sides,” Rus- skin of my teeth,” admitted Evans, liams in the early stages. fans. Barty conceded afterwards she had all doubles. In the second quarter-fi nal, sian captain Marat Safi n said, add- ranked 42. A composed Kyrgios But just as it looked as if Williams was simply been outplayed by Brady, who Australian captain Lleyton Karen Khachanov continued his ing that he was “very proud” of his beat world number six Stefanos in a slump at 1-4 down after fi ve games, also beat former world number one Maria Hewitt took a huge gamble by hot run of form and got the ball team. “It was important for him to Tsitsipas on Tuesday and carried the world number 10 got to grips with the Sharapova in the first round. “Jen was dropping regular doubles pair John rolling for Russia by beating an stay mentally strong, maintain his that momentum into his clash blustery conditions and McHale’s agility in control of the match – she was in the Peers and Chris Guccione in favour out-of-sorts Guido Pella 6-2, 7-6 calm and see what’s going to come.” against Norrie. The mercurial Aus- and began to take control. It was the reverse centre of the court being the aggressor of Kyrgios and de Minaur, and it (7/4). The world number 17 has The Australia-Britain tie was tralian has been a model of concen- from Gauff , seen as one of the rising stars of and I think you have to give credit where looked a poor decision when they won all four of his matches this notable for Evans’ clash with world tration and focus at the ATP Cup, tennis, who started strongly against Siege- credit’s due,” said Barty, who practised lost the fi rst set 6-3. season and was in control through- number 18 De Minaur, a three-hour thriving in the team environment. mund but faded as the match wore on. with Brady early this week. But, spurred by Kyrgios’ boom- out against the Argentinian, who 23-minute contest that is a con- It is partly due to having a six- The 31-year-old Siegemund, who played “She came through qualifying, but she’s ing serve, they took the next 6-3 appeared on the verge on tears in tender for match of the tourna- month suspended ban hanging her fi rst WTA qualifi er in 2003 before Gauff got a ranking that’s kind of well below before a nailbiting tiebreaker that the opening set. ment. over him, imposed in September was born, was up 5-4 and serving when the what a lot of people give her credit for. lasted more than half-an-hour. Medvedev, also unbeaten, After Evans took the opening set for calling an Irish umpire a “po- American teen broke twice to take the fi rst “She’s playing some exceptional tennis, Jamie Murray and Joe Salisbury quickly took charge of his show- in a tense tiebreaker, De Minaur tato” and a “tool” in Cincinnati. set. But from there, she used her consider- so I certainly can’t take that away from had four match points, which were down with world number 13 Diego fought back to grab the second. He also accused the ATP of being able experience to ruffl e the 15-year-old, her. She played a great match today and all saved, with Australia fi nally Schwartzman, but lost focus in He went 4-2 behind in a see- corrupt before backtracking on the forcing her behind the baseline and then deserved to win.” converting on their fi fth match the second and was slapped with a saw third, but rallied again as they allegation. “I love the team event,” drawing her forward with deft drop shots. Barty grew up in Ipswich on Brisbane’s point, sparking jubilant scenes. point penalty for twice smashing exchanged service breaks with the Kyrgios said. “In the fi rst set I had my chances but let western outskirts and has had hundreds of “That was incredible tennis. All his racquet into the umpires chair Australian showing nerves of steel “Rusty (Hewitt) is the best cap- it go. So I just tried to keep my level and she fans packing outside courts to watch her three matches today everyone gave during an argument with the offi - to save four match points and take tain, the teammates have been sup- started to miss a little bit more, and I guess I practice this week. But when asked if she 100 percent and left it all out on the cial. He regrouped to race through it to another tiebreak – which the porting each other, being there for just got better and better,” Siegemund said. felt any pressure because of the attention, court,” said Hewitt. the third set for a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win. exhausted Briton fi nally won each other and that’s paid off ,” he As Gauff showed signs of being rattled, Barty insisted she didn’t feel any diff erent. “Really proud of the boys, the way “The second set and third one “That’s about as good as I’ve got added. she lost the steeliness she showed when she Gulf Times Friday, January 10, 2020 3 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT Finch confi dent as Aussies head to India for ODI series AFP rise. He was playing in the Twenty20 Big Bash four Sydney years ago before turning to coaching and being ap- pointed Langer’s right-hand man in October. “He’s got great credentials and he’ll keep grow- ustralia have the goods to give Virat Koh- ing. He’s got a really good opportunity,” Langer li’s men a run for their money, skipper told reporters this week. Aaron Finch said yesterday as he depart- “I said to him: ‘we’re not reinventing the wheel’. ed for their three-match one-day series. I won’t ring him, I’ll let him go. AThe two sides face each other in Mumbai on “He said ‘I might ring you’. He’ll do a really good January 14 before heading to Rajkot and then Ban- job.” galore for what will be Australia’s fi rst limited- Australia have radically overhauled their squad overs games since the World Cup in England last for the series with in-form batsman Marnus La- year. buschagne, fresh from an incredible Test summer Both sides made the semi-fi nals and Finch be- against Pakistan and New Zealand, set to make his lieves Australia is well-equipped to deal with In- one-day international debut. dia on home soil after upsetting them 3-2 there “We know that he’s not going to be overawed by early last year. the occasion,” Finch said of their new star. “It just gives us confi dence that our game plan Spinner Ashton Agar gets another chance 18 in those conditions is good enough,” he told crick- months after his last one-dayer and paceman et.com.au ahead of his departure. Josh Hazlewood has been recalled after recovering “What can happen when you play in the sub- from injury to once again partner Mitchell Starc continent is you start to doubt your game plan be- and Pat Cummins. cause they’re so dominant when they get on top. There was no room for high-profi le players such “India or Pakistan... or Sri Lanka. They can as Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, make you start doubting yourself. Marcus Stoinis and Nathan Lyon. “Knowing that our game plan is good enough and knowing that our skills are good enough to AUSTRALIA SQUAD: Aaron Finch (capt), Ashton beat India in India. That gives us a lot of confi - Agar, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Peter Hands- dence going there.” Regular coach Justin Langer comb, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, is giving the tour a miss after an intense summer Kane Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Steve Smith, File photo of Aaron Finch. (AFP) of Test cricket with the reins handed to his assist- Mitchell Starc, Ashton Turner, David Warner, ant Andrew McDonald. McDonald has had a rapid Adam Zampa.

PREVIEW OPINION Five-day Test is the best form of the India aim to clinch game, says Stokes T20I series against Sri Lanka in Pune The hosts took an unassailable 1-0 lead after the first game in Guwahati was washed out

AFP pionship, which is currently London led by Virat Kohli’s India. The Cricinfo website said mandatory four-day Tests en Stokes made an rather than fi ve-day matches emphatic case for the during the current cycle from unique drama of fi ve- 2015 to 2023 would have freed day Test cricket this up a total of 335 days of sched- Bweek — inspiring England to uled cricket over the period. a series-levelling win against The England and Wales South Africa in the fi nal overs Cricket Board has off ered of a dramatic contest. “cautious” backing to the sug- His match-winning per- gested new model. But a suc- formance in Cape Town on cession of top cricketers have Tuesday came at a time of in- spoken out against the idea tensifying debate over the fu- and the global players’ repre- ture of the longest form of the sentative body has warned of game, which has been played “signifi cant player resistance”, since 1877. The International though others such as Shane Cricket Council (ICC) will in Warne have voiced support for the coming months discuss a change. reducing Tests to four days as England all-rounder Stokes part of structuring the global claimed the last three South calendar beyond 2023. Africa wickets at Newlands to For a sport so closely linked earn a 189-run victory for Eng- with tradition, cricket has land, who levelled the four- shown a remarkable ability to match series at 1-1 on Tuesday. innovate in recent decades, Afterwards he and England introducing multiple forms of captain Joe Root spoke out in limited-overs cricket that have favour of the longer format, taken fi rm root. which allows the drama and But the latest proposal, nuances of the game time to part of an eff ort to tackle the play out. crowded international cricket “It’s why fi ve-day cricket calendar and save on costs, has should always be around. It’s divided players, many of whom the best form of the game,” said consider Test cricket the gold Stokes, England’s man of the standard. match. The ICC allowed four-day Root’s opposite number, Faf Tests in 2017 and they have du Plessis, also said he did not India’s skipper Virat Kohli during a training been tried in one-off games support a move towards four- session at the Maharashtra Cricket Association between South Africa and day Test matches, despite a Stadium in Pune yesterday. (AFP) Zimbabwe and England against statement by Cricket South Ireland. But they are not al- Africa that it was offi cial policy lowed in the Test world cham- to back a reduced format. IANS alongside Kuldeep Yadav and Mathews for left-arm pacer Isu- Pune helped India restrict Sri Lanka ru Udana who has been ruled out Bumrah on verge of becoming India’s to a mere 142. In fact, it was the with a back injury. The inclusion leading wicket-taker in T20Is pace of Saini which impressed of Mathews can strengthen the Buttler fi ned for angry fter a thumping win one and all as he bowled con- visitors on both the fronts as Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah Philander outburst in Indore, Team India stantly in excess of 140 and he provides them with a decent is one wicket away from becom- will aim to wrap up troubled the Lankan batters. bowling option apart from bat- ing India’s leading wicket-taker England wicketkeeper Jos breached Article 2.3 of the the three-match series In batting, K.L. Rahul con- ting skills. in T20Is, and when Virat Kohli Buttler was fined 15% of his ICC Code of Conduct for whenA they take on Sri Lanka in tinued with his good form and and Co. take on Sri Lanka in the match fee yesterday by the Players and Player Support the fi nal T20I at the Maharash- along with Shikhar Dhawan, INDIA SQUAD: Virat Kohli (c), third and final match today, he International Cricket Council Personnel, which relates to tra Cricket Association Stadium laid the foundation of the chase Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, can achieve the feat. Currently, (ICC) for swearing at South ‘use of an audible obscen- today. which the hosts completed Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), he is tied with R Ashwin and Yuz- Africa’s Vernon Philander ity during an international The hosts registered a com- without any hiccups. Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, vendra Chahal with 52 wickets during the second Test at match’ following an incident fortable seven-wicket win in the Thus, for the fi nal T20I, all Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Ya- to his name. Bumrah has taken Newlands. with South Africa all-rounder second T20I and took an unas- India need to do is to continue dav, Jasprit Bumrah, Navdeep 44 matches to claim 52 wickets Buttler was heard on the Vernon Philander,” read an sailable 1-0 lead after the fi rst with their run and prepare for Saini, Shardul Thakur, Manish while Chahal took only 36 match- finished conceding seven runs. stump mic using an obscen- ICC statement. game in Guwahati was washed the three ODIs against Australia. Pandey, Washington Sundar, es. Ashwin on the other hand, has Danushka Gunathilaka and Av- ity towards South African “Buttler admitted the off ence out. On the other hand, Sri Lanka Sanju Samson 52 wickets in 46 matches. ishka Fernando hit boundaries off all-rounder Philander while and accepted the sanction In the second game, Virat need to improve their perform- Returning from injury, all eyes him in the fourth over as India’s keeping wicket on a tense proposed by Andy Pycroft Kohli’s men performed well in all ance on all fronts if they aim to SRI LANKA: Lasith Malinga (c), were on Bumrah in the second premier pacer looked a bit rusty final day in Cape Town. of the Emirates Elite Panel of the departments and didn’t let level the series. Dhanushka Gunathilaka, Avish- T20I in Indore which India won starting off , but in the end bowled The 29-year-old will also ICC Match Referees and, as the visitors take the upper hand On a fl at pitch in Indore, Sri ka Fernando, Angelo Mathews, comfortably by seven wickets. a superbly disguised slower to pick up one demerit point such, there was no need for a at any moment of the game. In Lanka batters played a lot of dot Dasun Shanaka, Kusal Perera, Bumrah, who has been out of castle Dasun Shanaka in the 17th for breaching the ICC’s formal hearing.” bowling, comeback man Jasprit balls as India bowled very ac- Niroshan Dickwella, Dhanan- action after India’s tour of the over. Bumrah was taken for 12 in disciplinary code, his first England won the match by Bumrah hit the length right from curate lines right through the jaya De Silva, Isuru Udana, West Indies in July-August last the final over by Hasaranga who such off ence. Players can be 189 runs on a thrilling fifth the word go and didn’t show any innings. Their batters got starts Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Oshada year due to a stress fracture on hit a hat-trick of fours to end the suspended if they accumu- day to level the four-match signs of lacking match practice. but were not able to carry on Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, his back, started off with a wide innings with a flourish as the fast late four demerit points over series at 1-1. Navdeep Saini and Shardul with their innings. Lahiru Kumara, Kusal Mendis, in the first ball in Indore and was bowler returned figures of 1/31 in a two-year period. The third Test begins on Thakur also picked wickets at Lasith Malinga would be Lakshan Sandakan, Kasun hit for a four in the second as he his four overs. “Buttler was found to have January 16 at Port Elizabeth. crucial junctures of the game tempted to bring in Angelo Rajitha Gulf Times 4 Friday, January 10, 2020 FOOTBALL

FRENCH LEAGUE CUP SPANISH SUPER CUP Kroos stunner helps Real Madrid Icardi’s hat-trick through to fi nal

Reuters and Isco put Real further ahead Jeddah by volleying home in the 39th minute after a sweeping move involving Federico Valverde eal Madrid midfi elder and Dani Carvajal. helps PSG overrun Toni Kroos scored di- Modric killed off Valencia’s rectly from a corner faint hopes of a second-half as his side booked revival, providing a classy fi n- theirR place in the fi nal of the ish with the outside of his boot revamped Spanish Super Cup in the 65th minute to com- in Saudi Arabia by outclassing pleting another incisive Real Valencia 3-1 on Wednesday. counter-attack. Isco and Luka Modric scored “We were in complete con- Saint-Etienne either side of halftime to put trol throughout the game, we Zinedine Zidane’s side fur- came out with the intention ‘THAT’S THE SORT OF SPIRIT WHICH WE NEED TO BE DANGEROUS’ ther at ease before Dani Parejo of getting hold of the ball, converted a consolation pen- that’s what we did and our alty for last year’s Copa del Rey plan worked perfectly,” Real winners in added time. midfi elder Casemiro told re- Real will meet the winners porters. The 62,000-capacity of yesterday’s semi between arena was around two-thirds Barcelona and Atletico Madrid full for the fi rst game of the in Sunday’s showpiece at the competition, which used to be King Abdullah Sport City Sta- a two-legged season curtain dium in Jeddah. raiser between the Spanish Germany international league champions and the Cup Kroos caught Valencia’s Jaume winners but has been given a Domenech out to open the radical facelift. scoring in the 15th minute, Spanish soccer federation curling a cross towards goal chief Luis Rubiales spear- while the keeper was still or- headed the changes to the for- ganising his defence and the mat, increasing the number ball fl ew over the line before of teams to four and signing a Domenech could recover. three-year deal to move it to The soft manner of the goal Saudi Arabia which media re- appeared to hit Valencia hard ports say is worth 40mn euros after an even start to the game annually.

Toni Kroos celebrates his goal during the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Valencia on Wednesday. (AFP)

Bayern will not make January bid for Sane: sporting director Mauro Icardi (left) scores a goal during the French League Cup quarter-final match against AS Saint Etienne at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on Wednesday. (AFP) Bayern Munich will not make a making a return. AFP — against a side decimated by injury and The hosts bagged a fourth when Lyon battled into the last four with a fresh bid for Manchester City Bayern, who are expected Paris illness. Mbappe rounded Moulin and cut back for 3-1 victory at home to Brest. and Germany winger Leroy to renew their eff orts to sign “I am convinced that Icardi and Icardi to add to his tally, and he completed Moussa Dembele broke the deadlock Sane in the January transfer Sane in the summer, have also Mbappe love to play together,” said his hat-trick when the former raced clear on 19 minutes and Houssem Aouar added window, sporting director Hasan lost first choice wingers Serge auro Icardi scored a hat-trick Tuchel. before selfl essly presenting the Argentine a second shortly after half-time for Rudi Salihamidzic said yesterday. Gnabry and Kingsley Coman to as Paris Saint-Germain de- “We talk about the four attackers but with a tap-in. Garcia’s side. Speaking to German media from injury in recent weeks. molished a depleted Saint- we are a team with 11 players. Neymar, for The pair reversed roles for the sixth Samuel Grandsir gave Brest hope with a Bayern’s winter training camp Yet yesterday, Salihamidzic hit Etienne 6-1 on Wednesday to example, helps Juan Bernat. goal, Icardi controlling superbly and slid- tidy fi nish fi ve minutes from time but Jean in Doha, Salihamidzic said that back at Bayern coach Hansi Flick Mpower into the semi-fi nals of the French “That’s the sort of spirit which we need ing across goal for a lunging Mbappe to Lucas made sure of the win with a fi rm Sane was “not a topic in winter”. over his demands for action in League Cup. to be dangerous. We have the best players turn home from close range. 20-yard drive in stoppage time. Bayern came close to signing the January transfer window. Icardi struck the opening goal inside but we also have the best team.” Former PSG midfi elder Yohan Cabaye Luiz Araujo and Victor Osimhen were the 23-year-old last summer With his squad suff ering an two minutes at the Parc des Princes be- Neymar doubled the lead with a non- hit a consolation goal for Saint-Etienne on target as Lille overcame Amiens 2-0. but the deal fell through after injury crisis, Flick told the fore teenage Saint-Etienne defender chalant chipped fi nish over goalkeeper when he headed in the rebound after his Reims eliminated holders Strasbourg Sane tore his anterior cruciate Sueddeutsche Zeitung on Wesley Fofana was dismissed for a second Jessy Moulin, who scored a comical own second-half penalty was saved by Sergio on Tuesday after winning 4-2 on penal- ligament in the Community Wednesday that he would like booking on the half-hour. goal on the stroke of half-time. Rico. ties following a goalless draw. Shield game against Liverpool. to see “two new signings” in PSG ruthlessly capitalised on their man Di Maria’s low cross was hacked by PSG have now scored at least four goals The competition, which includes all The German star has been January. But sporting director advantage as coach Thomas Tuchel elect- Timothee Kolodziejczak into the legs of in their past six matches. The record the clubs from France’s top two divisions sidelined ever since, though Salihamidzic dampened transfer ed to fi eld all four members of his fear- teammate Loic Perrin, the ball rolling eight-time champions will discover their and a handful of teams from the third tier, City coach Pep Guardiola said expectations and sent a sharp some attacking quartet — Icardi, Ney- back off the post before hitting Moulin semi-fi nal opponents when the draw is will be suspended indefi nitely at the end this week that he was “close” to rebuke in Flick’s direction. AFP mar, Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di Maria and trickling over the line. made on Thursday. of this season.

PREVIEW INJURY SCARE Mourinho’s Spurs pose tricky Kane ruled out for three months with test for Liverpool hamstring injury Reuters up pressure and hit us on the break “They’ll want to break that Liv- Reuters London with Lucas Moura, Son (Heung- erpool unbeaten run and it will be a London Min) and Dele Alli. tight game for sure — you wouldn’t “They will allow us to have write Tottenham off , they’ve got purs manager Jose Mour- possession and try to break them outstanding players in the team.” ottenham Hotspur inho would love to be the down, no doubt that is how Mour- Second-placed Leicester City striker Harry Kane one who ends Liverpool’s inho will play because I think he is host Southampton tomorrow. will undergo surgery year-long unbeaten run in very intimidated by Liverpool.” The Foxes thrashed the Saints on his hamstring and theS Premier League, and tomor- The match could still be an 9-0, the biggest ever top fl ight Tis expected to be out of action row’s game could be closer than the awkward trip for the visiting Reds away win in English soccer, in until April, the Premier League standings suggest. who beat Tottenham in last year’s the reverse fi xture in October but club said yesterday. The late match at the Tottenham Champions League fi nal and have Southampton have tightened up Kane, who has netted 27 Hotspur Stadium will be the fi rst a near-perfect record of 58 points considerably since that humilia- goals for Spurs and England between Juergen Klopp’s men and out of 60 this season to sit 13 points tion, conceding only 13 goals in 11 this season, suff ered the injury a Mourinho side since Manchester clear at the top. games. during Tottenham’s 1-0 Pre- United dismissed the Portuguese Mourinho, who replaced the Four more goals for Leicester mier League defeat at South- after a 3-1 defeat at Anfi eld in De- sacked Pochettino at Spurs in No- would set another record, however, ampton on New Year’s Day. cember 2018. vember, has only twice been on the as the most one club has put past “Following ongoing assess- mark. The 26-year-old has “Don’t sack Mourinho,” the winning side against Klopp in their another in the league. ment by our medical staff over been injury-free this season crowd chorused mockingly during 10 previous games as opponents. Leicester have top-scoring the past week, we can confi rm but had two lengthy layoff s that 2018 humiliation, so revenge To do it again, Tottenham will striker Jamie Vardy back in ac- that Harry Kane will undergo last season with ankle liga- in North London would be sweet. have to rise to the challenge with- tion, with the England interna- surgery to repair a ruptured ment injuries. Spurs have been shockingly out injured captain Harry Kane. tional turning 33 tomorrow, after tendon in his left hamstring,” Although Tottenham have leaky, and some are expecting a he missed three matches with a Spurs said in a statement. struggled for form and are classic demonstration of Mour- CLEAN SHEETS calf problem but centre-back Wes “The decision to undergo sixth in the league table, Kane inho’s bus-parking expertise in de- Former Tottenham manager Harry Morgan is out with a groin injury. surgery is not expected to im- has scored 11 goals in the fence and a few tactical tricks. Redknapp suggested it could still Third-placed champions Man- pact the time frame that the league. “The way Spurs used to play be a lot closer than the 28-point chester City, looking for a fi fth win England captain will be side- Another spell without Kane under Mauricio Pochettino, you gap between Liverpool and sixth- in a row in all competitions, travel lined, with the expectation will be a major blow to Jose would have expected them to come placed Spurs, who have kept only to relegation-threatened Aston that he will return to training Mourinho’s Tottenham, who out and have a go at us but I can’t two clean sheets this season. Villa on Sunday. in April.” have slipped six points behind see that happening under Jose “I can’t see any other result but Chelsea, fourth, are at home to Kane will miss Spurs’ fourth-placed Chelsea. Mourinho,” former Liverpool strik- Liverpool winning the title, but Burnley while Manchester United, Champions League last-16 Son Heung-min is likely to er John Aldridge wrote in a column Tottenham away will be a tough fi fth and without injured defender Tottenham Hotspur’s head coach Jose Mourinho gestures during clash with RB Leipzig and lead the line in his absence and for the city’s Echo newspaper. game, make no mistake about Harry Maguire, host bottom side the English FA Cup third round match against Middlesbrough at the England’s Euro 2020 warm-up teenager Troy Parrott may get “I am sure they will try to soak that,” he told Sky Sports. Norwich City. Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough on Sunday. (AFP) games against Italy and Den- more opportunities to play. Gulf Times Friday, January 10, 2020 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Harden’s 40-point Flyers scrape past triple-double lift s Capitals Houston Rockets Harden made four free throws over the final 10.4 seconds to put the game away

Washington Capitals right wing TJ Oshie (left) battles with Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Matt Niskanen at Wells Fargo Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

Reuters Washington JETS 4, MAPLE LEAFS 3 (SO) Blake Wheeler scored the decisive goal of a shootout ravis Konecny, Robert and visiting Winnipeg defeat- Hagg and Kevin Hayes ed Toronto. Mark Scheifele, each scored one goal to Nikolaj Ehlers and Mason Ap- lift the host Philadel- pleton scored in regulation Tphia Flyers past the Washing- time for the Jets, who have won ton Capitals 3-2 on Wednes- two games in a row. Auston day. After a rough 1-4-1 road Matthews scored two goals for trip, the Flyers returned home, Toronto, tying the game with a where they’re now 14-2-4. slap shot with just 14 seconds Flyers goaltender Carter Hart left in the third period. allowed two goals on his fi rst eight shots but wound up with STARS 2, KINGS 1 26 saves. Jamie Benn and Blake Nicklas Backstrom and Ja- Comeau scored 37 seconds kub Vrana each scored fi rst- apart in the second period, and period goals for the Capitals, Dallas held on for a win at Los who had their three-game Angeles. winning streak snapped. Dallas goalie Anton Khu- Braden Holtby stopped 24 dobin, who entered the game shots.The Capitals began the ranked second in the NHL in night with a league-best 65 save percentage (.931) and third points. Despite the loss, Wash- in goals-against average (2.20), ington is still an impressive 17- made 30 saves. Esa Lindell had 6-1 on the road. two assists for the Stars.

Rudolph says gloves meant for charity wound up on eBay

New York: Minnesota Vikings memorabilia listed for sale. tight end Kyle Rudolph said A screenshot of the James Harden (L) of the Houston Rockets draws a foul from DeAndre’ Bembry of the Atlanta Hawks in Atlanta on Wednesday. on Wednesday that he was eBay listing showed the duped into donating a pair of autographed gloves were Agencies ond triple-double of the season. Jokic also had seven assists while game-worn gloves to what sold for $375.50. Los Angeles It was the fi rst 40-point triple-double Results American Jerami Grant scored 15 points he thought was a charity, Rudolph said he did not know in Hawks history. It was also the fi rst and Canada’s Jamal Murray chipped in then saw them advertised who requested the gloves time in NBA history that there were two Atlanta ...... 115 Houston ...... 122 14 in the matchup of two of the top young for sale on eBay. Rudolph and it was unclear who ames Harden scored 41 points en 40-point triple-doubles in the same Golden State ...... 98 Milwaukee ...... 107 teams in the NBA’s Western Conference. said on Twitter that someone posted the apparel to eBay, route to his second triple-dou- game. Houston also got 22 points and 22 Utah ...... 128 New York ...... 104 “We lost one at home against them be- approached him in the locker which did not immediately ble of the season and the visiting rebounds from Clint Capela and 18 points New Orleans...... 123 Chicago ...... 108 fore. It was long time ago but we wanted room after he caught the respond to a request for Houston Rockets beat the Atlanta on six 3-pointers from Ben McLemore. Boston ...... 114 San Antonio ...... 129 to get this game back. We needed a lot of winning touchdown in his comment. The saga saw a JHawks 122-115 on Wednesday. Atlanta had two others with double- focus and a lot of energy because it is the Charlotte ...... 110 Toronto ...... 112 (OT) team’s wild card game on satisfying twist, however, Harden had a subpar shooting night — doubles. John Collins had 17 points and Indiana ...... 108 Miami ...... 122 last game of our road trip,” said Serbia’s Sunday against the New after another Twitter user making only 9 of 34 — but was 19 of 23 14 rebounds and Alex Len added 14 points Orlando ...... 123 Washington ...... 89 Jokic. Orleans Saints. responded saying he had from the line with 10 rebounds and 10 as- and 10 rebounds. Dallas ...... 106 Denver ...... 107 Slovenia’s Doncic fl irted with a triple “A member of the media purchased the gloves and sists. It was Harden’s 44th career triple- The Rockets had a 45-29 lead over At- double, fi nishing with 27 points, 10 as- in the locker room after off ered to donate them after double and his 15th 40-point triple-dou- lanta after one quarter, the most points make it 87-83 with 3:37 left. But the sists and nine rebounds. Dwight Powell, the game asked if he could learning of their origins. ble, second-most in NBA history. the Hawks have allowed in the fi rst quar- Rockets answered with 3-pointers from of Canada, scored 16, Tim Hardaway add- have my gloves for a charity “I’m the guy who bought The Hawks trailed by as many as 23 ter this season. Harden scored 22 and the Harden and McLemore and used a 12- ed 15, Seth Curry 14 and German forward benefit, so I said of course them. I will gladly donate in the second quarter, but cut the lead Rockets shot 63.6 % from the fi eld. 2run for a 99-85 lead entering the fi nal Maxi Kleber had 13 for the Mavericks. and I will even sign them for to a charity of your choice,” to 118-115 with 18 seconds left. Harden The Rockets stretched the lead to 23 quarter. Dallas played its fi fth straight game you! Well he got me, sold on tweeted Jason King (@ made four free throws over the fi nal 10.4 when Eric Gordon made one of two free The Rockets were playing without without injured starter Kristaps Por- eBay 3 days later,” Rudolph kingy1940). seconds to put the game away. Houston throws with 8:10 left to make it 58-35. The guard Russell Westbrook, who took the zingis, who has a knee injury. The Nug- (@KyleRudolph82) wrote. “Hey Jason, really cool of you defeated the Hawks for the sixth straight Hawks pulled to within 77-62 at halftime night off on scheduled rest. gets were without two starters, guard Rudolph learned of the sale to do this!” Rudolph wrote in time. when Allen Crabbe made a trey at the Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic made a clutch Will Barton (personal reasons) and Paul after a social media user return. “@UMNChildrens will The Hawks wasted a triple-double buzzer. go-ahead layup with eight seconds left Millsap (knee). pointed out the gloves on greatly appreciate it and I will from Trae Young, who fi nished with 42 Atlanta made a charge midway in the and fi nished with 33 points as the Denver Dorian Finney-Smith nailed a three the online marketplace eBay, make sure to get you my pair points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists. It was third quarter and cut the lead to four Nuggets outduelled Luka Doncic’s Dallas pointer and Hardaway hit a basket to give which regularly sees sports from this weekends game!” Young’s sixth 40-point game and his sec- points when Crabbe hit a 3-pointer to Mavericks 107-106. Dallas a 106-101 lead late in the fourth.

NFL SPOTLIGHT Kobe among those helping Speculation rife over MLS celebrate 25 seasons

AFP Tom Brady’s future New York Reuters writing on Instagram, “I know I cement a fanbase since leaving etired NBA star Kobe New York still have more to prove”. San Diego had plenty of incentive Bryant, actor Co- “In both life and football, fail- to court him. lin Hanks and NFL ure is inevitable,” said Brady in a Westgate is not legally allowed receiver DeAndre ix-time Super Bowl lengthy post that racked up over to off er betting on Brady’s pos- HopkinsR will be among those champion Tom Brady a million likes in 10 hours. “You sible new team, but Murray sug- helping Major League Soc- looks poised to return can, however, learn from that gested hypothetical odds of 4/1 cer celebrate its 25th season at in 2020 — where he will failure, pick yourself up with for Brady joining the Chargers, events this year. play,S however, has emerged as great enthusiasm, and place 10/1 for the Raiders and 40/1 for The North American one of the NFL post-season’s yourself in the arena again.” the Panthers — with New Eng- league, which kicks off its biggest talking points. But while he was eff usive in his land the 1/10 favourites to retain 25th campaign on February our exciting future as we con- who has helped the Houston While many fans of the New praise for his fans in New Eng- the quarterback in the 2020 sea- 29, announced several events tinue on our path to become Texans reach the NFL playoff s England Patriots may be unable land, he didn’t clarify whether son. Around the NFL, specula- Wednesday paying tribute to one of the top leagues in the last eight, will help unveil sea- to bear the thought of the quar- he would return to the team that tion was mixed. the milestone campaign, which world.” son jerseys next month at New terback wearing another team’s famously drafted him in the sixth “It sounds like Tom Brady is introduces expansion clubs In- Bryant, who won fi ve NBA York Fashion Week. jersey, that reality could po- round two decades ago. saying goodbye to New England ter Miami and Nashville. titles in 20 seasons with the Los MLS will feature a special tentially come to pass, with the 20-13 loss to the Tennessee Ti- And speculation over his next in today’s post,” tweeted analyst “Our 25th season will cel- Angeles Lakers before retir- 25th-year crest and ball, which 20-season veteran heading into tans in the wild card round. steps has grown rampant among Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless). ebrate our rich history by ing in 2016, will attend a youth will use blue and green colors free agency. The 42-year-old has faced reg- fans, analysts and oddsmakers. “Hopefully after all cards are honouring the countless peo- skills challenge event next as the original league ball had The Los Angeles Chargers, ular speculation about his pos- John Murray, the executive di- played [owner Robert Kraft] can ple behind the growth of our week in Los Angeles at Banc in 1996. Carolina Panthers, Cleveland sible retirement, despite having rector of Race & Sports Opera- get both sides to reach an agree- league and refl ecting upon of California Stadium, where MLS supporters will help Browns and Miami Dolphins previously expressed an interest tions at the SuperBook at West- ment,” tweeted former linebacker many of the memorable mo- the MLS All-Stars will face the determine the greatest goal are among the numerous teams in playing until his mid-forties. gate Las Vegas, told Reuters he Tedy Bruschi (@TedyBruschi), ments in our history,” said MLS Mexican League All-Stars on over 25 MLS seasons as well as picked by experts as possible He appeared to put to rest any believed Brady would likely stay who won three Super Bowl commissioner Don Garber. July 29. a list of the top 25 MLS play- landing places for the 14-time lingering doubts about continu- with the Patriots, but said the championships alongside Brady. “During this season-long Hanks, the son of iconic ac- ers from a quarter-century of pro bowler, after a devastating ing in the sport on Wednesday, Chargers, who have struggled to “Brady belongs in New England.” celebration, we’ll also focus on tor Tom Hanks, and Hopkins, matches. Gulf Times 6 Friday, January 10, 2020 SPORT

RUGBY SWIMMING Cruden plays Dressel tipped to down hopes of dominate All Blacks recall Olympics ‘I’ve been removed from that environment for a few seasons...’

Reuters Kipchoge and women’s high New York jumper Mariya Lasitskene as the best bets for gold. Kenyan Kipchoge, the de- merican Caeleb fending champion and world Dressel will become record-holder, has won his a global superstar by past 10 marathons dating back winning more events to 2014 and is a hot favourite to thanA any other swimmer at follow in the footsteps of Afri- this year’s Tokyo Olympics can marathon pioneer Abebe but he is unlikely to rack up Bikila (1960 and 1964) by win- gold medals at the same clip ning back-to-back. as Michael Phelps, predicts Russian Lasitskene led the Olympic historian Bill Mallon. world list last year, clearing Phelps, who retired after the 2.06m, and captured her third 2016 Rio Games, had a range straight world championship. from the 100 metres up to 400 Perhaps Lasitskene’s biggest which enabled him to claim a concern is whether she will be record haul of 23 gold medals allowed to lace up her spikes in across four Olympics, includ- Tokyo, as Russian athletes will ing eight in Beijing in 2008. likely only be allowed to com- Dressel, on the other hand, pete on a case-by-case basis is a pure sprinter who maxes if they can demonstrate they out at 100 metres. have no history of using per- Dressel won six golds at last formance- enhancing drugs. year’s world championships — “She’s actually been critical the 50 and 100 freestyle and of the Russian doping system butterfl y, along with two relays so I think she’ll be allowed to — and was even more prolifi c compete and if she is she’ll File photo of New Zealand’s Aaron Cruden. two years previously, claiming defi nitely win gold,” said Mal- seven golds. lon. Agencies “Coming back is more about contribut- “For me, I’m so passionate about the Toulon fl y-half Louis Carbonel, the im- But the sprints have a higher In gymnastics, Mallon is Wellington/Paris ing to the Chiefs and we obviously have Chiefs, spending time here before I moved pressive ball-carrying prop Jean-Baptiste level of unpredictably, Mallon hardly going out on a limb in aspirations of winning a title.” away,” Cruden said. Gros and powerful number eight Cameron says, citing the need to make a predicting that American Si- A World Cup winner in 2011, Cruden “If I was going to come back, it was Woki who has scored twice in 12 matches fast start off the blocks, espe- mone Biles, a four-times win- ormer All Blacks fl yhalf Aaron would likely be behind incumbents Beau- hopefully always going to be here in Ham- for Bordeaux-Begles this season. cially in the 50. ner in Rio, will reign supreme Cruden has attempted to play den Barrett, Richie Mo’unga, Josh Ioane ilton.” Alongside Woki is new skipper Charles “I think Dressel will domi- again, on the caveat she avoids down any thoughts of a recall to and Damian McKenzie in the pecking or- Meanwhile, new France coach Fabien Ollivon who has just 11 Test appearances nate swimming,” Mallon said injury. the national side with his focus on der for the national side. Galthie said his squad for the upcoming to his name. of the 23-year-old in a tele- However, the biggest gold theF Waikato Chiefs before he heads to Ja- Barrett, however, was principally used Six Nations, which includes 19 uncapped Ollivon’s international career has been phone interview with Reuters. medal certainty in any sport, pan later this year. as a fullback with Mo’unga at fl yhalf last players, was assembled with a view to- restricted after three shoulder injuries “I don’t think he’s going to he says, is the US women’s The 31-year-old Cruden returned to the year by former coach Steve Hansen, while wards the World Cup on home soil in 2023. in the space of two years and says he will win eight gold medals. He’s basketball team. Chiefs for the 2020 Super Rugby season McKenzie’s best position is also at full- Former Les Bleus captain Galthie, 50, be able to lean on eight of his club team- much more of a sprinter than And for an under the ra- after cutting short his contract in France. back and Cruden could force himself back who took over from Jacques Brunel after mates and those who featured with him at Phelps was, and the sprints are dar storyline worth follow- Having returned to New Zealand he into the equation. last year’s World Cup in Japan, has named last year’s World Cup. always a bit of a crap shoot, a ing, keep an eye on the men’s would be eligible to play for the All Blacks Ian Foster has succeeded Hansen as a very inexperienced 42-man outfi t. “There are quite a lot of Toulon players little higher risk.” freesyle wrestling rivalry be- in their mid-year tests against Wales and head coach of the three-times world Forward Bernard le Roux is the only who I know well so certainly even if there On the women’s side, Mal- tween American Kyle Sny- Scotland and possibly during the Rugby champions, who were beaten by England player over 30 while centre Gael Fickou is will be new faces I don’t know, there will lon predicts it will be diffi cult der and Russian Abdulrashid Championship before he heads to Japa- in the World Cup semi-fi nals in Japan last the only man with more than 51 caps. be a lot of guys who I do know,” he told for American Katie Ledecky to Sadulaev. nese club Kobelco Steelers. October and is likely to want to stamp his “We’re trying to put together a team for AFP. replicate her three individual Snyder won the 97 kilogram Cruden, who left New Zealand after the own mark on the side early on. the long-term. We counted that we have “There are plenty of guys who I’ve golds from Rio, where she won division in Rio while Sadulaev 2017 British and Irish Lions tour told re- Cruden was hampered by injury at 36 matches, excluding warm-up Tests, spent a lot of time with in competition. I the 200, 400 and 800 freestyle captured the 86kg division. porters in Hamilton on Thursday he was Montpellier and the club’s owner Mohed between the last World Cup and the next can build something with them.” races, the latter two in world Sadulaev, nicknamed the not expecting to add to the 50 All Blacks Altred said last year he had been disap- one,” said Galthie. Galthie and Ollivon begin their tenures record times. “Russian Tank”, moved up to caps he won before he joined French club pointed with the fl yhalf’s form and inju- “On average, it’s less than 10 caps by hosting England on February 2 and the “I assumed she would 97kg in winning at last year’s Montpellier. ry-plagued seasons. among the forwards as it is among the former France scrum-half said he had an dominate in Rio and she did,” European Championships, “I haven’t really thought too much Despite the Wellington Hurricanes backs. 50 caps is around the number for inkling about who would feature against he said. “She may dominate and appears to be on a collision about the All Blacks,” Cruden said as he needing a fl yhalf to replace Barrett after the idea of a competitive side at the high- Eddie Jones’ World Cup runners-up. in Tokyo but there are people course with Snyder. joined the Chiefs for pre-season training. his move to the Auckland Blues, Cruden est level. It’s light, even really light, we’re “We have an idea about the 28 who we coming after her now and she “That could be the match of “I’ve been removed from that environ- said the Chiefs were the only side to reach aware of that,” he added. are going to keep and it’s true that we have hasn’t improved her times.” the Olympics, assuming Sadu- ment for a few seasons and there’s been a out to him about a possible return to New There are seven junior world cham- an approximate idea about our starting In athletics, Mallon cited laev can compete, being from lot of changes in that scene. Zealand. pions in the set-up including infl uential lineup,” he said. men’s marathon runner Eliud Russia,” said Mallon.

BOTTOMLINE Rivers wants the Clippers to stay motivated

TCA/DPA said after practice Wednesday.” doesn’t mean that if you have before we get another break, so Los Angeles And so this is the tough part, two 12 o’clock games that eve- we just gotta get through it and because you’re at the halfway ryone’s gonna play right, you be the best we can.” point, but you have the whole know? We just gotta get better The Clippers are 6-5 in their s they approach the half of the season left, still got at it.” last 11 games. halfway point of their the All-Star break and smart The Clippers played two af- In their fi ve losses, they gave 82-game schedule, teams try to run through the ternoon games last weekend, a up an average of 121.8 points Los Angeles Clippers All-Star break. loss to the Memphis Grizzlies per game, the same number coachA Doc Rivers said every But this is the stretch where and a win over the New York they averaged in their victories. NBA team reaches the “dog you can drop games — and Knicks, both sub-.500 teams. The Clippers will have had days” of the season in January. we’ve done that a couple times The Clippers surrendered an four days off when they play the This is the point in which — so we gotta start practising to average of 136 points in those Golden State Warriors tonight Rivers and his group have to get better.” two games, making it clear to at Staples Center. mentally push forward despite The Clippers are three games them that their defence has to The hope is that the Clippers the grinding nature of what away from their halfway mark improve. can clean up some things and they are faced with after play- and still have fi ve weeks left “Just being mentally tough get back to a tough defensive ing 38 games. before the week-long All-Star and just making sure every- mentality that has been a hall- The Clippers are 26-12, a break. body’s on the same page,” Lou mark of their play the last two record with which they are They are in fourth place in Williams said of how to im- seasons. somewhat content, but their the Western Conference, 4.5 prove. “We just had a lot of slip- defence has been a concern the games behind the fi rst-place “As far as our bodies go, we page,” Rivers said. “We had a lot last few games, Los Angeles Lakers. just gotta do a good job of tak- of games with a lot of no prac- leaving the Clippers search- “They know what we need to ing care of our bodies, manag- tice, even no shootarounds, so ing for answers on how to im- do to get a playoff seed, so that ing your minutes, managing you’re going to have slippage. prove it. should be the motivation,” Riv- the things that you do off the We had it. “You look at scores around ers said about pushing through court and be ready to go on “We couldn’t pick a better the league (and) you see some the month of January. game days. time for the practices to come crazy scores right now,” Rivers “That sounds great.That We got about four weeks left around.” Gulf Times Friday, January 10, 2020 7 SPORT

FOOTBALL GOLF Former champion Ormsby takes early lead Duhail up against at Hong Kong Open determined Sailiya

AFP well, really solid,” he said. in Qatar Cup today Hong Kong Thailand’s Jazz Janewattana- nond bogeyed the ninth and the ‘We know the philosophy with which they will be playing and we will be ready for them’ sixteenth and came in at two eadliners Shane Lowry under. “I hit some shots where I By Yash Mudgal and Tony Finau start- thought I could pull it off , but I Doha ed slowly at the Hong didn’t pull it off ,” he said. Kong Open yesterday, The 24-year-old, whose stel- Hwith former champion Wade lar 2019 sees him head to the US l Duhail are confi dent Ormsby setting the early pace Master in Augusta this April, going into the fi rst as the tournament teed off six failed to make the cut on both semi-fi nal of 2020 weeks after being postponed his previous two appearances in Qatar Cup against Al amid pro-democracy protests. Hong Kong. SailiyaA at the Jassim Bin Hamad Ormsby birdied three of the Stadium today, and coach Rui fi rst fi ve holes – and added three AMERICAN ROOKIE SHOOTS Faria feels his side is ready for the more against a lone bogey – to NINE BIRDIES TO LEAD opponents, who are very much end with a fi ve-under 65, hailing American Johannes Veerman capable of staging an upset. the “good vibes” at the historic fi red nine birdies in a fl awless “We’re facing a team that we Fanling course where he won his 62 yesterday to lead the South know well. They have stabil- maiden European Tour title in African Open by one shot as he ity at the technical level as their 2017. Japan’s Tomoharu Otsuki maintained a great start to his coach has been with them for was also fi ve under, while South fi rst European Tour season. The long. We know the philosophy Korea’s Yikeun Chang and Aus- key to the nine-under-par round with which they will be play- tralians Travis Smyth and David at Randpark Golf Club in Johan- ing and we will be ready for Gleeson were one behind and nesburg for the 27-year-old was them,” Faria said on the eve of joint second. The tight fairways fi nding 17 greens in the match. and breezy conditions chal- regulation. Al Duhail, who qualifi ed for lenged, with Open winner Lowry Having picked up two bird- the sixth edition of the tourna- fi nishing at one under. ies on the front nine, Veerman ment by virtue of fi nishing sec- “It was very, very tricky... claimed three in a row from 10 ond in the 2018-19 QNB Stars anything in the 60s out there is and four more between 15 and League, start favourites due to pretty good,” the Irishman said 18 to head Italian Nino Bertasio their unbeaten run in the QNB on his fi rst return to the course in and South African JC Ritchie. Qatar Stars League and the ar- a decade. “I think I can build on After just qualifying for a maid- rival of Croatian striker Mario that going forward.” en European Tour, Veerman has Mandzukic. Al Duhail coach Rui Faria (centre) and striker Ismail Mohamed (left) address a press conference on the eve of Qatar Cup semi-final against Al US big hitter Tony Finau was proved his worth with two top 10 However, they were held by Sailiya. (Below) Al Sailiya coach Sami Trabelsi (centre) and midfielder Mubarak Boussoufa (left) during the press conference. also subdued, fi nishing at one fi nishes in three starts before ar- Qatar SC to a goalless draw in PICTURES: Anas Khalid under but needing a spectacular riving in South Africa. Mandzukic’s opening match. save for par on the ninth after “I had a good round of Golf to- “We know the value of our two misplaced shots. day,” he said after shooting 62 in new recruit (Mario) Mandzu- “Tomorrow I’ve got to hit a lit- an opening round in which pre- kic, but we focus on the team tle bit better,” he said, admitting ferred lies were permitted after as a whole. In the last game, we there was a little bit of “rust” heavy overnight rain. had an organised opponent who remaining from a break taken “The course was set up for low worked seriously to get that after the President’s Cup in scores. The wind did not blow point, but we depend on the Melbourne. “My putter actually hard, the rough was not long team as a whole and not on one saved me. I probably could have and the greens were receptive, player. hit one or two over today, so I’m so there was a good number out “Our new North Korean play- happy to hit under par.” there. er Han Kwang-Song is training Hong Kong-born amateur Al- “I kept hitting a lot of good with the team, which is an addi- exander Yang – who at 17 is the shots on the front nine but did tional option for us,” said Faria. second youngest player in the not make as many putts as I did Faria joined Duhail last Janu- tournament – also ended one on the back nine. ary after assisting Jose Mour- under after a birdie on the eight- “On the back nine I made two inho for 17 years at some of the eenth. long ones of 40-plus feet. I hit 17 world’s biggest clubs. “I’m really happy at the way I greens today so that was a lot of “When I came here, I knew played today. I hit the ball really chances I had for birdies.” the history of our club and its ambitions. When the admin- istration has provided us with all the facilities, our target is to Tiger to open 2020 PGA campaign compete for all titles. After all, working intensely to get back to last game, we were closer to of view, this date is a result of cases, we always want to spring at Torrey Pines, Riviera this is football and I always focus my actual level.” winning had it not been for our calendar pressure. All matches a surprise. In the league, you on the next match,” the 44-year- On the other hand, Sailiya mistakes. We hope not to repeat we currently play are part of have opportunities to compen- Reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods will play his first US PGA old Portuguese coach said. would be hoping that they come them and target victory and our preparations for the AFC sate because it is a long tourna- Tour event of 2020 in two weeks at Torrey Pines, the 15-time major Al Duhail striker Ismail Mo- back strongly from their 1-2 de- reaching the fi nal,” the 51-year- Champions League. We will fo- ment. But in Cup, you should be champion announced yesterday on Twitter. hamed promised his teammates feat to Al Khor in the league last old said. cus on getting a positive result,” at your best in order every time Woods will play the Farmers Insurance Open near San Diego before will give their best in the match. week. Talking about his side’s per- the Tunisian, who has been to achieve victory,” the 35-year- hosting the Genesis Invitational February 13-16 at Riviera near Los “Our preparations went off “We are focusing completely formance, which fi nished third with the club since 2013, said. old player said. Angeles, where he is the tournament host. well. We know that the cup on the Qatar Cup now, especial- in the league last season, he Sailiya’s Moroccan midfi elder Al Sailiya made it to the elite “Excited for this season to begin @FarmersInsOpen and @ games are diff erent from league ly the semifi nal against Al Du- said: “For me in terms of players’ Mubarak Boussoufa also feels tournament by fi nishing a cred- TGRLiveEvents’ @thegenesisinv, our first year as an invitational,” games. It requires high concen- hail,” said coach Sami Trabelsi. quality, we are much better than it will be a good game and was itable third in the league, behind Woods tweeted. “See you soon west coast.” tration and we must bring out “This is a tournament where last season. Our results may have confi dent of his team’s show. reigning champions Al Sadd Woods, who turned 44 last month, began the 2019-20 season with our best and we will do it in or- we are honoured to compete in. been better last season. This “We have to be at the top and Al Duhail. a victory at the inaugural Zozo Championship in Japan for his 82nd der to qualify for the fi nal. There They are looking to reach the time, we could not start the sea- of our readiness. We will play In the ongoing season of the US PGA Tour victory, matching the all-time record set by Sam Snead. is no easy match. We as a team fi nal, they have a team full of son in a good way because there against Al Duhail, who are con- QNB Stars League, Duhail are He has a history of success at Torrey Pines, winning eight times at is always are a tough opponent,” stars, with great experience in are players who joined us late. sidered as the best side in the the table toppers with 30 points, the oceanside layout, most recently in 2013. It’s also where he won Mohamed said. European and Arab leagues. That has aff ected our results, we league this season, and we will while Al Sailiya is in sixth with the 2008 US Open and where next year’s US Open will be contested. Talking about his fi tness, “There is always great seri- hope to be in a better position in be ready to off er our best level,” 17 points. Woods is set to make his 85th major start in April at Augusta Na- the 29-year-old forward said, ousness when we face Al Duhail. the second leg.” Boussoufa said. The other unbeaten team in tional, where he will try and capture his sixth Masters green jacket “I always try to implement the They have outstanding players, “We know that there are “We have a strong motivation the league, Al Rayyan, will take to match the career record held by Jack Nicklaus, who also owns coach’s instructions. After my especially in attack. Ours is a many obligations for the Qatar especially since we are play- on Al Sadd in the second semi- the all-time major win mark of 18. return from injury, I have been more collective eff ort. In the national team. From my point ing a very special team. In such fi nal tomorrow.

FOCUS Al Shaqab Showjumping Competition setting foundation for a healthy equestrian ecosystem inal preparations are un- “The number of Qatari riders and proach will promote the commu- make Qatar an equestrian hub at a derway for the Al Shaqab individual horse owners has been nity even more, as horse riding is an global level. With the facilities and Showjumping Competi- growing at a healthy pace over the expensive sport and horses require competencies that are currently tion, which will be con- last few years. The overall direction high maintenance. available in Qatar, this is an achiev- ductedF by Al Shaqab, member of charted by the Qatar Equestrian “At Al Shaqab, we work really able goal.” Qatar Foundation at the Al Shaqab Federation (QEF) and Al Shaqab, is hard with our riders training them Al Shaqab will conduct two Indoor Arena today and tomorrow. to push the new generation to the to reach international levels of showjumping competitions this The vision behind the event is to next level, wherein they can begin equestrian sports. Once they reach year, and the objective is to make create a self-sustaining equestrian supporting themselves. While en- this level, they need to compete it an annual feature. A total prize environment that supports rid- couraging individuals to own and against the top riders from QEF, the money of QR270,000 will be given ers, individual horse owners, and compete with their own horses, it Gulf, and other countries. By con- away for each event. The upcom- the local horse community, and, is also important to continue con- ducting events like the Al Shaqab ing competition will follow along eventually, making Qatar a global ducting outstanding horse shows Show Jumping Competition, we in- the lines of the Longines Hathab equestrian hub. and to provide a healthy local mar- spire our riders, off ering them op- – Qatar Equestrian Tour in terms Mohamed Sultan al-Suwaidi, ket to buy and sell horses as well as portunities to improve their skills of classes, class-titles, etc. The en- Manager, Equine Education De- equestrian-related products. It is while expanding their knowledge. suing competition, scheduled to be partment at Al Shaqab, said: “The equally essential to off er riders and As a result of the competitions and held in March, will be diff erent in Al Shaqab Show Jumping Com- individual owners greater challeng- camps we have been conducting, terms of criteria, categories, class- petition is very signifi cant as it is es by organising more competitions we are able to see steady growth in titles, and challenge levels. Com- being organised with a long-term held at international standards with international participation. Such munity involvement being high on objective to further promote the signifi cant prize money. The prize international involvement brings its agenda, Al Shaqab seeks to fi nd equestrian ecosystem in Qatar and money will encourage interested in even better revenue, thus help- gaps in the equestrian scene within foster the equestrian heritage of the individuals to further invest in their ing to extend and expand the local the community and works towards nation. love for equestrian sport. This ap- equestrian market. Our aim is to closing them.

Friday, January 10, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOOTBALL Qatar and Syria play out 2-2 draw in AFC U-23 opener

AFC durisag the simplest of fi nishes then Barakat thumping an eff ort Bangkok from close range. into the side netting shortly after. To his credit, Ghannam made As the game wore on and with amends for his error moments defences dominating, Qatar ubstitute Alaa Aldin Dali later, this time palming away forward Khalid Mazeed forced struck late on to salvage Hashim Ali’s fi erce drive follow- Ghannam into a smart stop, be- a point for Syria as they ing a neatly worked free-kick. fore the Al Wathba custodian came from two goals After weathering a brief Syr- produced a fi ne double save to downS to draw 2-2 with Qatar in ian fl urry, Qatar stretched their deny Hashim Ali and Abdurisag. Group B of the AFC U23 Champi- advantage in the 22nd minute as However, in a dramatic late onship Thailand 2020 campaign Yosief put through his own net twist, Dali was on hand to draw yesterday. when trying to deal with Homam Syria level and crown a sensa- Dali converted Mohamed Al- Ahmed’s whipped cross. tional fi ght back. hallak’s cross at the far post to Syria were, though, to throw Qatar will next be in action earn a share of the spoils for Syria themselves a lifeline as half-time when they face Saudi Arabia, with on a night when Yusuf Abduris- approached, Abdul Rahman Bar- Syria scheduled to meet Japan. ag’s early eff ort and an own goal akat converting Kamel Koaeh’s Both games will take place at the from defender Yosief Mohamed pinpoint set-piece courtesy of a Thammasat Stadium on Sunday. had threatened to be their undo- powering header that gave Qatar ing. goalkeeper Mohamed al-Bakri Qatar’s Yusuf Abdurisag In what ultimately proved to little or no chance. (second from left) celebrates be a sign of the drama to come, Clearly buoyed by their goal, his goal against Syria with his Qatar were ahead within 60 sec- Syria started the second half teammates during the AFC onds. Syria goalkeeper William brightly, with fi rst substitute U-23 Championship match at Ghannam fumbled Amro Surag’s Abdul Kader Adi fi zzing a drive Thammasat Stadium in Pathum deep cross leaving Yusuf Ab- narrowly wide on 56 minutes and Thani, Thailand, yesterday.

HORSE RACING Aahil, Al Naama, Jabalah cap De Mieulle hat-trick The trainer’s wards won the three big features on His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani Trophy Day

By Sports Reporter Doha

rainer Alban de Mieulle had a fantastic day in offi ce yesterday with his wards sweeping the Tthree big ones on His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al- Thani Trophy Day, including Umm Qarn’s Aahil bagging the QR500,000 feature with ease at the Al Rayyan Park’s turf track. De Mieulle’s hat-trick began with another Umm Qarn colt and Qatar Derby topper from last month, Jabalah, who entered the paddock a winner for the third straight time under Soufi ane Saadi in the His Highness Sheikh Action from the Al Sabiq races yesterday. Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani Silver Cup for four-year-old Cup, a Thoroughbred Graduation Lukasek). Won by: Hd, 1 ¼, 1. Purebred Arabians. event, under Ryan Curatolo. Time: 2:04.95. Owner: Khalifa bin Saadi’s mount beat Julian Sheail al-Kuwari. Trainer: Jassim Smart-trained Mon’nia by a lit- Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) CEO Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi (fourth from right) with the feature winners on His Highness Sheikh RESULTS Mohamed Ghazali. tle more than two lengths for the Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani Trophy Day. Umm Qarn’s Aahil and Jabalah, and Al Shaqab Racing’s Al Naama won the three big features at Al Race 1: 1. Seeyoubyme (Ryan Race 5: 1. R B Kindle (Harry win in the 2200m race. Rayyan Park yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Curatolo), 2. Veranda (Luca Bentley), 2. Daloob (Faleh The script repeated itself in Maniezzi), 3. Al Adaid (Ronan Bughanaim), 3. Caid De L’Ardus the His Highness Sheikh Ab- Mohamed Ghazali registered a Thomas), 4. Tremendous Leap (JP (Eduardo Pedroza), 4. Kasser (Pier dullah bin Khalifa al-Thani Cup double with Khalifa bin Sheail Guillambert). Won by: Nk, 2 ¾, ½. Convertino). Won by: 2 ¾, Shd, ¾. (Group 2 PA) for four-year-olds al-Kuwari’s The Blue Eye, a mul- Time: 1:35.62. Owner: Hassan Ali Time: 1:10.82. Owner: Al Shahania and older Arabians. His Highness tiple Group 1 winner, bagging al-Abdulmalik. Trainer: Deborah Stud. Trainer: Jassim Mohamed the Amir Sword-winner Ebraz, the Umm Qarn Trophy for Thor- Mountain. Ghazali. saddled by Smart and ridden by oughbreds under JP Guillambert, Race 2: 1. Mr Diamond (JP Guil- Race 6: 1. Jabalah (Soufiane Saa- Tomas Lukasek, was beaten by and Bentley-guided Al Shahania lambert), 2. On The Front Line di), 2. Mon’nia (Tomas Lukasek), 3. Faleh Bughanaim-helmed Al Stud’s R B Kindle to Majd Al Arab (Ronan Thomas), 3. Shaheen Jabir (Ronan Thomas), 4. Minstrel Naama by a length-and-a-half, Sprinter Championship (Group 3 (Eduardo Pedroza), 4. Woodkid (Ryan Curatolo). Won by: 2 ¼, ¾, as Al Shaqab Racing colours en- PA). (Tomas Lukasek). Won by: Shd, 2 ¼. Time: 2:29.12. Owner: Umm tered the winner’s circle much Ghazali’s son, Mohamed, too Hd, 1 ¼. Time: 1:22.68. Owner: Kha- Qarn. Trainer: Alban de Mieulle. to the delight of an ecstatic De saddled two winners, one each lifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari. Trainer: Race 7: 1. Al Naama (Faleh Bugha- Mieulle. Umm Qarn colt Tayf was for the colours of Khalifa bin Mohamed Jassim Ghazali. naim), 2. Ebraz (Tomas Lukasek), third under Ronan Thomas. Sheail al-Kuwari and Sheail bin Race 3: 1. Zamharer (Alexander 3. Tayf (Ronan Thomas), 4. Rajeh The victory was third this Khalifa al-Kuwari. Guillambert Reznikov), 2. Ernest Aldrich (Edu- (Harry Bentley). Won by: 1 ½, season for Bughanaim, who had was astride Mr Diamond that ardo Pedroza), 3. What A Surprise ¼, 2 ½. Time: 1:44.26. Owner: Al won the Qatari Jockey of the Year won the Charm Spirit Cup, a (Soufiane Saadi), 4. Skate (Luca Shaqab Racing. Trainer: Alban de Award in November 2019. Thoroughbred Handicap event, Maniezzi). Won by: ¼, 1 ½, Shd. Mieulle. But it was Aahil, third in the Ronan Thomas rides Umm Qarn’s Aahil to His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Thani Trophy victory. while Alexander Reznikov was in Time: 1:53.06. Owner: Sheail bin Race 8: 1. Aahil (Ronan Thomas), race last year, who capped a fan- the saddle for Zamharer that also Khalifa al-Kuwari. Trainer: Mo- 2. Molheb Al Naif (Harry Bentley), tastic day for the Frenchman and In the mile-long Trophy race, within striking distance. tually winning by three lengths. won a Thoroughbred Handicap hamed Jassim Ghazali. 3. AJS Moaddie (Tomas Lukasek), the famous white-stars-and- Thomas had Aahil set the pace As the latter came closer on the Another Umm Qarn colt, Mehdi, event, the Yasmeen Cup. Race 4: 1. The Blue Eye (JP 4. Mehdi (Soufiane Saadi). Won maroon silks of His Highness after coming out wide from Gate home straight, Thomas gave his too made it to the frame in fourth The day began with Deborah Guillambert), 2. Pazeer (Edu- by: 3, 3/4, Shd. Time: 1:44.16. Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa al- 8 and then held on as Harry Bent- mount a go-ahead and Aahil was behind AJS Moaddie. Mountain-saddled Seeyoubyme ardo Pedroza), 3. Extremis (Pier Owner: Umm Qarn. Trainer: Alban Thani and Umm Qarn. ley-ridden Molheb Al Naif stayed off building a healthy gap, even- Champion trainer Jassim topping the Very Nice Name Convertino), 4. Al Shaman (Tomas de Mieulle.

DAKAR RALLY Sainz extends lead with stage win as al-Attiyah stays in hunt Reuters We got a puncture at the beginning but “It’s been a good day. We pushed Alexy (KSA/RUS/Mini) 12:39, 9. Jakub London, United Kingdom we managed to come back.” hard at the start, made some good ways Przygonski/Timo Gottschalk (POL/GER/ Al-Attiyah said the route from Al and then I caught up with the Honda Mini) 12:47, 10. Mathieu Serradori/Fabian Ula to Ha’il had been better for buggies boys. Ricky and them were in front, but Lurquin (FRA/BEL/Century) 17:49 paniard Carlos Sainz extend- than his Toyota Hilux pickup but “we it’s been a good stage,” said Price. ed his Dakar Rally lead with a did what was necessary to avoid any “It’s actually the fi rst time I’ve rid- OVERALL STANDINGS (top 10) second stage win in fi ve days problems”. den with a whole big group, so it was 1. Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz (ESP/ESP/ yesterday, even as defending “We had a fl at tyre 5 kilometres before quite enjoyable but at the end of the day Mini) 19hr 04min 13sec, 2. Nasser championS Nasser al-Attiyah stayed the fi nish, but we preferred to carry on they are competitive, so we need to stay Al-Attiyah/Matthieu Baumel (QAT/ within striking distance in the Saudi without changing the wheel. It was more in front of them. We’re happy with the FRA/Toyota) at 5:59. (penalty: 3:00), desert. camel grass than real dunes. I think we day and we’ll see how day six goes now.” 3. Stéphane Peterhansel/Paulo Fiuza Sainz, a two-times Dakar winner, will see real dunes next week,” he added. (FRA/POR/Mini) 17:53, 4. Yazeed Al fi nished almost three minutes ahead of The rally fi nishes in Qiddiya on Janu- CARS STAGE 5 RESULTS (top 10) Rajhi/Konstantin Zhiltsov (KSA/RUS/ closest rival al-Attiyah to forge fi ve min- ary 17. 1. Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz (ESP/ESP/ Toyota) 31:39 (penalty: 2:00), 5. Orlando utes and 59 seconds clear of the Qatari. In the motorcycle category, Austral- Mini) 3hr 52min 01sec, 2. Nasser Al- Terranova/Bernardo Graue (ARG/ARG/ French driver Stephane Peterhansel, ia’s defending champion, Toby Price, Attiyah/Matthieu Baumel (QAT/FRA/ Mini) 32:05, 6. Mathieu Serradori/Fa- a record 13-times Dakar winner on two won the day’s 564 km stage after KTM Toyota) at 2:56, 3. Stephane Peterhan- bian Lurquin (FRA/BEL/Century) 44:44 wheels and four, was third overall but teammate Sam Sunderland of Britain, Toyota’s driver Nasser al-Attiyah of Qatar and his co-driver Mathieu Baumel of sel/Paulo Fiuza (FRA/POR/Mini) 6:11, (penalty: 2:00), 7. Giniel De Villiers/Alex nearly 18 minutes behind Mini team- champion in 2017, crashed out. France compete during the Stage 5 of Dakar Rally yesterday. (AFP) 4. Yazeed Al Rajhi/Konstantin Zhiltsov Haro Bravo (RSA/ESP/Toyota) 46:26, 8. mate Sainz. Organisers said the Dubai-based (KSA/RUS/Toyota) 8:29, 5. Orlando Bernhard Ten Brinke/Tom Colsoul (NED/ “We gained three minutes, it was not 30-year-old had hurt his back and left ing held in the Middle East for the fi rst tralised section. Terranova/Bernardo Graue (ARG/ARG/ BEL/Toyota) 1hr 04:54, 9. Yasir Seaidan/ easy, we had to push really hard at the shoulder in a fall at the 187 km mark but time after a decade in South America, Price became this year’s fi rst double- Mini) 8:52, 6. Giniel De Villiers/Alex Kuzmich Alexy (KSA/RUS/Mini) 1:43:04, end,” said Sainz, who also won the third was quickly attended to and had not after the second stage and was fastest stage winner but American Ricky Brabec, Haro Bravo (RSA/ESP/Toyota) 11:46, 7. 10. Benediktas Vanagas/Filipe Palmeiro stage in his buggy on Tuesday. lost consciousness. on Wednesday before incurring a fi ve- on a Honda, extended his overall lead to Fernando Alonso/Marc Coma (ESP/ESP/ (LTU/POR/Toyota) 2hr 08:09 (penalty: “I’m happy, the car is working fi ne. Sunderland had led the rally, be- minute penalty for speeding in a neu- nine minutes over the Australian. Toyota) 12:23, 8. Yasir Seaidan/Kuzmich 20:00)