CRICKET | Page 4 GOLF | Page 6 Labuschagne Els elated aft er ton powers ‘unbelievable’ Aussies to Day 4-1 start 1 advantage against US

Friday, December 13, 2019 Rabia II 16, 1441 AH GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS We didn’t doubt our ability to win: Sadd striker Bounedjah ‘They got their goal from their only chance. We fought back and scored the second after missing more than five chances’

By Sports Reporter

aghdad Bounedjah was a livewire on Wednes- day night as the Al Sadd forward caused havoc in HiengheneB Sport’s back line. The Algerian put in a Man-of-the- Match performance and scored the opening goal as the hosts beat the New Caledonian team 3-1 in their opening match of the FIFA Club World Cup at the Jas- sim Bin Hamad Stadium. Bounedjah fi red his side ahead in the 25th minute when he tucked home a cross from Ab- delkarim Hassan, and should have had more on the night. Hienghene made it diffi cult for Sadd after Amy Roine struck af- ter half time to draw level. But Hassan’s powerfully con- verted indirect free-kick set them on the way to victory in extra time, with Pedro Miguel adding an insurance goal with six minutes remaining. Bounedjah said the victory was hard-fought but added his team had no doubt they would win the encounter. “We could’ve scored three in the fi rst half and then it would’ve been a diff erent story, but luck wasn’t on our side. We also missed some very easy chances due to lack of focus in front of goal,” Bounedjah told FIFA.com. “We didn’t doubt our abil- ity to win today as we controlled the game from beginning to end. They got their goal from their only chance. We fought back and scored the second after miss- ing more than fi ve chances. We were able to kill the game in extra Al Sadd’s (second from right, also inset) in action against Hienghene Sport during the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019 play-off in Doha on Wednesday. PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil, AFP time,” he added. Al Sadd now turn their atten- Having gotten close to two fi rst of more to come in the FIFA When asked about Al Sadd’s match will improve for us to Al-Ansari sustained injury dur- set light running exercises as re- tion to tomorrow’s encounter goals per game on the way to win- Club World Cup Qatar 2019. aims in a tournament that is be- qualify for the semi-finals. ing the fi rst half against Hiengh- covery for the group of players against Mexican side Monter- ning the title in April, Bounedjah Having found the net twice re- ing played at home in Qatar, All the players need to work ene Sport and had to be replaced who had appeared in Wednesday’s rey, a side that on paper at least gave his take on why he has been cently on international duty for Bounedjah concluded: “We will hard to help the team to win. by al-Haydos in the 25th minute. game, while the rest of the team arrive with a greater pedigree less prolifi c than usual in front Algeria, Bounedjah is hoping for do all we can to win the title and The game against Monterrey Tests revealed the extent of underwent physical and techni- than the debutants from New of goal so far this season. “After a strong end to a year that has if we do that will be great. If not, will be more difficult than the the injury in al-Ansari’s left foot, cal training drills. There was also Caledonia. “We focused on our the Africa Cup of Nations, I went been full of highs. we know that’s football.” Hienghene game,” he said. with the team’s medical staff de- a practice mini-game between the fi rst match against Hienghene,” back to training right away and “I won the Africa Cup of Na- Midfielder Hassan al-Hay- termining a three-week period of players. Another round of training said Bounedjah. “Now it’s over didn’t rest well,” he said. tions,” he said. “I reached the dos, who had a goal disal- MUSCLE INJURY RULES rest, treatment and recuperation will be held today. and we are through to the second “That’s why I haven’t scored as AFC Champions League’s semi- lowed for off side, felt Sadd AL-ANSARI OUT FOR THREE before he can rejoin the team for Meanwhile, former Al Sadd round we will think about the many goals as last year, but I am fi nal too, but we couldn’t make to has to put in a much better WEEKS training. star Felipe Jorge visited the team Monterrey game. We will need to working hard to regain my best the fi nal. I am now taking part in show against Monterrey. “We Meanwhile, Al Sadd forward Ab- Sadd resumed training yes- at their training session. The be more switched-on if we want form.” the FIFA Club World Cup so I can are glad to have qualified for dulaziz al-Ansari has been ruled terday ahead of the game against Brazilian maestro was given a to beat them and progress to the Bounedjah’s strike against say that 2019 has been an excep- the second round. I hope that out of action for three week with Mexican side Monterrey in the cordial reception by the players semi-fi nal.” Hienghene Sport could be the tional year for me.” the performance in the next a muscle injury in his left foot. second round. The coaching staff and staff .

SPOTLIGHT Saudi club Al Hilal arrive in Doha for Club WCup QNA at Al Sadd’s home will face Bra- We will be among the best in the Doha zil’s Flamengo, the champion world and compete with the six of Copa Libertadores for South continental champions. We will American Clubs. do our best in this important l Hilal Saudi Football Nawaf al-Abed joined Al Hilal international tournament. We Club, the Asian Cham- as a substitute for Salman al- have prepared well to achieve pions, have arrived in Faraj, who sustained an injury our desired goal,” Al Hilal coach Doha for FIFA Club after his participation with the Razvan Lucescu said upon his AWorld Cup 2019. Saudi national team in the 24th team’s arrival in Doha. The club will begin their cam- . paign against Tunisia’s Esper- Al Hilal qualifi ed for the Club Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal arrives ance Sportive de Tunis, the Af- World Cup 2019 after winning for the FIFA Club World Cup 2019 rican Champions, tomorrow in the AFC Champions League last in Doha yesterday. The AFC the quarter-fi nal round at Jas- month, beating Japan’s Urawa. Champions League winners will sim bin Hamad Stadium. The “I am proud to be here with play Brazil’s Flamengo tomorrow. winners of tomorrow’s match my team in the Club World Cup. (Twitter/FIFAcom) Gulf Times Friday, December 13, 2019 FIFA Club World Cup 2 Qatar 2019

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Exceptional Club WC veteran 2019 whets Afi f’s appetite for Basanta aims to more success

AFC said the AFC Player of the Year Doha award was won with the support of his teammates, dedicating it to his parents and the national team s Akram Afi f caps a and Al Sadd coaches for helping phenomenal 12 months him improve. save best for last by appearing in the “This award goes to my par- FIFA Club World Qatar, ents and I want to thank eve- theA 2019 AFC Player of the Year is ryone who supported me,” said Monterrey captain will be taking part in the competition for the fourth time already targeting more success. Afi f. “I won the award with the Al Sadd’s left winger started help of the offi cials, managers ew players know the the year by playing an integral and teammates at Al Sadd and FIFA Club World Cup part in Qatar’s AFC Asian Cup the national team, along with the as well as Jose Basanta. UAE 2019 triumph, as his one offi cials at . When the whistle blows goal and 10 assists helped power “The coaches who trained me toF start the match between Felix Sanchez’s squad to conti- at Al Sadd helped me win this Monterrey and Al Sadd tomor- nental glory with Afi f’s partner- award – whether it was (current row, the Rayado central de- ship with a major head coach) or Jesualdo fender will be taking part in the highlight. Ferreira (former head coach),” competition for the fourth time. Afi f, 23 carried that form into he said. “Also, the head coach of “I’m happy and very pleased the , scoring the national team Felix Sanchez to be able to return to a Club 26 goals and making 15 assists, who is like a father to me as we World Cup, a tournament at as Al Sadd won the title for a have been working together for which the organization is com- record-extending 14th time with 15 years.” parable at an international level the player named Best Player of Afi f became the third Qatari to a World Cup. I was at Bra- the Season. The Super Cup was player to win the AFC Player zil 2014, and everything is very also added to the Al Sadd trophy of the Year award after Khalfan similar,” he said. cabinet. Ibrahim in 2006 while Al Sadd He fi rst graced this competi- On the continental front, the teammate tion at Japan 2011 aged 27 and Doha-based sided reached the won the award last year. now arrives in Qatar at the age 2019 AFC Champions League “It’s a great honour for Qatari of 35 and fi rmly established as semi-fi nals and Afi f’s consist- players to win the Best Player of captain. “All that’s changed is ency made him a deserving win- the Year award for the second my age,” he said in good humour. ner of the 2019 AFC Player of the consecutive year and I hope that “My last Club World Cup was Year. this success will continue in the in 2013, so it’s been a few years. “I’m happy with what I have future,” said Afi f. Today I’ve more experience and achieved in 2019, whether with “As Qatari players, we always done a lot in my career: I’ve Qatar, Al Sadd or individually,” give our best on the pitch and played in Europe, I competed in Afi f said after receiving the 2019 this is refl ected with the great a World Cup with Argentina, I AFC Player of the Year award success that we have had at the went back to Monterrey... Now, from AFC President Shaikh Sal- Continental stage. I’m looking forward to playing man bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa in “Personally, I want to continue our fi rst game at this World Cup Doha on Tuesday. improving and winning hon- and winning it. The supremely talented player ours.” His track record and number of games played make him a point of reference for those without his experience in the competition. “Some players ask what it’s like, and the fi rst thing I Monterrey defender Jose Basanta (left) has said that this will be his last FIFA Club World Cup campaign. (AFP) tell them is to enjoy it, as it’s not a tournament you get to play in put the gloss on an already im- I’ve lived in that wonderful city able to perform at your best. refuses to be cowed, preferring every year. I remind them that pressive footballing career. for many years. I’ve experienced “If we manage to do that instead to dream big: “Contesting it’s not easy to qualify and that “This will be my last Club unforgettable moments there, it, we’ll be able to put in a big the league play-off s (in Mexico) they need to savour it. The expe- World Cup, so a great perform- on and off the pitch. Moreover, performance and hopefully has made us stronger and we have rience you gain at tournaments ance here would be a good start my family has settled very well progress to the next round, al- good rhythm going right now. like these is awesome.” to the end of my career. I really there, and my daughter was though there will be nothing “Monterrey are a team of real hope we can go far, as it could be born there too.” easy about our fi rst opponents. pedigree and the players have THE END IN SIGHT one of my last games...” All the teams here will be very known each other for a long Unquestionably, Basanta will And what better than a fi ne CLEAR STRATEGY tough to beat, so you just have to time. We also know the coaching be feeling a little nostalgic dur- performance here to bring some The defender has learned some go step by step. If we get through staff well because, although they ing his side’s Qatar 2019 ad- joy to Monterrey, the club he valuable lessons from previous that, then there will be time to only took charge again recently, venture. At 35, with his playing joined in 2008 and has been editions that he is keen to put think about Liverpool, the team they were at the club for a long days numbered, his priority will at ever since, except for a sea- into practice: “The objective is everyone’s dreaming of playing.” time before. So that’s a big plus be to improve on the third place son (2014-15) with Fiorentina. to adapt as quickly as possible to Despite the obvious diffi cul- to help us go further than be- achieved in 2012, which would “Monterrey is my second home. the time zone and weather to be ty of the tournament, Basanta fore.” (FIFA.com)

COMMENT Al Sadd is a big and capable team, says former player Felipe Jorge

By Sports Reporter Doha

l Sadd’s Brazilian former midfi eld star Felipe Jorge expressed his great delight on beingA able to return to Al Sadd, Statue of football Ibrahimovic during his visit to Qatar. “I am happy with my return; vandalised in Malmo I have great memories with Al Sadd and their fans, and I al- DPA in October. ways wish success for the team Stockholm, Sweden “Stop vandalising Ibrahimovic’s in all its competitions. I am cur- statue,” tweeted Hedvig Lind- rently in Doha to attend the Club hal, goalkeeper on Sweden’s World Cup and to support Al nknown assailants have national football side. Sadd in its matches,” Jorge was again vandalised a stat- “He deserves it no matter what quoted as saying on the club’s Uue of Swedish footballer he does nowadays that stirs up website al-saddclub.com. Zlatan Ibrahimovic erected in emotions. In 100 years it will The midfi eld maestro added: his home city of Malmo, police be remembered that he put “Al Sadd is a huge team and a very said yesterday. Sweden on the map, and let’s good one, they have been play- The legs showed signs of being be proud of that,” she added ing excellent matches, but luck sawed on, police said. yesterday. did not stand by them in some Malmo city’s Leisure and Rec- Peter Linde, who made matches and the results did not reation Services Department the sculpture, said he was help much. The players were said after an inspection there “shocked”. nervous in the opening match was no immediate risk that the “He’s not wearing a Hammarby against Hienghene Sport, the 3m high statue would topple jersey or a Malmo jersey, it’s a champions of Oceania, especially over, Swedish Radio P4 news free man,” he told Swedish pub- as they had to get a win in order to reported. lic broadcaster SVT. reach the quarter-fi nals.” Police were investigating the The 38-year-old striker recently Felipe, known as ‘the Philoso- incident, but have no suspects. completed his second season pher’ among Al Sadd fans, con- Ibrahimovic’s announcement for LosAngeles Galaxy in the tinued: “Winning at the begin- (From left) Former Al Sadd midfielder Felipe Jorge poses with current players Hassan al-Haydos, Ali Assadalla and during a last month that he was to buy a US league MLS, but is now re- ning of the tournament is always training session. (Twitter/AlsaddSC) stake of Stockholm-based pre- ported to be seeking a contract a great motivation for the play- miership club Hammarby, trig- with a Serie-A club in Italy. ers to give their best in the fol- match against Mexico’s Monter- ican team, Felipe indicated that teams have equal chances to more experience in this major gered angry reactions among US group Anschutz Entertain- lowing matches. The team was rey, Felipe said: “Al Sadd will be he did not know the Monterrey win, but that he certainly wishes global event, and coach Xavi will Malmo FF fans — Ibrahimovic’s ment Group (AEG) owns LA playing under great pressure, better against Monterrey, and team. “I have not watched the for Al Sadd to qualify. have a great role in working with former club. Galaxy and part of Hammarby but this victory will give the the players will be a lot freer and team before, but I know about The former Al Sadd captain the players during the next match, This spilled over into several Fotboll AB. Ibrahimovic was team and the players great con- will display their best in terms of the great development that concluded by saying: “Al Sadd preparing them in the best way to incidents of vandalism target- to buy half of AEG’s stake in fi dence for the next stage.” performance.” Mexican football has under- was not at its best during the fi rst achieve victory and qualify for the ing the statue that was erected Hammarby. Regarding the upcoming On his knowledge of the Mex- gone,” he said, adding that both match, but the players have gained semi-fi nals.” Gulf Times FIFA Club World Cup Friday, December 13, 2019 Qatar 2019 3 Sights from the FIFA Club World Cup

Players of Brazilian club Flamengo take part in a training session in Rio de Janiero, Brazil, ahead of their trip to Doha for the FIFA Club World Cup yesterday. (AFP) Al Sadd coach Xavi (centre) talks to his players during a training session yesterday. (Twitter/AlsaddSC)

Al Sadd goalkeeper Saad al-Sheeb and Gabi (right) during a training session yesterday. (Twitter/AlsaddSC)

Flamengo player Willian takes part in a training session in Rio de Janiero, Brazil, yesterday. (AFP) Al Sadd players Nam Tae-hee and Jung Woo-young during a training session yesterday. (Twitter/AlsaddSC) Monterrey’s Stefan Medina during a training session yesterday. (Twitter/Rayados)

Monterrey goalkeeper Luis Cardenas takes part in a training session in Doha yesterday. (Twitter/Rayados)

Monterrey’s Miguel Layun (left) and Arturo Gonzalez take part in a training session in Doha yesterday. (Twitter/Rayados) Al Hilal players take part in a FIFA technical meeting in Doha yesterday. (Twitter/FIFAcom) Gulf Times 4 Friday, December 13, 2019 CRICKET

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT India’s young guns have football Labuschagne’s ton hairdos, says Rohit

AFP Mumbai

ndia’s young cricket guns powers Australia like Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul are styling their hair like footballers in refl ec- Ition of their love of the game, senior teammate and modest- ly quaff ed Rohit Sharma said yesterday. The 26-year-old Pandya, to Day 1 advantage who is recovering from a lower back injury following an op- ‘There were patches where scoring really dried up and you had to be patient’ eration in October, remains popular among young fans with his quirky hairstyles, tattoos and in-your-face at- titude. Rahul, the face of a trendy Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne hits a shot on Day clothing brand who played Australia’sone of the Marnus first Test Labuschagne against Australia hits a at shot the onPerth a key role in India’s series- DayStadium one of in the Perth first yesterday. Test against (AFP) New Zealand at clinching win over West Indies the Perth Stadium in Perth yesterday. (AFP) on Wednesday, is known for “Real Madrid is again (my his smart fashion sense. best club) because of the skill “The young guys who have and passion, how they play come into the team like Shre- and how much skills they have yas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik within the group.” Pandya, they all follow foot- Anther big football fan in ball,” Rohit said after being Indian cricket is Mahendra named India’s ambassador of Singh Dhoni who also co- La Liga club Real Madrid. owns a team in the Indian Su- “They do watch all these per League besides showcas- footballers, their hairstyle and ing his soccer skills in charity what they do with their hair- matches. style.” Rohit rates the 38-year-old Rohit, a swashbuckling Dhoni, who has kept mum on opener who leads the Twen- rumours surrounding his re- ty20 batting chart jointly with tirement after skipping all the skipper Virat Kohli, is a self- series following India’s World confessed Zinedine Zidane Cup exit, as the number one fan. footballer in the Indian team. “This is not because I am “There are lots of them associated with La Liga. I actually, we have got Zlatan used to love Zinedine Zidane, Ibrahimovic in our squad as I watched him play and that’s well, that’s Ishant Sharma. how I started watching foot- M S Dhoni is the number one ball regularly,” said Rohit. football player.”

Second major South African cricket sponsor seeks resignations Cricket South Africa’s the appointment of an embattled board suff ered a independent director with new blow yesterday when a on-field cricket experience, second major sponsor said as well as the resolving of it would only continue its issues between CSA and the association with the game if SA Cricketers’ Association. leading off icials resigned. Marais said Momentum Insurance company insisted that CSA address its Momentum said it had governance issues immedi- outlined terms to CSA for ately and resolve them by Reuters Scorecard ditions were at their most oppressive. injury and made an immediate impact its continued backing of the April 30 next year. Perth Stifl ed by disciplined New Zealand with the wicket of Joe Burns for nine. sport. Momentum’s move Momentum are sponsors AUSTRALIA 1st innings bowling and astute fi eld placements David Warner, fresh off his unbeaten followed an announce- of South African one-day 335 against Pakistan in Adelaide, fell in D. Warner c and b Wagner 43 from captain Kane Williamson, Smith ment by Standard Bank internationals and a one-day atsman Marnus Labuschagne was unable to fi nd fl uency and fell when spectacular fashion just before the tea last week that it would not domestic competition as stroked his third straight majes- J. Burns lbw b de Grandhomme 9he miscued a short delivery from Neil break for 43. He had threatened to bat renew its sponsorship when well as club, schools and age tic century, as Australia took ad- M. Labuschagne not out 110 Wagner to leg gully. through the fi rst session but was bril- its contract expired at the group cricket. vantage of a weakened New Zea- S. Smith c Southee b Wagner 43 While the hosts were unchanged, New liantly dismissed by the tireless Wag- end of the season, claiming The CSA board, which last landB attack in fi erce heat on the opening Zealand were dealt a major blow when ner, who plucked a sharp return catch controversies surrounding week suspended chief day of the fi rst Test yesterday. M. Wade b Southee 12 spearhead Trent Boult failed to overcome in his follow through. Wagner said New CSA were harming the bank’s executive Thabang Moroe, Australia, who won the toss and batted T. Head not out 20 a side strain and were further weakened Zealand’s bowlers showed resilience in reputation. have refused to resign de- in the day-nighter, reached 248 for four Extras (b2, nb2, w7) 11 when debutant quick Lockie Ferguson adversity. “The wicket was a little bit Jeanette Marais, deputy spite calls from the Cricket- at stumps with Labuschagne 110 not out Total (for four wkts; 90 overs) 248 was forced off the fi eld after injuring his slower than we anticipated and we had to chief executive of Momen- ers’ Association and several and Travis Head unbeaten on 20. Fall of wickets: 1-40 (Burns), 2-75 right calf in the second session. Yet New stick at it for long periods,” he said. tum, said the company other cricket personalities. Labuschagne batted through the fi nal (Warner), 3-207 (Smith), 4-225 (Wade) Zealand battled manfully and clawed “I thought we stuck to our guns well demanded the resignation Three independent directors two sessions on a Perth Stadium pitch Bowlers: Southee 20-4-53-1 (1w), Fer- their way back with the pink ball under and got the ball to move around at times.” of the board, alternatively have resigned as well as one which was unresponsive before coming guson 11-1-47-0 (1w), Wagner 22-4-52-2 lights, highlighted by a Tim Southee Both teams wore black armbands as a the resignation of president non-independent director. alive under the lights. (1w), de Grandhomme 16-6-24-1 (2nb), pearler to dismiss Matthew Wade for 12 tribute to the victims of New Zealand’s Chris Nenzani and vice-pres- South Africa start a Test se- “It’s great to make big contributions Santner 20-3-65-0, Raval 1-0-5-0. shortly before the close. White Island volcano eruption. ident Beresford Williams, ries against England on De- for Australia and get us in a position An unruffl ed Labuschagne, however, Most of the 19,081 spectators at the and an independent financial cember 26. Former captain where we can kick off tomorrow,” La- clubbed a six — just his second of his 12- survived through to stumps after im- 60,000-seat stadium spent much of day audit of CSA. Graeme Smith agreed on buschagne told reporters. Test career — down the ground off spin- pressively rebuilding Australia’s innings one seeking refuge under the shelter of Marais said Momentum Wednesday to act as director “There were patches where scoring re- ner Mitchell Santner to add to his centu- following the dismissals of their openers the stands with the temperature hitting had also told CSA it wanted of cricket for a three-month ally dried up and you had to be patient.” ries posted against Pakistan in Brisbane in the fi rst session. 39 degrees Celsius. the appointment of a lead period and has been given South Africa-born Labuschagne be- and Adelaide. He shared a 132-run third- Colin de Grandhomme, New Zealand’s New Zealand have only won one Test independent director “with the task of overseeing prepa- came just the ninth Australian batsman wicket partnership with Steve Smith (43) workhorse all-rounder, returned to the in Australia since their sole series tri- relevant experience” and rations for the series. AFP to notch three consecutive tons when he to grab control of the contest when con- lineup after overcoming an abdominal umph across the Tasman Sea in 1985-86.

PAKISTAN HOME TEST Rain, bad light wipe out most of Day Two AFP Scorecard Rawalpindi SRI LANKA 1st innings D. Karunaratne lbw Shaheen 59 eavy rain and bad light hit the second day of the O. Fernando c Sohail b Naseem 40 historic Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi yesterday, Pakistan’s fi rst home Test K. Mendis c Rizwan b Shinwari 10 since a deadly attack in 2009. A. Mathews c Shafiq b Naseem 31 HSri Lanka, resuming at 220-5, had progressed to 225- D. Chandimal b Abbas 2 5 in 7.5 overs when heavy rain in the morning forced the teams to have early lunch. D. de Silva not out 72 Play was stopped for two hours and 43 minutes but N. Dickwella c Azam b Shaheen 33 when it resumed only 10 overs were possible with Sri D. Perera not out 2 Lanka losing Niroshan Dickwella for 33 before bad light accompanied by rain forced an early call-off at 3:30pm Extras (b 5, lb 6, nb 3) 14 (1030 GMT). Total (for six wkts; 86.3 overs) 263 At the close Sri Lanka were 263-6 with Dhananjaya de Fall of wickets: 1-96 (Karunaratne), 2-109 (Fernando), Silva unbeaten on 72 and Dilruwan Perera not out on two. 3-120 (Mendis), 4-127 (Chandimal), 5-189 (Mathews), The stop-start play left both teams frustrated as well 6-256 (Dickwella) as 2,000 fans who had come to watch the revival of Test Bowlers: Abbas 24-9-56-1, Shaheen 19.3-7-47-2 (nb3), cricket in Pakistan. Shinwari 15-4-54-1, Naseem 22-4-75-2, Sohail 3-0-12-0, When play resumed after lunch Pakistan took the sec- Masood 1-1-0-0, Shafiq 2-0-8-0. ond new ball and with it lanky pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi next ball de Silva completed his half-century with two removed Dickwella, caught at gully by Babar Azam. runs off Naseem, who with 2-65 was the pick of Pakistan’s Dickwella, who hit four boundaries, added 67 for the bowlers. The Test is the fi rst in Pakistan since a militant sixth wicket with de Silva, thwarting Pakistan’s attempts attack on the Sri Lankan team bus killed eight people in for early wickets. March 2009, leading to the suspension of international De Silva has so far hit 11 boundaries in his 131-ball stay. cricket in the country as foreign teams refused to visit over Earlier, the brief period of play saw wicketkeeper Mo- security fears. hamed Rizwan claim a catch to dismiss de Silva off the With improved security, Pakistan hosted Zimbabwe, a bowling of 16-year-old Naseem Shah, but third umpire World XI, West Indies and Sri Lanka in the last four years, Sri Lanka’s Niroshan Dickwella (right) plays a shot as Pakistan’s wicketkeeper Mohamed Rizwan (left) looks on during the second Richard Illingworth ruled the ball had bounced. On the but only for limited over matches. day of the first Test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Friday, December 13, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Chiarot nets game-winner in

Clippers’ Leonard OT as Canadiens down Senators

Reuters ing a penalty-fi lled second Los Angeles period, though it took the Ca- rings victory bell in nadiens just 29 seconds into the third frame to extend their en Chiarot’s goal 1:11 lead. Tomas Tatar took a long into overtime gave shot that snuck through traf- the Montreal Cana- fi c and defl ected off Senators diens a 3-2 win over defenseman Mark Borowiecki theB visiting Ottawa Senators into the net. on Wednesday. It was Tatar’s 11th goal of return to Toronto It was the fi rst overtime the season, and his second in winner of Chiarot’s six-year as many games. Phillip Dan- ‘We had an unbelievable season last year. It was a historic run in the playoff s’ NHL career, and the goal ault and Brendan Gallagher snapped a 15-game scoreless recorded assists on the play, drought for the defenseman. extending both players’ in- Montreal has won four of its dividual point streaks to fi ve last fi ve games, including its games. last three in a row. Wednes- Despite the 2-0 defi cit, the day’s victory puts the Habs Senators fought back to force back into a playoff position, overtime with two third-pe- tying them with the Buff alo riod goals. Sabres for second place in the Brady Tkachuk recorded a Atlantic Division. goal and an assist in the pe- Playing in his second game riod, fi rst putting Ottawa on for the Canadiens, rookie the board with a power-play goalie Cayden Primeau earned goal at the 4:30 mark. It was his fi rst NHL victory. Primeau a rare strike with the man saved 35 of 37 shots, and had advantage for the Senators, to be sharp early against a who entered Wednesday tied fl urry of eight Senators shots with the Anaheim Ducks with in the fi rst 10 minutes of play. a league-low nine goals on After withstanding that power plays. At 13:05 into the initial rush, the Canadiens third frame, Tkachuk’s initial took the lead 13:36 into the shot was stopped by Primeau period. On a power play, Nick but Connor Brown was in po- Cousins re-directed a point sition to bury the rebound. shot for his fourth goal of the Senators goaltender Anders season. Nilsson made 26 saves in the Neither team scored dur- losing eff ort.

RESULTS Washington 3-2 Boston Montreal 3-2 Ottawa Colorado 3-1 Philadelphia

LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (right) controls a ball as Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry tries to defend during the third quarter at Scotiabank Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

AFP Maurice Harkless added 14 points, Paul sixth triple double of the season to lead the Los Angeles RESULTS George had 13, Patrick Beverley and Patrick Los Angeles Lakers past Orlando 96-87, a Patterson each scored 11, and Montrezl Har- game in which former Magic player Dwight Milwaukee 127-112 New Orleans rell contributed 10. Howard was greeted with boos. awhi Leonard fi nished with a New York 124-112 Golden State Pascal Siakam scored 24 points for the James delivered 25 points, 11 rebounds and team-high 23 points in an emo- Raptors, who have lost four of their past fi ve 10 assists. Anthony Davis added 16 points Charlotte 113-108 Brooklyn tional return to Toronto as the games. and 12 rebounds for the Lakers, who have Los Angeles Clippers defeated Sacramento 94-93 Oklahoma This marks the last time the Raptors and won 15 of 16 overall and 12 in a row on the Kthe reigning NBA champion Raptors 112- Clippers battle in the regular season, but it road. Memphis 115-108 Phoenix isn’t farfetched to say they could meet again 92 on Wednesday. Chicago 136-102 Atlanta HOWARD BOOED Leonard was welcomed back with cheers in June, with a title on the line. A chorus of boos from the crowd greeted despite a sudden exit from Toronto after Utah 127-116 Minnesota Elsewhere, James Harden scored 20 of his former Orlando centre Howard. He played leading the Raptors to their fi rst NBA title in Houston 116-110 Cleveland 55 points in the fourth quarter as the visit- eight seasons with the Magic, who used the just one season playing in Canada. Indiana 122-117 Boston ing Houston Rockets defeated the Cleveland top pick to take him in the 2004 entry draft. All smiles, Leonard received his diamond Cavaliers 116-110. Russell Westbrook added But Howard never rose to the build-up of championship ring following a video tribute LA Lakers 96-87 Orlando 23 points as the Rockets withstood an unex- being a fi rst overall pick as Orlando lost in fi ve of his season during the pregame ceremony. LA Clippers 112-92 Toronto pected scare from struggling Cleveland, who games to the Lakers in the 2009 NBA fi nals. Former teammate Kyle Lowry handed him have lost eight straight and 14 of 15. The booing got more boisterous on the ring with more than 600 diamonds. and a great feeling.” Harden fi nished 20 of 34 from the fl oor Wednesday after Howard, who fi nished with “He told me before the game he was going After winning the NBA title, Leonard took and drilled 10 of 18 three-pointers to help two points, exchanged shoves with some to present me with the ring,” Leonard said. his show to California signing a three-year, Houston overcome a 24-0 Cleveland run Magic players during the third quarter. The Scotiabank Arena crowd greeted Le- $103mn deal with the Clippers. Leonard that bridged the third and fourth quarters. Los Angeles’s Jared Dudley and Orlando’s onard with a prolonged ovation, but they played high school basketball in the town of “He’s incredible,” Rockets coach Mike Wes Iwundu were thrown out of the game watched their Raptors fall behind 64-46 Riverside east of Los Angeles. D’Antoni said. “If it was the fi rst time he’s following a melee that started with Jonathan at the half. Lou Williams fi nished with 18 Both teams were coming off road victo- done this, I’d be like, ‘Wow. Look at that,’ but Isaac fouling Howard. points and had eight assists off the bench for ries on Monday with the Clippers defeating he’s done it at this level for years.” Los Angeles’s road winning streak matches the Clippers, who have won fi ve of their past the Indiana Pacers 110-99 and the Raptors Rookie Kevin Porter scored a career-high the 1972-73 team for the second-longest six games. “It was great,” Leonard said of the squeezing past the Chicago Bulls 93-92. 24 points to pace the Cavaliers, while Collin run in franchise history. The club record is Montreal Canadiens defenseman Ben Chiarot reacts after scoring reception. “We had an unbelievable season The Raptors on Wednesday were missing Sexton chipped in 18. 16 straight road victories, set by the 1971-72 the winning goal during the overtime period against the Ottawa last year. It was a historic run in the playoff s Fred VanVleet who was out with an injury. In Florida, LeBron James recorded his Lakers. Senators at the Bell Centre. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

NFL Bills, Steelers face key playoff -race battle Reuters the Pittsburgh Steelers right now.” who has supplanted Mason Rudolph and Los Angeles Buff alo is 7-0 when scoring more than is 3-0 as a starter. 17 points, but Allen and the Bills face a Hodges, who seems unfl appable, has staunch Pittsburgh defense. completed 71.3 % of his passes with four he Buff alo Bills have a short dis- The Steelers (8-5) rank fi fth in the NFL touchdowns and two interceptions. tance to travel for their Sunday at 310.9 yards allowed per game. Their de- “They’re a good defense,” Hodges said night game against the Pittsburgh fense features safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, of the Bills. “We’ve played a lot of good Steelers at Heinz Field, but they who is tied for the NFL lead with fi ve in- defenses. They’re just a solid group.” Tcould take a huge step. terceptions, and linebacker T.J. Watt, It’s possible he will get some help this With a win, the Bills (9-4) would clinch who is among the league leaders with 12.5 week. No. 1 receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster a playoff spot. In fact, they could keep sacks. (knee) and No. 1 running back James Con- alive a shot at the AFC East title. “They’re playing extremely well, taking ner (shoulder) have missed the past three “We’re playing games that matter in away the ball, sacking the quarterback at a weeks. Both practised with no restrictions December,” Bills tight end Lee Smith said. high rate,” Allen said. “They’ve had a really Wednesday, but their status remained un- “I just know we’re trying to go 1-0 against good pass rush plan.... It’s going to be very clear. the Pittsburgh Steelers, and if that results tough for us.” Pittsburgh has fi lled in at running back is us locking in a playoff spot with two The Steelers, who started 1-4 and lost by committee, although one of those car- games left in the season, that’s a pretty quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to elbow rying the load, Jaylen Samuels, sat out dang good feeling. surgery during that stretch, have won sev- practice Wednesday because of a groin in- “It’s absolutely a great feeling and an en of eight since then. jury he sustained last week in a 23-17 win awesome deal that we kind of control (a While they can’t clinch a playoff spot at Arizona. chance at) playing games in January.” Sunday, they can set themselves up well Perhaps Conner can fi ll that gap, but he Buff alo is coming off a 24-17 loss against for postseason play with a win. didn’t sound sure. the visiting Baltimore Ravens last week Like the Bills, Pittsburgh will be facing a “(I did) a couple of reps here and there,” that ended the Bills’ three-game winning tough defense. Buff alo ranks third at 296.8 Conner said. “I got a couple of reps with streak. However, Buff alo is 5-1 on the road. yards a game allowed and also is third the off ense. I am still taking it day-by-day. “It’s no secret we’ve got to go win this against the pass at 191.5 yards a game. “I just want to be out there competing. game,” Bills quarterback Josh Allen said. That could be a challenge for quarter- These games are crucial. They are critical “We’ve got to go win the next couple back Devlin “Duck” Hodges, who is es- for us in the position we are in. We are just Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (left) is tackled by Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Dre games that we have, but we’re focused on sentially the Steelers’ third-stringer but trying to control our own destiny.” Kirkpatrick. (MCT) Gulf Times 6 Friday, December 13, 2019 SPORT

GOLF/PRESIDENTS CUP TENNIS Murray’s pre-season training interrupted Els elated aft er by groin injury

AFP TOP-RANKED BARTY NAMED London WTA PLAYER OF THE YEAR Australian Ashleigh Barty, whose breakout 2019 campaign ritain’s Andy Murray included a French Open crown ‘unbelievable’ 4-1 has cancelled his train- and world number one ranking, ing block in Miami be- was named the WTA Player of cause of a groin injury the Year on Wednesday. thatB has left him unable to prac- Barty, who is the fi rst Austral- tise on the court, according to a ian to top the women’s Tennis report yesterday. rankings since Evonne Gool- The former world number one agong Cawley in 1976, took the suff ered a bruise to his pelvic award with 82 percent of the start against US bone during Britain’s Davis Cup media vote. campaign in Madrid last month, It was a fi tting end to a cam- ‘We’ve got a long way to go, but this is an unbelievable start’ The Times newspaper said. He paign that saw Barty claim her played one singles match before fi rst Grand Slam title at Roland AFP missing the rest of the event. Garros. Melbourne Murray’s Grand Slam come- Her four titles in 2019 includ- back at next month’s Australian ed the prestigious WTA Finals, Open, which starts on January where she cemented her place rnie Els’ young International 20, is apparently not in doubt, atop the year-end rankings. team got off to dream Presidents however. Barty, who led the tour with Cup start as they stunned Ti- The three-time Grand Slam 57 match wins, had ascended to ger Woods’ star-studded United champion, ranked 126 in the number one in September and StatesE to take a 4-1 lead after the opening world, will likely receive a fi nished the year nearly 2,000 fourballs yesterday. wild card to compete in Mel- points ahead of second-ranked The Americans were heavy favourites bourne. Karolina Pliskova. ahead of the matchplay event at Royal The Scot, 32, is due to travel The 23-year-old started the Melbourne, having won all but one of the to Australia in late December season ranked 15th in the world. 12 editions of the biennial clash, with one to prepare for the new ATP Cup Her coach, Craig Tyzzer, was drawn. team competition, which starts named WTA Coach of the Year. But Els boasts intimate knowledge of on January 3. In voting for the award Barty the diffi cult sandbelt layout where he Earlier this year he broke fi nished ahead of fellow Grand holds the course record, and spent hours down in tears, saying the 2019 Slam champions Bianca An- schooling his team on its fast greens and Australian Open could be his last dreescu, Simona Halep and treacherous bunkers. It paid dividends tournament but he returned to Naomi Osaka. with the Internationals in front after the the court after hip resurfacing Canada’s 19-year-old US opening day for the fi rst time since 2005. surgery and beat fellow veteran Open champion Andreescu was “We’ve got a long way to go, but this Stan Wawrinka in the fi nal of the named Newcomer of the Year. is an unbelievable start. We haven’t had European Open in October. American Sofi a Kenin was a start like this for many years,” said an Murray has signed up to play named Most Improved Player, elated Els, adding that he never envi- in Montpellier in the week im- Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic sioned having a 4-1 advantage. mediately following the year’s was Comeback Player and top “It’s really nice to have some points fi rst Grand Slam, suggesting he doubles team honours went to on the board. There were a lot of tight does not expect to reach the lat- Timea Babos and Kristina Mlad- matches and a lot of crucial putts, and ter stages in Melbourne. enovic. great golf shots,” he added. Superstar Woods and world number four Justin Thomas put the fi rst point on the board for the US with a 4 and 3 vic- WBC clear Whyte for heavyweight title tory over Australian Marc Leishman and bid aft er doping charges withdrawn Chilean newcomer Joaquin Niemann, with the 43-year-old sinking the win- Dillian Whyte is set to fight WBC has closed its internal ning putt. But that was as good as it got for the World Boxing Council investigation. on a blustery day that began in overcast heavyweight title after being “The WBC lifts its provisional conditions and light drizzle before the cleared by UK Anti-Doping last suspension and confirms Mr sun burst through. week. Whyte’s recognition as WBC “This is a long four days. I mean, we Whyte has now been reinstated interim world champion.” have to go earn this Cup,” said a defi ant as the WBC interim champion Wilder retained his title after Woods. and will become the mandatory the American fought a draw “Just because we lost the session challenger for the senior title with British boxer Fury in De- doesn’t mean the Cup’s over. There’s a once reigning champion De- cember last year. long way to go. A lot of points available. ontay Wilder has fought Tyson The pair are set for a Las Vegas The guys will regroup and we’ll come out Fury for a second time. re-match in February. tomorrow ready to go.” The WBC said Wednesday a Britain’s Anthony Joshua Bad boy Patrick Reed was heckled on mandatory defence against regained the other major ver- the fi rst tee by a boisterous Australian Whyte must take place before sions of the heavyweight title, crowd who loudly jeered the controver- International Team captain Ernie Els of South Africa (left) celebrates with An Byeong-hun during day one of the Presidents Cup in February 2021. including the World Boxing sial American after he became embroiled Melbourne yesterday. (AFP) “Based on a limited but detailed Association and International in a cheating row earlier in the week. investigation and after collect- Boxing Federation belts, with Undeterred, Reed and partner Webb Canadian partner Adam Hadwin one up. cer and South African Louis Oosthuizen They were pegged back to one up by the ing information, including the a unanimous points win over Simpson dug in and levelled a tense tie Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauf- convincingly outgun US Open cham- seventh as the young Chilean rookie Nie- WBC’s consultation with two Andy Ruiz in Saudi Arabia on on the 16th against Japan’s Hideki Mat- fele levelled on the sixth and a tight af- pion Gary Woodland and former world mann ran hot with the putter. independent experts, (UKAD) Saturday as he avenged his suyama and Taiwan newcomer CT Pan. fair tipped the Internationals way when number one Dustin Johnson 4 and 3. But a classy Woods birdie on the 15th concluded that there was shock defeat by the Mexican- But it was not enough with the Japa- Hadwin drilled a tough par putt on the Woods was in the fi rst group out and sealed the victory to stretch the 15-time insuff icient evidence that Mr American in June. nese star landing a big birdie putt on the 16th for the lead they never relinquished. was greeted by a small but noisy group of major winner’s record to 25 wins, 15 loss- Whyte intentionally ingested a Joshua’s victory led to renewed 17th to steer them to victory. Australia’s Adam Scott, who like supporters, including one wearing a tiger es and one half at the Presidents Cup, prohibited substance in order speculation about the prospect Woods is in his ninth Presidents Cup, suit. A beaming Woods, the fi rst player- second only to Phil Mickelson’s 26 wins. to improve his performance,” of a heavyweight title unifica- ‘HE CARRIED ME’ and South Korean teammate An Byeong- captain since Hale Irwin at the inaugural “It’s no coincidence why we won,” said off icials said in a statement. tion ‘superfight’ but Wednes- South Korea’s PGA Tour rookie of the hun beat Bryson DeChambeau and Tony event in 1994, sunk back-to-back birdies Thomas. “He (Woods) really carried me “In light of the WBC’s own find- day’s announcement by the year Im Sung-jae enjoyed a stellar start Finau 2 and 1 and were never threatened to go two up early against Leishman and out there.” ing and the withdrawal of UKAD WBC indicated this was unlikely to his fi rst Presidents Cup, chipping in after snatching the lead at the third. The Niemann. A vintage chip-in for birdie on With 30 points at stake over the week, charges against Mr. Whyte, the in the near future. for an eagle at the fi rst to put him and biggest upset saw Mexico’s Abraham An- the fi fth to huge roars put them three-up. the fi rst to 15 1/2 will secure the cup.

MOTORSPORT Hamilton had ‘social’ meetings with Elkann: Ferrari Reuters with Leclerc learning a lot from Maranello, Italy him, but he also left no doubt that the future was open. “I think that with Seb we need ewis Hamilton and Ferra- to sit down...to understand his ri chairman John Elkann intentions,” he added. have met socially but “I think we need to see as well talk of a move for the six the performance and how he Ltimes Formula One world cham- does fi t with the car and his mo- pion is premature, according to tivation for the future.” chief executive Louis Camilleri. Hamilton has said he is also “I think it has been public that waiting for Mercedes team boss Lewis has had conversations Toto Wolff to decide his own fu- with our chairman,” Camilleri ture, with the Austrian talked of told reporters invited to a lunch as an eventual replacement for at the Italian team’s Maranello Formula One chairman Chase factory. Carey, appointed by commercial “It was a social event, which rights holders Liberty Media. has sort of been blown some- Camilleri said Ferrari would be what out of proportion, but it against such a move. was a social event. They have “I think that anybody who’s some common friends.” really been an active and im- Italian media have reported portant player in a certain team Hamilton twice met Elkann this within the last years, to take on year, triggering speculation that the responsibility at F1 would the 34-year-old Briton could automatically create confl icts move to Ferrari once his Mer- of interest, perceived or oth- cedes contract expires at the end erwise,” he said. “So I person- of 2020. ally think it would not be a good Ferrari had previously not thing as to who should ultimate- confi rmed the meetings, while ly run F1.” not denying them either. Asked whether Ferrari could “What happens behind closed F1 champion Lewis Hamilton and MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi have swapped race-seats in a post-season Valencia track day, involving Yamaha and Mercedes. use their right of veto, Camilleri doors is always private with said that was a “last resort tool”. whoever it is you end up sitting Asked whether Ferrari might and racial issues, Camilleri drew “It’s totally premature and times world champion Sebastian much speculation after Leclerc “Should we be confronted with,” Hamilton told reporters let Hamilton have the same a line under the questioning. we’ll look at our options at the Vettel, who will also be out of won more races, pole positions with that I think we would ex- after this month’s season-end- freedoms he enjoys at Mercedes, “Honestly, I don’t want to go appropriate time and we will contract, and 22-year-old Mon- and points than the German this plain our position quite clearly to ing Abu Dhabi race. with the Briton pursuing inter- there. You are trying to push a see what is the best fi t for us as egasque Charles Leclerc who year. Team boss Mattia Binotto the folks at Liberty...and I think Camilleri said he personally ests in fashion and music and bit too hard on the Lewis story,” a team.” has a longer-term deal. Vettel’s said Vettel remained “a key driv- we would have a constructive had not met Hamilton. outspoken on the environment he said. Ferrari’s 2020 line-up is four future has been the subject of er” and “central to our projects” conversation,” he added. Gulf Times Friday, December 13, 2019 7 SPORT

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ROUND-UP Clasico will Euphoria in Bergamo as be played, says Barca president Atalanta pull off ‘miracle’ Bartomeu arcelona president Gasperini hails a ‘victory for Italian football’ after joining Juventus and Napoli in the knockouts Josep Maria Bartomeu said yesterday the Cla- AFP sico against Real Madrid Bnext week will not be postponed Milan again, amid renewed fears of unrest around the fi xture. talanta returned home to a Protestors from the Catalan heroes’ welcome with 2,000 separatist movement, Demo- fans braving bitter cold in the cratic Tsunami, have called for a Alps in northern Italy after the “massive” protest outside Camp BergamoA team reached the Champions Nou, where Barcelona are due to League last 16 in their debut campaign play against Real Madrid in La despite losing their fi rst three matches. Liga on December 18. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini hailed a Spain’s most prestigious “victory for Italian football” after join- fi xture was originally scheduled ing Serie A rivals Juventus and Napoli for October 26 but had to be in the knockout rounds, with Inter Mi- postponed following a wave of lan the only absentee after losing 2-1 to pro-independence demonstra- Barcelona at the San Siro on Tuesday. tions in the city. “I can say that The team greeted fans on board an the Clasico will be played, it will open-top bus at Bergamo airport in the not be postponed again,” Bar- early hours yesterday morning, amid tomeu said at a Christmas press fi reworks, singing and banners, follow- event in Barcelona. ing what the Italian press hailed a “mir- “It is everyone’s responsibil- acle” comeback. “Historical Atalanta,” ity to ensure it goes ahead. We headlined Gazzetta dello Sport. “Dea know that we live in a compli- (Goddess, the team’s nickname) are in cated period in Catalonia but paradise,” wrote Turin daily Tuttosport. that can be compatible with “Gasperini is a Magician,” continued sport. Our stadium is a place for Corriere dello Sport on their front page. free expression, it always has Atalanta, a club with a 112-year his- been, and that is why we want to tory, had to wait until their fourth group send out a message of normality game to earn their fi rst point in a draw and calm. against Manchester City, before sealing “The club is preparing for the their berth with a 3-0 win away to Sha- Clasico with complete normal- khtar Donetsk. “It’s a victory for Berga- ity and we tell our fans to come mo, for all of Atalanta, from the fans to with their family and friends. the management to the players and the Together we have to deliver a staff ,” said Gasperini. Clasico that is a celebration of Atalanta, whose only major title was sport and of people. an Italian Cup in 1963, were relegated We want peace and calm.” from Serie A in 2003, 2005 and 2010. Democratic Tsunami have Gasperini took over in 2016 after leav- urged protestors to gather at ing Genoa, and guided them to third last four points around Camp Nou season to reach the Champions League from 4:00 pm (1500 GMT), four for the fi rst time. “To see Atalanta like hours before kick-off . “In an this, after the diffi cult years it had 10 Atalanta’s players celebrate after qualifying for the Champions League last 16 after a win over Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday night. (AFP) exceptional situation, we should years ago... among the best 16 teams act in an exceptional way,” said in Europe, how can one not feel joy?” mo,” said local Battista Negri. the stadium here in Kharkiv I saw peo- Atalanta’s success came despite the “They’re all so strong, it doesn’t a statement from the group on said Atalanta fan Andrea Magioni on the Chiara Nosari added: “We were eat- ple crazy with joy,” said Gasperini. absence of star striker Duvan Zapata, matter who we are up against. Maybe Tuesday. The rally is the latest in streets of the city. ing out, and the whole restaurant went “This strong bond gave us the impe- with Josip Ilicic and Rafael Toloi also some prefer Paris Saint-Germain for a series of demonstrations that The Italians, forced to play their mad, the second half was extraordi- tus to succeed. We are happy for us but out on Wednesday. the Moulin Rouge: for sure we hope to began two months ago when home games at Milan’s San Siro, nary... it was a unique feeling.” also for Italian football. We deserved “We can miss important players, but take our fans to a beautiful city for the Spain’s top court jailed nine 55km from Bergamo, joined Manches- Timothy Castagne, Mario Pasalic and this because we grew during a diffi cult retain this belief in ourselves, this qual- away game.” Catalan separatist leaders over ter City in the knockout stages from Robin Gosens scored in the second half and high level competition. We started ity in our approach. We are solid, no Atalanta return to Serie A action to- their role in a failed 2017 bid for Group C as Dinamo Zagreb lost 4-1 for the side who fi nished third in Serie A to believe with the draw against Man- matter what happens,” added the Ata- morrow against Bologna as they sit independence. to the English champions in Croatia. last season to reach the top tier of Euro- chester City, we improved in every lanta coach, who has no preference for sixth in the table, one point off the “It’s a gift to the entire city of Berga- pean football for the fi rst time. “Outside area.” their opponent in the last 16. Champions League places. LIVERPOOL CLOSING IN ON SALZBURG’S JAPANESE FORWARD MINAMINO SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Liverpool are in talks with Salzburg to sign Japan forward Takumi Minamino, the Austrian side’s sporting director Chris- Qatar Olympic Academy Mourinho hopes to face toph Freund said. The 24-year- old Minamino caught the eye with an impressive display at signs fi ve-year MoU with Bayern again in ‘proper match’ Anfi eld as Salzburg were beaten 4-3 by the European champions Reuters Group B with goals coming saw some positives and said in a Champions League group Ministry of Culture and Sports Munich from Kingsley Coman, Thomas the prospect of meeting Bayern stage match in October. Mueller and Philippe Coutinho. again in the knockout phase did Freund confi rmed discussions Last season’s beaten fi nalists not concern him. “It’s not pos- with Liverpool were ongoing ose Mourinho said he Tottenham, who had already sible until the quarter-fi nals in a post on the club’s Twitter would relish Tottenham qualifi ed for the last 16 as run- but my wish is to come back account. British media reported Hotspur facing Bayern ners-up to a rampant Bayern, here for a proper match,” said that Minamino, who has 64 Munich further down left out and Dele Mourinho, who suff ered his goals and 44 assists in 199 theJ line in a ‘proper’ Champi- Alli, while Son Heung-min second defeat in six games since games in all competitions since ons League game despite his came on as a substitute in a taking over. joining Salzburg in 2015, could side losing 3-1 in Bavaria on largely meaningless fi xture. Mourinho said his rotation of join the lead- Wednesday in their fi nal group Ryan Sessegnon, 19, marked the team had allowed him some ers in January for around 7mn game. his fi rst Champions League more insight into his squad pounds ($8.98mn). Minamino, Bayern outplayed a much- start with Tottenham’s goal. strength, although he was care- who has scored 11 goals in 22 changed Tottenham side to Tottenham could have lost ful not to get carried away by matches for Japan, previously make it six wins out of six in by more but Mourinho still Sessegnon’s impact. played for in the J-League.

RODGERS RULES OUT JANUARY DEPARTURES Imran shines in Swift Gallopers’ win FROM LEICESTER Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers has ruled out any departures during the January transfer window as he attempts to keep pace with Liverpool at the top of the Premier League. The Foxes host struggling Norwich tomorrow aiming to stay within striking distance of leaders Liverpool, who are head- ing off for the FIFA Club World Cup in Qatar after their match against Watford. England pair Ben Chilwell and James Maddison, along with Executive Director of Qatar Olympic Academy Saif al-Nuaimi (left) and the Director of the Sports midfi elder Wilfred Ndidi, have Aff airs Department at the Ministry Isa al-Harami pose after the agreement signing ceremony. all been touted as potential tar- gets for rival clubs in the trans- atar Olympic Academy has signed a in the country. “The academy will provide many fer window but Rodgers insisted fi ve-year Memorandum of Under- training courses with the Ministry of Culture and there would be no departures. standing (MOU) with the Ministry Sports and will announce in the coming days a set “There will be nobody leaving in of Culture and Sports to enhance the of courses in co-ordination with the ministry to January, categorically,” he said at conceptQ of training, qualifi cation and profes- accommodate the number of trainees,” he said. his pre-match press conference sional development of national cadres in sports Al-Nuaimi indicated that the academy has a on Thursday saying he had the clubs and organisations, to achieve the aspira- special agenda and a programme in sports educa- support of the club’s director of tions of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Na- tion management, which is adopted by the Inter- football Jon Rudkin and chair- tional Development Goals in the related fi elds of national Olympic Committee. man Aiyawatt ‘Top’ Srivad- sport. “The academy has an annual agenda, and the dhanaprabha. The agreement was signed by Executive Direc- new sessions with the ministry will be within a “I am speaking regularly with tor of Qatar Olympic Academy Saif al-Nuaimi special calendar for the Academy and will be in Jon and Top,” Rodgers said. “It and the Director of the Sports Aff airs Department co-ordination with the ministry,” he added. is really clear, we want to keep at the Ministry Isa al-Harami. Meanwhile, al-Harami said that these courses this squad together. It is an Al-Nuaimi said the Academy was pleased to will cover all the sports sector, whether clubs or Qatar Rugby, Hockey and Cricket Association PR Director Issa al-Yacoub (right) presents the man of exciting team with growth and sign the agreement with the Ministry of Culture federations such as bowling, chess, billiards and the match award to Ali Imran of Swift Gallopers at the Asian Town Stadium yesterday. Imran struck development in it, so we want to and Sports as an initiative for the academy to snooker. He said the courses will be free of charge an 11-ball 22 to lead Gallopers to victory over Pearl Gladiators in the Qatar T10 Cricket League. ensure they stay around beyond enter the scope of training in the sports sectors for employees and affi liates of Qatari clubs. January.”

Friday, December 13, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Forty four riders take part in fi rst round of the QMA Challenge

Riders compete in the MiniGP 110 category.

Young riders pose after the first round of the QMA Challenge at the Losail Circuit Sports Club.

atar Motorsports Academy 125, and six riders in SSP300. There was laps in a total time of 6:25.322 secs. 8:12.228 secs. Egypt’s Mahmoud El- conducted the fi rst round of also an exhibition event with 5 beginner Pathan was followed by the Spain’s banna fi nished second, while Carlos the QMA Challenge at the riders in the Rookies category, where Miguel Roda, while Agatha Muscolino Baquero was third. Losail Circuit Sports Club, they practised diff erent technical exer- of Italy came third. There was one Final race only for the whereQ a total of 44 children took part in cise in front of the public. In MiniGP 110 category, there was Supermotard 125, where Italy’s Nicola the event. The QMA Challenge is a new In the Minimotard 70 category, there also a Last Chance race, where the fi rst Muscolino emerged triumphant in championship, with three races sched- was a Last Chance race to decide which and second position went to Malaysian 8.46:164 secs. Sami Salvaggio of Bel- Italy’s Nicola Muscolino emerged triumphant in the Supermotard 125 race. uled during 2019/2010 season. riders pass to the Final Race. Brit- riders Alya Maisarah and Johaan Ameer gium fi nished in second place and the The young riders, who have training ish rider Bobby Danvers and Qatar’s Zarfan, respectively. Malaysian Syafi q Bin Zairin completed in second place, while Alexian Macary Baquero, Head of QMA Jose Luis Car- at the academy, competed on road track Shaikha al-Remaihi fi nished fi rst and In the MiniGP 100 Final race, the po- the podium. of France completed the podium. doso and QMA coaches Alberto Mon- (karting area) in diff erent categories: second respectively. In the Minimotard dium was for last year’s winner in the In SSP300, Qatar’s Hamad al-Saouti Trophies were presented by LCSC cayo, Ruben Herrera, Andrea Sibaja and 18 riders in Minimotard 70, 11 riders in 70 Final race, American Salman Pathan Minimotard70, Nolann Macary from with a time of 8.21:492 won the event. Vice President and General Manager Mateo Tunez. The other rounds will be MiniGP 110, four riders in Supermotard took the victory after completing eight France, who completed the 12 laps in Saad Alharqan also from Qatar fi nished Khalid al-Remaihi, LCSC CEO Juan held on the April 4 and April 18.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FOCUS Qatar Airways to Atletico and Atalanta sponsor the All Nepal Football seal last 16 berths Association League Bayern clinch consecutive victories over Tottenham with a 3-1 success in Munich 2019-2020 Season atar Airways has an- ‘A’ Division Martyr’s Memorial AFP nounced a new part- League. This agreement builds Paris nership with the All upon our existing collaboration Nepal Football Associ- with the Qatar Football Associa- ationQ (ANFA). The Qatar Airways tion and we are delighted to forge tletico Madrid claimed the fi nal ‘A’ Division Martyr’s Memorial even closer ties with Qatar with spot in the Champions League League, the biggest annual foot- this partnership.” last 16 on Wednesday with a 2-0 ball event in Nepal, will run from Qatar Airways holds an ex- win over Lokomotiv Moscow, tomorrow till February 15. tensive global sports portfolio, afterA Atalanta completed an impressive The partnership will see the sponsoring top-level sporting comeback in Group C to qualify. Qatar Airways logo feature on events and some of the biggest Bayern Munich sealed consecutive vic- all 14 League club shirts, as well football clubs around the world tories over Tottenham with a 3-1 success as providing brand awareness including AS Roma, Boca Juniors at the Allianz Arena, while Real Madrid, through perimeter boards, stadi- and FC Bayern Munich. As offi - Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus also um fl ags, LED screens and online cial FIFA partner, Qatar Airways fi nished their group campaigns on win- digital content as well as other sponsors the Club World Cup ning notes. activity. Qatar 2019 and the World Cup Diego Simeone’s Atletico went into Qatar Airways Group Chief Qatar 2022, refl ecting the values their game knowing defeat, coupled with Executive HE Akbar al-Baker, of sport as a means of bringing a Bayer Leverkusen win against Juve, said: “We are very pleased to an- people together, something at the would see them dumped out. Kieran nounce this new partnership, core of the airline’s brand mes- Tripper had a second-minute penalty which will see Qatar Airways sage – Going Places Together. brilliantly saved by Lokomotiv goalkeeper increase its exposure in Nepal Qatar Airways currently oper- Anton Kochenkov at the Wanda Metro- whilst supporting the develop- ates a modern fl eet of more than politano, but Joao Felix made no mistake ment of football in the country. 250 aircraft via its hub, Hamad from the spot a quarter of an hour later. We are continually striving to International Airport (HIA), Atletico wasted a string of chances and boost our global sporting spon- to more than 160 destinations Alvaro Morata had a goal ruled out by VAR sorship portfolio, and this part- worldwide. The world’s fastest- for off side. But their place in the knock- nership is just one more example growing airline has added several out rounds was secured when centre- of our dedication to sport and exciting new destinations to its back Felipe volleyed home Koke’s cross our belief in its power to bring growing network this year, in- after a short corner routine. people together.” cluding Rabat, Morocco; Izmir, scored his second ANFA president Karma Tser- Turkey; Malta; Davao, Philip- Champions League goal of the season as ing Sherpa said: “We are ex- pines; Lisbon, Portugal; Mogad- Juve, who were already sure of top spot, tremely grateful for the support ishu, Somalia; and Langkawi, saw off Leverkusen 2-0 in Germany in of the award-winning global Malaysia. The airline will add the other Group D game. Substitute brand, Qatar Airways, and we Gaborone, Botswana in 2019 to Paulo Dybala was the creator of the 75th- look forward with great antici- its extensive route network along minute opener, crossing low for Ron- pation to an exciting two months with Luanda, Angola; and Osaka, aldo to tap in a record-extending 128th of football in the Qatar Airways Japan, in 2020. goal in the competition, before Gonzalo Higuain’s injury-time clincher. “Ron- aldo and Higuain led by example, they were always the fi rst to work hard for the team,” Juve ‘keeper Gianluigi Buff on said. Champions League debutants Atalanta claimed a famous 3-0 triumph at Sha- khtar Donetsk to qualify with Manchester Atletico Madrid’s Felipe celebrates after scoring against Lokomotiv Moscow during Champions League match. (AFP) City despite having lost their fi rst three games. The Italian outfi t, who fi nished lead through Dani Olmo, were sent packing pions had already wrapped up top spot Arabi 87-pen) Red Star Belgrade 0 third in Serie A last season, conceded by a Gabriel Jesus hat-trick before teenage in Group A ahead of Real Madrid, but ran Group C: At Zagreb: Dinamo Zagreb 1 11 goals in their opening three matches, midfi elder Phil Foden wrapped a 4-1 win riot in the capital. (Olmo 10) Man City 4 (Jesus 34, 50, 54, but drew with City at the San Siro be- for Pep Guardiola’s side. Icardi and Pablo Sarabia put PSG in Foden 84); At Kharkiv, Ukraine: Shakhtar fore beating Dinamo Zagreb to keep their Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham failed to control at the break, before Neymar and Donetsk 0 Atalanta 3 (Castagne 66, hopes alive. exact revenge on Bayern Munich for their Mbappe teed each other up for second- Pasalic 80, Gosens 90+4) Timothy Castagne stabbed in the cru- 7-2 humbling in London in the reverse half strikes and Cavani came off the Group D: At Madrid: Atle cial fi rst goal in the 66th minute, before Group B fi xture. Kingsley Coman put bench to score a penalty. Real Madrid also tico Madrid 2 Mario Pasalic found the net shortly after Bayern ahead as they looked to bounce rounded off the group stage in style by (Joao Felix 17-pen, Felipe 54) Lokomotiv Shakhtar full-back Dodo was controver- back from successive Bundesliga defeats, beating a spirited Club Brugge 3-1 with Moscow 0; At Leverkusen, Germany: sially sent off in Kharkiv. Robin Gosens although Ryan Sessegnon marked his fi rst goals from Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior and Bayer Leverkusen 0 Juventus 2 (Ronaldo grabbed an injury-time third as Shakhtar Spurs start with a goal to equalise. Luka Modric. 75, Higuain 90+2) tired, sparking wild Atalanta celebrations But Thomas Mueller, on as a substi- CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RESULTS in front of the visiting fans. tute for the injured Coman, and Philippe Group A: At Bruges, Belgium: Club List of qualified teams for the last 16 “It will remain in the history of football Coutinho ensured the Bavarian giants Brugge 1 (Vanaken 55) Real Madrid 3 and of this club. I think it’ll also stay long became the fi rst German side to win all Atalanta (ITA), Atletico Madrid (ESP), (Rodrygo 53, Vinicius Junior 64, Modric in the memory of everyone who was in the six group games. Youseff El Arabi’s late Barcelona (ESP), Bayern Munich (GER), 90+1); At Paris: Paris Saint-Germain 5 stadium,” captain Alejandro Gomez said. penalty saw Olympiakos edge past Red (GER), Chelsea Atalanta’s win ensured that all 16 of the Star Belgrade 1-0 and pip their opponents (Icardi 32, Sarabia 35, Neymar 47, Mbappe (ENG), Juventus (ITA), Liverpool (ENG), sides in the knockout stage are from Eu- to a place in the Europa League last 32. 63, Cavani 84-pen) Galatasaray 0 Lyon (FRA), Manchester City (ENG), rope’s ‘big fi ve’ leagues of England, Spain, Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, Mauro Icardi Group B: At Munich, Germany: Bayern Napoli (ITA), Paris Saint-Germain (FRA), Italy, Germany and France for the fi rst time. and Edinson Cavani all scored as PSG Munich 3 (Coman 14, Mueller 45, Coutin- RB Leipzig (GER), Real Madrid (ESP), Tot- Dinamo needed to beat English champions thrashed Galatasaray 5-0 at the Parc des ho 64) Tottenham Hotspur 1 (Sessegnon tenham Hotspur (ENG), Valencia (ESP) The Qatar Airways ‘A’ Division Martyr’s Memorial League, the biggest City to progress, but despite taking an early Princes. Thomas Tuchel’s French cham- 20); At Piraeus, Greece: Olympiakos 1 (El annual football event in Nepal, will run from tomorrow till February 15.