Thompson breaks three-point record as Warriors demolish Bulls PAGE 19 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2018

Al Duhail extend QNB Stars League lead WORLD GYMNASTICS PAGE 18 after 1-0 win over Al Sailiya ASPIRE DOME

48TH FIG WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS DOHA 2018

TOKYO BOUND: The United States and Russian Federation’s women’s teams which won the gold and silver respectively in the team event of the 48th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships Doha 2018 at the Aspire Dome on Tuesday. Biles, USA produce golden show to claim the women’s team title Russia eves RESULTS WOMEN’S TEAM FINALS follow the men’s 1. USA 171.629 points 2. Russia 162.863 with silver; 3. 162.396 4. Canada 161.644 5. France 161.294 China claim 6. Japan 160.262 7. Brazil 159.830 bronze 8. Germany 159.428 (Top three qualified for Tokyo 2020 Olympics) VINAY NAYUDU DOHA letes managed to get together ANY contest which has a USA- and we performed well.” Russia battle line, can be in- Their leader Aliya Mus- triguing. tafina defended her teammate The women’s team final Lilia Akhaimova’s stumble on of the 48th FIG Artistic Gym- saying, “We were taught natsics World Championships to always focus not on the mis- Doha 2018 on Tuesday evening takes, but on the things we’ve at the Aspire went on similar done well. We were aiming to lines. Interestingly, both teams qualify for the (2020 Tokyo) had their fair share of mistakes, Olympic Games. We had a tar- but in the end it was Team USA get and we met.” led by their superstar member Mustafina, back in action af- who emerged vic- ter becoming a mother in June torious with ease. 2017, on her part excelled on the It was the diminutive Biles’ for a score of 14.500 first competition since the Rio attracting loud cheers. Olympic Games in 2016 and she For China, Lin Jinru did claimed her 11th world title. very well on the vault (14.366) The US team of Biles, to help her team grab the Grace McCallum (who also bronze and a ticket to Tokyo. celebrated her 16th birthday), Biles, who posted her high- , Riley McCusk- est scores on the uneven bars er and collected and vault, came in for praise 171.629 points, nine ahead from the Russian coach who of silver-medallist Russia on said, “Simone Biles is a very 162.863 points with China respected athlete and she de- third on 162.396. serves the best for her work. Such has been the domi- She’s definitely one of the nance of the US women in leaders in today’s gymnastics. gymnastics that they have now However, our Russian team won every world and Olympic is also very good and we can title since 2011. THE PODIUM FINISHERS: Team USA, Russia and China pose with their medals after the podium ceremony at the Aspire Dome on Tuesday. compete at the highest level. This one was, however, “When it comes to USA, more special for Biles as she is on the . But then, know the expectations that cially with the group of girls going, but we have to hold up qualify for the Olympics,” their they have a big bench besides making her return to the world her compatriot Kara Eaker we have on ourselves when- we had tonight. It felt unreal. I upon ourselves every time we delegation head Andrei Rodio- their top team, in our case if stage after deciding to take a produced a strong showing ever we go out there, so I think can’t believe its World Cham- go out there.” nenkio said. one girl cannot perform for year off in 2017 following her to record the best score of the that’s what keeps us going,” an pionships and we’re compet- Did in with a margin of Russia’s head coach some reason then the team big show at the Rio Olympics, competition in the discipline. excited Biles soon after after ing again!” 8.766 points, Russia were left Yevgini Grebionkin said, “Un- suffers. We can rise, but the US where she won four golds. And the USA were back in the golden triumph. On extending the streak of to ponder their own mistakes. fortunately the big finals start- team deserve the title.” But it wasn’t as smooth reckoning. “Overall (it was) pretty consecutive USA team golds at “Our gymnasts managed to ed with a trauma for us as our The Russian men’s team and flawless as even Biles got “Mistakes happen. But it’s good. I felt really good. It’s Worlds to four, she quipped, fulfill the main task, which was gymnast Angelina Simakova had also settled for the silver blurred and made some errors just instilled in us. We also exciting to be out there, espe- “It’s exciting to keep the streak to finish in the top three and got injured but our other ath- on Monday.

DOHA WORLDS 2018: WOWING ’EM ALL ‘Aspire Dome providing Doha Worlds a great atmosphere’ Doha Worlds, a brilliant spectacle: FIG vice prez Vladimirovina TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK “It was so close and Russia were TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Vladimirovina also stressed that al- DOHA almost there. But congratulations to DOHA most all top gymnasts are taking part the winners China, who did so well. at the Doha Worlds. THE closely fought men’s team finals Japan too were tough in the competi- INTERNATIONAL Gymnastics Federa- “The competition is intense and at the 48th FIG Artistic Gymnastics tion but due to injuries their team tion’s (FIG) vice president Kim Nellia as you can see almost all the stars World Championships 2018 at the became a little weak. The results are Vladimirovina from Belarus, who who competed at the Rio Olympics Aspire Dome on Monday were a fitting quite balanced.” With a few more days gave away the prizes to the winners in 2016 being here in Doha for this tribute to the Doha Worlds, the first of intense competition still left in the and runners-up of the women’s team world championship which also make such event in the Middle East, felt World Championships in Doha, Titov finals at the Aspire Dome on Tuesday, it so special.” International Gymnastics Federation’s said the atmosphere is only some- expressed her appreciation for the On the athletes from her own Vice-President Vasily Titov, who also thing that cannot be missed. “We 48th FIG Artistic Gymnastics Champi- native country Belarus, she said, “Our gave away the prizes. would want the world gymnastics to onships Doha 2018. gymnasts from Belarus are also here Titov, 57, is also a former junior gym- return to the Arab world in Doha and “It’s the first time in Qatar and in but unfortunately they haven’t done nastics champion and President of with pleasure. The championships this part of the world for these cham- exceedingly well. the Russian Gymnastics Federation. have been very well organised. From pionships and I must say it is a great Hopefully, they would be better the Speaking soon after the men’s team the information point of view, from the spectacle so far. next time.” finals, he said, “It’s been electric. presentation, the comfort of all… It’s “Congratulations to the Organis- “I would like to congratulate the Or- top class,” he said. ing Committee for an excellently International Gymnastics Federation’s ganising Committee of Doha Worlds. Titov has been FIG Executive Commit- planned event. It is one of the biggest (FIG) vice president Kim Nellia Great atmosphere, great beginning tee member since 2009 and the vice- world championships of gymnastics Vladimirovina with Competition here at the Aspire Dome and what a president since 2013. He is also the unfolding here given the number of Manager Anis al Saoud at the Aspire closely contest men’s team final we International Gymnastics Federation’s vice-president of the Russian Olympic countries and athletes taking part,” Dome on Tuesday. have had for the start. Vice-President Vasily Titov. Committee. she said. Sports Wednesday, October 31, 2018 17 Warrior spirit drives China’s Ruoteng into title defence

Doha Worlds Men’s All-Around Finals today

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

AFTER flubbing twice in Monday’s team final, defend- ing champion Xiao Ruoteng of China will have to deploy more than a warrior’s credo to retain his crown in the men’s All-around final at Aspire Dome on Wednesday, reports worldgymdoha2018.com. “I need to do my best and fight to the end,” said the 22-year-old Xiao, who out- Indian tennis player Sania Mirza (R) and her husband Pakistan crick- scored second-ranked Nikita eter Shoaib Malik were blessed with a baby boy on Tuesday. (AFP) Nagornyy of the Russian Fed- eration by 0.234 points to lead qualifications. ‘Over the moon’: The All-Around final com- petition of the 48th FIG Artis- tic Gymnastics World Cham- Mirza, Malik pionships Doha 2018 will take place at the Aspire Dome from 4pm to 6.50pm. welcome baby boy Xiao enters the final as a favourite for gold, but to re- AFP "It's a boyyyy!!!!" Mirza's main on top he will need to NEW DELHI her younger sister, Anam Mir- avoid mistakes such as the two za, wrote on Instagram. he committed Monday, when INDIAN tennis star Sania Malik's manager and agent, China barely bettered the Rus- Mirza has given birth to a baby Ameem Haq, said the former sian Federation for team gold. boy, her Pakistani cricketer Pakistan captain was "over the The All-around final will husband Shoaib Malik said on moon" to become a father. offer Nagornyy another con- Tuesday, prompting a flood of "#BabyMirzaMalik boy frontation with Xiao, after congratulatory messages on is here! Baby and mother are whom he directly and dramat- social media. all smiles, the dad is over the ically competed on horizontal "Excited to announce: It's moon," Haq tweeted. bar in the closing moments of a boy, and my girl is doing 0Mirza, who is a three- the team final. great and keeping strong as time Grand Slam doubles Routing Xiao of China While Nagornyy’s last- usual #Alhumdulilah. Thank winner, announced her preg- on the horizontal bar ditch effort was not enough you for the wishes and Duas, nancy in April, prompting during the Men’s Team to help his team knock China we are humbled. #BabyMir- speculation her tennis career Final of the 2018 off the top step of the podium, zaMalik," Malik tweeted. was over. She had been side- FIG Artistic Gymnas- the self-assured Russian rates The couple have named lined since last October with a tics Championships himself a direct match for his the little one Izhaan Mirza- knee injury. at Aspire Dome on “I need to do my Chinese rival. Malik. The first name means The 31-year-old, who be- Monday. Xiao will be best and fight to “(Xiao) is a very strong God's gift, as the parents feel came the first Indian to win a in action again in the gymnast, but I think I have that he is truly one. WTA tournament singles title Men’s All-Around Finals the end. a lot of qualities to com- Mirza and Malik enjoy a in 2005, has said the baby's sur- on Wednesday evening. Xiao Ruoteng pete with him as an equal,” high profile owing to their suc- name would be Mirza-Malik. (AFP) Nagornyy said. cessful sports careers and their All-rounder Malik, 36, has of the USA, unusual marriage straddling been Pakistan's key player in the who qualified third to the final, the border of nuclear-armed limited-overs format after he re- is employing a tried-and true rivals India and Pakistan. tired from Test cricket in 2015. maxim in his quest for his first world all-around medal. “This is the most comfort- able that I have ever been on this grand of a stage,” said the Skipper Ahmed keen on Pak’s genial 26-year-old. “I stick to what I have been doing.” T20 dominance over Kiwis AFP be a tougher opponent. ABU DHABI "They (New Zealand) have a strong team with ideal bats- American sisters sue USA England cricketers PAKISTAN skipper Sarfraz men for Twenty20 and a bal- Ahmed vowed that his all- anced bowling attack so we conquering Twenty20 team need to set the tone from the Gymnastics over abuse scandal warned over will continue their hot streak first game by winning it," said in their three-match series Sarfraz, whose team has won REUTERS Nassar was sentenced in fully refused to notify, give against New Zealand, starting 10 of their 18 previous Twen- NEW YORK February to up to 125 years in adequate warning and imple- Sri Lanka upheaval in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. ty20 internationals against prison after some 200 women, ment appropriate safeguards" Pakistan maintained top New Zealand. TWO former USA Gymnastics including Olympians, testified to protect the young gymnasts AFP would go ahead as planned, de- spot in the 20-over world Pakistan's varied bowling national team members on Mon- about decades of abuse at his under their supervision. COLOMBO spite the troubles in the capital. rankings with a 3-0 whitewash attack defended totals of 155, day filed civil lawsuits against hands. USA Gymnastics said "I am outraged at watching England take on Sri Lan- of Australia in Dubai on Sun- 147 and 150 against Australia the organization, disgraced ex- in a statement it was sorry the what's been happening at USA ENGLAND'S cricket stars ka in the first Test at Galle, day, cementing their place as but New Zealand's top order of team doctor Larry Nassar, and Schwikerts were abused by Gymnastics. It's like watching have been told to stay away in the south of the country, the leading lights of the game's Colin Munro, skipper Kane Wil- the U.S. Olympic Committee Nassar and it is working to a perpetual circus of horri- from political demonstrations on November 6. England are shortest format. liamson and Ross Taylor are ex- for failing to prevent assault of make changes to ensure that bles,” Tasha told reporters. while touring Sri Lanka, which due to stay in Sri Lanka until Ever since Sarfraz took over pected to be a sterner test than young women in their care. athlete safety and well-being According to a statement is in the grip of a constitution- November 27 when the third as captain Pakistan have won Australia's mis-firing batsmen. , 33, who remains at the forefront of its released on behalf of the sisters, al power struggle. Test ends. 26 of their 30 matches and the Munro is one of only two won a bronze medal at the work but otherwise would not the lawsuits are the first related One man has been killed The dispute between hammering of Australia was batsmen to hit three Twenty20 2000 Sydney Olympics, and comment on pending litigation. to the Nassar scandal to seek in upheaval after President sacked prime minister Ranil their 10th straight series win. hundreds alongside India's her sister Jordan, 32, de- “We are focused on fos- damages under the Racketeer Maithripala Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe and Ra- “We want to carry forward Rohit Sharma. scribed themselves as Nassar tering an environment that is Influenced and Corrupt Organi- the country's prime minister japakse has already hit Sri the winning momentum of the New Zealand also have hard victims during a news confer- safe, positive and encouraging zations Act, "as each of these de- and replaced him with former Lanka's cricket establishment. Australia series," said Sarfraz, hitting all-rounders in Corey ence at a Los Angeles law firm. for athletes and all members,” fendants engaged in a pattern of strongman leader Mahinda On Sunday, bodyguards who announced Shoaib Malik Anderson and Colin de Grand- The complaint, filed in the said USA Gymnastics. racketeering activity including Rajapakse. for Petroleum Minister Arjuna will join the team in time for homme, with pace attack spear- Los Angeles County Superior The USOC did not respond sexual exploitation, abuse, and "We are exercising vigi- Ranatunga, Sri Lanka's captain the match soon after becom- headed by Tim Southee, Lockie Court, seeks to hold the defend- when asked to comment on trafficking of minors and con- lance and avoiding all dem- when they won the 1996 World ing a father. Ferguson and Adam Milne. ants accountable, alleging the the lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges spiracy to commit such acts.” onstrations or large political Cup, opened fire at a crowd as However opener Fakhar Williamson said his team Schwikerts were referred to Nas- USA Gymnastics "kept a secret In addition, the complaint gatherings," England spokes- they moved to rescue him from Zaman is still sidelined with needed to be at their best to sar for medical treatment, "even file of sexual abuse allegations alleges that the USOC threat- man Danny Reuben told AFP. Rajapakse supporters. the knee problem that forced beat the top team. "Obviously, though it knew or should have and enabled a culture of psy- ened to de-certify USA Gym- “We are aware of a political One man was killed and him to sit out Sunday's game Pakistan are a strong side," said known of Nassar's abuse and chological and physical abuse nastics as the sport's national demonstration today, but for two others were wounded. against Australia in Dubai. Williamson. "That's something could have prevented it by tak- that kept young girls," includ- governing body for denying us it is all about preparations Ranatunga was arrested Mon- Sarfraz admitted New Zea- we've known for a long time. ing abuse allegations seriously ing the Schwikert sisters, silent. “due process” to convicted for the first Test.” day on an allegation of order- land, two points behind Austral- The last time we played against and maintaining a culture of ac- According to the com- child sex abusers whom it Reuben said a four-day ing the shooting, but was re- ia in the world rankings having them was at home in New Zea- countability and transparency.” plaint, the "defendants will- placed on a ban list. practice match in Colombo leased on bail. played three fewer matches, will land and it was a tough series."

ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS 2018 DOHA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS’ DELEGATES VISIT MIA

Delegates attending the 48th Artistic Gymnastics World Championships Doha 2018 – the first such event in the Middle East – took time off to visit the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, the star US gymnast Simone Biles also said after her team’s title triumph on Tuesday evening that they would be going on a sightseeing tour of Qatar soon. Gymnasts, officials and mediapersons totalling over 1200 have arrived in Qatar for the ten-day championships which conclude November 3. 18 Wednesday, October 31, 2018 Sports QNB STARS LEAGUE Icardi double Al Duhail extend lead over Lazio lifts Inter Milan to by beating Al Sailiya 2nd in Serie A Duhail now lead their nearest rival Al Rayyan with 7 points; El Arabi takes his goals tally to 10 Inter and Napoli are both six points

IKOLI VICTOR turned from an injury layoff, behind leaders Juventus DOHA while they missed the services AFP of torrential rain, the game of Bassam al Rawi serving a sus- MILAN sprung to life with Icardi's AL Duhail extended their lead at pension. opener after 28 minutes. the top of the QNB Stars League Brazilian Edmilson and MAURO Icardi scored in either Perisic crossed for Matias by beating Al Sailiya 1-0 on Almoez Ali operated from the half as Inter Milan beat Lazio Vecino, who flicked on to Icar- Tuesday. wings, while Nam controlled 3-0 under the rain in Rome on di to finish off. Youssef El Arabi scored the the midfield as Al Duhail had a Monday to move ahead of Na- Shortly afterwards the rain only goal at the Hamad Bin Kha- 56 percent ball possession but poli and into second place be- began to bucket down with lifa Stadium as Duhail went sev- failed to create clear-cut chances hind Juventus in Serie A. Lazio's Croatian midfielder en points clear of Al Rayyan and throughout the game. Sailiya Inter skipper Icardi tapped Milan Badelj going off injured eight over Al Sadd with a game with seven corner kicks had four in the opener after 28 minutes to be replaced by Danilo Catal- still to play against Al Sadd in shots on target the same AS Al with Marcelo Brozovic adding di. December. Duhail. a second before the break. The match was a resched- Al Sailiya relying on their The Argentine snatched uled week five fixture follow- two top strikers Rachid Tiber- the third after 70 minutes in ing Duhail’s AFC Champions kanine and Abdulgadir Illyas the Stadio Olimpico, as Inter League earlier in the season. for the goals but none delivered with 22 points from 10 games It was the fifth consecutive as the closest Al Sailiya came to overtook Napoli on goal differ- win in the league for the defend- scoring was when Tiberkanine ence. ing champions, who've scored fired a shot that was parried by Carlo Ancelotti's Napoli Perfect time 25 goals and conceded just six Al Duhail goalkeeper Khalifa were held 1-1 by Roma on Sun- “I’m going through a good times in 9 games. Most of the Aboobacker after 70 minutes. day. period of form along with Inter. pre-match talk centred around Inter and Napoli are both We’re playing well, apart from Sami Trabelsi’s plan and tactics Results six points behind Juventus the game with Barcelona (2-0 to improve the fortunes of Al who beat Empoli 2-1 on Sat- Sailiya, who have now gone win- Al Duhail 4 - 1 Al Kharitiyath urday thanks to a Cristiano Champions League defeat), less in four straight games. Al Sailiya 1 - 2 Al Rayyan Ronaldo double. "We're on the and want to do even better,” Icardi said. But it was Nabil Maaloul’s Youssef El Arabi is congratulated by teammates for his goal agaianst Al Sailiya during their QNB Stars Al Arabi 0 - 1 Qatar SC right track," said Icardi after men who really came to the League match at the Hamad Bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha on Tuesday. his side's sixth straight league party as they combined coordi- Al Gharafa 6 - 0 Al Khor win. It was also his sixth league nately to register the only goal. before setting the ball for El Ara- of the campaign, six behind top Duhail side from the one that Al Ahli 4 - 1 Al Sadd goal this season. But Inter continued their Almoez Ali got the ball from the bi to slam the ball into the net in scorer Baghdad Bounedjah of Al thrashed Al Kharaitiyat in their Al Shahaniya 1 - 1 Umm Salal "I'm going through a good charge with Brozovic getting centre-half then released Nam the 12th minute. Sadd. last fixtures, apart from mid- Al Sailiya 0 - 1 Al Duhail period of form along with In- the the second after 41 min- Tae Hee who turned his marker It was the striker’s tenth goal It was an unchanged Al fielder Luis Martin who re- ter. We're playing well, apart utes, firing into the bottom left from the game with Barcelona corner. (2-0 Champions League de- The visitors seemed more feat), and want to do even bet- at ease on the water logged ter." pitch continuing to dictate "We're not the anti-Juven- play. tus, as we're a few steps away Lazio did not give up with Mahrez dedicates Wembley to reach what they've done in Samir Handanovic pushing an recent years, but we are happy Adam Marusic effort over the with what we are doing." bar. But they were only spo- Luciano Spalletti's side radic signs of a fightback with winner to Leicester owner controlled the game which had Icardi drilling in the third with been in doubt all afternoon be- ease from a distance. cause of strong winds and rain Lazio remain fourth but AFP The 27-year-old insisted he in Rome. With just one point have not lost to all their lead- LONDON wouldn't have been able to rise separating the two sides the ing rivals -- Juventus, Napoli, to the top without the support of match was also an important Roma and now Inter. MANCHESTER City star Riyad Vichai, who bought Leicester in step in the race for Champions "I admit we deserved to Mahrez dedicated his Wembley 2010. League places next season. lose this evening," said coach winner against Tottenham to "He was like a dad. He was Inter had snatched the fi- Inzaghi. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha after very special. He was such a good nal Champions League spot "Against the big teams the "heart-breaking" death of person, a big heart and it was from Lazio on the last day of Lazio lack the conviction we the Leicester owner. heart-breaking and shocking last season, condemning Si- have in other matches. These Vichai died on Saturday for me to hear this news and for mone Inzaghi's side to the Eu- teams are built to win titles. when his helicopter crashed just all of the other people who died ropa League. "Now we want to get back moments after taking off from with him," Mahrez said. Under sudden bursts on track against SPAL." Leicester's King Power Stadium "It is a difficult situation I following their match against am with Leicester and the fam- West Ham. The football world ily of the victims. was stunned by the tragic acci- "I always wanted to play. I dent and it was especially hard know he would have wanted me to take for Mahrez, who spent to play. He was passionate about over four years with Leicester football. and was a key figure in their re- "It was difficult (to play markable Premier League title against Tottenham) but I kept triumph in 2016. The Algeria thinking about him. It was dif- winger enjoyed a good relation- ficult to sleep as well." ship with the charismatic Vichai City manager Pep Guardiola before moving to City ahead of praised Mahrez for maintaining the current campaign. his focus against Tottenham de- Devastated Mahrez admit- spite such a harrowing few days. ted he was torn about whether "He knew the owner. It's to play for City against Totten- a big loss for all the families in ham, but went ahead because Tottenham Hotspur’s midfielder Erik Lamela (left) vies for the ball with Manchester City’s midfielder Riyad Leicester. He was part of them he believed Vichai would have Mahrez during their English Premier League at Wembley in London on Monday. (AFP) for many years," Guardiola said. wanted him to. "I didn't ask if he wanted to After scoring the only goal cult for me. It is not easy to have with him. He was such a good is difficult to speak about. It is play because I know how com- of the game in the sixth minute, this type of stuff. The 'Boss' was person. very sad." petitive he is. Sometimes to play Mahrez celebrated by raising his very special to me," Mahrez told "I am very, very sad. That Mahrez flourished at Leices- a game helps you, not forget it, fingers to the sky in tribute to Sky Sports. is why when I scored I put my ter and was voted PFA Player of but to think in a better way. Vichai. "I spent four and a half years hands in the sky for him. He did the Year for his dazzling displays "He did really good, he was Inter Milan’s forward Mauro Icardi after scoring during their "It has been very, very diffi- there and have many memories a lot for me and Leicester and it in their title triumph. focused and did a great job." Serie A match against Lazio in Roma on Monday. (AFP) Asian football body signs major marketing deal Solari open to Real Madrid job long-term said at his opening press con- AFP its member associations that the The Argentinean is in ference on Tuesday. Ready to KUALA LUMPUR game in Asia has tremendously temporary charge of "I will do everything I can. give all solid financial foundations from It's a great opportunity and it's ASIA'S football body has which to build." DDMC Fortis Real after Lopetegui a great club. I don't just say O “I will do everything I signed a major commercial CEO, Patrick Murphy, said that that now as coach of the first can. It’s a great opportunity rights deal with sports market- the group "strongly feel that, in was sacked team. I've been here with other and it’s a great club. I don’t ing agency DDMC Fortis aimed cooperation with the AFC, we teams, I've played and sweated just say that now as coach at securing the financial future are in a position to transform AFP in the shirt of this club. of the first team. I’ve been of the game in the region for the the way Asian football is organ- MADRID "Madrid is bigger than all coming years. ised, enjoyed and commercial- of us but it touches us all with here with other teams, I’ve The deal gives the agency, ised across Asia". SANTIAGO Solari said he is its greatness. I want to be a part played and sweated in the a joint venture between Chi- DDMC Fortis is a joint ven- open to becoming Real Madrid of it." shirt of this club,” Solari nese and Swiss groups, exclu- ture between Swiss group For- coach long-term after being Solari is likely to remain in said. sive rights from 2021 to 2028 tis Sports and China's DDMC put in temporary charge on post for Real's La Liga game at starting with the final qualifying Sports International. The new Monday following the sacking home to Real Valladolid on Sat- round of the 2022 World Cup, deal signals an end to a long- of Julen Lopetegui. urday and could stay on for next Temporary coach of Real Madrid Santiago Solari (left), Sergio Ramos and on Wednesday, after Madrid the Asian Football Confedera- running commercial partner- Solari has been promoted week's trip to Viktoria Plzen in the rest of the team at a training session in Madrid on Tuesday. (AFP) confirmed the pair had sus- tion (AFC) said in a statement. ship between the AFC and from his role as manager of the Champions League. tained injuries against Barce- The AFC did not say how Lagardere Sports and Enter- the club's B team, Castilla, and Madrid have sounded out with balls". Lopetegui paid the change it." lona. much the agreement was worth tainment. The announcement took training for the first time forrmer Chelsea and Juventus price for five defeats in seven Solari was keen to dismiss Varane, who came off at but reports put it at $3.4 billion, came ahead of an AFC congress on Tuesday morning at Ma- coach Antonio Conte but initial matches, the last a 5-1 thrash- comparisons with Zinedine half-time at the Camp Nou, a huge boost for the rapidly Wednesday in Kuala Lumpur, drid's base in Valdebebas. talks have reportedly not gone ing at the hands of Barcelona Zidane, who also stepped up has an adductor problem growing football scene in Asia. in which Sheikh Salman will be The Argentinian, who smoothly. Belgium boss Rob- on Sunday. Solari believes the from coaching Castilla, before while Mariano has picked up a "This is a most significant day seeking support for a re-election spent five years playing for erto Martinez and the club's players are determined to turn leading Madrid to three con- hamstring strain. in the history of the AFC," the bid next year. Madrid between 2000 and former midfielder Guti have things around. secutive Champions League Any extended absence, body's president Sheikh Salman The Bahraini royal first took 2005, will be in charge for also been linked. "They are hurting, obvi- titles. "He's one of the greatest particularly for Varane, would bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said as the reins in 2013 when the AFC their Copa del Rey game away Solari, however, is the man ously, but eager to reverse the things we've ever had at this be a blow. After Plzen, Madrid the deal was signed Monday in was still reeling from a cor- to Melilla on Wednesday. He in position and a run of posi- situation," Solari said. "This is a club," Solari said. "He's very face Celta Vigo and Eibar in La Kuala Lumpur, where the AFC ruption scandal which saw his has not ruled out becoming tive results could turn opinion group of champions, warriors, calm, a great coach and no- Liga next month, before a po- is based. predecessor, Mohamed bin Lopetegui's permanent suc- in his favour. Asked about his who have won many things. body can compare to him." tentially decisive game away "With the signing of this Hammam, banned from foot- cessor. "I'm going to go into strategy against Melilla, he said The situation is not the easiest, Solari will be without Rap- to Roma in the Champions contract, the AFC can guarantee ball for life. things very positively," Solari "the idea is to go there and play but I have seen them eager to hael Varane and Mariano Diaz League. Sports Wednesday, October 31, 2018 19 We are committed to AIPS’ ElShorbagy cruises into objectives: Mubarak al Boainin TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK visit to the Aspire Dome, which Qatar Classic quarters DOHA is hosting the 2018 World Ar- tistic Gymnastics Champion- THE Qatar Sports Press Com- ships,” he added. mittee is committed to ideolo- On the intentions of the The defending gies of fair journalism and as tour, he said, “The tour also such has welcomed the AIPS intends to highlight the devel- champion to take Executive Committee & Jury opment made by Qatar in all on Peru’s Diego Meet being held in Doha, says walks of life, rather than just Mubarak al Boainin, Member, sports. For example, the first Elias; Farag, Qatar Sports Press Committee. time Mr. Merlo came to Qa- Emphasising on impor- tar was 21 years ago and since Gawad set up tance of the meet that is fo- then he has been a regular cusing on the ‘AIPS Sport here. But, the thing he noticed all-Egyptian Media Awards’ scheduled for the most is its development. clash Lausanne, Switzerland, in “He said recently in an January 2019, Mubarak said, interview that Qatar changes AYENI OLUSEGUN “Qatar has become a hub of Qatar Sports Committee board every six months. Not to speak DOHA global sporting events and is member Mubarak al Boainin. of the fact that the state-of- the sought after destination in the-art sports infrastructure MOHAMED ElShorbagy terms of sports and promoting Committee are committed like the Aspire Dome is an continued his impressive sporting culture. In such a sce- towards the ideologies of fair example in itself for other na- form at the PSA World Tour nario, it is obvious that mem- journalism, so it is only obvi- tions desirous of hosting pre- Platinum Qatar Classic as bers of the Qatar Sports Press ous that we welcome such a mier events. And Qatar hosts he swept past English chal- Committee are playing host to Meet in Qatar.” more than 90 events in a year lenger Adrian Waller in this prestigious event. Speaking about the sched- including the big ticket ones,” straight sets to reach the “As AIPS President Mr. ule for the meet, Mubarak added Mubarak. quarter-finals. The defending Gianni Merlo, pointed out yes- added, “The event is spread “Also such events like the champion won 11-8, 11-5 and terday, the organisation has across four days. In the first AIPS Executive Committee/ 11-7 in just over 30 minutes received 1,276 submissions two days, the Executive Com- Jury Meet, provides a plat- at the Khalifa International in eight different categories; mittee Meeting will take place form for developing technolo- Squash and Tennis Complex it means that the journalists before the Jurors meet. gies in sports journalism to on Tuesday. Egyptian World Number One Mohamed ElShorbagy in action against Adrian Waller of England during their from across the world are fol- “We also intend to take come to the fore as premier Waller had ruthlessly dis- Round 3 match of the Qatar Classic at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex on Tuesday. lowing it. The submissions the members of the AIPS Ex- journalists and photographers patched former World No.3 have come from 119 coun- ecutive Committee to the Su- get recognised for their work. Omar Mosaad in the previous Results The Egyptian lost the first tries,” said Mubarak, about preme Committee for Delivery When that happens, they inno- round for the loss of just sev- set 7-11 but surged back into the importance of the event for & Legacy and a trip to Qatar vate and that builds upon the en points in total, but he was Ali Farag (EGY) bt. Saurav Ghosal (IND) 12-10, 11-4, 11-6 (39m) the game, winning the next journalists across the world. Foundation is also planned. sports culture and that's what unable to deal with the pace Karim Abdel Gawad (EGY) bt. Declan James (ENG) 8-11, 11-9, 13-11, 7-11, 11-2 (72m) sets 11-0, 11-1 and 11-7 to see “We at Qatar Sports Press “There is also a planned we want,” Mubarak added. and power of ElShorbagy. Joel Makin (WAL) bt. Mathieu Castagnet (FRA) 11-4, 11-8, 7-11, 8-3 retired (60m) off James Willstrop. “The way he played against Tarek Momen (EGY) bt. James Willstrop (ENG) 7-11, 11-0, 11-1, 11-7 (39m) On the other hand, Makin Mosaad was unbelievable – was ahead in the fourth set Mohamed ElShorbagy (EGY) bt. Adrian Waller (ENG) 11-8, 11-5, 11-7 (31m) Quick read you don’t beat Mosaad like that Diego Elias (PER) bt. Mazen Hesham (EGY) 11-7, 11-6, 11-5 (36m) before Mathieu Castagnet if you aren’t a great player and was forced to retire due to Simon Rösner (GER) bt. Tom Richards (ENG) 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 11-7 (45m) World Golf Foundation defends Hall of Fame’s selection policy he showed that he is a great Paul Coll (NZL) bt. Borja Golan (ESP) . 11-3, 12-10, 3-0 retired (26m) injury after one hour of play. player with the way he played The Welshman led; 11-4, 11- this week,” said ElShorbagy on 8, 7-11 and 8-3. FLORIDA: The chief executive of the World Golf Foundation, which oversees the sport’s Hall of Fame, the PSA website. tally fresh.” on court, but managed to find Another Egyptian and has defended the organisation’s selection process amid criticism that some of the game’s best players “He put me under a lot World number five Ger- enough firepower to prevail second seed Ali Farag dis- have yet to be inducted. The Hall recently announced the five new members of the class of 2019, a of pressure throughout the many’s Simon Rosner saw off 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 11-7 and set patched India's Saurav Gho- group that includes twice U.S. Open winner Retief Goosen and former Masters chairman Billy Payne. whole match but the most England’s Tom Richards to up a last eight encounter with sal in straight sets; 12-10, Still awaiting the nod are the likes of British Open champions Tony Lema and Tom Weiskopf, as well as important thing is that you book his place in the quarter- Paul Coll of New Zealand. 11-4, 11-6 in 39 minutes to set Macdonald Smith, one of the best players between the two world wars. World Golf Foundation chief ex- don’t let it get to you. I feel finals. Tarek Momen shook off up an all-Egyptian quarter- ecutive Steve Mona does not vote on the inductees -- a task that falls to a panel of 16 -- but he points like I had good preparation Rosner, who reached the first set jitters to book a quar- final clash with sixth-seeded out that the vote will always be somewhat subjective. “It’s not just strictly (based) on playing record,” for this event – I feel good, semi-final stage in Doha last ter final spot against Wales and 2016 Qatar Classic win- he told Reuters. “The Fame element is part of it. Some people were just more popular than others physically strong and men- year, was a little bit sluggish Joel Makin. ner Karim Abdel Gawad. when they were on tour.” (REUTERS)

Qatar curling team in South Korea for Asian event New Kuwait circuit ready to host Middle East Rally Championship

Qatar’s Nasser Saleh al Attiyah impressed with facility

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

KUWAIT’S exciting new state- of-the-art race circuit will host Nasser Saleh al Attiyah the country’s return to the FIA Middle East Rally Champi- enduro rider Ata Al-Hmoud onship (MERC) after a one- won his category at the recent year absence this weekend. It Jordan Baja and is in Kuwait marks the first time that the for the rally. “I have been very facility has ever been used to impressed. The circuit, the host an FIA event. The pit areas are being used for the first time for an FIA event. set-up, the pits, the facilities, Qatar curling team led by coach Lajos Belleli are in South Korea for the Pacific Asia Curling Champion- Kuwait Motor Town Race they are all state-of-the-art,” ships 2018. The tournament is set to take place at the Gangneung Curling Centre in Gangneung. Circuit was inaugurated un- ferent race tracks, including circuit facilities to host off- said Ata. The championships will run from November 3-10. der the patronage and attend- an FIA grade one main race road rally events. Competitors carried out ance of His Highness the Emir circuit of 5.61km, and also fea- Both the Qatar Interna- their first day of route recon- Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al- tures facilities for drag racing, tional Rally and Qatar Cross- naissance on Tuesday and will Jaber Al-Sabah on March 28th karting, motocross, rally and Country Rally use the Losail be permitted a second day to this year. The Kuwait Imterna- dune racing. International circuit and the check the route on Wednesday Quick read tional Rally is based there this There is sufficient seating Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge before the competitive action week with the fourth round of and space for around 8,000 traditionally starts and finishes gets underway with a timed Libyan government denounces shooting federation’s boycott of the regional rally series tak- spectators, VIP halls, media at the Yas Marina circuit. super special at 16.00hrs on Arab Shooting Championship in Doha ing place over 13 timed desert facilities, 32 pit facilities and Nasser Saleh Al-Attiyah Thursday (November 1) after special stages from Thursday parking for around 3,300 ve- is the leading competitor in the ceremonial start at the Ku- TRIPOLI: The General Authority of Sports and Youth in the Government of National Accord in Libya through to Saturday afternoon. hicles. The race track itself was the FIA Middle East Rally wait Motor Town Race Circuit. denounced the Libyan Shooting Federation’s decision to boycott the 14th Arab Shooting Champion- The new facility is situated laid by the Arizona National Championship and has been This year’s event is being ship to be held in Qatar. The General Authority said in a statement issued late Monday that after in the area of Arifjan, 52km Company in association with impressed with the new start organised by the Basil Salem consultation with the Libyan Olympic Committee, it decided to participate with a high-level delega- south of Kuwait City, and was Trimble, the machine control location in Kuwait. “This is Al-Sabah Motor Racing Club tion in the championship, stressing its support and encouragement to any Arab gathering that constructed in 14 months. The technologies company. an excellent facility and I am (BMRC) under the chairman- would support and strengthen ties of cooperation between the Libyan sports teams in regional, project was the vision of the The Kuwait International sure it will have a very exciting ship of Sheikh Athbi Nayef continental and international events. The General Authority also stressed that sports unites peo- Amiri Dirwan and was brought Rally started at the Sirbb kart- future in world motor sport,” Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and ples and aims to promote sophistication in communicating and spread love among young people to reality by renowned German ing track, near Kuwait City, said the visiting MERC series in conjunction with the Gener- in various countries of the world in accordance with the principles of the Olympic Charter, stressing engineer and circuit designer in 2016 but has followed its leader, who starts as top seed al Authority for Sport and the that political issues have no place in sports and that the decision of the Libyan Shooting Federation Herman Tilke. neighbours in Qatar and Abu this weekend. Kuwait International Automo- is a personal act that lacks the high principles of sport. (QNA) The site holds seven dif- Dhabi to utilise excellent race Jordanian motorcycle bile Club (KIAC). Thompson breaks three-point record as Warriors gore Bulls

with K.D (Kevin Durant), Dray- ter, and reached the halftime Alfonzo McKinnie came off The 28-year-old Thompson finishes with mond (Green) and everyone buzzer leading by an incredible the bench to weigh in with 19 52 points as Warriors win 149-124 else that was out there on the 42-point margin at 92-50. points. Quinn Cook also had 14 floor with me, just trying to find With the game as good as points off the bench. me and give me good looks,” he won, it became simply a ques- Elsewhere on Monday, the AFP The 28-year-old Thompson added. tion of whether the red-hot eagerly anticipated match-up CHICAGO – who has struggled to find his “I forced a few bad shots, Thompson would surpass Cur- between the league’s last two scoring touch in the opening but I was so anxious. Anytime ry’s three-pointer benchmark. unbeaten teams, the Eastern KLAY Thompson scored a re- weeks of the season – finished there’s an NBA record at stake Thompson tied Curry’s Conference-leading Toronto cord-breaking 14 three-point- the game with 52 points as the you kind of get a little nervous. mark with his 13th three of and Milwaukee, saw the Bucks ers as the Golden State Warri- Warriors improved to 6-1 in the “I’m just so blessed to be the night with 7:12 remaining run out winners by 124-109. ors maintained their blistering Western Conference. able to play with the guys I do. in the third quarter and then The Bucks were missing start to the season with a 149- Thompson later revealed It was an amazing night that I'll bagged his 14th with just un- Greek star Giannis Antetok- 124 demolition of the Chicago Curry had urged him to go for never forget.” der five minutes left after coolly ounmpo, who was placed in Bulls on Monday. his record as he continued to Thompson had set the tone draining a shot from the edge of the NBA’s concussion protocol Thompson broke teammate drain a series of three-pointers. for a superb display in the first the arc. after suffering a blow to the Stephen Curry’s NBA record “Before I went out for the quarter when he exploded for Warriors coach Steve Kerr head against Orlando at the for most three-point field goals second half, Steph just looked 22 points to help the reigning meanwhile said he was una- weekend. in a single game of 13 when at the box score and said ‘Go get NBA champions surge into a Golden State Warriors Klay Thompson in action against the Chicago ware that the team were doing The Raptors meanwhile he nailed his 14th three of the it,’” Thompson told reporters. 44-28 lead. Bulls at the United Center in Chicago, on Monday. The shooting guard their best to engineer Thomp- were missing Kawhi Leonard, night midway through the third “That shows the unselfish- The Dubs put up another broke the NBA record for number of threes in a game with 14 made son’s record-breaking night. opting to rest the star forward quarter at the United Center. ness that’s within him. Same 48 points in the second quar- three-pointers. (AFP) Durant had 14 points while for the contest.