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THURSDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2021 Players,Players, fans will lovelo Qatar’s World Cup plans: I thinkthin (the timing of the tournament) is a big advantage – for pplayerslaye and fans. World Cups have historically been at the end of tthe season for most players – when they are tired both mmentally and physically. In 2022, they will be in the best possible shape – and that’s a plus for everyone.

Xavi Hernandez Sport | 10

FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP QATAR 2020: Third place play-off: Al Ahly vs Palmeiras (6:00pm); Final: Bayern vs Tigres UANL (9:00pm)

German giants ready for CWC showdown against Mexican side Bayern, Tigres eye glory in Qatar

FAWAD HUSSAIN Bayern Munich (left) and THE PENINSULA Tigres UANL players in action during training sessions on Bayern have won all three of their previous FIFA Club World Cup outings, Bayern Munich are just a win away the eve of the FIFA Club World from writing a new chapter in their Cup Qatar 2020 final which scoring at least two goals per game illustrious history as they face a spirited kicks off at the Education City and conceding none. Tigres UANL in the final of the FIFA Stadium at 9:00pm today. PICTURES: Club World Cup Qatar 2020, today. TWITTER/ Should keep a clean A victory at the Education City @FCBAYERNEN, sheet in today's final, the men from Stadium – a FIFA World Cup 2022 @TIGRESOFICIAL venue - will give the European cham- Munich would also equal Barcelona’s pions such an honour that has eluded record of four consecutive clean sheets them in their entire history spanning at the 2011 and 2015 championships. over 120 years. Since its inception in 1900, the For the Reds, it’ll be the first most successful German club has won a record number of (30), competitive match against a team from Cup (20), Super Cup (9) and League Cup Central America in the club’s history, (6) titles along with six UEFA Cham- just as the Mexicans will be playing a pions League titles besides winning European club in a competitive match many other events. for the first time. Today’s finale, which will kick off at 9:00pm, gives them a chance of lifting their sixth crown of the season, Bayern won the FIFA Club World which they haven’t done before. In Cup back in 2013. Since that triumph, fact, only FC Barcelona have achieved not a single European team has been the feat to date after their stunning beaten in the competition. The last 2009 season under . Led by coach Hans-Dieter Flick, defeat for a UEFA representative came who took charge in November 2019, in 2012, when Chelsea lost 1-0 to Bayern have won the German Super Boateng setback for Germans Bayern Munich not invincible, Tigres to give a strong show against Corinthians in the final. Tigres, on the Cup, the Bundesliga, the German Cup, says Ferretti the favourites. other hand, pulled off a first by the Champions League and the Flick, however, announced yes- “By statistics, Bayern are a winning European Super Cup this season, and terday the team will miss experienced Meanwhile, Brazilian-born Ferretti team, but it does not mean that they becoming the first CONCACAF team to standing in their way of their record central defender Jerome Boateng, who looked confident as he are invincible. They have lost like we reach the final of the FIFA Club World sixth title are Tigres – who have had to return home due to personal spoke to media yes- have lost, they have won like us, Cup. shown characteristics of a giant slayer reasons. terday, hoping for they are a solid team like us,” in the tournament. “This has stunned us,” Flick said of said Ferretti, who has Against Tigres UANL, The CONCACAF Champions the 2014 World Cup winner, who coached the side to five League winners under long time coach started against Al Ahly. domestic league titles in could win what will already be his stunned Copa Liber- “Jerome came to me and asked recent years. sixth title in his 68th competitive tadores Palmeiras 2-1 to become me to return home. After a “Naturally we match as Bayern head coach. the first Mexican side to reach negative (COVID-19) the final of the elite test he tournament. Nevertheless, Bayern, who always think we must do things well won their maiden CWC title in 2013, when we play against a great team. will enter the title clash as hot will return We have the quality and we must put favourites owing to their golden run home and not be a team effort. I hope my team will give of form in which they have been vic- available until further André-Pierre a top display in the final.” torious in 18 of their past 19 European notice.” Gignac Tigres said: matches. Flick’s side has also won Today, Bayern captain “We will do our best against a top side. their past seven competitive matches Manuel Neuer – the Best FIFA We want to win the tournament. “ on neutral venues including their 2-0 Men’s Goalkeeper – also faces victory against African champions Al a task of keeping Bayern’s Palmeiras seek consolation Ahly in the semi-final on Monday clean sheet as his side has not win against Al Ahly when ’s brace conceded a single from Before the final, Palmeiras fired them into the final. their three games in the and Al Ahly will square off in European teams have dominated tournament. the third position play-off at this tournament, and since Bayern’s Neuer’s biggest chal- 6:00pm at the same venue. title-win seven years ago not a single lenge will be to Palmeiras were expected to team from the continent has been hold meet Bayern in the final beaten in the competition. Though Frenchman but a shock semi-final the odds are heavily in Bayern’s André- defeat relegated them to favour, coach Flick is not taking Pierre the third place play-off. anything for granted. Gignac, Coach Abel Ferreira said: “Tigres are a very talented side. who "We will fight for third place. It They have strong mentality and scored all was not what we wanted, but it is great attitude,” Flick told a virtual the three goals what we will fight for. Our goal is to news conference on the eve of the for Tigres in Qatar. play from start to finish, as it was final. “Gignac isn’t the only against Tigres." “I watched their semi-finals and I player. It will depend on the Al Ahly coach Pitso Mosimane said: was very impressed with their per- overall performance. Gignac “We have faith in all our players, and formance. They have a lot of speed also benefits from the strong we have to deal with the fact that and determination. We have to be in wingers. We have to keep him Mahmoud Kahraba and El Shahaat full force against them and avail out of the box and prevent won’t be able to play. However, I scoring opportunities. I have confi- Tigres from getting the chances,” understand that their actions were not dence in my team,” Flick added. Neuer said yesterday. intentional.” Bayern Munich Tigres UANL

Coach: Hans-Dieter Flick (Germany) Coach: Ricardo Ferretti (Brazil) Manuel Neuer (captain), Niklas Süle, Nahuel Guzmán (Argentina), Carlos Jérôme Boateng, , Salcedo (Mexico), (Mexico), , , (Brazil), Alexander Nübel, Ron-Thorben Robert (Ecuador), André-Pierre Gignac (France), Hoffmann, Leroy Sané, Lewandowski (Mexico), Juan Sánchez Purata Thomas Müller (Germany); (Mexico), Leonardo Fernández (), Aldo , Bouna Cruz (Mexico), Guido Pizarro (captain) Sarr,Sa , Corentin (Argentina), (Mexico), Francisco Tolisso,T li (France); Meza (Colombia), (Mexico), Javi Martínez, (Spain); Robert Lewandowski (Poland), Luis Quiñones (Colombia), Luis Rodríguez (Mexico), (Brazil), Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting (Cameroon), Jesús Dueñas (Mexico), Carlos González (Paraguay), Julián Quiñones (Canada), (Austria), and (Colombia), Juan Pablo Chávez (Mexico), Érick Ávalos (Mexico), Arturo (England) Delgado (Mexico) and Patrick Ogama (Mexico) THURSDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 11

FIFA Legends Kaka, Javier Mascherano and Julio Cesar Gignac vs speaking during a press conference held at the Lewandowski: . A shootout between legends

FIFA.COM – DOHA

Can FC Bayern München emulate the 2009/10 Barcelona and complete one of the greatest achieve- ment’s in football history? Can Tigres UANL cause the biggest shock in FIFA Club World Cup final history? Legends Kaka, Mascherano and We’ll find out today, but one thing we know for certain is that both teams are indebted to 30-some- thing, foreign goal Julio Cesar predict enticing final machines. On the eve of the showdown, we spotlight Robert Lewandowski and FIFA.COM – DOHA winning six titles in a year] - so who What are their chances of actually Andre-Pierre Gignac. will you be rooting for? beating Bayern in the final? The FIFA Club World Cup always accu- Mascherano: I wasn’t part of that Kaka: It’s fundamental to have a It’s fundamental to have a great game Numbers mulates footballing expertise from across team, I arrived later. If Bayern win, we great game plan if you are playing a team plan if you are playing a team at this the globe, so it came as no surprise to see have to congratulate them, they have at this level. Bayern are obviously one level. Bayern are obviously one of the 1.07: Lewandowski has three FIFA Legends – Kaka, Javier been the best team in Europe in the last of the best teams in the world at the best teams in the world at the moment. netted 1.07 goals per game on average this Mascherano and Julio Cesar – sitting two years and if they achieve this, they moment. We are going to have the We are going to have the pleasure of down for a press conference at Qatar’s will go down in history. I am sure that pleasure of having those two great season (29 in 27). Education City Stadium on Tuesday Barça fans don’t want Bayern to win, so coaches behind their two teams. having those two great coaches behind Incredibly, it’s still short afternoon. The journalists in attendance, that they remain the only ones in history Mascherano: I am sure that Tigres their two teams: Kaka of his return for last term: as well as those around the world who [to have won six titles in a year]. is going out there with the mindset of 1.17. tuned in to the live stream, spent around playing the game with their own style 10: Gignac has hit ten an hour seizing the opportunity to quiz What is your impression of Tigres and to impose themselves. They have supporters in the stadium here. It’s a sign goals in his last nine some of the greats of the game. at this tournament? always tried to impress their own of hope for everybody. appearances in all com- Kaka: For me, they are very well identity on matches. petitions and has scored What are your expectations coached, with a well-defined game plan You all have experience working in six successive outings. regarding Thursday’s final? and strategy. What is your view on playing with children. Can you tell me what Javier Mascherano: I am looking Julio Cesar: I believe that the coach without fans in stadiums? you think should be done so this The quotes forward to it and hope it will be a great prepared them very well for the semi- Mascherano: The number one pri- generation of future footballers is “I think if we win this final for neutrals. Tigres made history by final and I was very surprised that they ority is obviously always people’s health. not lost due to the pandemic? Club World Cup it would qualifying for the final for the first time left so few opportunities for Palmeiras! FIFA and Qatar have gone through a Kaka: I am still optimistic, I try not complete one of the biggest as a Concacaf team. Bayern Munich have massive effort to make sure that this to dwell so much on the bad things. We historical achievements in been a European powerhouse in recent competition could still go ahead. You are not going to lose this generation all of football. Not just for years; they’re having a great time. have to be reminded that this is one of because of this gap. On the contrary, this Bayern or for Germany, but The number one priority is obviously the few competitions to have fans in the generation is going to come out of this it would be one of the What do you think about playing always people’s health. FIFA and Qatar stadiums, which is something that stronger, because they will have gone biggest historical achieve- here at stadiums that will also be have gone through a massive effort to touches us emotionally. This gives us through a completely unprecedented ments from all over the used at the World Cup? make sure that this competition could hope. situation. world.” Julio Cesar: The stadiums are still go ahead. You have to be reminded Kaka: I cannot imagine what it is like Mascherano: No one has a magic Robert extraordinary, with a fabulous infra- to play without supporters. I have been wand to fix this. I am also optimistic. Yes, Lewandowski structure. The fans are going to be posi- that this is one of the few competitions asking other players about this feeling, it’s true youngsters have not been able tively surprised when they see the sta- to have fans in the stadiums, which is because it is completely different. It’s to train, but we are not going to lose an “Andre-Pierre Gignac diums for the World Cup! something that touches us emotionally. really strange to score a goal and not to entire generation because of a year or a is fundamental for Tigres. This gives us hope: Mascherano feel the atmosphere of the stadium. It’s year and a half. At the end of the day, He dictates the pace of the If Bayern win the final, they will really hard to imagine. It’s a really good things are going to fall into place and game. Technically he equal Barcelona’s achievement [of sign, however, to see 30 per cent of adapt to the new reality dazzles me. He leads the team. [He knows] when to speed up and slow down play. He’s decisive. It’s not Palmeiras praise Qatar’s Al Ahly, Palmeiras chase bronze easy to stop him scoring penalties.” commitment to health Kaka “I was told that if I and safety during CWC couldn’t make it at a club that was heading for the [fourth division] and whose THE PENINSULA – DOHA financial problems meant they couldn’t buy any The head coach and goalkeeper of players, then I had no SE Palmeirashave praised Qatar’s future in football.” stringent health and safety Gignac protocols ahead of their third- place play-off against Al Ahly SC Spot-kick specialists in the FIFA Club World Cup. The Brazilian side are aiming Gignac has now scored to sign-off with a win in the com- 13 consecutive penalties for petition after losing to CONCACAF Tigres. Curiously, the last Champions League winners Tigres three penalties he missed UANL in the semi-finals. They will came in the Augusts of face Al Ahly at Education City 2017, ’18 and ’19. Stadium tomorrow (kick-off 18:00 local time) before the final between Robert Lewandowski Players and officials of Egypt's Al Ahly SC and Brazil’s SE Palmeiras (bottom) during training sessions Tigres UANL and FC Bayern had successfully converted ahead of their third place play-off of the FIFA ClubWorld Cup Qatar 2020 in Doha yesterday. München takes place at the same 17 successive spot-kicks venue straight afterwards (kick- The match will kick off at the Education City Stadium today at 6:00pm. Both sides will be keen until his last attempt was off 21:00 local time). to make the podium, especially the Brazilians, who came to Doha targeting a final berth but will saved by Hertha Berlin’s Ahead of the match, head now have to settle for the bronze medal at best on their tournament debut. Al Ahly will be aiming Rune Jarstein. The Nor- coach Abel Ferreira and goal- to replicate their Japan 2006 feat of finishing third at the Club World Cup. Having qualified as wegian became only the keeper Weverton Pereira da Silva CAF Champions League winners, that second goalkeeper to save were quizzed on Qatar’s COVID-19 Red Devils side, under Portuguese coach a penalty from the Pole in protocols – which have been man- I would like to congratulate Manuel Jose, took third-place at the the Bundesliga after expense of Mexico’s Club America after dated by Qatar and FIFA in order Qatar – they have provided all Manuel Neuer, who denied to safely host global football’s losing to SC Internacional in the semi-final. the then-Borussia premier tournament. the facilities and conditions for Dortmund player in 2013. Players and officials have the teams to perform. You undergone mandatory COVID-19 have to follow the rules and Did you know? testing on arrival in Qatar and prior use your accreditation to every match, while all tour- everywhere here. Qatar is very Lewandowski is one of nament venues have been rou- only two footballers to win tinely deep-cleaned. Tournament organised and this tournament the 86-times-awarded capacities have been limited, with has been delivered in a clean Polish Sports Personality of all fans required to return a neg- and safe way: Palmeiras coach the Year. 1982 recipient ative COVID-19 test, show evi- Abel Ferreira had been dence of receiving the vaccine or the only one, but the prove they contracted and Bayern Munich striker tri- recovered from the virus in recent umphed in 2015 and 2020. months. Weverton added: “We have felt Gignac became, when Ferreira said: “I would like to very safe here. We’re in the midst being summoned for UEFA congratulate Qatar – they have of a pandemic but ever since we EURO 2016, the first player provided all the facilities and con- arrived in Qatar we have felt safe based outside of Europe to ditions for the teams to perform. – whether it’s at the training facil- be called up by France. He You have to follow the rules and ities or in the hotel. People are made six appearances in use your accreditation everywhere being tested all the time and it the tournament, hitting the here. Qatar is very organised and makes us feel safe and relaxed. I post in the last minute of this tournament has been would like to congratulate eve- normal time in the final. delivered in a clean and safe way.” ryone for the organisation.” 10 SPORT THURSDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2021

One of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 venues, Education City Stadium will host the final of the FIFA Qatar to play Club World Cup final between Tigres UANL and FC Bayern München today. European WC qualifiers in

THE PENINSULA – DOHA

Qatar will play their FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 European zone qualifying matches against Luxem- bourg and at the Generali Arena in the south of Vienna, Austria. Qatar take on Luxembourg on March 24 before facing Azerbaijani team three days later. The European Football Associ- ation (UEFA) invited the Qatar Football Association (QFA) to par- Players, fans will love Qatar’s ticipate in the European qualifiers. The Asian champions will join Group A – alongside UEFA Euro 2016 winners Portugal, Serbia, Republic of Ireland, Luxembourg, World Cup plans, says Xavi and Azerbaijan. Qatar will play their ‘home’ fix- THE PENINSULA – DOHA tures on European soil in order to facilitate shorter travel times for Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA You will be able to watch two their group opponents. As the World World Cup in 2022 will offer I think [the timing of the matches on the same day – Cup host nation, Qatar has already many advantages for players which means we will have a qualified for the tournament. and fans according to Spanish tournament] is a big advantage Though Qatar automatically football legend Xavi Hern- – for players and fans. World historic World Cup. I have no qualify being the hosts but are andez. Cups have historically been at doubt that people are going taking part in the qualifying to get The former midfield the end of the season for most to be pleasantly surprised match practice in the lead up to the maestro, who lifted the World when they arrive in Qatar and World Cup. Cup with Spain in 2010, was players – when they are tired As well as playing World Cup speaking to www.qatar2022. both mentally and physically. In experience what the country qualifying matches in Europe, Qatar qa ahead of the FIFA Club 2022, they will be in the best has to offer: Xavi will also participate in the Copa World Cup final between possible shape – and that’s a America and CONCACAF Gold Cup Tigres UANL and FC Bayern plus for everyone: Spanish next summer. München, which will take the best team in the world place at Qatar’s Education City legend, former midfield right now. They have won all Stadium today. maestro Xavi Hernandez shares the titles and will be looking The current Al Sadd SC his thoughts ahead of the FIFA to make it six trophies Dates fixed head coach, who has lived in Club World Cup final tomorrow night. But Tigres Qatar for more than five years, will go into the game with a for Qatar Cup said the country is well pre- positive attitude and they have pared to host the next edition nothing to lose in the final. It of global football’s showpiece will be interesting to see what THE PENINSULA – DOHA event. Xavi also believes the same day – which means we happens.” timing of the tournament – will have a historic World Cup. Xavi also said he was The Qatar Stars League announced from November 21 to Looking to the (FIFA Club World Cup) final, Bayern are the I have no doubt that people are pleased to see a limited the dates of Qatar Cup 2021 December 18, 2022 – means favourites. I actually consider them to be the best team in the going to be pleasantly sur- number of fans attending featuring Al Duhail, Al Rayyan, Al the majority of players will be world right now. They have won all the titles and will be looking to prised when they arrive in matches during the Club Sadd and Al Gharafa, the first four in the best possible shape to Qatar and experience what the World Cup, in line with Qatar’s finishers in that order in the produce outstanding perform- make it six trophies tomorrow night. But Tigres will go into the country has to offer.” COVID-19 protocols. Anyone 2019-20 season QNB Stars League. ances on the field. game with a positive attitude and they have nothing to lose in the Looking forward to today's attending tournament venues The one-off semi-finals will be “I think [the timing of the final. It will be interesting to see what happens: Xavi Club World Cup final, Xavi has has been required to return a played on Thursday, February 18. tournament] is a big advantage the German giants down as negative COVID-19 test, show The tournament rule stipulates – for players and fans,” said firm favourites against Tigres, evidence of taking the vaccine that first-placed team in the league Xavi. who are the first CONCACAF or prove they contracted and championship plays against fourth- “World Cups have histor- point is that Qatar is a small Qatar’s compact nature Champions League winners to recovered from the virus in placed team and second-placed ically been at the end of the country, so players will hardly means fans will be able to reach the showpiece match. recent months. team plays against third-placed season for most players – need to travel. They will stay attend more than one match Xavi said: “I would say it “Qatar is doing well in team. Accordingly, league cham- when they are tired both men- in the same hotel throughout per day during the early stages was a half-surprise to see relation to the COVID-19 sit- pions Al Duhail face Al Gharafa and tally and physically. In 2022, the tournament. It won’t be of the tournament as the Tigres beat Palmeiras – but of uation. We don’t have a high runners-up Al Rayyan face Al Sadd. they will be in the best pos- like previous events – which longest distance between sta- course anything can happen number of cases and football The final is scheduled for Friday, sible shape – and that’s a plus I think is a big advantage for diums is just 75km. in football. Looking to the final, is being played here with fans. February 26. The Abdullah bin for everyone.” players and – of course – the Xavi said: “You will be able Bayern are the favourites. I The country is building up Khalifa Stadium of Al Duhail club Xavi continued: “Another fans as well.” to watch two matches on the actually consider them to be towards the World Cup.” will host all three matches. Hollywood actors finalise Juventus hold Inter to book takeover of spot in final Welsh club REUTERS – TURIN turned on the style and was only used only sparingly by Pirlo this denied another goal in the tie by season, was rarely tested, AP – WREXHAM, WALES Juventus booked a place in the two fine saves from Inter goal- despite putting Coppa Italia final after holding keeper Samir Handanovic. plenty of dangerous crosses into Hollywood actors Ryan visitors Inter Milan to a 0-0 Inter threw everything at the box. Reynolds and Rob McElhenney draw in their semi-final, second Juve late on but veteran keeper Inter committed more are officially the new owners leg on Tuesday, sealing a date and his defence players forward as the match of Welsh club Wrexham, the Juventus’ with either Napoli or Atalanta stood firm to secure a spot in the wore on, but the pressure was third-oldest professional team Cristiano with a 2-1 success on aggregate. showpiece match against the soaked up by the home defence in football. Ronaldo in and winners of today’s semi, with as the visitors finished the match “Can’t get to the Race- action with Lautaro Martinez had chances Atalanta hosting Napoli after a without scoring for the seventh course Ground fast enough. Inter Milan’s to get Inter back in the tie in the 0-0 draw in the first leg. successive trip to Juventus in all Game on,” Reynolds said on Alessandro first half, while Cristiano With the in competitions. Twitter yesterday. Bastoni. Ronaldo came closest to adding place, Inter had to go for it and The result booked the Turin The announcement late to Juve’s aggregate advantage with Martinez and Lukaku in the side a 20th Coppa Italia final Tuesday was a formality in the opening period, having starting lineup ’s appearance on May 19, with a because the takeover was scored both of their goals in the side certainly had the firepower re-run of last season’s show- approved in November. first leg. to trouble the hosts. piece -- when Napoli beat Juve The new owners have big After the break, Ronaldo But 43-year-old Buffon, on penalties -- still possible. plans for Wrexham, which plays in the fifth tier of English soccer, and announced a $2.7m equity investment. McTominay goal puts United into FA Cup quarter-finals They have previously out- lined their vision to make REUTERS – MANCHESTER Moyes is still looking for his first win back at Old need to be more clinical,” United manager Ole Gunnar Wrexham a “global force.” The Trafford as an opposing manager, created next to Solskjaer said. plan includes documenting Manchester United reached the FA Cup quarter-finals nothing although failed to connect with Solskjaer’s side, who conceded a last-gasp equaliser their first foray into the sport for the seventh straight season as substitute Scott a header in front of goal in the last seconds of normal on Saturday against visitors Everton in the Premier in a behind-the-scenes TV McTominay’s goal in extra time sealed a 1-0 win over time. League, dominated possession but struggled to do much show. West Ham United on Tuesday. The visitors were not helped by injuries with Issa with it. Fabianski did well to turn Lindelof’s header onto Formed in 1864, Wrexham Both sides lacked spark in a dire fifth-round clash Diop, who replaced early on, forced to the post in the first half while in the second he reacted had been a fan-owned club with precious few chances in normal time at Old Trafford. leave the pitch after a clash of heads with Anthony superbly to smother Rashford’s effort. since 2011. The Wrexham Sup- But McTominay finally relieved the tedium with a Martial. Solskjaer eventually sent influential Fern- porters Trust earlier voted in sharp low shot from ’s clever set-up in Diop was replaced by ‘concussion substitute’ Ryan andes on to try and shake things up but it was fellow favour of the takeover. the 97th minute. Fredericks at halftime -- the first such substitution in substitute McTominay who settled the tie. Wrexham plays in the United badly missed the creative flair of Bruno Fern- English soccer since the start of a new rule designed to When gave the ball away on a rare West National League and has andes, who came off the bench in the 73rd, although protect player safety. Ham foray, United surged forward with Fred’s cross been outside English foot- they did create the only real chances in normal time That was one of the few talking points in a game that eventually half-cleared to Rashford who had the vision ball's four main pro leagues with Lukasz Fabianski making good saves from Victor never lived up to its pre-match billing. to tap the ball inside for McTominay to fire home from since 2008. Lindelof and Rashford. West Ham, for whom David “I think we got about 15 to 17 shots in the end but we 12 yards. THURSDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 09

Australia, hopes to carry Test form New Zealand introduce into T20s against South Africa Super Rugby AP - ISLAMABAD du Plessis, Rassie van rule changes der Dussen, Kagiso PAKISTAN VS SOUTH AFRICA Pakistan aims to capitalize Rabada and Lungi on its 2-0 victory in the Test Ngidi. Feb 11, Thursday: 1st T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore AP - WELLINGTON series against South Africa They were all part Feb 13, Saturday: 2nd T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore when it takes on the Proteas of the Proteas’ Test Feb 14, Sunday: 3rd T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Rule changes designed to in the three-match squad in Pakistan but speed up the game and keep Twenty20 series that begins flew home as South T20 internationals last year, but the ball in play will be intro- today. Africa planned to was busy playing in a T10 duced in Super Rugby tourna- “The result of Test series prepare for the three- League in the United Arab SQUADS: Pakistan (from): Babar ments in Australia and New will have an impact on the Test series against Emirates and it left selectors Azam, Haider Ali, Khushdil Shah, Zealand this season as Twenty20 series,” Pakistan Australia, which was with no choice other than to , Danish Aziz, Asif Ali, governing bodies strive to bowling coach Waqar postponed. leave out the most experienced Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, keep fans engaged. Younis told reporters during The South Africa player for the home series. , , Aamer New Zealand’s Super a virtual press conference Twenty20 squad was Leg-spinner Usman Qadir, Yamin, , Mohammad Rugby Aotearoa competition in Lahore yesterday. en route to Pakistan who was named man of the Rizwan, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shaheen will see the introduction of a “I can’t predict the when Australia pulled series in Pakistan’s home Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, goal line dropout and a cap- ultimate result of the T20 out of the series and Twenty20 series against Zim- , Usman Qadir, Zahid tain’s challenge, similar to the series, but you will defi- eventually it was too babwe last year, and uncapped Mehmood review system which operates nitely see good results.” late for the Proteas to leggie Zahid Mahmood are in . South Africa (from): Heinrich Klaasen, Pakistan beat South keep some of the Pakistan’s slow bowling Australia will introduce an Africa in a test series for the members of Test options. Nandre Burger, Okuhle Cele, Junior extra-time “golden try” and first time in 18 years with squad in Pakistan. South Africa, led by Dala, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, 30-second time limits on two emphatic victories at Pakistan captain Babar Azam and South Africa Hasan, who Heinrich Klaasen, has only George Linde, Janneman Malan, David restarts after points are scored. Karachi and Rawalpindi. skipper Heinrich Klaasen pose with the T20 series returned to interna- David Miller in its lineup with Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine The moves are designed to Fast bowler Hasan Ali trophy in Lahore. Pakistan host South Africa in tional cricket in the some experience of playing in Pretorius, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz encourage “action, options and grabbed a 10- haul a three-match series starting today. Test series against Pakistan. Shamsi, Lutho Sipamla, Jon-Jon Smuts, less dead time” in matches, in Pakistan’s 95-run win in South Africa after two Miller toured Pakistan in Pite van Biljon, Glenton Stuurman, their proponents say. the second test as the captaincy and Babar Azam was years due to injuries, 2017 with a World XI side which Jacques Snyman Law changes introduced in Proteas lost their last seven chosen as the white-ball is part of Pakistan’s Twenty20 played three-match Twenty20 Australia last year including for only 33 runs in the skipper before eventually being squad with Shaheen Afridi and series with du Plessis as its the ability to replace a red- second innings and were named as all format captain Haris Rauf to give Pakistan a skipper. this year. “We are by no means carded player after 20 bowled out for 274. after Pakistan lost the Test formidable pace attack. There are three uncapped a second-string T20 squad and minutes, a 50/22 kicking rule Waqar was the bowling series in England last year. Pakistan had to leave out players fast bowler Okuhle Cele, we are looking to win,” Klaasen and a five-second time limit coach when a second-string Sri This time around, Waqar is Mohammad Hafeez after he wicketkeeper-batsman Ryan had said on Tuesday. “South to use the ball when available Lanka routed Pakistan 3-0 at not underestimating the couldn’t join the team’s bio- Rickelton and batsman Jacques Africa has got loads of talent, at rucks will remain in place. Lahore in 2019. second-string South Africa secure bubble in Lahore by the Snyman as South Africa look to which people sometimes don’t Under the new Australian The result saw Sarfaraz without its T20 regulars -- Feb 3 deadline. form a pool of players before see because we only have six law changes, teams will have Ahmed being stripped of the captain Quinton de Kock, Faf Hafeez scored 415 runs in the Twenty20 World Cup later franchises.” just 30 seconds to restart play after points are scored. Scrum resets will also be timed by television match offi- cials to prevent unnecessary delays. In matches which are tied at the end of normal time, the team that scores the first try in extra time will win. The move attempts to encourage more attacking play in overtime. Rugby Australia director of rugby Scott Johnson said while there will be an onus on ref- erees to speed up the game, the changes had not be made South Africa T20 squad gathers for a chat with the coach in Lahore yesterday. Pakistan host South Africa in a three-match series starting today. Pakistan captain Babar solely to make matches more Azam drives during a team training session in Lahore yesterday. Pakistan host South Africa in a three-match series starting today. PICS: @THEREALPCB AND @OFFICIALCSA entertaining.

Houston. Hart had 20 Hamilton’s new deal raises Curry points and a career- high 17 rebounds, and Hernangomez had 14 scores 32 points and 10 questions about the future rebounds. Brandon Ingram scored 22, and in win for Zion Williamson REUTERS - LONDON extension to take him into a “Young drivers are the overcame foul trouble ninth season with the team. future therefore we need to to score 20 in 21 ’s new Formula “It is an important con- consider how we want to set Warriors minutes as the Pel- One deal has ended speculation tract,” said the Austrian. “It is ourselves up for the years icans won their fourth about his plans for this season important because of this beyond,” said Wolff. AP - NEW YORK consecutive game. but the one-year duration season and how we want to The Austrian has long been Miami Heat 98 - New raises questions about how long position ourselves from 2022 a fan of Red Bull’s Max Ver- Stephen Curry scored 32 points, York Knicks 96 the seven times world onwards and how is his stappen, under contract to the 16 of them in a pivotal third- Jimmy Butler fin- champion will stick around. thinking.” end of 2023, but Mercedes also quarter Golden State run, and ished with 26 points, All of the 36-year-old Mer- “Lewis needs to decide have Britain’s George Russell, the visiting Warriors rolled past 10 assists and eight cedes driver’s previous deals what his future holds for him,” the 2019 Formula Two the San Antonio Spurs 114-91 rebounds to lead host have been multi-year agree- he added. champion, on their books and on Tuesday in the second game Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry Miami to a comeback ments but a shorter one buys “The team needs to decide in the last year of his contract of a two-day back-to-back shoots in the second half of their NBA victory over New time for both sides while other in the long term what we want at Williams. between the teams. game against the San Antonio Spurs at the York. For the second issues are worked through. to do about drivers.” Russell, 22, was an The Warriors burst away AT&T Centre in San Antonio, , USA. consecutive game The debate is likely to con- MERCEDES SHAKE-UP? impressive stand-in for Ham- from a game tied at 53 with a against the Knicks, tinue for months to come, just Finland’s Valtteri Bottas is ilton in Bahrain last year after dominating third-quarter spurt Butler delivered a as the last contract saga was a out of contract at the end of the champion tested positive for that produced a 21-point lead. clutch performance, hot topic throughout much of 2021 and significant rule COVID-19 and is familiar with San Antonio cut that margin to Philadelphia to a victory at Sac- as he contested RJ Barrett’s last year. changes for 2022 could see a the team’s workings. 88-76 two minutes into the ramento. Tobias Harris scored unsuccessful layup attempt as “It’s an unusual shake-up on track. Wolff indicated that fourth quarter but could get no 12 of his 22 points in the fourth time expired to seal the announcement for such a team Mercedes are also the only whatever Hamilton decides, the closer. quarter and also collected 10 outcome. and such a driver it must be team with two drivers over the relationship with the sport’s Seven players scored in rebounds as Philadelphia won Butler went 13-for-15 at the said,” said former driver and age of 30. most successful driver of all double figures for Golden State, for the sixth time in the past foul line, hitting 1 of 2 free Sky television com- time would con- which snapped a two-game seven games. Seth Curry also throws after he drew a foul with mentator Martin tinue long-term on losing streak. Eric Paschall scored 22 points and made four 6.2 seconds to go. Brundle. another level. added 15 points for the War- 3-pointers as the 76ers pre- The Knicks led by 12 points “Clearly at least Hamilton and riors. Rudy Gay led the Spurs vailed in the opener of a four- in the second quarter and by one of the parties Mercedes also with 17 points off the bench game road swing. eight points early in the fourth wanted to keep announced on while Trey Lyles added 15. Detroit Pistons 122 - Brooklyn quarter but couldn’t hold on. their options open Monday plans for a Utah Jazz 122 - Boston Celtics Nets 111 Elfrid Payton led the Knicks going forward. I joint foundation 108 Jerami Grant tied his career with 18 points. suspect that was dedicated to Donovan Mitchell out- high with 32 points and host Portland Trail Blazers 106 - Mercedes-Benz, diversity and dueled Jaylen Brown, and Rudy Detroit snapped a four-game Orlando Magic 97 and so they put it to inclusion in the Gobert had another strong losing streak with a victory over Damian Lillard scored 18 of bed for this year, sport. showing as red-hot Utah held Brooklyn. Delon Wright had 22 his 36 points in the third quarter and then they are “The idea of the on to defeat Boston in Salt Lake points and nine assists and and Portland took charge after saying that they foundation, credit City. Mitchell hit three of his six Saddiq Bey made all six of his halftime to earn a victory over will sort 2022 out where credit is due, 3-pointers in the final minutes field-goal attempts while visiting Orlando. somewhat earlier.” came from and finished with 36 points and scoring 15 points for Detroit. Carmelo Anthony had 23 Hamilton will (Daimler head) Ola nine assists to lead the Jazz to Mason Plumlee supplied 14 points for Portland, moving past be favourite for an Kaellenius, when their fifth straight win and 16th points, 12 rebounds, seven Oscar Robertson (26,710 points) unprecedented we discussed victory in 17 games. assists and three blocks in the and into 12th place on the NBA’s eighth crown, and between Lewis, Ola Brown returned from a victory. Kyrie Irving, who all-time scoring list. a record-extending and myself,” said two-game injury absence to missed Brooklyn’s previous Gary Trent Jr scored 15 100th win, this year Wolff. score 33 points and grabbed game with a sprained finger, led points as the Trail Blazers but his future will “We are going eight rebounds for the Celtics. his club with 27 points and returned home following a 3-3 remain in focus. to run it jointly. Jayson Tatum added 23 points seven assists. James Harden road trip on which they were Team boss Toto “It also shows for Boston, which went 2-3 on contributed 24 points, 12 assists extremely short-handed. Wolff acknowl- there is an alliance a five-game Western Con- and five blocks. Nikola Vucevic amassed 27 edged that on and a relationship ference road trip. New Orleans Pelicans 130 - points and 15 rebounds and Philadelphia 76ers 119 - Sac- Houston Rockets 101 Monday after Mer- Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton kneels in support of the Black much beyond Terrence Ross added 22 for the ramento Kings 111 cedes announced Lives Matter campaign on the grid before the race at Abu 2021.” Josh Hart and Willy Hern- Magic, who dropped the the Briton, who was Dhabi GP at Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, UAE, in this The season Joel Embiid scored 25 points angomez produced double- opener of a four-game road out of contract, had December 13, 2020, file photo. starts in Bahrain on and posted season bests of 17 doubles off the bench as New trip and are 1-6 in their last agreed an March 28. rebounds and six assists to lead Orleans routed visiting seven contests. Sport THURSDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2021 08 Djokovic holds off Tiafoe; Venus exits

AP — MELBOURNE bid for a 24th Grand Slam singles title on track, making Frances Tiafoe had never only 11 unforced errors as she played a No. 1, had never beaten defeated Nina Stojanovic 6-3, anyone in the Top 5, and now 6-0. he’d just won a tiebreaker But a 21st trip to Melbourne against to level Park ended painfully for her their second-round match at older sister, Venus Williams. the Australian Open. The 40-year-old Williams, He nodded and motioned a seven-time major winner for more noise before plonking making her 88th Grand Slam down in his courtside chair and main draw appearance, was saying what everyone watching down 5-1 in the opening set already knew: “I love this. ... I against Sara Errani when she love it!” landed awkwardly on her ankle That lasted right up until the as she approached the net for a pivotal moment in the fourth volley. She fought back tears set, serving at 3-all, 30-all, before receiving treatment on when he walked to the side of the ankle, and gamely con- the court to get a towel, dry his tinued, hobbling between face, and didn’t resume play points, before losing 6-1, 6-0. before the countdown clock ran Two top 10 players went out out. He was given a time vio- of the women’s draw: 2019 US lation by the chair umpire, and Open champion Bianca docked a serve. Andreescu, coming back from He lost that game, and didn’t 15 months out with injury, was win another. beaten by Hsieh Su-wei of The 23-year-old American, Taiwan and ninth-seeded Petra quarter-finalist here two years Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon ago, threw everything he could champion and the 2019 Aus- at Djokovic. But it wasn’t quite Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates after winning his second round match tralian Open runner-up, lost to enough to beat the eight-time against Frances Tiafoe of the US, yesterday. RIGHT: Serena Williams (left) of Sorana Cirstea Australian Open champion, who the US after winning her second round match against Serbia’s Nina Stojanovic. Second-seeded Simona won the 3 1/2-hour afternoon Halep narrowly averted an match 6-3, 6-7 (3), 7-6 (2), 6-3. early exit, rallying from 5-2 “I felt like that kind of broke down in the third set to beat No. the match, honestly,” Tiafoe 72 Ajla Tomljanovic 4-6, 6-4, said. 7-5. “And he ran off with it. double-fault, then jogged to the “He’s a very quick player. (56-49). After assessing the French Open champion Iga “Hats off to him, but that net to embrace Djokovic. He’ll It’s unpredictable what comes stats, Djokovic said he couldn’t Swiatek, seventh-seeded Aryna was a terrible ending to the take plenty from this. He said next ... I’m really glad to remember serving more aces, Sabalenka and 2020 Australian match, to such a high-quality he knows he can compete at this overcome such a battle.” or seeing more serves pass him, He pushed me to the very Open runner-up Garbiñe match.” level. Djokovic served 26 aces, in a match in a long time. limit. He’s a very quick Muguruza all advanced, along Tiafoe shook his head after “He pushed me to the very Tiafoe 23. Djokovic had the “Credit to him,” the 17-time player. It’s unpredictable with Ann Li, a 20-year-old finishing the match with a limit,” Djokovic said. edge in terms of winners major winner said, “for forcing what comes next ... I’m American who beat Alize Cornet me to feel uncomfortable.” 6-2, 7-6 (6). Djokovic also agreed in his really glad to overcome No. 11 Denis Shapovalov, No. on-court, post-match interview such a battle. 14 Milos Raonic and No. 20 Felix that Tiafoe got a tough call. It Auger-Aliassime all advanced, was hot and sunny - the tem- Novak Djokovic keeping Canadian interest alive, perature peaked at 32 degrees and sixth-seeded Alexander Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit) Zverev completed the night - and Tiafoe had just lost a long session on Rod Laver with a 7-5, rally. any more help, you know.” 6-4, 6-3 win over American “Those kinds of things are Djokovic will play another qualifier Maxime Cressy. just unlucky,” Djokovic said. American in the third round Crowd numbers lifted on a “He deserved to have the first after No. 27-seeded Taylor Fritz nice, sunny day, hitting 19,900 serve.” who held off Reilly Opelka 4-6, across day and night sessions - Tiafoe later said he was glad 7-6 (6), 6-7 (4), 7-6 (5), 6-2. a maximum of 30,000, or Djokovic acknowledged it, but Dominic Thiem, who lost roughly 50% of capacity, are he still thinks there needs to be the final last year to Djokovic allowed through Melbourne “conversations” about allowing but went one better to win the Park under COVID-19 more time between points while US Open, took a short route to restrictions. COVID-19 pandemic restric- the third round with a 6-4, 6-0, There were thousands in tions mean ballkids can’t hold 6-2 win over Donimik Koepfer John Cain Arena, known by the towels for players. and will next play unpredictable Kyrgios and his fans as the “Could I have handled it Australian Nick Kyrgios. Peoples’ Court, to watch the better? Yes,” Tiafoe said, Another US Open champion, mercurial Aussie save two answering his own question. Naomi Osaka, needed only an match points before beating No. “Yeah, I mean, that just hour to sweep Caroline Garcia 29 Ugo Humbert 5-7, 6-4, 3-6, broke me. I’m out there battling 6-2, 6-3. 7-6 (2), 6-4 in a rollicking night world No. 1, and like he needs Serena Williams kept her cap full of turns and twists. Americans Gauff and Mmoh plot upsets in second round

REUTERS — MELBOURNE

American teenager Coco Gauff will be eager to pull off another upset in her fledgling career when she faces fifth seed Elina Svitolina, while compatriot Michael Mmoh will be hoping to upset Rafa Nadal in the Australian Open second round today. Gauff, 16, was one of the Australian Open’s biggest success stories last year as she stunned Venus Williams, Sorana Cirstea and Naomi Osaka en route to the fourth round. Early exits at the US Open and French Open last year halted her rise but she showed signs of returning to her best in her opening-round thrashing Cori Gauff of the of Jil Teichmann to book a first US after winning meeting with Ukrainian her first round Svitolina. match against “I’m going to go out there Switzerland’s Jil and have fun,” Gauff said. Teichmann on “She’s a great player and I Tuesday. know it’s going to be a tough match, but I’m just going to embrace the opportunity and try to play well under the a back injury during his first- main showcourt against local pressure.” round victory against Laslo wildcard Thanasi Another player looking to Djere. Kokkinakis. embrace the spotlight will be If world number 177 Mmoh Russia’s ATP Cup heroes American qualifier Mmoh, who pulls off the upset, he will be open and close out the action outlasted Serbian Viktor Troicki the lowest-ranked player to at the John Cain Arena, with to earn a shot at world number defeat Nadal at a Grand Slam. seventh seed Andrey Rublev two Nadal. Australians Ash Barty and facing Thiago Monteiro and Nadal, bidding for a record Daria Gavrilova will put their fourth seed Daniil Medvedev 21st major, has won 25 of 26 friendship on hold when they meeting Roberto Carballes matches against qualifiers at clash during the day session Baena. Grand Slams, although question at Rod Laver Arena, with Russian-born Sofia Kenin marks remain over his fitness, Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsit- continues her title defence with the Spaniard hampered by sipas also in action on the against Estonia’s Kaia Kanepi.