TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2020 SPORTSPORT 07

CRICKET TENNIS I am the coach, someone who has to decide. I will South Africa vs ATP Tour always make decisions based on sporting reasons. England Montpellier, Pune This is football, not tennis, and you need to have 1st ODI and Cordoba, ACTION

respect for everyone: PSG coach Thomas Tuchel TODAY’S At Cape Town Argentina

Recent Super Stunning comeback seals Bowl champs 2020 - Kansas City (AFC) 31, San Francisco (NFC) 20 2019 - New England (AFC) 13, LA Rams (NFC) 3 Super Bowl win for Chiefs 2018 - Philadelphia (NFC) 41, New England (AFC) 33 AFP – MIAMI Kansas City 2017 - New England (AFC) 34, Atlanta Chiefs’ Patrick (NFC) 28, OT Patrick Mahomes led a Mahomes 2016 - Denver (AFC) 24, Carolina (NFC) 10 thrilling late comeback as celebrates the Kansas City Chiefs ended with the Vince 2015 - New England (AFC) 28, Seattle their 50-year wait for a Lombardi (NFC) 24 Super Bowl crown with a Trophy after 2014 - Seattle (NFC) 43, Denver (AFC) 8 31-20 victory over the San winning the 2013 - Baltimore (AFC) 34, San Francisco Francisco 49ers on Sunday. Super Bowl (NFC) 31 Chiefs quarterback LIV at the Hard 2012 - N.Y. Giants (NFC) 21, New England Mahomes shrugged off an Rock Stadium (AFC) 17 error-strewn start to in Miami, 2011 - Green Bay (NFC) 31, Pittsburgh overturn a 20-10 fourth- Florida, on (AFC) 25 quarter deficit in a nail- Sunday. biting battle for the Vince 2010 - New Orleans (NFC) 31, Indianapolis Lombardi Trophy at the (AFC) 17 Hard Rock Stadium. 2009 - Pittsburgh (AFC) 27, Arizona (NFC) 23 The Super Bowl win was 2008 - N.Y. Giants (NFC) 17, New England Kansas City’s first NFL (AFC) 14 Championship since their 2007 - Indianapolis (AFC) 29, Chicago triumph over the Minnesota Vikings in 1970. (NFC) 17 And it owed everything 2006 - Pittsburgh (AFC) 21, Seattle (NFC) 10 to the nerve of Mahomes, 2005 - New England (AFC) 24, Philadelphia who for the third straight (NFC) 21 postseason game led the 2004 - New England (AFC) 32, Carolina Chiefs back from a double- (NFC) 29 digit deficit to seal a dra- 2003 - Tampa Bay (NFC) 48, Oakland (AFC) 21 matic win. 2002 - New England (AFC) 20, St. Louis “We never lost faith. Everybody on this team, no (NFC) 17 one had their head down 2001 - Baltimore Ravens (AFC) 34, N.Y. and we found a way to win Giants (NFC) 7 in the end,” said Mahomes, 2000 - St. Louis (NFC) 23, Tennessee (AFC) 16 shortly before being anointed Super Bowl MVP. Kansas City Chiefs' quarterback Patrick Mahomes The Chiefs quarterback making a pass during Super Bowl LIV. Recent MVPs had looked out of sorts until 2020: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City early in the fourth quarter, 2019: Julian Edelman, WR, New England throwing two interceptions We never 2018: Nick Foles, QB, Philadelphia in the face of fierce pressure lost faith. from the magnificent San 2017: Tom Brady, QB, New England Francisco defence led by the Everybody 2016: Von Miller, LB, Denver marauding Nick Bosa. on this team, 2015: Tom Brady, QB, New England But with the game on 2014: Malcolm Smith, LB, Seattle the line in the fourth no one had 2013: Joe Flacco, QB, Baltimore quarter, Mahomes led his their head 2012: Eli Manning, QB, NY Giants team on two long drives to down and we 2011: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay set up touchdowns for tight 2010: Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans end Travis Kelce and found a way 2009: Santonio Holmes, WR, Pittsburgh running back Damien to win in the 2008: Eli Manning, QB, NY Giants Williams. 2007: Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis Those scores put the end. Coach 2006: Hines Ward, WR, Pittsburgh Chiefs into a 24-20 lead and Reid told me 2005: Deion Branch, WR, New England Kansas City made the game after both of 2004: Tom Brady, QB, New England safe when Williams danced 2003: Dexter Jackson, FS, Tampa Bay up the sideline for a 38-yard 'em to keep 2002: Tom Brady, QB, New England rushing score with 1min firing. Keep 2001: Ray Lewis, LB, Baltimore 12sec remaining. Mahomes finished with believing and 2000: Kurt Warner, QB, St. Louis 286 passing yards and 26 keep firing: 1999_John Elway, QB, Denver completions from 42 1998_Terrell Davis, RB, Denver attempts with two touch- Mahomes 1997_Desmond Howard, KR, Green Bay downs. The Chiefs quar- 1996_Larry Brown, CB, Dallas terback also rushed for a touchdown early in the first Kansas City Chiefs A tribute to late quarter. end their 50-year Kansas City get set NBA legend Kobe But the defeat was des- wait for a title with Bryant, his daughter perately hard on the 49ers, Gianna and the who were chasing a record- a 31-20 victory for victory parade seven others who equalling sixth Vince Lom- over the San died along with AP – KANSAS CITY bardi Trophy. Francisco 49ers them in a helicopter The 49ers had barely put The Kansas City Chiefs are celebrating their Super Bowl crash is shown on a a foot wrong through three win with a parade. screen during Super quarters, with their defense Chiefs quarterback “The Chiefs Kingdom Champions Parade” is set for 11:30 Bowl LIV on Sunday. shackling Mahomes superbly Mahomes who am tomorrow. Officials announced the celebration Sunday and their offense moving the played a major night, shortly after the Chiefs defeated San Francisco 31-20. ball confidently to put them The festivities will include a victory rally at Union Station in the driving seat late in the role in overturning about 1:30 pm, shortly after the parade ends. game. a 20-10 fourth- Details about the parade already had been leaking out “They have an amazing quarter deficit in a in advance, as the city put generators in place near the site defence,” Mahomes said nail-biting battle for of the rally and businesses in the area made plans to close afterwards. or operate on a reduced schedule. “We weren’t executing at the Vince Lombardi When the Royals won the World Series in 2015, hun- a high enough level, and Trophy, named MVP. dreds of thousands of people flocked to the parade, parking when you play a defence like along the side of the interstate when exits clogged. that, you’re not going to have success.” But as the pressure in the touchline and galloping into let a 28-3 lead slip in a momentum seemed to have fourth quarter mounted, the endzone for a score to stunning loss to the New decisively in San Francisco’s 49ers quarterback Jimmy make it 31-20. England Patriots. favour. Garoppolo’s sure touch Garoppolo was then The fourth quarter At that point Mahomes Moment of silence for Kobe deserted him and the Niners intercepted on the next drama came after a nip-and- had looked off-colour for offense dried up. 49ers possession and it tuck opening three quarters much of the game, throwing REUTERS – MIAMI One of the greatest basketball With Mahomes leading was left to Kansas City to with little to choose between two uncharacteristically players of all time, Bryant won five the Chiefs on two long drives run down the clock for the two sides. sloppy interceptions as the There was a moment of silence in NBA championships and was twice to engineer a 24-20 lead, victory. Mahomes’ rushing Chiefs struggled to build honour of Kobe Bryant at the Super named the NBA Finals MVP during Garoppolo had one last The win was a long- touchdown in the first momentum. Bowl in Miami on Sunday following his 20 seasons in the league, all of chance to lead the 49ers on awaited first Super Bowl quarter and a Harrison But once again the Chiefs the death of the basketball great, his which he spent with the Los Angeles a game-winning drive with triumph for Chiefs head Butker field goal had helped ability to score quickly came daughter Gianna, and seven other Lakers. 2min 44sec remaining. coach Andy Reid, the Kansas City into an early to their rescue. passengers in a helicopter crash in His sudden death at age 41 was But the Chiefs defence 61-year-old veteran long 10-3 lead. Mahomes hit receiver California a week ago. felt throughout the world of profes- suddenly began to find gaps regarded as the best NFL But Garoppolo found Tyreek Hill for 44 yards on Prior to kickoff, players from both sional sports, with tens of thousands to pressure Garoppolo, and coach not to win a Kyle Juszczyk for a 15-yard the drive that led to Kelce’s the Kansas City Chiefs and San Fran- of fans flooding the grounds of the when he was sacked on championship. touchdown in the second touchdown to make it cisco 49ers stood at the 24-yard-line Staples Center when the Lakers 4th&10 to hand possession But the fourth quarter quarter to make it 10-10 at 20-17. to honour Bryant, who wore the played for the first time since his back to Kansas City, the collapse was cruel on 49ers halfttime. Another 38-yard com- number 24 during much of his two- death. writing was on the wall. coach Kyle Shanahan. A Robbie Gould field goal pletion to Sammy Watkins decade career with the Los Angeles Tributes have been paid to Bryant Two plays later Williams Shanahan had been the and a touchdown from on the next Chiefs drive led Lakers. in the week leading up to Super Bowl then drove the final nail into offensive co-ordinator for running back Raheem to the go-ahead touchdown A photo of Bryant and his daughter LIV, with players reflecting on his the 49ers coffin, finding the Atlanta Falcons at the Mostert helped put the 49ers for Williams and a crucial was projected above the crowd at influence during Monday’s opening space down the left hand 2017 Super Bowl when they 20-10 ahead and 24-20 lead. Hard Rock Stadium. night. 08 SPORT TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2020

Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson (13) and Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins in action during their game at the American Airlines Center on Sunday. Events affected due to coronavirus epidemic REUTERS— CHINA The following is a list of international sports events affected by the coronavirus, which has killed over 300 people and infected more than 14,000 in China after it first emerged in Wuhan, Hubei province, late last year: ATHLETICS The World Athletics Indoor Championships, which had been scheduled for Nanjing from March 13-15, were postponed until next year. World Athletics is working with organisers to settle on a date to host the biennial event in 2021. * The Asian Athletics Association cancelled its Feb. 12-13 indoor championships in Hangzhou. SOCCER * Australian officials are seeking to reschedule AFC Asian Champions League matches after their government imposed a travel ban on foreign nationals arriving from China. Shanghai Shenhua and Shanghai SIPG were due to play Perth Glory and Sydney FC next week. * A four-team women’s Olympic soccer qualifying tour- nament involving China, Australia, Taiwan and Thailand was moved from Wuhan and rearranged to be held in Australia by the AFC. Organisers were also forced to change the match schedule after China’s team, which arrived in Australia on Jan. 29, was placed in quarantine in Brisbane until after Feb. 5. * The Chinese Football Association said domestic games at all levels would be postponed. NBA: Harden, Giannis spark FORMULA E * The all-electric Formula E motor racing series abandoned plans for a race in Sanya on March 21. The move puts Formula One in the spotlight, with Shanghai due to host the Chinese Grand Prix on April 19. TENNIS * The International Tennis Federation moved the Rockets, Bucks to big wins Fed Cup Asia/Oceania Group I event featuring China, Taiwan, Indonesia, South Korea and Uzbekistan out of Dongguan to Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) in Kazakhstan. AFP — WASHINGTON season scoring average, while after the middle of the third But the Feb. 4-8 event was later postponed https://twitter. pulling down 19 rebounds and NBA Results quarter. com/ITFMedia/status/1222545405239603200 after Kazakhstan NBA scoring leaders James passing off nine assists to spark Results from the NBA “They play at a very high declined to serve as substitute hosts. Harden and Giannis Antetok- the league-leading Milwaukee games on Sunday pace, very fast and they put up BADMINTON * The Feb. 25 to March 1 China Masters tour- ounmpo powered their teams Bucks over the visiting Phoenix Detroit 128 Denver 123 a lot of 3s,” Harden said. nament in Hainan was postponed after several players to decisive NBA triumphs on Suns 129-108. Houston 117 New Orleans 109 “We just had to keep up withdrew. The BWF said it hoped the flagship Badminton Asia Sunday while Detroit snapped Khris Middleton added 25 Milwaukee 129 Phoenix 108 with them, make sure we Championships could still go ahead in Wuhan from April 21-26. a five-game losing streak by points for the Bucks, who Toronto 129 Chicago 102 contain their dribble pene- BOXING * The International Olympic Committee rallying past Denver. improved the NBA’s best record tration and offensively just do announced Jordan as hosts of the boxing qualifiers for Asia Houston star Harden scored to 42-7, while Devin Booker led what we do.” and Oceania after an event in Wuhan was cancelled. It will 40 points, grabbed 10 rebounds the Suns with 32 points. Western Conference at 31-18, Andre Drummond scored 21 now take place in Amman from March 3 to 11. and handed out nine assists as “We all depend on each committed only seven turn- points and grabbed 17 rebounds BASKETBALL * The International Basketball Federation the Rockets defeated visiting other and we just want to con- overs compared to 21 by the as the Detroit Pistons rallied moved the Feb. 6-9 Tokyo Olympics qualifiers to be held in New Orleans and rookie star tinue to get better each night,” Pelicans, who had 21 points and from 21 points down early to Foshan to Belgrade. Zion Williamson 117-109. said Milwaukee’s Brook Lopez, 10 rebounds from Williamson. defeat visiting Denver 128-123 GOLF * The elite women’s LPGA golf tour cancelled the Harden, on pace for his who had 17 points and nine The highly touted NBA new- in over-time. Reggie Jackson March 5-8 Blue Bay tournament to be held on Hainan. third NBA scoring title in a row blocked shots. comer played a season-high 32 came off the bench to score 20 * The sixth edition of the Hong Kong Ladies Open, scheduled with 35.6 points a game, hit The Rockets, outrebounded minutes after making his debut points while Detroit reserve to take place from Feb. 28-March 1, was postponed to May 12-of-24 shots from the floor, 63-43, used a smaller lineup only two weeks ago due to a Bruce Brown added 19 as seven 8-10. 7-of-15 from 3-point range, and with Swiss center Clint Capela knee injury that sidelined him Pistons scored in double figures. EQUESTRIAN * The Feb. 14-16 Longines Masters of Hong all nine of his free throws. injured, taking full advantage for three months. Nuggets center Nikola Jokic Kong showjumping leg was cancelled. “We want to finish these of the speed, passing and play- “Beast,” Harden said of of Serbia had a triple double ALPINE SKIING * Skiing’s governing body cancelled the games up before the break and making skills of Harden and Williamson. with a game-high 39 points plus Feb. 15-16 World Cup in Yanqing. come back with some Russell Westbrook, who con- “He has a feel for the game. 10 rebounds and 11 assists in a X-GAMES * The first winter X-Games scheduled to be held momentum,” Harden said. tributed 22 points, seven assists He’s strong. He’s going to be losing cause as Denver fell to in China, in Hebei province from Feb. 21-23, was postponed. “When we hit our stride it’s and six rebounds. really great.” The Pelicans, led 34-16, third in the West. FUTSAL * The AFC Futsal Championship that was scheduled going to be pretty scary. We’re “Be healthy and continue to by 28 points and 12 rebounds At 18-33, Detroit stands 11th to be held in Turkmenistan between Feb. 26 to March 8 has still trying to find it and we will.” keep our good spirit up, we’ll from Brandon Ingram, went in the Eastern Conference, four been postponed, with new dates to be announced when the Greek big man Antetokounmpo be all right,” Harden said. 10-of-33 from 3-point range, games behind Orlando for the situation stabilises. scored 30 points, exactly his The Rockets, fifth in the missing their last 33-point shots final playoff spot.

Webb Simpson celebrates with the trophy after the final round Phoenix Open of the Waste Management Leading final-round scores Pens outlast Capitals in Phoenix Open tournament at on Sunday in the US PGA TPC Scottsdale on Sunday. Tour Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona (x-won first meeting of season at first playoff hole, USA unless noted, par-71): REUTERS — NEW YORK 267 - x-Webb Simpson Pittsburgh goalie Matt Samsonov’s stick from in front 71-63-64-69, Tony Finau Murray was in just his eighth for his 12th goal of the season. 69-66-62-70, Sam Lafferty, Patric Hornqvist, game since the start of With eight minutes left in 270 - Justin Thomas 68-68- Dominik Simon and Brandon December but now has won six the second period, Simon found 69-65, Bubba Watson Tanev each scored a goal as the in a row. He finished with 29 the rebound of a Crosby shot 69-66-69-66, Nate Lashley visiting Pittsburgh Penguins saves, including 11 in the third and backhanded it through 66-67-69-68 defeated the Washington period. Samsonov’s five-hole for a 3-1 271 - Max Homa 72-67-64- Capitals 4-3 on Sunday. Meanwhile, Washington lead. 68, Scott Piercy 67-65-68-71 This was the first time the rookie goalie Ilya Samsonov Washington cut it to 3-2 272 - Adam Long two rivals have met this had won his previous 11 deci- when Evgeny Kuznetsov scored 66-68-66-72 season, and the 75th game sions before dropping this one. six minutes into the third where Sidney Crosby and Alex He also finished with 29 saves. period. He made a quick move Ovechkin did battle -- Lars Eller gave the Capitals from the left circle and back- including the playoffs. Crosby a 1-0 lead in the first period on handed one past Murray. and his friends took this one, a high shot that beat Murray The Capitals repeatedly as their offense kept the with 9:22 remaining, but the found scoring chances in the pressure on Washington for Penguins answered quickly. third period, but Pittsburgh long stretches. They tied the game just 68 actually broke through next Lafferty was recalled from seconds later and took a 2-1 when Tanev beat Samsonov Simpson rallies for Phoenix Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the lead 54 seconds after that. with a shot that deflected off American Hockey League on The game-tying goal came defenseman Dmitry Orlov’s Saturday but hadn’t scored a from Lafferty on a shot from the stick. point in his previous 15 NHL left side. That came with 2:33 left. Open play-off win over Finau games. He ended that slump The go-ahead goal came Eller made it 4-3 just 15 seconds with his first-period goal, his lead when Hornqvist gently later, but the Caps couldn’t net AFP — LOS ANGELES five years. Once again, Simpson “A couple birdies coming fifth of the season. redirected a shot off the equalizer. put his tee shot in the fairway, home and if you’re going to get Webb Simpson birdied the last then drained a 10-foot birdie beat that’s how it should Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Demko (35) stops Carolina Hurricanes right wing Nino two holes of regulation, then putt as Finau, who was in a happen." Simpson’s chances of Niederreiter (21) during the second period of their NHL game at PNC Arena on Sunday. birdied the first play-off hole to bunker off the tee, was left stealing the victory looked slim deny Tony Finau and claim his searching for an elusive second after he found the water at the sixth US PGA Tour title at the PGA Tour title to go with his 15th and bogeyed to fall two Phoenix Open on Sunday. Puerto Rico Open victory in adrift. Neither player could Simpson nabbed his first 2016. “It was a lot today,” said birdie the par-three 16th, the title since the 2018 Players Simpson, the 2012 US Open hole lined by stands holding Championship, firing a two- champion. thousands of raucous fans. under par final round of 69 on “Tony is a great champion. The pressure on Finau the TPC Scottsdale Stadium He played awesome today. To increased when he found a Course for a 17-under total of come down to the last couple fairway bunker off the tee at 17 267. of holes and then birdie 18 and Simpson bore down for the Trailing Finau by one to twice feels great.” win. “Honestly there on 15 start the day, Simpson was two Finau had bounced back when I drove it in the water and down through 16 but two- from a bogey at the eighth with Tony hit a great drive -- I didn’t putted from 52 feet for a birdie an 18-foot birdie at the 12th and think it was over but I thought at the par-five 17th and calmly added another birdie at the 13th I was going to have to do some- rolled in a 17-footer for birdie despite missing the fairway. thing special,” Simpson said. at the 72nd hole. But the American, who fired For Finau, who was a late Finau still had an eight-foot a nine-under 62 on Saturday to entry to the tournament after birdie look at the last hole of take the 54-hole, wouldn’t find initially committing to the Saudi regulation that would have won another birdie and settled for a International, it was a disap- it, but he couldn’t get it to drop one-under par 70. pointing first Phoenix Open and the tournament went to a “Hats off to Webb,” Finau since his recent move to playoff for the fourth time in said. Scottsdale. TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2020 SPORT 09 Unhappy Mbappe undermines United manager Solskjaer backs forward Martial to coach Tuchel authority at PSG regain scoring touch AP — PARIS REUTERS — MANCHESTER Problems often seem to occur before important games for Manchester United manager Paris Saint-Germain. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has Brazil star Neymar was backed Anthony Martial to ruled out of Champions League rediscover his scoring touch matches against Real Madrid and says the French forward is and Manchester United because giving the club “everything” of injuries over the last two both on the pitch and the seasons. training ground. Now Kylian Mbappe is at The 24-year-old has scored the centre of controversy only 12 goals in all competitions in two weeks ahead of a crucial an injury-hit season but has just European meeting with one in the last six matches as Borussia Dortmund. United struggle for goals in the Usually praised for his down absence of striker Marcus to earth attitude, frenetic pace Rashford, who is nursing a and exciting dribbles, Mbappe stress fracture in his back. showed a less attractive side “He’s giving us everything. this weekend at the Parc des He’s been asked to play -- he Princes. has started the last eight games He sulked. -- and running probably 20% After scoring a fine goal more than he did when I came during a lopsided 5-0 French here,” Solskjaer told reporters. league win against Montpellier, “We’ll give him more Anthony Martial Mbappe looked furious when support, give him rest when he coach Thomas Tuchel replaced deserves it... he’s been asked to challenge worthy of a red card, him with Mauro Icardi midway play too much as well, espe- angering Spurs boss Jose through the second half. cially now when Marcus is Mourinho who was adamant Mbappe barely acknowledged PSG coach Thomas Tuchel says Kylian Mbappe (right) and Neymar are creating ‘bad distractions’. injured. the England man should have Icardi, giving him only a per- “I know he’s tired, but he’s been sent off. Alli carried on functory handshake. involvement for Cavani, the France’s World Cup- opens up a discussion about never ever dodged a training playing before he was substi- Ahead of a busy period, club’s record scorer with 198 winning forward ignored topics which are a distraction session. He’s training, he’s tuted in the 70th minute and including a trip to Nantes today goals, so it was wise for Tuchel Tuchel and tried to walk past from our state of mind,” Tuchel available for every game, so I’m Spurs, who play an FA Cup and just a fortnight before the to bring him on. Considering him on his way to the substi- said. delighted with the boy.” fourth round replay against first leg of the last-16 Cham- Cavani almost left the club to tutes bench, and the German “So I am not angry, but I am Rashford scored 19 goals in Southampton on Wednesday, pions League match against join Atletico Madrid, it may coach had to force him to stop sad because it’s just not nec- all competitions before injury are yet to provide an update on Dortmund, Tuchel’s decision have been more appropriate for twice to listen to his explana- essary. I am the coach, someone struck while academy graduate the severity of his injury. looked logical. Especially since Mbappe to encourage him - and tions. After the final whistle, who has to decide. I will always Mason Greenwood has chipped “We were speaking about he made a double substitution, Icardi - when they came on. Mbappe did not celebrate the make decisions based on in with 10. The club also signed it at halftime and we are good also bringing on Edinson But the 21-year-old Mbappe win in front of PSG fans. sporting reasons. This is 30-year-old Nigerian Odion friends,” Alli told reporters. Cavani. appeared not to like it at all with It is the third time this football, not tennis, and you Ighalo on loan from China’s “I know what sort of player Since the arrival of Icardi, the cameras picking up every season he has reacted with need to have respect for Shanghai Shenhua on transfer Raheem is and he would never there has been much less reaction. public dissatisfaction after everyone.” deadline day. intentionally try to hurt being substituted by Tuchel, And as if one distraction Meanwhile, Tottenham someone. There are no hard who dropped him from an away were not enough, Tuchel also Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli feelings. He is a fantastic player match at bitter rival Marseille had to answer questions related said he bears no ill will towards and we move on.” last season because Mbappe to Neymar’s birthday celebra- Raheem Sterling after being on The tackle was similar to arrived late for a team talk. tions. The Brazil star, who turns the receivingving end of a bruising last monthmonth’s s incident where Mbappe’s apparent tantrum 28 on Wednesday, organised a tackle fromom the Man-Man- ArsenArsenalal ststrikerriker PierPierre-re- Kylian’s behaviour on Saturday tarnished the win party on Sunday night in a chesterr City Emerick Aubameyang was or Ney’s party are and undermined Tuchel’s trendy Paris nightclub. forward durinduringg sentsent offoff on VAR revieww authority at a time when PSG “Kylian’s behaviour or Ney’s Spurs’ 2-0-0 win and bannedbanned for three bad distractions needs to be united, having party are bad distractions as it over the Premier games when his mis-mis- as it gives the experienced three last-16 gives the impression that we are Leagueg ue timedtimed tackletackle nearlynearly impression Champions League exits in a not serious,” Tuchel champions.ons. injuredinjured CrystaCrystall PaPalace’slace’s row. acknowledged. Sterling’sr ling ’s MaxMax MMeyer.eyer. that we are not It’s unclear whether “It gives the impression we attempt to winwin “I“I am not sure (if(if it serious. It gives Mbappe will be sanctioned for are not focused at 100%.” the ball sawsaw him wwasas a red card)card) to be his behaviour, but Tuchel It is the third straight year step on AAlli’slli’s ankle honest,” Alli the impression we expressed his disappointment that Neymar’s birthday bash has but thehe Video added. are not focused at at his striker’s attitude - all the been allowed to take place, Assistantt ReferRefereeeee 100%: PSG coach more so because it eclipsed a despite it clearly being a dis- (VAR) ddidid sixth straight win in all compe- traction, and on the two pre- not deemm Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Thomas Tuchel titions for PSG, which is now vious occasions PSG went out the Thomas Tuchel unbeaten in 19 games. of the Champions League in the “It is not good because it last 16.

Daniel keeps TALKING POINTS FROM THE PREMIER LEAGUE Guardiola wonders if league’s RELEGATION REVOLVING DOOR AS SURVIVAL BATTLE HEATS UP Maldini flag If the weekend's action at the bottom of the Premier League is OK with Liverpool’s huge lead anything to go by, managers, fans, owners and players are in flying with AC for a nerve-shredding final third of the season. While Norwich City's 0-0 draw at Newcastle United left them Milan debut AP — LONDON Tottenham was in front with against 11 after the chances five points adrift at the bottom they are not yet considered a a goal from Steven Bergwijn we missed in this game … lost cause. Above them resembles a relegation revolving door. REUTERS — MILAN Pep Guardiola doesn’t on his debut. The recruit still I think we were there. West Ham United led Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0 and 3-1 on forget. from PSV Eindhoven It’s not easy.” It would have An owner from the Saturday -- with "live" tables showing them out of the relega- Daniel Maldini continued his After Manchester City brought down a pass from been easier had Ilkay Gun- tion zone and Brighton in it. They ended up drawing 3-3, family’s long association with failed to cut into Liverpool’s Premier League Lucas Moura with his chest dogan not seen his first-half leaving them third from bottom and Brighton in 15th spot. Italy's AC Milan when he 22-point lead by losing 2-0 said that cannot before taking a touch to penalty saved by Tottenham Likewise Watford blew a 2-0 lead at home to Everton, losing made his league debut to at Tottenham, Guardiola’s control the ball and vol- goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. 3-2 to stall their revival and leave them second bottom. follow in the footsteps of his mind turned back to 2018 happen again, leying into the net. Victory for Tottenham Bournemouth, apparently in an uncontrollable downward father Paolo and grandfather and irritation at comments “I saw the ball go in and lifted Jose Mourinho’s side so it’s not good spiral a couple of weeks ago, claimed a second successive win Cesare. from the Premier League I almost cried,” Bergwijn to within four points of The 18-year-old attacking leadership. for the Premier said. Chelsea in the fourth Cham- as they beat fellow strugglers Aston Villa despite playing midfielder, wearing the Guardiola’s team League that City “When the ball left my pions League place. nearly half the match with 10 men. number 98 shirt, came on in winning the league by 19 win the title in feet I had a feeling it was Arsenal is far from chal- It all means that only three points separate 19th-placed Wat- stoppage time of Milan’s 1-1 points prompted Richard going in... and the guys lenging for Champions ford (23 points) and 15th-placed Brighton (26) while even the home draw with Hellas Scudamore to express a that way with 100 jumped on me.” League qualification, ending teams looking safe, such as Crystal Palace (30), Southampton Verona. desire for “someone to get a points. So now it’s Tottenham’s record- the 25th round in 10th place (31), Newcastle United (31) and Burnley (31) will not be resting “It was a dream, a shame little bit closer to Manchester signing Tanguy Ndombele after being held 0-0 at on their laurels yet. about the result. We hope to City” while also praising the Liverpool you have created the second for Son Burnley to only remain LIVERPOOL TAKE ON INVINCIBLE AURA bring home the three points team’s excellence. to be concerned, Heung-min, who struck past ahead of its opponent on So powerful is the aura Liverpool have built up this season next game,” Maldini was Scudamore is no longer the owner of the goalkeeper Ederson in the goal difference. that, even when not playing anywhere near their best, they quoted as saying by Italian running the league. Guar- 71st minute. Arsenal is without a win Premier League: are simply brushing teams aside, apparently in cruise control. media. diola wonders if the compe- “I don’t think we col- since New Year’s Day and Southampton gave Juergen Klopp's side a proper fight for “It (the debut) was a goal tition bosses are fine with a Man City coach lapsed,” Guardiola said. manager Mikel Arteta wasn’t most of Saturday's clash at Anfield, yet still lost 4-0 with Mo- that I set for myself, now we lead so commanding that Pep Guardiolaardiola “ThisThis team is builtbuilt to do happy with the grass at TTurfurff hamed Salah's late double putting a gloss on the scoreline. hope to go on like this.” Liverpool is in line to seal somethingsomething and Moor. Liverpool have now collected 100 points from the last 102 Paolo, currently Milan’s the title in March with two play in a “That’s not a very available and with a 22-point lead over Manchester City, a first technical director, played a months of the season certaincertain helpful thing to play title for 30 years is now an inevitability. Serie A record 647 games for remaining. ending a 30-year0-year champi-champi- way. football,”football,” Arteta told the club and lifted seven “An owner from the onship drought.ught. Ten reporters.reporters. They have records to break though. They have matched City's 20 league titles and five Cham- Premier League said that Outplayingying and out-out- “I ddidn’tidn’t wwaterater consecutive Premier League home wins and equalled Nottingham pions League trophies before cannot happen again, so it’s shooting Tottenham thethe pitch yesterday Forest's 42-match unbeaten top-flight streak set in 1977-78. calling time on his career in not good for the Premier counted foror lilittlettle aafterfter at the training ground LLORIS EARNS HIS SPURS 2009. League that City win the title second-placeace City was becausebecause I exexpectedpected it, but When France World Cup winner Hugo Lloris suffered a serious Former AC Milan captain in that way with 100 points,” reduced to 1010 menmen onon thethe that doesn’t make it any elbow injury in October some Tottenham Hotspur fans be- Cesare, who died in 2016, Guardiola said, without hour when OleksandrOleksandr easier to play." lieved his absence would have no great impact on the team claimed four league titles and naming Scudamore. Zinchenko’s’s pushpush -- such was the erratic nature of the keeper's form. the European Cup in 12 “So now it’s Liverpool on Harry WinksWinks Pep Guardiola Manager Jose Mourinho did not hesitate to return a fit-again seasons as a player before you have to be concerned, to halt a coun-un- Lloris to the side, however, and in the two games he has having two spells as manager the owner of the Premier terattack saw played, both wins, he has looked much more like his old self. of the club. League.” the midfielderder Lloris was superb for Tottenham in Sunday's 2-0 win over Daniel’s older brother It is City’s six losses in shown a Manchester City, making a string of saves from Sergio Aguero Christian, 23, also represented 25 league games this secondd and keeping out Ilkay Gundogan's penalty. He looks refreshed Milan at youth level and now season that have thwarted yellow card.. and sharp which is good news for Tottenham, in their quest

plays as a defender in the the quest for a third Within for a top-four finish, and France at this year's Euros. Italian fourth-tier with SSD Pro straight title and put Liv- three Sesto. erpool on a clear path to minutes,, 10 SPORT TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2020

Novak Djokovic Age: 32 (1987.05.22) Turned Pro: 2003 Weight: 170lbs (77kg) Height: 6'2" (188cm) Birthplace: Belgrade, Serbia Residence: Monte Carlo, Monaco Prize Money Singles & Doubles Combined: $143,059,955 Titles: 78

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic walks in the Royal Botanical Gardens with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup trophy during a photo shoot in Melbourne, a day Wins-Losses: 906-187 after his victory against Austria’s Dominic Thiem in the singles final of the Australian Open. It was Djokovic's 17th Grand Slam title win.

Three things we learned Analysis: Look out, Roger & Rafa; at the AO

AFP — MELBOURNE Djokovic keeps gaining on you Three things we learned from the Australian Open, AP — MELBOURNE for a 17th major title. Thiem, holding court and holding the tournaments, a run that dates was 21-year-old American Sofia the season’s first Grand meanwhile, had just emerged biggest trophy; a younger man to Wimbledon in 2018. Kenin in Melbourne.) Slam, where Novak As Novak Djokovic conducted from the locker room, his media leaving the scene to plenty of So as the tour departs from Take it back to 2003, and Djokovic won the men’s yet another in a long string of obligations long finished. praise but not the triumph he Australia, Federer leads the the Big Three accounts for 56 title and Sofia Kenin was interviews after earning his Thiem was toting a much wanted. And, increasingly, the men’s list with 20 Slam tro- of the last 67, too. crowned women’s record eighth Australian Open simpler runner-up tray in his guy with the hardware that’s the phies, one ahead of Nadal and, “These guys,” said Thiem, champion: championship, runner-up left hand. envy of all is Djokovic, more rather suddenly, just three more who’s now 0-3 in major finals, Dominic Thiem was sliding into Just another thing to lug often than it is either of his than Djokovic. all against Djokovic or Nadal, Big Three stand firm - the front passenger seat of a home, along with his rackets, a rivals, Roger Federer and Rafael “Obviously, at this stage of “brought tennis to a complete Every season Novak white tournament courtesy van. mesh bag filled with shoes and Nadal. my career, Grand Slams are the new level.” Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and It was past 1:30am local plastic sleeve stuffed with Which, of course, is the ones I value the most. They are Djokovic mentioned Roger Federer face a time, and Djokovic was toting sweaty clothes. point right now. Roger and Rafa the ones I prioritize,” said another category in which he is stronger challenge from his large silver winner’s cup It is an all-too-familiar need to watch out, because the Djokovic, who defeated Federer approaching a mark held by younger players, and every everywhere while explaining scene nowadays when a Grand guy whose nickname is Nole is in the final at Wimbledon last Federer: most weeks at No. 1 in season they’re able to with- how he edged Thiem 6-4, 4-6, Slam tournament wraps up: a gaining on them. Djokovic has year and the semi-finals at the the ATP rankings. stand it. Dominic Thiem 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 on Sunday night member of the Big Three won five of the past seven major Australian Open this week. By winning the Australian pushed Djokovic all “Before the season Open, while 2019 runner-up the way in Sunday’s starts, I try to set Nadal bowed out to Thiem in five-set final, but the my form, shape, the quarterfinals, Djokovic Serb ultimately pre- for these events, regained the top spot. Nadal vailed to join Nadal where I can be at slides down to No. 2, with and Federer as my prime tennis, Federer still No. 3, and Thiem players who have mental and up a place to No. 4. won one of the Major physical Federer holds the men’s titles eight times. abilities.” record of 310 weeks atop the Djokovic’s victory Then he rankings, followed by Pete made it 13 Grand added: “I mean, of Sampras with 286, and Djokovic Slams in a row won course, there’s a at 275. by the unshakeable lot of history on “That’s the other big goal,” trio. the line.” Djokovic said. Everyone can “I put myself in this position Federer’s resil- decide on their that is really good at the ience - You don’t own what should moment. I’m super happy with become one of the determine who the way I started the season. It best players of all the greatest in kind of sets the tone for the rest time by talent alone, tennis history is. of the year.” but Federer’s fighting Or not - and just Consider that a warning. spirit has perhaps appreciate all Djokovic is the youngest gone unappreciated three of these tre- member of the trio, still just 32, until now. The Swiss mendously suc- while Nadal is 33, Federer 38. great looked out for cessful athletes. For all of their great success the count at 4-8 Consider this: - no one has won the French down in a nailbiting Federer, Nadal Open more than Nadal, with 12; fifth-set super tie- and Djokovic have no one has won Wimbledon breaker against John won the last 13 more than Federer, with eight; Millman in the third Grand Slam titles no one has won the Australian round, but found a in a row. Open more than Djokovic - way back. Compare that here’s one tidbit that’s fasci- The 20-time with the women’s nating: Each man has one major Grand Slam game, where 11 site where he has been limited Serbia’s Novak Djokovic poses with the champion then women have to one title. Norman Brookes Challenge Cup in the miraculously saved divvied up that For Nadal, it’s Melbourne locker room after winning the singles final seven match points in many majors in Park. For Federer and Djokovic, fighting past Tennys match against Dominic Thiem of Austria at that same span; it’s Roland Garros. Sandgren. the 2020 Australian Open in Melbourne. the most recent Guess what the next stop is He was ham- first-time champ on the Grand Slam calendar? pered by injury in losing in the semi-finals to Novak Djokovic, but So near, so far: Thiem feels empty after Australian final quitting was never on the cards. The 38-year-old has never retired in more than AP — MELBOURNE Djokovic had spent almost six fewer yeah, also already now I feel little bit of can play on a very high level for a full 1,500 matches, and he was hours in action, and had only dropped motivation to come back for the next Grand Slam,” Thiem said. “Didn’t have not about to give up that Emptiness. Exhaustion. All-too-familiar one set in the tournament. Grand Slam.” any drops - it makes me very confident proud record. feelings for Dominic Thiem after a Grand “I’ve rarely felt physically (so) tired, That’ll be in Paris, in May. for the next big tournaments which are - Serena may never Slam final. especially now after all the tension’s He reckons it’s just the fine details coming up.” reach 24 - Serena Williams He has lost three on the biggest stage gone,” Thiem said after losing 6-4, 4-6, he needs to work on, and a bit of Djokovic is among the experts who said she would be back on at the majors, adding a five-set loss to 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 on Rod Laver Arena. reshaping after honing his game specif- predict big things for Thiem. the practice court the day Novak Djokovic on the hard courts at After recovering a break in the first ically for the hard surface. “Congratulations to Dominic for an after her shock third-round Melbourne Park on Sunday to his two set, Thiem surrendered it with a double- What made him most proud of his amazing tournament. It wasn’t meant to defeat to China’s 27th seed against Rafael Nadal on the red clay at fault - his first. run in Australia, he said, was “the way I be tonight,” Djokovic said as he accepted Wang Qiang. The 38-year- Roland Garros. He rebounded and, from 4-4 in the kept my level, the way I kept my tension the trophy. old American also said she Each time he’s come up against the second, won six straight games and took over all the two weeks. “It was a tough match. You were very will not give up her pursuit greatest-of-all-time at that particular the next two sets, with his hard, flat “I didn’t have easy matches, espe- close to winning it. You definitely have of a record-equalling 24th venue. ground strokes troubling Djokovic. cially from the quarters on. Beating Rafa a lot more time in your career and I’m Grand Slam title. But her He had to beat top-seeded Nadal in And then, after being one set from a in over four hours, then two days later sure you’ll get one of the Grand Slam tro- early exit raises fresh the quarterfinals at the Australian Open, breakthrough major title, the 26-year- going back out again against Sascha. phies... More than one.” doubts that she will ever get then a fellow up-and-comer, Alexander old Austrian had to accept being runner- Unbelievably intense, close match. Thiem would like that to be sooner there. Her last Grand Slam Zverev, in the semifinals. up again after a four-hour final. Then two days later going out again than later, obviously, and certainly while title came in Melbourne Just to get a shot at Djokovic, who Even Djokovic admitted just one or against Novak, who won the most titles Roger Federer, Nadal and Djokovic are three years ago and a had won all seven previous times he’d two shots made the difference. here and again played on a very high still contenders. growing number of younger reached the Australian final, Thiem had “I just feel a lot of emptiness right level.” “I really hope also that I win my rivals are agitating behind spent almost 18 1/2 hours on court and now. But, yeah, that’s it. I know the That gives him a brighter picture for maiden Slam when they’re still around,” her. beaten four seeded players through six feeling,” Thiem said. the future. he said, “because it just counts more, rounds. “I did after the last two in Paris. But, “I’m very aware and sure now that I yeah.” TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2020 SPORT 11 Astana team denies links with doping doctor Ferrari AP — BRUSSELS

The Astana cycling team denied any association with Michele Ferrari yesterday following media reports that Danish rider Jakob Fuglsang Young riders in action during the second round of Qatar Motorsports Academy Challenge at Losail Circuit Sports Club on Saturday. is being investigated for links with the banned doping doctor who previously worked with Lance Armstrong. According to Danish Young riders making rapid progress media, Fuglsang is suspected by the governing body of cycling of taking part in a doping program designed by Ferrari. at Qatar Motor Academy Citing a “secret report” from CADF, the cycling body’s RIZWAN REHMAT anti-doping unit, the Politiken THE PENINSULA registered at the Qatar Motor Academy. newspaper also reported that There are four categories - 70, 110, 125 Astana team-mate Alexey Lut- From zero to 63 young riders com- and 400cc bikes. Now we have 16 senko attended a meeting peting in four categories in just over a Qatari riders. Probably, next week we between Fuglsang and Ferrari. year’s time clearly underlines the will have few more as 6 or 7 riders will “The team does not collab- growing interest in two-wheel racing be joining us soon. We had skills tests orate with any suspicious in Qatar. and they came through. We also have doctor, such as Dr. Michele The Qatar Motor Academy (QMA), 11 girl riders including female Qatari Ferrari,” said Astana, the team which was launched in October 2018, riders at the academy,” Cardoso said. run by former pro rider Alex- has created a buzz among young riding “In the QTSK, we tried our more andre Vinokourov. fans, aged between 8 and 16, by setting talented guys, the older riders. We “The riders are not up their own championship in a short started to practice almost a month and authorised to consult any period of time. half ago. Eight of our guys featured in doctors external to the team Last week, the second round the the QTSK 300 and they took part in in order to perform any Qatar Motorsports Academy Challenge the first race. It was amazing to see our activity, or to be prescribed at Losail Circuit Sports Club saw a total young riders racing in the top class and any diet or treatment, related of 37 children in action. on the circuit in the national champi- to their performance.” Like A few of those young riders were onship. We did not think this would Armstrong, who was stripped seen crying for missing out on a happen so quickly. We started from of his seven Tour de France podium finish at the racing road track zero and now this. Everybody is so titles for doping, Ferrari was (Karting Area). We launched the Qatar happy,” Cardoso said with a smile. banned for life by the United According to former MotoGP and Motor Academy because “We get help from Aspire Academy, States Anti-Doping Agency. WorldSBK rider Jose Luis Cardoso, who who know how to promote our Ferrari is not allowed to is the Head of QMA, young riders in we know this country has academy at schools. They see the consult with athletes. Astana Qatar have picked up pace in real quick huge racing talent. We ability of the kids and get to know who QMA Head Jose Luis Cardoso denied any wrongdoing. time. want to train young kids have potential. We have a limit of 75 “For the time being, no “We have two more rounds in this riders. We can’t have more as we very procedure has been initiated series. This year we have more rounds from Qatar and abroad carefully see them clearing the skills riders improving. Come and see our against any rider affiliated to compared to last season. The kids were the right way with expert test,” he added. riders. They are working hard. It’s two the team,” Astana said in a not experienced enough to have more Cardoso said the talented ones will hours when they come here. They are statement. rounds last year. But this year, we help coming the Aspire go to Spain during the summer, just building up really nicely,” he added. “The Astana Pro Team thought of creating a championship Academy and Jose Luis like last year. Cardosa is assisted by QMA coaches trusts that if the CADF had any and we believe they (the kids) are Cardoso and others. With “In the summer time, we take the Alberto Moncayo, Ruben Herrera, evidence of wrongdoing by becoming better riders,” Cardoso said academy riders to Spain for two Andrea Sibaja and Mateo Tnez. any rider of the team, disci- in an interview. all of them, we will have months since the weather is too hot plinary proceedings would “They have become more compet- a great experience in here. We train them for three weeks. QMA CHALLENGE have been immediately ini- itive and they have chance to improve We have top facilities like gym, pools tiated in accordance with anti- the lap times and feel the rhythm of developing young riders: etc in a country house. It is an amazing ** The second round of Qatar Motorsports Academy Chal- doping regulations and the the competition. They also enjoy the Losail Circuit Sports Club experience for these young riders. Last lenge concluded at Losail Circuit Sports Club in QMA area. World Anti-Doping Code.” qualifying practice and are becoming (LCSC) Vice-President and year, we did it and they enjoyed it. We ** QMA Challenge is a new championship launched by The International Cycling much better. Their improvement is so take them to the south of Spain and go the Academy in the 2019/2010 season and includes four Union said it was aware of the good,” Cardoso added. General Manager Khalid Al to three different tracks. We have an races. A total of 37 children took part in the second round. media reports but did not “We also have a round off-road. Remaihi agreement with Losail Circuit and the ** All the young riders that have been training during the receive any notification from That would be the only round away riders from get the opportunity to learn season competed in the road track (Karting Area) in dif- the CADF “in order to initiate from this surface. We divide our and experience,” Cardoso said. ferent categories: 13 riders in Minimotard 70, 10 riders in proceedings against the indi- training on both surfaces. There is are off-road,” the QMA official said. “The journey has been amazing. We MiniGP 110 and 6 riders in Supermotard 125. viduals and the team technical training that gives them Cardoso said the QMA has been did not expect this kind of interest as ** There was also the Rookies category with an exhibi- mentioned.”

chance to know how to control the bike inundated with requests for more we started from zero. To have the level tion for the 8 beginners who did two rounds of 10 min- The 34-year-old Fuglsang on slippery conditions and how to slide. young entries. of riding at this young age is amazing. utes with different technical exercises. has been on the Astana team Two out of every 10 training sessions “At the moment we have 63 kids After a few months, we could see the since 2013. Politiken, one of Denmark’s largest newspapers, noted the Dane had made “noticeable progress” in 2019. Fuglsang enjoyed one of Qatar Olympic Shooting & Archery Cup 2020 Table tennis: Qatar's his most successful seasons last year where he won the training camp in Tour of Andalucía, Liege-Bas- togne-Liege, the Critérium du Germany to begin Dauphine and a stage at the The podium winners Spanish Vuelta. in the pistol event at on February 7 the Qatar Olympic Shooting & Archery THE PENINSULA — DOHA Cup 2020 pose for a picture with officials Qatar's table tennis team will hold a of Qatar Shooting training camp from 7 to 18 February in The team does not and Archery Germany in preparation for West Asian's collaborate with Tokyo Olympic Table Tennis qualification Association at Losail any suspicious Shooting Range. scheduled from 23-27 February in Jordan. Team Qatar's players Ahmed Khalil and doctor, such Mohammed Abdulwahab are keen to as Dr. Michele conduct a perfect training camp in Germany in effort to reach good results in the qualifi- Ferrari: Alexandre cation that will help them booking spots Vinokourov places in Tokyo Olympics. Future stars on show as India, Pakistan clash at U-19 World Cup

AFP — POTCHEFSTROOM The only time they have nine. The Pakistanis beat I bowled poorly but I took come together of late is at inter- Scotland and Zimbabwe to set wickets. And finally, against India head into today’s Under national tournaments. up a quater-final with Afghan- Australia, I bowled well and got 19 World Cup semi-final against In 2019, they met at Old istan. That was another com- rewarded for them. Pakistan in Pochefstroom as Trafford during the ODI World fortable win in spite of the “Ups and downs are the slight favourites but cricket Cup in England - Rohit Sharma’s twitter storm over Afghan realities of life, so I’ve stopped matches between these two 140 ensuring a comfortable India spinner Noor Ahmed running thinking about the wickets sides are seldom straight- win. And now it is the turn of the out Muhammad Huraira when column. I have just been forward. youngsters, the future stars of he marginally backed up too far focusing on the process.” “When you talk about India- international cricket, to go up at the bowler’s end. Some big names have Pakistan (matches) that brings against each other in South The Indian quartet Yashasvi trodden this path before: out an extra edge to the whole Africa’s North West province, Jaiswal, Ravi Bishnoi, Akash current international captains competition,” said former India close to the Mooi river. Singh and Kartik Tyagi have Virat Kohli, Eoin Morgan and Test player Zaheer Khan in the The Indians won their group already found their way into the Kane Williamson all figured at Indian media. beating New Zealand and Japan IPL, each of them making the tournament in the past “I am sure the boys will be in the process before going on important contributions in along with some of the greats geared up for the big occasion to hammer Australia by 74 runs South Africa. of the recent past, players such and they will do well.” in the quarter-final. “In this World Cup, I bowled as Brian Lara, Yuvraj Singh, With political relations on a Pakistan’s group match very well in the first game but Chris Gayle and Steven Smith. knife-edge, there has been no against Bangladesh -- who meet got no wickets,” fast bowler The stage in Potchefstoom Test series between the two New Zealand in the second Tyagi, whose four for 24 did for is set to see who if any young Pakistan U-19 players celebrate countries since 2007/2008 and semi-final on Thursday -- was Australia in the last round, told Indians or Pakistanis are likely a wicket during their quarter- no white ball series since abandoned with Bangladesh in Cricinfo. to join this elite band in the final match against Afghanistan. 2012/2013. desperate trouble at 106 for “Then the next two games, decade ahead. SPORT SPORTSPO | 08 SPORT | 09 Harden,Harden Giannis Unhappy Mbappe sparkspark Rockets, undermines Bucks to Tuchel authority big wins at PSG

TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2020

Qatar will be a country that will be ready before any other. It will be a fantastic event, a game-changer for the world as well because people will go to Qatar and see a lot of the prejudice we have to the Arab world has no reasons to exist: FIFA President

This picture posted on @roadto2022 Twitter handle shows an aerial view of the under-construction Lusail Stadium, the largest of the eight ultra-modern venues which will host matches during the FIFA President Gianni Infantino (right) talks with the President of the Association of International Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup. The 80,000-capacity venue will host the opening and final matches Sports Press (AIPS) Giovanni Merlo during a public debate with AIPS members as part of the of the showpiece event. association's Annual Congress in Budapest, Hungary, yesterday. Djokovic back on top of ATP Federer to make South Africa debut charts after Australia triumph AP – MELBOURNE Roger Federer shakes his head and sounds a bit embarrassed AP – MELBOURNE 2, Federer remained at No. 3, and since Maria Sharapova in 2008 when he’s asked why he’s never played a tennis match in South Thiem went up one place to No. by coming back to beat two-time ATP RANKINGS Africa until now. Novak Djokovic returned to No. 4, with U.S. Open runner-up major champion Garbiñe It is, after all, where his mother was born. 1 in the ATP rankings yesterday Daniil Medvedev sliding to No. 5. Muguruza 4-6, 6-2, 6-2 in Sat- 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 9720 pts (+1) “I don’t know what took me so long, to be quite honest,” after winning his eighth The highest jump in the top urday’s final. 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 9395 (-1) the 20-time Grand Slam champion said. “I said, ‘It’s not pos- Australian Open title, while Sofia 100 was by Tennys Sandgren, an Kenin rose eight spots and is 3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7130 sible that I’m on the tour for 20 years, I’ve become the player Kenin’s first Grand Slam trophy American who went from 100th to the youngest American to make that I have been, and I’ve never played in South Africa. It’s just boosted her to a career-high No. 44th thanks to gggetting to the qquar- her debut in the topp 10 since 4. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 7045 (+1) not OK.’ I couldn’t live with myself if that happened.” 7 - and made her the leading terfinals. He pushed Federer to the SerenaSerena WilliamsWilliams in 1999.1999. 5.5. Daniil MeMedvedevd (RUS) 5960 (-1) Federer, a 38-year-old from Switzerland, is planning to American - on the WTA list. brink in that round,round, WithWith Williams stastayingying at No. 6. Stefanos TsitsipasT (GRE) 4745 finally fill that gap on his rather full resume on Friday, when Djokovic’s 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, holding seven 9 afterafter herher third-roundthird-round lossloss in he and his longtime rival, Rafael Nadal, are scheduled to play 6-4 victory over Dominic Thiem matchmatch points, Australia,Australia, Kenin moved past a 77.. AlexanderAlexander Zverev (GER) 3885 an exhibition match in Cape Town. in the final at Melbourne Park on butbut was playerplayer sheshe considersconsiders an idol.idol. 8. Matteo BBerrettinie (ITA) 2905 “You know how it is. Life on tour sometimes is what it is. Sunday allowed the 32-year-old unableunable to ““ItIt hasn’t sunk in yet. EveEve-- 9. GaelGael MonfilsMonfi (FRA) 2700 (+1) I couldn’t be more excited now that it’s actually really hap- from Serbia to rise one spot and convertconvert one.one. rythingrything is jjustust still a blur for pening. I hope I’m going to be really fine to play. I believe I am, move back ahead of Rafael TheThe me. I just can’t believebelieve wwhathat 110.0. David GoffinGo (BEL) 2555 (+1) but we’ll see,” Federer said after losing in the semifinals at the Nadal. 221-year-old1-year-old happened.happened. Yeah, it’s just 111.1. Fabio FogniniFo (ITA) 2400 (+1) Australian Open, where his movement was hampered by a Nadal had overtaken KeninKenin,, who great.great. I feel like I’m doingdoing 12.12. Roberto BautistaB (ESP) 2360 (-3) painful groin muscle. Djokovic in November and, at llivesives in some great tthingshings fforor “Also, that Rafa is willing to do it is exciting, of course, to age 33, became the oldest year- FloridaFlorida,, AmericanAmerican tetennis.nnis. IIt’st’s sucsuchh aann 13.13. Stan WawrinkaWaw (SUI) 2360 (+2) say the least. I know my parents are very happy, very proud, end No. 1. But Nadal lost ranking bbecameecame the honor,”honor,” Kenin saidsaid on 14.14. Diego SchwartzmanSc (ARG) 2220 as well. I’m sure it’s going to be very, very special for me on points by getting eliminated in yyoungestoung est Saturday.Saturday. 15.15. Andrey RublevR (RUS) 2174 (+1) many levels to play there.” the Australian Open quarter- woman to winwin thethe The UnitedUnited StatStateses The hope is to generate more than $1m for the Roger finals, by Thiem, one year after AustralianAustralian OpenOpen hhostsosts Latvia at Federer Foundation, which supports early childhood edu- being the runner-up to Djokovic. Everett, Washington,Wa in the team cation in six African countries and Switzerland. This is Djokovic’s 276th week competitioncompetition next weekend. But this wasn’t just about raising - or making - money, leading the ATP, the third-most AshAsh BartyBarty held onto No. 1 in the Federer said. He wanted to make sure the event was acces- in the history of the compu- WTA rankingsranking after losing to Kenin sible for spectators, so 10,000 tickets were available for about terized rankings, which began in in the semifinals.semif Simona Halep, $11 each. The aim is an attendance of 50,000, which would the 1970s. Roger Federer holds ousted at thattha stage by Muguruza, be the largest crowd on record for a tennis match. the record of 310, followed by went from NNo. 3 to No. 2, switching That goes along withith part ofof Federer’sFederer’s Pete Sampras with 286. placesplaces with Karolina Pliskova. interest in burnishing hhisis lelegacygacy - and If Djokovic can stay at No. 1 Muguruza,Mugur who was that of the game he plays.lays. until the first week of October, unseeunseededded at a Grand Slam He tries to do thatt in variousvarious he will surpass Federer. tournamenttourna for the first time ways, such as appearancesarances at “That’s one of the two biggest in sixsix years, returned to the the Oscars or the Met Gala or by goals, for sure,” said Djokovic, toptop 20,2 going from No. 32 playing in exhibitionn matches who defeated Federer in the to No.N 16. all over the globe. semifinals at Melbourne Park. “I The 2019 champion “Maybe spread thehe word, mean, there is no secret in that.” inin Melbourne, Naomi the gospel, a littlee bit,” The other? Catching up to Osaka,Osa went from No. 4 Federer said. “Go to pplaceslaces Federer and Nadal for most toto NNo. 10 after losing in I don’t usually getet a major championships. Federer thethe tthirdh round to 15-year- chance to play andnd leads the way with 20, with old AmericanAmerica Coco Gauff. Making maybe also bringng Nadal at 19 and Djokovic now it to Week 2 in her tournament tennis where it’s notot at 17. Novak debut boostboosted Gauff from No. 67 maybe seen ass Roger In the rankings, Nadal is No. Djokovic to No.No. 51. much.” Federer Amir Cup: Teams gear up for Round of 16

Al Sadd players and coach Xavi Hernandez during a training session in Doha yesterday, ahead of their Amir Cup Round of 16 clash against Al Kharaitiyat which will be played on Thursday. RIGHT: Al Rayyan players taking part in a training session as they gear up to take on Mesaimeer tomorrow.