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Thursday, January 2, 2020 FOOTBALL Jumada I 7, 1441 AH Loew faces GULF TIMES tricky year with unfi nished team SPORT Page 2

INTERVIEW Al-Thawadi: Tournaments will help Qatar fi ne-tune plans for the 2022 FIFA World Cup

t’s been another year of substan- The launch of Al Janoub Stadium Huge credit must go to Qatar Rail for tial progress on the road to Qatar’s was a huge moment for us as it providing such an exceptional experi- hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qa- was the fi rst tournament venue ence. tar 2022. to be built from scratch. Seeing One of our tasks now is to look IAl Janoub Stadium became the sec- carefully at the entire journey the the stadium full to capacity dur- ond tournament venue to be inau- ing the Amir Cup – and looking fans take. Did they fi nd it easy to get gurated when it hosted the Amir Cup absolutely splendid – was a to a metro station? Did they take ad- fi nal in May, while the remaining six landmark achievement. These vantage of the free travel on match stadiums edged closer to completion. are the nights which showcase days? What about the journey on foot Qatar also successfully delivered our journey towards to 2022 from the metro station to the stadium? two major tournaments – the Arabian Then once they arrived at the stadium, Gulf Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. extra mile in order to deliver a memo- how quickly did they come through Both events showcased the country’s rable fan experience. security and get to their seats? These readiness as it gears up to host inter- We know, however, that there are are all questions we need to assess and national football’s showpiece event in areas where we can improve the fan review over the coming months. less than three years’ time. experience. There are certain things For Hassan al-Thawadi, Secre- we need to prioritise from a commu- Al Janoub Stadium was inaugu- tary-General of the Supreme Com- nications point of view, such as travel, rated in May 2019 when it hosted mittee for Delivery & Legacy, 2019 has security and ticketing. We also need to the Amir Cup fi nal. What can we ex- been a landmark year as Qatar edges ensure fans are familiar with cultural pect in terms of stadium openings in ever nearer to the FIFA World Cup. norms in Qatar and feel comfortable 2020? about visiting our country. The launch of Al Janoub Stadium What are the initial lessons was a huge moment for us as it was learned from the Arabian Gulf Cup The Red, Green and Gold lines of the fi rst tournament venue to be built and FIFA Club World Cup, which the Doha Metro are now operation- from scratch. Seeing the stadium full Qatar successfully hosted in No- al. How would you assess the im- to capacity during the Amir Cup – and vember and December? pact of the metro during the tour- looking absolutely splendid – was a Both tournaments showed we are naments? landmark achievement. on the right track to delivering an One of our biggest challenges in These are the nights which show- outstanding World Cup in 2022. We 2022 will be getting groups of peo- case our journey towards to 2022. In learned a lot across every functional still have a long way to go in order to the lessons learned in 2020 and be- It was a key test – and as we’ve been ple from A to B. Shuttling fans, play- terms of 2020, four stadiums are in the area, whether it be ticketing, secu- deliver the best possible tournament yond. saying would be the case for many ers and offi cials between their hotels, fi nal stages of delivery: Education City rity, communications, travel, accom- for fans, players and offi cials in 2022. years, those fans were welcomed with training sites, stadiums and fan zones Stadium, Al Bayt Stadium, Al Rayyan modation, protocol and others. Both We are still learning and there remain During the FIFA Club World Cup, open arms. We have always said that will require careful planning. Hav- Stadium and Al Thumama Stadium. events were invaluable – and we ex- plenty of challenges. However, we there was an infl ux of fans from all we want to showcase Qatari and Arab ing the metro operational during the The other two, Ras Abu Aboud Stadi- pect the Club World Cup in 2020 will are proud of both tournaments and over the world – with most of them hospitality – and that’s exactly what two recent tournaments was a huge um and Lusail Stadium, are also near- be exactly the same. They are all vital pleased with the feedback we have re- being fi rst-time visitors to Qatar. we did during the Club World Cup. advantage. It is very convenient for ing completion and will be delivered learning experiences. ceived so far. We will carefully assess This felt like a key test for the coun- The fans discovered a very friendly everyone. It is also the cheapest and well in advance of the World Cup. (sc. Despite the successes, we know we the constructive criticism and apply try as it gets ever closer to 2022... country which was prepared to go the quickest way of getting around Qatar. qa)

QNB STARS LEAGUE Wakrah will pose a tough challenge for Al Sadd: Xavi ‘We suff ered against them in the first phase. They have an excellent coach who knows his players very well’

By Sports Reporter gone well and everyone is in working players because they are with the Qa- Doha hard to get a spot in the starting eleven. tar Olympic team. If we were playing I will work on choosing the best suitable against Al Sadd two weeks ago, the situ- lineup.” ation would have been diff erent.” l Sadd head coach Xavi Her- As for his team’s transfer moves in In today’s second match, Al Ahli will nandez reckons Al Wakrah January, Xavi pointed out that up to this be taking on neighbours Al Arabi. can give his team a “diffi cult” point, he does not know anything about “It will be an exciting game from start time when they clash in the any new signings, and added: “I work till the end, regardless of the teams’ QNBA Stars League today. only with the available players in the rankings. We are prepared to provide Al Sadd trail leaders Al Duhail by a team. I am working with a strong team our best and achieve a positive result at whopping 11 points (29 to 18) but they that can compete for all the titles. Our the start of second leg of the competi- have played two matches less owing to goal is always to win.” tion,” said Al Ahli coach Nebojsa Jovovic their AFC Champions League commit- Midfi elder Nam Tae-hee said Al Sadd “This will be an important start for ments, Xavi’s side aiming to make a re- are well-prepared for the match. the team. I have felt a good atmosphere newed push for the title in the new year. Nam said: “We have been working since my arrival here, a great under- “Happy new year to everyone! We very hard in training lately and we are standing by the players with my phi- will have a diffi cult game against Al fully prepared for this important game losophy. Now, we have started work and Wakrah. We know we will face a very against Al Wakrah. Our goal is to get the every day I notice an improvement in strong team. We suff ered against them three points.” the team’s performance.” in the fi rst phase. They have an excel- He added: “I am working as hard as Al Arabi coach Heimir Hallgrimsson lent coach who knows his players very possible for the team but I’m not satis- meanwhile said that he was aiming for well, but we are fully prepared to get fi ed with my performances until now. three points. the win,” said the Spain and Barcelona We want to win all the remaining games “It will be diffi cult because Al Ahli legend. and I will work on performing better so are playing under a new coach, who has He added: “I do not know whether that we can reach the level expected by a diff erent style. He is experimenting (Cristian) Ceballos will return to play our fans.” with diff erent ways in order to find the with Al Wakrah or not, but the rest of Meanwhile, Al Wakrah coach Mar- best possible combination. the players are of the highest calibre. quez Lopez was hoping to get the better “For us, we gain confi dence after On paper, we are the favourites. We are of his rivals today. every game. I think we will win the next coming on the back of a big win over Al “Our team has undoubtedly im- game and get three points. Gharafa in our best game of the season. proved from the time we played against “I would like to say that I don’t feel But our performance on the pitch (to- Al Sadd in the fi rst leg. We want to get a any diff erence because we are work- morrow) is what will help us get a posi- good result against our opponents, who ing on a long-term project and we look tive result.” are a great team. We’re looking to beat forward to be among the top teams. We And on the readiness of his players Al Sadd,” said Lopez. have seen Al Sadd, Al Duhail and others, for the match, the Al Sadd coach said: “We lost important points against Al Al Sadd coach Xavi and player Nam Tae-hee speak to the media ahead of their QNB Stars League match against Al Wakrah. who have players that we cannot bring “All the players are ready for tomor- Arabi, Umm Salal and Al Rayyan. Our in, so we decided to work on developing row’s game. Only the three Olympic team had to be a little lucky. Had we not the table would have been diff erent. But “Al Sadd have been playing many how they played against Al Gharafa the levels of our players. I think we have team players are missing. Training has dropped those points, our position in this is football. matches. It is a big team and we saw and came back strongly. We miss some succeeded in that.” Gulf Times 2 Thursday, January 2, 2020 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Loew faces tricky year with unfi nished team DPA group after the March play-off s, mich and fellow-Munich player Munich possibly Iceland, and Germany forward Serge Gnabry are to be director Oliver Bierhoff said this key players but Loew’s main is “the most diffi cult group you hope is that Manchester City ermany coach Joachim can imagine.” winger Leroy Sane and Bayern Loew is going through But Bierhoff also said that Munich centre back will recover “the worst period” “you want to march until the in time from severe knee injuries right now because the end when you play such a tour- which have sidelined them for GBundesliga winter break denies nament,” and German football months. him to continue working with supremo Fritz Keller hopes that Loew has compared his team his new-look team. playing all group games at home with the class of 2010 with the Loew started a major overhaul in Munich will boost the team. likes of Neuer, Kroos, Thomas after a shocking 2018 World Cup “You can ignite football fever Mueller, Mesut Oezil, Jerome group stage exit as title holders in Germany with such a draw,” Boateng and Sami Khedira who but also knows that he must de- Keller said, speaking of matches matured over the years to lift the liver later this year at Euro 2020. every football fan wants to see. 2014 World Cup. For that, the 59-year-old Loew must turn a talented “The team we have is highly would prefer more time to work but unfi nished team into a com- talented. Players like Gnabry, with his team which he won’t petitive unit within the week in Kimmich, (Leon) Goretzka and gather again until March, after March and a pre-Euro training (Timo) Werner have not reached last playing in November. camp in Seefeld, Austria before their limit yet. They are still very “A four-months break is not their June 16 tournament opener young,” Loew said. good for our young team,” Loew against France. Four years from now Germany said. “The long winter break is a “We must make use of the few will host Euro 2024, a long-term step back. We must make a new matches and the short time un- goal Loew has set for the team. start in March. That is of course til the tournament,” midfi elder But whether he himself will a little annoying for me.” Toni Kroos said. still be at the helm remains to be Germany play their fi rst match The 96-times capped Real seen. Loew has a contract until of the year on March 26 against Madrid man Kroos, 29, and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar but Spain in Madrid, followed by a 33-year-old captain and goal- also knows that another debacle Nuremberg date with Italy fi ve keeper Manuel Neuer of Bayern at Euro 2020 could end his reign days later. Afterwards, there will Munich are the most experi- which started in 2006 even ear- be only two more tune-up games enced players from the 25 men lier. in the fi nal preparation for the Loew has fi elded in the six inter- In addition, Loew turns 60 June 12-July 12 Euros. nationals since summer, includ- this year and has said that for Loew has admitted that ing fi ve newcomers. him coaching at the age of 70 is “we aren’t favourites this time Loew’s team has been hit “unthinkable.” But overall, Euro around,” especially because by injuries, and the coach just 2020 is the only thing on his they have been drawn to play hopes for March “that all players mind right now. world champions France and ti- are healthy who have the qual- “As a coach I follow and think tle holders Portugal in the group ity to play for Germany at such a about the development the team stage. Euro event.” takes. I am thinking until the Eu- A third team will join the Neuer, Kroos, Jushua Kim- ros, not beyond,” Loew said.

FOCUS OPINION Guardiola adamant City are England’s Sadio Mane set to be ‘team of the decade’ despite slump

AFP crowned king of Africa Manchester, United Kingdom

ep Guardiola has in- sisted Manchester City are English football’s team of the decade, Pdespite his side heading into as troubles rumble on 2020 some 14 points behind runaway Premier League lead- The Senegalese rivals are Liverpool teammate Salah and Algerian Mahrez of City ers Liverpool. Statistics appear to prove AFP placed by Egypt as 2019 hosts. him right given City have won Johannesburg 13 domestic trophies since CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2010, with only Chelsea (nine) Tunisian club Esperance have been er- within touching distance of iverpool sharpshooter Sadio Mane ratic as they seek an unprecedented that mark. is expected to become the fi rst third straight title, battling to overcome City have clearly benefi ted African football headline-maker a Chadian club then defying the odds to from the fi nancial clout they of 2020 by winning the Player of defeat Raja in Casablanca. They have lost have enjoyed since being taken Lthe Year award in Egypt next week. The several 2019 title-winning stars, includ- over by Abu Dhabi ownership January 7 ceremony will set in motion a ing Algeria winger Youcef Belaili, and the in August 2008. year sure to be full of drama on and off the starting line-up for a group match last City manager Guardiola fi eld with 2022 World Cup and 2021 Cup weekend included only four Tunisians. reached the peak of his powers of Nations qualifi ers in the mix. AFP Sport Record eight-time champions Al Ahly when he oversaw an unprec- looks at some of the issues facing the of Egypt, TP Mazembe of the Democratic edented treble in the 2018/19 most popular sport in a continent where Republic of Congo, Mamelodi Sundowns season that saw the club win good footballers and bad administrators of South Africa and Casablanca clubs Raja all three major English trophies often share the media stage. and Wydad are potential threats. – Premier League, FA Cup and or all, of the three cup com- League Cup – in the one cam- petitions in which they are in- AWARDS CONSISTENT CONFEDERATION CUP paign as well as the Commu- volved and Guardiola expects Liverpool scorer and Senegal talisman A new name will be engraved on the tro- nity Shield. the club to remain a major Mane is favoured to become the second phy this year as recent winners Ahly, Even though their league player in the English game in star from his country after El Hadji Diouf to Etoile Sahel of Tunisia, Mazembe, Raja form has been a disappoint- the decade ahead. be named Player of the Year. His rivals are and Zamalek of Egypt are all compet- ment in the fi rst half of the “The big clubs here in Eng- Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah, the ing in the Champions League. Judged by current season, Guardiola is in land are always looking for- Egyptian who won the last two editions, group form up to the halfway mark, Cairo no doubt City are “the” team of ward, we are going to try and and Algerian Riyad Mahrez of Manchester outfi t Pyramids could become the third the decade in England. analyse not just in terms of the City. The Player of the Year, and the win- Egyptian winners of a competition mod- “I think this in the last dec- squad but as a club how we can ners of seven other male and female cat- elled on the UEFA Europa League. Emirati ade was the best team in terms do better,” he added. egories, will be announced at a ceremony Salem al Shamsi has invested millions in of points, in terms of goals, “Hopefully in the next dec- in Egyptian Red Sea resort Hurghada. a squad dominated by Egyptians but also in terms of everything, titles ade this club can be here for containing stars from Burkina Faso, Gha- even. So congratulate Man- more time.” WORLD CUP na, the Ivory Coast, Tunisia and Uganda. chester City for that,” he said. In the short term, Guardiola A couple of weeks after the awards ban- “When we analyse every sin- has long since conceded the quet, Egypt will host another eagerly an- CAF gle day here, what happened race for this season’s Premier ticipated event, the draw in Cairo for the The six-month secondment of FIFA sec- day-by-day gives us perspec- League title to Liverpool and group stage of World Cup qualifying. retary general Fatma Samoura to crisis- tive in what happened in the admitted they had to “pray” if The latest FIFA rankings are expected to plagued CAF ends on January 31 and there last 10 seasons, especially they were to win a third suc- determine the seedings, meaning Senegal, will be huge interest in what progress the when people from Abu Dhabi cessive domestic champion- Tunisia, Nigeria, Algeria, Morocco, Gha- Senegalese has made. took over the club and bought ship. na, Egypt, Cameroon, Mali and DR Congo Her brief was to introduce reforms, good players, interesting man- But the Catalan manager, will be in pot one. All those nations except notably in governance, competitions and agers.” who again ruled out being ac- Mali have played at the World Cup, and an refereeing, to an organisation World Soc- tive in the January transfer Ivory Coast team that can call on the daz- cer magazine labelled the “biggest basket ‘HUGE ELEPHANTS’ window, believes his current zling footwork of Wilfried Zaha could be case in football”. Assisting Samoura is The former Barcelona and squad could still have compet- the most dangerous second seeds. CAF president Ahmad Ahmad, who has Bayern Munich manager, who ed for the title had injuries and, not commented on various allegations joined City in 2016, added: “I he hinted, VAR not sidelined CUP OF NATIONS against him, including corruption, fi nan- think we did it incredibly well. their bid. Trouble lies ahead after a change from cial misappropriation and sexual harass- “People say ‘how was 2019?’ “Work harder, play better, a January/February to June/July tour- ment. Now people are saying it is a and pray,” said Guardiola when nament this year to avoid tug of wars disaster. We won four titles in asked how City can close the between clubs and countries over the TV 2019, so it was an incredible gap to Liverpool. services of Europe-based stars. The fi rst There have been no broadcasts in sub- year for us, we enjoyed it a lot. “Liverpool have been in- revamped Club World Cup, featuring 24 Saharan Africa of CAF national team and “In some games in this last credible, European champions teams, is set for June 17 to July 4 2021 in club fi xtures since November after a 12- part of the year we have strug- and they have dropped just two China, eff ectively ruling out a mid-year year TV deal with a French company was gled a bit but it was an incredi- points (so far this season), we Cup of Nations in Cameroon. Senior CAF scrapped. ble year for us. Congratulations have to congratulate them. offi cials say off the record that a return Lagardere Sports paid one million dol- for all the people working here. “But there are things we to January/February dates is likely, and Liverpool’s Sadio Mane celebrates scoring their first goal against Wolverhampton lars (890,000 euros) in 2017 for the TV “They were fi ghting with cannot control, we cannot with it the possibility that an increasing Wanderers during their EPL match on December 29. (Reuters) and marketing rights, but separate judg- huge elephants here in Eng- control what a fantastic team number of players will put clubs fi rst. ments ruled the deal illegal because there land, big, big clubs with the like Liverpool have done so far nament for footballers playing in their cities, the capital, Yaounde, Douala and was no tender process. biggest history. For the past and there are other issues you NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP country of birth. Limbe. The 16-nation championship will Desperate football followers have re- decade we were part of them. cannot control. When every- Tunisia have reportedly decided because Traditionally a biennial January/Febru- test the readiness of Cameroon to stage sorted to streaming, but fi xture options That is amazing.” one is fi t we can do it. of fi xture congestion to withdraw from ary competition, it is slated for April 4 to the Cup of Nations next year after con- are limited and the high cost of internet Despite their current ‘trou- “You (the media) know what the 2020 edition in Cameroon of the tour- 25 this year in three southern Cameroon struction delays led to them being re- data is an additional obstacle. bles’, City could still win any, they are. You know that.” Gulf Times Thursday, January 2, 2020 3 FOOTBALL

EPL New Year’s fi zz goes flat for ‘We allowed them to stay in the game. In the end it was a wonder goal but Spurs and Chelsea we were lucky not to lose the game’

AFP London

ottenham and Chelsea slipped up in the Premier League’s top-four race yesterday as Leicester Ttightened their grip on second spot during a busy programme of New Year’s Day Football. Chelsea remain in pole posi- tion to secure the fourth Cham- pions League qualifi cation place but manager Frank Lampard will rue conceding a spectacular late equaliser in the 1-1 draw against Brighton. Those dropped points gave Jose Mourinho’s Spurs the chance to crank up the pres- sure on Chelsea and Manchester United but they slipped to a 1-0 defeat at Southampton and Eng- land captain Harry Kane limped off with a hamstring injury. Elsewhere, Leicester won 3-0 at Newcastle while high-fl ying Wolves went down 2-1 at re- juvenated Watford, who have taken 13 points from their past four matches under new boss Nigel Pearson. Cesar Azpilicueta gave Chelsea the lead in the early kick-off on England’s south coast, tapping in from close range in the 10th minute to put the gloss on their dominance. The visitors missed chances to increase their lead and were indebted to goalkeeper Kepa Ar- rizabalaga for producing a series of sharp saves at the other end. Brighton scored the goal their persistence deserved in the 84th minute when Iranian substitute Alireza Jahanbakhsh acrobati- cally found the bottom-left cor- ner with an overhead kick to give his team share of the points. “It was frustrating for diff er- ent reasons,” Lampard told BT Brighton & Hove Albion’s Alireza Jahanbakhsh scores their first goal against Chelsea at the American Express Community Stadium in Brighton, Britain, yesterday. (Reuters) Sport. “In the fi rst half, the game was there to be won. We weren’t ampton with the chance to over- tunnel. Mourinho’s frustration “It is something that is very dif- hury after their win at West Ham the trip to the northeast and the holding on to beat seventh- ruthless enough. We got the goal take Manchester United and boiled over as he was shown a fi cult for us because we have no on Saturday. win left his side 10 points behind placed Wolves 2-1 after a fi rst- and we had the possession. But move three points behind Chel- yellow card after an altercation time to do it.” Having gambled by mak- runaway leaders Liverpool, hav- half goal from Gerard Deulofeu we just didn’t kill the game off . sea but they fell behind to a 17th- with the Southampton bench. Ralph Hasenhuettl’s South- ing his third and fi nal change at ing played two games more. and a second-half eff ort from “We allowed them to stay minute Danny Ings goal. “I was rude,” the Spurs boss ampton are now in mid-table half-time, Newcastle boss Steve “It’s not our concern to catch Abdoulaye Doucoure despite in the game. In the end it was a Mourinho’s men were la- told the BBC. “I clearly de- after a dramatic upturn in form. Bruce watched aghast as Fabian Liverpool,” said the Leicester later being reduced to 10 men. wonder goal but we were lucky boured in attack. Kane injured served the yellow card. I had bad Leicester appear to have put a Schaer was injured just seconds boss. “We get asked all the time Villa beat Burnley 2-1 with not to lose the game.” himself as he converted Chris- words.” mini-slump behind them, beat- after the restart, leaving New- but we are about developing the fi rst-half goals from Wesley and tian Eriksen’s free-kick in the “The work is not about buy- ing Newcastle 3-0 courtesy of castle to play with 10 men for squad and the team.” Jack Grealish. SPURS UNRAVEL second half but was fl agged off - ing, it is about working with the goals from Ayoze Perez, James the rest of the match. Brendan Watford continued their im- Runaway leaders Liverpool Tottenham travelled to South- side before hobbling down the players on the pitch,” he added. Maddison and Hamza Choud- Rodgers made six changes for pressive run under Pearson, face Sheffi eld United today.

FOCUS SETBACK Jesus extends mastery of Everton in Tottenham suff er Kane injury blow

Reuters Manchester City win London AFP but Liverpool’s remarkable form fi ve goals in his last fi ve appear- Manchester over the last 18 months is a seri- ances and the Everton forward eaten Tottenham Hot- ous threat to that dominance. nearly grabbed an instant equal- spur suff ered a double Guardiola has already con- iser with a close-range header injury blow in the 1-0 abriel Jesus extended ceded City have no chance of that fl ashed wide. It was a crucial defeat at Southamp- his remarkable record catching Liverpool this season, moment as Jesus struck again in tonB yesterday with Harry Kane against Everton as the instead setting his sights on a the 58th minute. and Tanguy Ndombele both Manchester City strik- more sustained challenge next Kevin De Bruyne teed up forced off at St Mary’s. Ger’s second-half brace sealed a term by admitting they need to Foden and he found Mahrez as While the result was bad, 2-1 win yesterday. “play better and pray”. City carved opened the Everton the biggest worry for Totten- Jesus was handed the start There was no need for divine defence before Jesus applied the ham manager Jose Mourinho as City manager Pep Guardiola intervention against Everton, fi nishing touch with a powerful was the sight of top scorer rested Sergio Aguero, but the although with Aguero, Raheem low drive for his 13th goal of the Kane pulling up with a left decision to select the Brazilian Sterling and Kyle Walker among season. City went to sleep in the hamstring injury deep into the ahead of the club’s record goals- those left out by Guardiola, the 71st minute, allowing Richarlison second half after stretching to corer could easily have been in- visitors nearly snatched a shock to slot home after Claudio Bravo score a goal that was ruled out Tottenham Hotspur’s English spired by his mastery of Everton. lead when Seamus Coleman’s made a hash of passing to Fern- for off side. midfielder Dele Alli (left) Repaying his manager’s faith, volley forced a one-handed save andinho. Jesus wasted a chance Kane, scorer of 11 Premier checks on Harry Kane after he Jesus feasted on the Everton de- from Claudio Bravo. to kill off Everton when his close- League goals this season, went appears to have picked up an fence once again. He has now City thought they had taken range shot smacked the post in a straight down the tunnel, injury during the EPL match scored seven times in his last fi ve the lead when Phil Foden met nervous fi nale, but City held on. leaving Tottenham with scant against Southampton. (AFP) appearances against the Mersey- Joao Cancelo’s cross with a An 87th minute goal from striking options as Son Heung- side club, who must be sick of the close-range fi nish in the 13th Connor Wickham, allowed by a min was serving the fi nal match April which kept him out until sight of him. City remain third in minute. But the hosts’ celebra- VAR review, earned Crystal Pal- of his three-game ban for a red the Champions League fi nal. the Premier League after a sec- tions were curtailed by VAR as ace a 1-1 draw at bottom club card in the defeat by Chelsea. A third defeat in Mourinho’s ond successive win left them 11 the goal was ruled out for a tight Norwich City, a bitter blow for He was later seen leaving the nine Premier League games in points behind runaway leaders off side against Riyad Mahrez, the struggling Canaries. stadium using crutches. charge at Spurs further under- Liverpool, who have two games who had supplied the pass to Norwich had led after a fourth Asked about the injuries, mined the resurgence his ar- in hand on the champions. Cancelo. It was the latest VAR minute goal from Todd Cantwell Mourinho said: “Tanguy rival produced and left Totten- Richarlison got one back for decision to go against City this and dominated for large stretch- Ndombele, I don’t know. I im- ham in sixth spot, six points Everton, but it was a fi rst defeat season and Mahrez responded es but were unable to add to agine this is (his) 10th injury of behind fourth-placed Chelsea for new boss Carlo Ancelotti, with a stinging drive that forced their tally - Kenny McLean hit- the season. They stop him to who drew with Brighton and who had masterminded wins a good save from Pickford. ting the bar in the 73rd minute. play. It doesn’t give him conti- Hove Albion earlier. over Burnley and Newcastle in City should have been in front But Palace drew level when Wil- nuity,” he said. Mourinho said raiding the his fi rst two matches since re- just before half-time when Jesus fried Zaha slid a pass across the “Harry Kane plays every transfer market was not the placing the sacked Marco Silva. picked out Mahrez in space in the face of the goal to Wickham who minute, he plays all the time. answer though, now that the The former Chelsea chief got area, yet the Algerian dragged his slid the ball home, only to see It might be big, it might be mid-season window is open. the better of Guardiola in their shot wide. Guardiola’s team have the off side fl ag raised. small. For sure he will be out. “Come on, we need time to previous meeting -- two Real failed to score a fi rst-half goal It is negative, hamstring is al- work. We need what we are not Madrid wins against Bayern in six of their last eight home RESULTS ways negative. Is it a tear, is it a having. We need to focus on Munich in the 2014 Champions league games. But they only Brighton 1-1 Chelsea small thing, is it a contraction? what we have,” he said. “We League semi-fi nals. needed six minutes to take the Aston Villa 2-1 Burnley At this moment I cannot say.” are not looking to be the kings There would be no repeat lead after the break. Ilkay Gun- Manchester City 2-1 Everton Kane has suff ered several of the market. We are going to against a City side with a point dogan’s pass split the Everton Leicester 3-0 Newcastle lengthy injury lay-off s in the work. We see the bad result to- to prove after a spluttering end defence and Jesus took a touch Norwich 1-1 Crystal Palace last few seasons. Last season day which is the continuity of to 2019. City won 10 trophies, inside before a curling a fi ne fi n- Southampton 1-0 Tottenham he missed a month after dam- the last year. For 12 months, it including four Premier League ish into the far corner. Watford 2-1 Wolves Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus celebrates scoring their second goal aging ankle ligaments and then has been very diffi cult to get titles, in the decade just closed, Dominic Calvert-Lewin had West Ham 4-0 Bournemouth against Everton at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester yesterday. (Reuters) suff ered a similar injury in results away from home.” Gulf Times 4 Thursday, January 2, 2020 FOOTBALL

WARM-UP FOCUS ‘Dark-humoured’ video cost me my US national team to job, says former referee Madley

Reuters post https://therefereesword. London blogspot.com/2019/12/time- hold winter camp to-move-on.html “I took a six-second fi lm, ormer Premier League I said nothing. I did this in referee Bobby Madley Snapchat, which is where I Head coach Gregg Berhalter has called has revealed that he take all of my fi lms that I in- was sacked because a tend to save to my phone. 25 players to participate in the 20-day tastelessF video he described as “On the video I wrote, ‘I a “dark-humoured joke” be- have a chance of winning the at Aspire camp starting January 20 tween friends was sent to his parents race this year.’ Out employers. of context I accept this reads Madley has not offi ciated in shamefully... However, my in- the Premier League since Au- tention was that the joke was gust 2018 and the Professional aimed at myself.” Game Match Offi cials Limited Madley said the video, sent (PGMOL) had said at the time as a private text to somebody that he was relocating to he trusted, was meant to be Norway. nothing more than a joke and However, the 32-year- was not intended to be seen old said the video, where he by anyone else, claiming his mocked a parent with a walk- “world fell apart” after the ing impairment, was forward- video came to light. ed to the PGMOL which re- “I regret taking the video, I sulted in a formal disciplinary regret sending that video and, hearing and his subsequent whilst it was a dark-humoured dismissal. joke, it was just that. A joke. Madley said the video was It was not intended to shame made in response to being anyone,” he added. “fat shamed” in a newspaper “Whilst I absolutely under- article titled ‘Blobby Bobby’ stand the importance of an written by former referee Mark employer taking discrimina- Halsey, who claimed he made tion seriously, as they did, the mistakes because he was over- decision to this day still stuns weight. me. “As I sat in my car with my “I will never be able to ac- phone in hand, a person walked cept that the decision taken past my car in front of me who was either necessary nor was it had a walking impairment. proportionate to the act... The The next part I am ashamed last 18 months have been men- of,” Madley explained in a blog tal torture for me.”

APPOINTMENT Beckham’s Inter Miami names Alonso as fi rst head coach

The United States will start the new year with a friendly against Costa Rica on February 1. (AFP)

he US national men’s fi rst exposure to the senior na- sented the USA at the 2019 FIFA on double-dates during the win- Marcinkowski (San Jose Earth- football team will train tional team who will be provided U-17 World Cup, unattached dows in September, October and quakes; 0/0), Matt Turner (New at the Aspire Academy the platform to make a positive midfi elder Bryang Kayo also November. England Revolution; 0/0) in Doha during their an- impression. We appreciate all joins the squad. With the confi dence and an- • DEFENDERS (8): Julian Araujo Tnual winter camp, US Soccer has the support and co-operation The January Camp, along with ticipation of qualifying for the (LA Galaxy; 0/0), Reggie Cannon announced. Head coach Gregg from MLS and the clubs that re- the friendlies against Costa Rica 2022 FIFA World Cup, the US (FC Dallas; 10/0), Chase Gasper AFP Inter Miami, which opens Berhalter has called 25 players to leased their players and gave us a and away to the Netherlands in team will take a fi rst opportunity (Minnesota United FC; 0/0), Los Angeles the season March 1 against participate in the 20-day camp chance to get a head start on the March, are the prelude to the to experience the football facili- Justen Glad (Real Salt Lake; 0/0), Los Angeles FC, is owned by starting January 20. challenges ahead.” important offi cial competitions ties, customs, weather, and other Aaron Long (New York Red Bulls; five people, including Beck- They will train and play With the dates falling out- for the team in 2020. logistical and performance con- 16/3), Mark McKenzie (Phila- iego Alonso has ham. closed-door scrimmages at the side of the designated inter- Having won its group, the siderations in the host nation. delphia Union; 0/0), Sam Vines been named the fi rst Alonso, the only coach to Aspire Academy before return- national calendar for national United States advanced to the Utilising similar opportunities (Colorado Rapids; 0/0), Walker head coach of David win the CONCACAF Cham- ing to Los Angeles to face CON- team competitions, the January fi nal four of the inaugural CON- prior to the World Cups in South Zimmerman (LAFC; 11/2) Beckham’s Inter Mi- pions League with two diff er- CACAF rival Costa Rica on Feb- Camp typically consists largely CACAF Nations League where Africa and Brazil proved ex- amiD ahead of their inaugural ent teams, reportedly beat out • MIDFIELDERS (7): Brenden ruary 1 in Carson, California. The of MLS-based players who are it will face Honduras in a semi- tremely benefi cial in the team’s Aaronson (Philadelphia Union; season in the North America’s former New York City man- match will serve as an important not in season and this edition is fi nal in the fi rst week in June. The planning and preparations for 0/0), Christian Cappis (Ho- Major League Soccer. ager Patrick Vieira and former preparation opportunity for the no exception. winner moves on to the champi- those tournaments. bro/DEN; 0/0), Bryang Kayo “In Diego we found a man- DC United midfi elder Marcelo rest of the year as the team will A total of 22 on the roster ply onship match three days later Qatar has become a popular (Unattached; 0/0), Sebastian ager that fi ts our culture and Gallardo for the job. compete in the CONCACAF Na- their traded domestically, with against the victor of Mexico- destination for teams in Europe Lletget (LA Galaxy; 13/2), Paxton has a strong desire to build a The 44-year-old Alonso tions League semi-fi nal in June fourteen MLS clubs represent- Costa Rica. when leagues take a winter break. Pomykal (FC Dallas; 1/0), Cristian winning club for our fans,” said most recently served as head and the start of 2022 FIFA World ed. FC Dallas leads the list with From there, the road to Qa- Teams like Bayern Munich, PSG Roldan (Seattle Sounders FC; Inter Miami spokesman Paul coach for Monterrey in Mexico. Cup qualifying, which kicks off three contributions. tar begins with the start of the and Ajax are regulars in Doha 19/0), Jackson Yueill (San Jose McDonough. He was fi red three months in September. Two players hail from clubs “Hex”, a six-team group that will during January. Bayern Munich Earthquakes; 6/0) “He brings a lot of experi- ago after a 2-0 loss to rival Ti- “At the start of an exciting abroad, with Wolfsburg U-19 be play a round-robin format to are scheduled to land in Doha on • FORWARDS (6): Paul Arriola ence and championship-win- gres. year, this is a great opportunity forward Ulysses Llanez joining determine the three automatic January 4. (D.C. United; 32/5), Jesus Ferreira ning mentality as we begin Before being sacked he led to continue our process and build midfi elder Christian Cappis of entrants from the region for the (FC Dallas; 0/0), Jonathan Lewis our drive to be among the best Monterrey to the 2019 CON- on the foundation established in Danish SuperLiga side Hobro on 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The USA DETAILED ROSTER BY PO- (Colorado Rapids; 5/0), Ulysses clubs in the Americas. CACAF Champions League the last 12 months,” Berhalter the roster. In total, there are 12 participants in the Hex will be SITION (CLUB; CAPS/GOALS): Llanez (Wolfsburg/GER; 0/0), “We have big aspirations for title. was quoted as saying on ussoc- uncapped players and six earn- determined by the June edition • GOALKEEPERS (4): Bill Hamid Jordan Morris (Seattle Sounders our club and believe Diego has the Two years earlier he guided cer.com. “At the same, there are ing invites to their fi rst senior of the FIFA rankings, and the (D.C. United; 6/0), Sean Johnson FC; 39/10), Gyasi Zardes (Colum- right drive, passion and leader- Pachuca to the CONCACAF a number of players getting their team camp. Having just repre- fi rst six matches will be played (New York City FC; 8/0), JT bus Crew SC; 55/12). ship to accomplish our goals.” Champions League crown.

SPOTLIGHT Iniesta’s Kobe win Emperors Cup in National Stadium opener Reuters Hiroshi Mikitani in recent years. Tokyo Yesterday’s match also saw a last appearance for former Barcelona and Atletico Madrid issel Kobe, led by World striker David Villa, who will re- Cup winners Andres tire at the age of 37. Iniesta and Lukas Villa, who has been struggling Podolski, beat Kashima for fi tness, only came on for the VAntlers 2-0 to win the Emper- last few minutes of the contest ors Cup fi nal yesterday, in the but was greeted by rapturous fi rst soccer match to be played cheers from the Kobe fans af- at Tokyo’s National Stadium, ter a successful season that saw built for this year’s Olympic him score 13 goals in 28 league Games. matches. The fi rst goal scored in the Villa scored 59 times for Spain new stadium was an own goal during an illustrious career that from unfortunate Antlers de- saw him win the World Cup and fender Tomoya Inukai in the European Championship with 18th minute before Kobe striker his country and the 2011 Cham- Noriaki Fujimoto added a second pions League with Barcelona. 20 minutes later following some more poor defending. Yesterday’s win marks the Vissel Kobe players pose after fi rst time in their history that their victory over Kashima Kobe have their hands on some Antlers in the Emperor’s Cup final silverware and vindicates the at the new National Stadium in high wages forked out by owner Tokyo yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Thursday, January 2, 2020 5 CRICKET

FOCUS INJURY SCARE Archer likely to miss second Test No question over England camp on their arrival Reuters Cape Town in South Africa but recovered in time to play in the 107-run de- feat. ngland paceman Jofra For the fi rst time on tour, Archer may miss out England’s entire 19-man squad on second Test against were at practice yesterday in- South Africa after cluding spinner Jack Leech, who Paine’s captaincy, skippingE bowling practice at has suff ered the longest from the Newlands yesterday. fl u bug. Archer, who took six wickets Leech could come into con- in the fi rst Test defeat at Preto- tention as a spin option for Eng- ria including 5-102 in the sec- land in the Newlands Test. ond innings, did bat in the nets “Fingers crossed we’ve beaten and took part in fi elding drills the illness. It was nice to have but a sore right elbow kept him everyone here and training to- says coach Langer from bowling. A decision on the gether today,” said wicketkeeper 24-year-old would have to be Jos Buttler yesterday. “We start ‘I hope he plays as long as he possibly can because his leadership’s been brilliant’ made just before the start of the the new year afresh. We’ve had Test tomorrow. a lot of things thrown at us since He had been a doubt for the the start of the tour but we know fi rst match after suff ering from it is no excuse for how we per- the virus that swept through the formed (in the fi rst Test).”

Jofra Archer (right) delivers a ball during the second day of the first Test against South Africa at Centurion. (AFP)

Mathews returns to Sri Lanka T20 squad to tour India Sri Lanka recalled former victory but failed to impress skipper Angelo Mathews to at the crease, scoring a duck the T20 squad yesterday after facing three balls. after a 16-month absence SQUAD: Lasith Malinga from the shortest form of the (captain), Danushka Gu- game for the upcoming India nathilaka, Avishka Fern- tour. The cricket board said ando, Angelo Mathews, Mathews, 32, will be in the Dasun Shanaka, Kusal squad led by Lasith Malinga Perera, Niroshan Dickwella, to play three matches in Dhananjaya de Silva, Isuru India. The squad will leave Udana, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka today. Mathews Oshada Fernando, Wanindu played his last T20 interna- Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, tional against South Africa Kusal Mendis, Lakshan in August 2018 when he led Sandakan and Kasun Sri Lanka to a three-wicket Rajitha. AFP

Injury teaches Chahar to be Australia’s Tim Paine (right) plays a shot during the second day of the second Test against New Zealand at the MCG in Melbourne on December 27, 2019. (AFP) selective about schedule

Reuters part in the Newlands ball-tam- ership change short shrift ahead last Test match.” second-placed Australia close Indian swing bowler Deepak him out of action until April. Sydney pering scandal. of the third Test against New Paine, 35, scored his seventh the gap on top-ranked India in Chahar plans to be more selec- “The stress fracture in my back Selected for his demeanour Zealand yesterday. Test half century in the second the nine-team table. tive about his playing schedule is mainly due to playing excess as much as for his batting and “Truth is there’s been con- Test against New Zealand in Langer said he thought there in the future after a stress matches,” Chahar told the im Paine will be Aus- wicketkeeping skills, Paine was jecture from outside but there’s Melbourne, which Australia won was every chance Paine would fracture in the lower back be- Telegraph newspaper, adding tralia’s captain for the at the helm when Australia lost never been one millisecond of by 247 runs to take an unassail- lead the team out at Lord’s in 18 came the price of relentlessly he had been playing intensively foreseeable future and a fi rst home series to India, but conjecture within our team,” able 2-0 lead in the series head- months’ time should they re- pushing himself. for the past two years. “So I there is no reason why has since overseen the retention he told reporters at the Sydney ing into Sydney. main in the top two and qualify Since his Twenty20 Interna- have to be a bit selective now. The would not lead the team in of the Ashes in England and two Cricket Ground. The World Test Champion- for the title-decider. “I hope he tional debut in 2018 against Else, I won’t be able to survive.” next year’s inaugural World series triumphs. “He’s almost our most impor- ship was initiated in part to re- plays as long as he possibly can England, Chahar has become Chahar, the top performing Test Championship fi nal if they With Smith’s further one- tant player because he’s a very move the concept of dead rub- because his leadership’s been a regular team pick in that for- bowler in a single Twenty20 qualify, coach Justin Langer said year ban from holding a leader- good leader, his captaincy’s been bers from the longest form of the brilliant,” Langer added. mat, impressing with his swing International innings, will miss yesterday. ship position within the team excellent, he’s the best wicket- game and Langer said reaching “In his last performance and death-overs mastery. the limited-overs home series Paine was seen by many as a expiring early in the New Year, keeper in the world, he’s as fi t as the fi nal in June 2021 was indeed he was pushing on man of the The 27-year-old had hoped to against Sri Lanka, Australia and place-holder when he became however, some in the Australian anyone in the group. a big motivation for his players. match... and he’s so fi t... I just cement his place in the one-day South Africa, as well as India’s Australia’s 46th Test captain in media have questioned whether “If he believed he could bat Forty points from a victory in literally cannot think of one rea- squad before he was laid low tour of New Zealand, in coming 2018 after the 45th, Steve Smith, the right man was in the job. as well as we think he can, then the third Test, which starts at son why he wouldn’t play as long by the injury, which will keep months. Reuters was banned for 12 months for his Langer gave the idea of a lead- we’ll see results like we did in the the SCG tomorrow, would help as he wants to, or needs to.”

SPOTLIGHT OPINION Proteas seek to subdue England Australia’s Lyon calls four-day Test at favourite Newlands venue concept ridiculous Reuters option, with Dominic Bess or Reuters Cape Town Matt Parkinson in contention. Sydney Left-arm spinner Jack Leach still has a fi tness question- buoyant South Af- mark hanging over him, which ustralia off -spinner rica will seek to drive could mean Bess gets a run Nathan Lyon says home their advantage having not been part of the he is totally against at a favourite venue original touring party. the idea of tinkering Aas they host an England side The question would then be withA the duration of fi ve-day facing a big selection question who to leave out, with one of Test matches and hopes the in the second Test of the four- the four-prong seam attack of proposal to shorten the game’s match series starting at New- James Anderson, Stuart Broad, longest format is not even of four-day Test matches,” lands tomorrow. Jofra Archer or Sam Curran to considered by administrators. Lyon told The Unplayable Pod- The home team ended a run miss out. The International Cricket cast ahead of tomorrow’s third of fi ve straight defeats with a Council (ICC), the world gov- and fi nal Test against New Zea- commanding 107-run victory TOUGH DECISIONS erning body of the sport, is set land in Sydney. “I believe you’ll in the fi rst Test in Pretoria as Anderson and Broad have 1053 to refl ect on the idea of making get so many more draws and the winds of change through Test wickets between them, Test matches four-day aff airs day fi ve is crucial. their camp, on and off the but England coach Chris Sil- to free up a crammed inter- “One, there’s the weather pitch, brought immediate suc- verwood concedes that their national calendar and reduce element. But the wickets these cess. The South African team gathers on the field before the start of the match during the fourth day of the first places will be up for discussion. player workload. days are probably a lot fl atter Coach Mark Boucher appears Test against England at Centurion on December 29, 2019. (AFP) “In Jimmy and Stu we have a Australia have said they will than they have been in the past, to have brought some steel back wealth of experience and we’d seriously consider the concept, so it allows teams to bat longer to the squad as they subdued an as 10,000 England fans in at- 2016 ended in draws. Fit-again middle-order be really stupid not to take that while England will back mak- and to put pressure on sides... England side battling with ill- tendance. South Africa must It is a traditional stronghold batsman Ollie Pope is likely to into consideration every game,” ing it mandatory from 2023. you need time for the pitch to ness and which has recently also decide whether to accom- for South Africa, who have lost replace Jonny Bairstow in what Silverwood told reporters after The cash-rich Indian board deteriorate and bring spinners struggled to pick up wins on modate a fi t-again Temba Ba- only one of their previous 18 should be the only change in the fi rst Test. (BCCI) are yet to declare their in more on day fi ve as well. “I’m the road. vuma in the middle-order, with Tests at the venue, picking up the top seven, but the make-up “But, equally, you want your stance on the matter. Lyon, the totally against it and I hope ICC South African opener Aiden his replacement Rassie van der 13 wins in that time. of the bowling attack is far from youngsters to come through most successful Australian off - aren’t even considering it.” Markram is defi nitely out with Dussen scoring a second-in- The illness that spread certain. and if we’re going to make room spinner with 380 wickets in Four-day matches were giv- a fi nger injury and that should nings half-century on debut in through the tourist’s squad in The wicket in Cape Town for a spinner we’ve got to have a the longest format, joined Test en the green light by the ICC in mean a debut for Pieter Malan, Pretoria. the build-up to, and during, the is expected to be less seamer- look at which seamers are right captain Tim Paine and team- 2017, when South Africa hosted 30, at his home ground in what England have not won at fi rst Test appears to have eased, friendly than the fi rst Test, for this pitch. mate Travis Head in criticising one against Zimbabwe, while is an iconic Test on the fi xture Newlands since 1957, though providing them with more op- which could mean the intro- “If there’s a big decision the idea. England played a four-day Test list which could see as many their last two visits in 2010 and tions. duction of a specialist spin we’re not afraid to make it.” “Ridiculous... I’m not a fan against Ireland last July. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, January 2, 2020 SPORT

NBA NFL Watt’s return could spark Texans’ Harden, Westbrook defence against Bills

Reuters ing into Saturday’s contest. Los Angeles Although both teams posted 10-6 regular season records, the Bills were 1-4 he Houston Texans against teams with winning lead effi cient Rockets on Tuesday added J records. The Texans faced six J Watt to the 53-man teams with winning records playoff roster, a move and were 3-3 in those match- thatT could boost the defence ups. and electrify the home crowd Texans quarterback De- during Saturday’s playoff shaun Watson will look to game against the Buff alo learn from his experience in Bills. last year’s wild card game. in blowout of Denver The three-time NFL de- Houston fell to the visiting fensive player of the year and Indianapolis Colts 21-7 as the ‘I just loved the tempo we established at the defensive as well as the off ensive end’ fan favourite tore his pectoral 24-year-old struggled. muscle earlier this year — If the Bills are to prevail, forcing him to miss the fi nal the team will likely need to eight games of the season — reproduce the defensive per- and said he realises his return formance they put on against doesn’t come without risk. the Texans the last time the “I feel extremely excited two sides met, in week six last about being able to get back season. on the practice fi eld with the Although the Texans won guys,” the 30-year-old de- that game 20-13, the fero- fensive end told reporters on cious Bills defence sacked the Tuesday. elusive Watson seven times “The medical team here and held Houston’s off ence to has done a great job. There’s 216 total yards. obviously an element of risk The Bills will also need to involved as well. I understand see some life from their of- that and we understand that. fence, which has put up an “But to me, the opportu- anaemic 23 points total over nity to play in the playoff s, their last two games where the opportunity to try and they looked out of synch. help this team win football That begins with Bills games, there’s nothing that I quarterback Josh Allen, who want more,” said Watt, who will be making his playoff de- reportedly fi red up his team- but. mates with a speech on Tues- The second-year signal day. caller will look to reproduce The move gives the fa- the magic of his Thanksgiv- voured Texans an even greater ing day performance against advantage heading into their the Cowboys in Dallas, where wild card matchup against he went 19-for-24 for 231 the struggling Bills, who have passing yards, a touchdown lost two straight games head- and no interceptions.

Houston Rockets guard James Harden (centre) drives past Denver Nuggets forward Torrey Craig (right) for a layup during the first quarter at Toyota Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

13 for the Pacers, who improved to 15-3 Since beating the Milwaukee Bucks AFP RESULTS Los Angeles at home. 121-109 on Christmas Day, the Sixers Oklahoma 106-101 Dallas ‘DISAPPOINTING’ have dropped three consecutive road Doug McDermott also had 12 points for games in Orlando, Miami and Indiana- Toronto 117-97 Cleveland ames Harden scored 35 points and Indiana, while former 76er TJ McCon- polis. Russell Westbrook fi nished with 28 Houston 130-104 Denver nell added 11 points and 10 assists, end- “After coming out of Miami (a 117-116 as the Houston Rockets cooled off San Antonio 117-113 Golden State ing a modest two-game losing skid for loss in overtime) and losing two games the Denver Nuggets with a 130-104 Boston 109-92 Charlotte the Pacers. prior to being here, that’s a disappoint- winJ on Tuesday. “We played great basketball,” Pacers’ ing performance,” 76ers coach Brett Harden also had six assists while Indiana 115-97 Philadelphia coach Nate McMillan said. “We estab- Brown said. Westbrook contributed seven helpers, LA Clippers 105-87 Sacramento lished our defense, got stops and were “I do give Indiana credit as it relates avenging an earlier loss to the Nuggets. able to get into transition. to us missing shots. We certainly had Nikola Jokic scored 21 points to lead Isaiah Hartenstein fi nished with 16 “With 35 assists we were making their people down. They were some of our Denver, who had won nine of their last 10 points and 12 boards off the bench. defense move and work. I just loved the better players. Just didn’t have the per- games. Monte Morris came off the bench to tempo we established at the defensive formances that they’re used to having.” Denver defeated the Rockets 105-95 on score 18 points for Denver. Paul Millsap end of the fl oor as well as the off ensive Also, Kawhi Leonard scored 24 points November 20 by double-teaming Harden had 13 points and nine boards for Den- end.” and the Los Angeles Clippers defeat- which put more pressure on his team- ver while Jamal Murray and Will Barton Philadelphia looked disorganised ed the Sacramento Kings for the 10th mates to try and pick up the slack. totalled 22 points on 10-of-30 shooting. without all-star centre Embiid, who has straight time, 105-87. The Rockets moved the ball quickly Elsewhere, Domantas Sabonis tallied an injured left knee. They have won just Leonard fi nished eight of 21 from the on Tuesday, seizing control of the con- 23 points and 10 rebounds as the Indiana three of seven games this season when fl oor with seven assists. test with a 19-3 burst to open the fourth Pacers beat the Joel Embiid-less Phila- Embiid sat out. Paul George delivered 21 points, 11 quarter. delphia 76ers 115-97 in Indianapolis. Ben Simmons had 18 points and 10 rebounds and nine assists for the Clip- Houston Texans’ defensive end J J Watt prepares for the game Clint Capela had a double-double for TJ Warren scored 21 points, Myles rebounds and Josh Richardson scored pers, who have won 14 straight in Sac- against the Indianapolis Colts on October 20, 2019 at Lucas Oil Houston (16 points, 10 rebounds) while Turner tallied 14 and Jeremy Lamb had 20 points for the Sixers. ramento. Stadium in Indianapolis. PICTURE: Sam Riche/TNS

NHL Haula helps Hurricanes earn 3-1 win over Habs with Mrazek. Reuters RESULTS Los Angeles Aho’s power-play goal began the New Jersey 3-2 Boston scoring just 1:55 into the game, giving him 23 goals this season. Aho posted 10 NY Islanders 4-3 Washington rik Haula scored the go-ahead goals in December. goal in the second period, and Las Vegas 5-2 Anaheim The Hurricanes have registered a the Carolina Hurricanes ben- Toronto 4-1 Minnesota power-play goal in four of their past efi ted from a third-period video Tampa Bay 6-4 Buff alo fi ve games. reviewE in a 3-1 victory against the Mon- Domi stole the puck from Teravainen treal Canadiens on Tuesday night in Carolina 3-1 Montreal and sent a shot past Mrazek for an un- Raleigh, NC. Columbus 4-1 Florida assisted tally at 3:48 of the opening pe- Sebastian Aho and Ryan Dzingel also Detroit 2-0 San Jose riod, his 12th goal of the season. Domi scored for Carolina, with Dzingel’s has goals in six straight games, all on empty-net tally coming with 54 sec- Winnipeg 7-4 Colorado the road. onds remaining. Arizona 3-1 St. Louis Haula’s go-ahead goal came at 7:34 Teuvo Teravainen, appearing in his Chicago 5-3 Calgary of the second period. He was at the 400th career NHL game, had two as- side of the net and simply pushed in sists as the Hurricanes won their sec- Edmonton 7-5 NY Rangers the puck off Brett Pesce’s pass for his ond game in a row. They were play- Los Angeles 5-3 Philadelphia third goal in a four-game stretch, and ing the second game of a seven-game his 11th of the season. homestand. stopped 33 shots. Carolina’s Lucas Wallmark assisted Petr Mrazek made 29 saves for the The Canadiens appeared to tie the on Dzingel’s goal to extend Hurricanes. score with 7:08 remaining in regula- his points streak to seven Max Domi scored for Montreal, tion when Ryan Poehling converted for games. which had a promising stretch of road what would have been his fi rst goal of The Hurricanes ended up with a 54- games turn sour by the end of its trip. the season in his 13th game. However, 26-4 record in the 2019 calendar year, The Canadiens closed a seven-game the Hurricanes challenged the play, the best of any year in franchise his- stretch with a 3-4-0 mark, losing the and the ruling came back that there tory. fi nal three. was goaltender interference with Mon- Carolina also defeated the Cana- Carolina Hurricanes centre Sebastian Aho (centre) scores a first period goal against the Montreal Canadiens at PNC Montreal goalie Charlie Lindgren treal’s Phillip Danault making contact diens in the season opener at Raleigh. Arena. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times Thursday, January 2, 2020 7 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT BASKETBALL Kubica opens new Al Arabi, Shamal chapter as Alfa post wins

By Sports Reporter In the second match of the Doha day, Al Shamal produced a 33-point eff ort in the nalfi quarter to clinch a thrilling abacar Dieng scored a 92-84 win over Qatar Sports match-high 24 points Club. Romeo F1 reserve but couldn’t prevent Al Shamal took a 27-21 lead Al Sadd from crashing after the fi rst quarter, but Qa- ‘THIS IS A TEAM THAT HAS A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART...’ Bto a 77-94 defeat against Al tar Sports Club bounced back Arabi in the Qatar Basketball to edge their rivals 44-43 in Association’s Men’s League the next 10 minutes. yesterday. Qatar Sports Club held the In fact, Al Arabi were far upper hand after the third superior in yesterday’s game, quarter by posting a 64-59 leading 30-13 after the fi rst lead and it looked like they quarter and 55-30 at the half- would build on it. way stage to eff ectively put However, Al Shamal played the match beyond Al Sadd’s like a well-oiled machine to reach. thwart any chances of that Al Sadd though put up a happening, scoring a whop- semblance of a fi ght, scoring ping 33 points to eventually 22 points in the third quarter clinch an eight-point win. and a further 25 in the fi nal, Mikhiel Berishvili scored but that was the best they 28 points for Al Shamal while could manage as Al Arabi won Aaron Mitchell and Lenny convincingly in the end. Daniel scored 20 each. For Al Arabi, Mohamed For Qatar Sports Club, Harat scored 21, Miroslav To- Jonathan Lee was the top- dic netted 19 and Khalid Abdi scorer with 33, while Kevin chipped in with 17. Bracy had 18.

Reuters when he became Poland’s first F1 racer, LEN. This is a team that has a special welcomed Kubica, who before his ac- Al Arabi’s Mohamed Harat scores against Al Sadd in the Men’s London replacing Canada’s 1997 world cham- place in my heart and it’ll be nice to see cident raced for Renault and was close League yesterday. pion Jacques Villeneuve at BMW Sau- the familiar faces I still remember from to becoming a Ferrari driver, back to the ber and going on to win with them at Hinwil,” said Kubica in a statement. Hinwil factory. obert Kubica has joined Alfa the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix. “Time and circumstances are obvi- “He is a driver that needs no intro- Venus pulls out of Brisbane International Romeo as their 2020 reserve The Pole, who suffered a near-fatal ously different, but I am convinced that duction: one of the most brilliant in his Los Angeles: Venus Wil- Centre from Jan 6-12 and the driver, the role the Pole car- rally accident in 2011 that partially sev- I will find the same determination and generation and one who displayed the liams has pulled out of organisers said they would ried out 14 years ago when he ered his right arm, scored tail-enders hunger to succeed.” true meaning of human determination the upcoming Brisbane announce a wildcard to take madeR his Formula One debut with the Williams’ only point last year in a re- Kubica had also been linked to the in his fight to return to racing after his International after suff ering her place in the draw. Swiss-based team then known as BMW markable personal comeback clouded Haas and Racing Point teams who had rallying accident,” he said. a ‘setback’ in training, the “Unfortunately, I won’t be Sauber. by the team’s inability to provide a considered him for a role as a tester and “His feedback will be invaluable as former world number one starting my season in Bris- The deal announced yesterday also competitive car. simulator driver. we continue to push our team towards said yesterday. bane due to an unexpected sees Polish oil company PKN ORLEN, He announced in September that he Ferrari-powered Alfa Romeo’s race the front of the grid.” Williams, 39, was set to join setback during my train- who backed the 35-year-old’s come- was leaving and has since been replaced drivers this year are Finland’s 2007 Alfa Romeo finished last season in world number one Ash Barty, ing,” Venus, a seven-times back last season at former champions by Canadian Nicholas Latifi, the team’s world champion Kimi Raikkonen and eighth place with 57 points. Karolina Pliskova and Naomi Grand Slam winner who was Williams, become a co-title sponsor of 2019 reserve. Italian Antonio Giovinazzi, an un- The team said PKN ORLEN brand- Osaka in a strong field at handed a wildcard for the the team in a multi-year partnership. “I’m starting a new chapter in my ca- changed lineup from 2019. ing will feature on the C39 car and all the Queensland Tennis event, said in a statement. Kubica’s big break came in 2006 reer by joining Alfa Romeo Racing OR- Team principal Frederic Vasseur “trackside assets”.

BOTTOMLINE Patrick Kane on being decade’s top scorer and where he sees himself in 10 years By Jimmy Greenfield big part of the Hawks’ famous core that ade with the most points of any player. And what was the general tone of the Chicago Tribune included Keith, Jonathan Toews, Mar- He had 798 points (313 goals, 485 messages from his friends? ian Hossa, Brent Seabrook and Patrick assists) in 741 games before Tuesday’s “Poke fun, p****d off , mad about it,” Sharp. game, 10 points more than Sidney he said. “To me it’s just in one ear and ith the fi nal hours winding He produced consistently but he Crosby’s 788 points (296 goals, 492 as- out the other.” down on the greatest dec- wasn’t counted on to carry the team sists) in 630 games. Kane will head to St. Louis in Janu- ade in Blackhawks history, night after night. Toews, Hossa and “That’s a cool accomplishment, ary to make his sixth straight All-Star Patrick Kane wasn’t Sharp each led the Hawks in scoring in even though I think I played like 100 Game appearance and ninth overall. Wquite ready for it to end. the fi rst half of the decade. more games than Crosby,” Kane said. He understands why Alex Ovechkin He and Duncan Keith spent a few That has all changed. Not much gets past Kane, including is choosing to sit out the All-Star Game moments before Tuesday’s game After leading the Hawks in scoring the recent rankings of the decade’s best to give his body a rest even if it means a against the Flames reminiscing about just three times in his fi rst eight sea- players that didn’t seem to appreciate one-game suspension from the Capi- the last 10 years and reminding each sons, Kane has led the Hawks each of him as much as Hawks fans do. tals’ next regular-season game. other there was still time left on the the last fi ve seasons, including through ESPN ranked him No 9, while NBC But Kane said he wouldn’t consider clock, still one more game to be played. 40 games this season. Sports had him at No 15 behind, among doing that with the Hawks, unlike “We’ve had some pretty good He leads the Hawks in goals (20) others, Victor Hedman, Zdeno Chara the fi rst-place Capitals, fi ghting for a memories, some great times,” Kane and assists (27), and his 47 points are as well as Toews and Keith. playoff berth. said.“Done some pretty amazing 19 more than Toews, the team’s No 2 While those lists were blowing up “If I ever wanted to go about some- things as a group. scorer. on social media, he tried to not to pay thing like that, especially with the po- Some guys have done amazing “I still think there’s more in the tank, much attention. sition the team’s in, I would feel pretty things individually as well. It’s been a to be honest with you,” Kane said. “I But it wasn’t easy because his phone guilty missing (a regular-season) fun 10 years. still think there’s another level to get was blowing up as well. game,” Kane said. “Especially when It’s pretty crazy to think 10 years to. “It’s hard not to (notice) when peo- you’re healthy.” have gone by this fast, but I think we’re The position we’re in, kind of near ple are sending you messages and It’s that devotion to the game that all … looking forward to thinking what that wild-card spot now and the team’s texting you about it,” Kane said. “It is makes it possible to envision Kane still the next decade brings.” playing better, it’d be nice for myself to what it is. I guess everyone has their playing in the NHL when Dec Kane, 31, was referring to what the reach that level this year and keep pro- own opinion. I’m sure other people 31, 2029, rolls around. Blackhawks hope to accomplish as a ducing for this team. have other lists where I’d be higher or “Love playing hockey so can’t im- team in the next decade, but his per- But that’s been my job since I’ve maybe even lower. Who knows? But agine in 10 years from now I’ll feel any sonal success is more connected to been in the league is to be an off ensive they’re just lists and you can’t really do diff erently or I won’t love the game an- team success than ever. guy and be counted on to produce.” anything about it or throw a fi t about it ymore,” he said. “I guess we’ll see what When the decade began, Kane was a That’s why Kane will fi nish the dec- or get mad about it or anything.” happens.”

Thursday, January 2, 2020 GULF TIMES SPORT

WAWRINKA, RAONIC ARRIVE FOR QATAR EXXONMOBIL OPEN

Swiss star Stanislas Wawrinka holds a bouquet as he is driven to his hotel after landing in Doha yesterday for next week’s Qatar ExxonMobil Open tennis tournament. A winner of three Grand Slam titles, Wawrinka, currently ranked 16th in the world, is the highest-ranked player in this year’s tournament in Doha. At right, Canadian player Milos Raonic is given a traditional welcome at the Hamad International Airport. Raonic is ranked 31st. The tournament starts on January 6.

TENNIS Shapovalov calls for merger of ATP Cup and Davis Cup

Sydney

anadian Denis Shapovalov New era kicks off with called on the organisers of Cthe Davis Cup Finals and the ATP Cup to work together to create one world championship, saying it felt “weird” to play two similar events back to back. The inaugural edition of the revamped Davis Cup, the In- ATP Cup in Australia ternational Tennis Federation’s fl agship event, was held in No- vember in Madrid’s La Caja While Federer, Nishikori and Murray are missing, most of the world’s top 30 are playing Magica with 18 nations playing a week-long soccer World Cup- AFP garia. Kyrgios spearheads local hopes style showpiece. Sydney for Australia in Brisbane against the The rival ATP Cup, which will Alexander Zverev-led Germany while see 24 nations contesting across Greece take on Canada in the same city. three cities in Australia over 10 ennis’ innovative new team First up in Perth will be the United days from Friday for the fi rst championship kicks off the men’s States against Norway followed by Rus- time, is similar in nature and the T2020 season tomorrow, with Ra- sia and Italy. big question remains if the two fael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among Djokovic makes his tournament de- can co-exist in the future. those looking for a winning start ahead but in Brisbane for Serbia on day two, as The 20-year-old Shapovalov of the fi rst Grand Slam of the year. does Spanish world number one Nadal played brilliantly to lead Canada The ATP Cup will see 24 nations split in Perth. to it fi rst Davis Cup fi nal where into six groups across three Austral- Under the format, the second-ranked they eventually went down to ian cities, with eight teams emerging singles players from each country face Rafa Nadal’s Spain. from the round-robin to compete in a each other fi rst, then the top-ranked The world number 15 will knockout phase until one country is left men ahead of a potentially decisive again take up the mantle from standing. doubles. Friday for Canada, who have It is the sport’s newest tournament A country winning two of three been clubbed with Germany, and the third men’s team event com- matches will claim the tie. Greece and hosts Australia in peting for the hearts and minds — and As well as the players, some big- Group F of the ATP Cup. dollars — of fans, along with a revamped name former stars are captaining their “It would be great just to have Davis Cup and the annual Laver Cup, countries, including Boris Becker (Ger- one event that is a world cham- which pits Europe against the rest of the many), Marat Safi n (Russia), Tim Hen- pionship,” he told reporters in world. man (Britain), Lleyton Hewitt (Austral- Brisbane yesterday. “A month But it has already suff ered setbacks, ia), and Thomas Muster (Austria). ago we played the world cham- with major drawcard Roger Federer Previously the men’s season kicked pionship and now it feels like we opting to give it a miss and Andy Murray off with players spread across various are playing another one. and Kei Nishikori pulling out injured. smaller-scale tournaments, and outgo- “It would be great if they Despite this, world number two ing ATP chairman Chris Kermode said could organise and make one big Djokovic said the move towards more it made far more sense to have everyone event, make it a unique and spe- team tennis was good for a sport best under one umbrella. cial tournament. Hopefully they known for the individuality of its global “The ATP Cup fi ts perfectly with our can come to terms together and superstars. strategy to innovate and look towards make something happen.” “More than 90 % of the time, we’re Tennis player Rafael Nadal of Spain the future,” he said. The new Davis Cup format playing as individuals and we don’t (2nd R) strolls in the shallows with his “The fi rst week of the season is when was voted in by the ITF in 2018 have too many team events,” said the team (L-R) Roberto Bautista Agut, Pablo the players want to play and that’s why and bankrolled by a $3bn 25- Serbian great, who also heads the ATP Carreno Busta and captain Francico the tournament has their strong sup- year partnership with Kosmos, player council. Roig during a visit to a Rottnest Island port.” the Barcelona-based invest- “This is going to bring together a lot beach in Australia yesterday. ment company owned by soccer of nations and, for me personally, it will Group A (Brisbane) — Serbia, France, player Gerard Pique. be a very nice and proud moment to South Africa, Chile Both Pique and Novak Djoko- represent my country. An event like this Group B (Perth) — Spain, Japan, vic, the president of the ATP’s is truly going to make an impact.” awesome event”. With bushfi res raging around Sydney and also safe for our fans and our ball Georgia, Uruguay Player Council, have in the past Sydney hosts the fi nals, along with “I know everyone on the Tour wants and elsewhere in the country, tourna- boys and staff ,” he told reporters. Group C (Sydney) — Bulgaria, said the two event cannot co- group games, which are also held in to be with their teammates. There’s ment director Tom Larner said offi cials The championship, from January Belgium, Great Britain, Moldova exist and a solution must be Brisbane and Perth with US$15mn in nothing better than playing for your were ready in the event of air quality 3-12, will feature two ties each day in Group D (Perth) — Russia, Italy, USA, found. prize money and up to 750 singles and country against the other best players problems. the three cities during the round robin, Norway The ATP Cup will have total 250 doubles ATP rankings points at in the world,” he said. “We have got medical experts on site comprising two singles matches then a Group E (Sydney) — Austria, Croatia, prize money of $15mn. The new stake. While Federer, Nishikori and Murray during the tournament who will be ad- doubles. Argentina, Poland Davis Cup Finals off ered around Australian star Nick Kyrgios agrees are missing, most of the world’s top 30 vising in relation to conditions and en- Belgium kick off the Sydney action Group F (Brisbane) — Germany, $18mn to teams and another with Djokovic, believing it will be “an are playing. suring that it is safe for players to play against Moldova before Britain face Bul- Greece, Canada, Australia $9mn to federations.

CRICKET QCA to host four-nation women’s T20 event China, Kuwait, release that the QCA is ready for the local fans will turn up in large will host this event as well,” Ah- another international event after numbers to support the event mad added. Oman and Qatar organising the inaugural Qatar and encourage all the participat- The QCA has appointed Shiv- T10 International League. ing teams,” al-Kuwari said. ani Mishra, who is also an in- are the teams “Following the successful QCA Operations Manager ternational umpire, as the team staging of the Qatar T10 Cricket Manzoor Ahmad, while giv- manager. taking part League, the Qatar Cricket Asso- ing details of the tournament, Mishra said that the Qatar na- ciation is making elaborate ar- said, “Our new season has been tional team is extremely excited By Sports Reporter rangements for the Four-Nation quite busy this time. Recently, about featuring in the interna- Doha Women’s T20 International we hosted the Qatar T10 Cricket tional event. “The Qatari players Tournament, which will be League and now we are giving are feeling excited and motivated played at the Asian Town Sta- fi nishing touches to the Four- about the upcoming Four-Na- he Qatar Cricket Asso- dium from January 16 to 22. Nation T20 International Wom- tion T20 Tournament. We have ciation (QCA), under the “China, Kuwait, Oman and en’s Cricket Tournament. picked about 40 players for the TPresidency of Yousef Je- hosts Qatar will be contesting “After the single round-robin, preparatory camp. ham al-Kuwari, has been busy in the event for the top honours. two top teams will play the fi nal, “In the fi rst week of January, with preparations for another We are grateful to the Interna- while the third and fourth teams 2020, we will select 18 players international event, following tional Cricket Council for giving will contest in the third-place before declaring the 14-member the success of the Qatar T10 In- recognition and support to this playoff on January 22. At the national team for the event. The ternational League. event. moment, we are reviewing all the event looks quite tough with the The QCA will stage the Four- “Our aim is to give opportu- arrangements from receiving the presence of the Chinese team, Nation Twenty20 International nity to the Qatari women crick- teams to transportation, accom- which has a good ranking in Asia. Tournament for women from eters to play against other coun- modation, ground and sending “We are holding practice ses- January 16. The participating tries and help the QCA develop them off . sions twice a week as our players teams are China, Kuwait, Oman the sport in the country and the “Qatar is known for its hospi- are young students. We hope to and hosts Qatar. The round-rob- on January 22 with the third- Asian Town Cricket Stadium, QCA President Yousef Je- region,” he added. tality and top-class event man- put together a good team for the in cum knock-out event will end place playoff and the fi nal at the Industrial Area. ham al-Kuwari said in a press “We are quite optimistic that agement. On the same lines, we event,” she added.