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Monday, December 12, 2016 FOOTBALL Rabia I 13, 1438 AH Costa fi res Chelsea GULF TIMES back to top in England SPORT Page 3

SPOTLIGHT Xavi surprises workers with tickets for Barca game

Xavi poses with workers at Labour City. El Jaish’s Sardor Rashidov (R) celebrates with teammate Ahmed Doozandeh after scoring against Muaither yesterday. By Matthias Krug “So it was a pleasure to give tickets Sc.qa to the workers involved in the Genera- FOOTBALL/ STARS LEAGUE tion Amazing Qatar programme for the Barcelona v Al Ahli game. It was an hen Justin Santiago, a honour for me to give them these tick- 36-year-old F.C. Barce- ets and surprise them in this way.” lona fan from Chennai in One of the greatest midfi elders to WIndia, shook hands with have ever played the game, Xavi ex- a FIFA World Cup winner in the rec- plained the importance of the project reation room of his accommodation at in giving back to those who are helping Labour City this weekend, he couldn’t to build the country which will host the Rashidov double quite believe who was standing across 2022 FIFA World Cup. from him. Xavi Hernández, the former Bar- “The Generation Amazing project celona midfi elder who is an ambassa- here is about reaching out to people dor for the Generation Amazing pro- in Qatar who are helping to build this gramme of the Supreme Committee for country,” he explained. “Through the Delivery & Legacy (SC), passed by for power of football, we are helping to an hour-long visit to speak to workers take care of them and make them hap- helps El Jaish about their involvement in the Gen- py here. We have been to their accom- eration Amazing Qatar programme, modations to surprise them, it is about answer their questions about his vast giving them our aff ection and care. I’m experience in world football, and invite really enjoying my work on this fantas- the workers present to join him for the tic project. It’s even more exciting for Barcelona v Al Ahli match on Tuesday them because it is Barcelona coming in . here, which for me is the best team in “I love football, and I’m a huge fan of the world.” see off Muaither Barcelona because they have the best According to Isabel Gultresa, CSR players, like Lionel Messi. I’ve seen so Senior Manager at the SC, the visit was many matches of Xavi on TV, winning another important step on the journey Rashidov opened the scoring for El Jaish in second minute before the World Cup, the Spanish league and the Generation Amazing programme the Champions League, so it was an in- has embarked on in Qatar. She said: helping his side find the winning with four minutes left to play credible surprise to see him in person,” “It is very important for us to show to Santiago said after the Al Sadd captain the participants of our projects how By Sports Reporter that both sides left the game honours stopped by for an unannounced visit. much we are encompassing football Doha even with a 1-1 draw. “Everybody in the room was ex- in their development, and taking them It didn’t take long for Al Shahania tremely excited, and it was very im- to a live football match is something to open their account Abdulla al- pressive to meet a player who is also we thought would be very special and able-toppers El Jaish relied Yazidi scored in the eighth minute. such a nice person. He was very cool relevant. We are taking the important on a double from Uzbekistan Striker Fahad Khalfan dribbled the and easy to speak to, and had a smile moment of our ambassador’s former international Sardor Rash- ball in from the left and attempted a for everyone. On top of that, we were team visiting Qatar to celebrate what Tidov to quell the challenge cross which bounced off a defender all personally invited by him to watch the power of football can do.” of newcomers Muaither in the Qatar back into his path. He then played the match, which is a fantastic oppor- After being welcomed to a raptur- Stars League yesterday. After their it backward to al-Yazidi who calmly tunity. I expect a 5-0 win for Barce- ous round of applause from all those loss to Lekhwiya last week, yester- passed the ball into the unguarded lona.” present, Xavi spoke about his involve- day’s win was just what the doctor net. For Santiago, the main benefi ts of ment with Generation Amazing, and ordered for the title-chasers. With six minutes to go to half- the football for development project congratulated the participants for At Lekhwiya Stadium, Rashidov time, Al Ahli levelled the scoreline have been felt on the pitch at Labour their work so far. opened the scoring for El Jaish in the thanks to Ndombe Mubele’s fi fth goal City, where the Generation Amazing “The Generation Amazing pro- second minute before helping his side of the season. programme is organised in conjunc- gramme is very good, it has helped me fi nd the winning goal with four min- Iranian midfi elder Mojtaba Jabari tion with NAAAS Group. The pro- a lot,” Santiago continued. “Through utes left to play. As for Muaither, their played a defence splitting pass to gramme is also delivered by QDVC and football games and drills, it is helping only goal was scored by Ayoub Ouad- the Mubele, who took the ball in his Youth Club in Al Khor, with a total of teach the values of team-work, and we rassi in fi rst half stoppage time. stride, beating the off side trap and 570 workers benefi ting on a weekly ba- have good coaches who train us every The two teams had barely settled in powerfully shot the ball past the sis from the coaching delivered across weekend. We’ve been playing football when Rashidov found the back of the keeper Khalifa al-Dossari to make it both sites. a long time, but this programme has net with a close-range shot. El Jaish 1-1. For Xavi, the visit to Labour City really helped us to improve through defender Murad Hussein slipped a Muaither players celebrate their goal against El Jaish yesterday. The fi rst half ended with both sides brought back memories of the fi rst teamwork, listening and passing.” neat ball towards Rashidov – who level pegging. Al Ahli enjoyed the time he was given the present of a tick- Xavi was quick to get the work- under pressure from Ouadrassi – de- from close range to tie the scores. fell to Rashidov who easily headed it majority of the possession and had et to watch a football match live in the ers involved in the session at Labour fl ected the ball past Basil Zidan in the In the second half, intense battle home from close range. Goalkeeper more shots on goal compared to Sha- stadium, at his beloved Nou Camp in City, opening the fl oor to a whole Muaither goal in the second minute. for ball possession continued. But af- Zaidan could do little to block the hania who were on the back foot after Barcelona. host of questions which ranged from After a numerous exchanges, ter much slog, QSL giants Jaish pre- well-taken snap-header from Rash- scoring the early goal. “I remember the fi rst time I was ‘who is the best, Messi or Ronaldo?’ Muaither – known for their re- vailed after Rashidov’s second goal idov. It was points leaders El Jaish’s The second half saw an excellent given tickets to go to a match, I was fi ve to ‘will you also be playing on Tues- silient play rather than technical of the match. In the 86th minute, 9th win of the season from 11 games. double save from Al Shahania stopper or six years old and it was to attend a day?’. Having answered them all, the excellence on the pitch – found defender Yasir Abubakar produced Meanwhile, Al Ahli took on Al Sha- Khalifa al-Dossari as he kept his side Barcelona game,” Xavi told www.sc.qa. four-time UEFA Champions League the equaliser through Ouadrassi. the near-perfect lob ball for a header hania in round eleven of the QSL at in the game. Apart from that, there “We all love football in our family, and winner posed for a picture with every- In injury time, Muaither’s Mah- from the left fl ank. the Al Ahli stadium yesterday. Two was little goalmouth action as both we went to a Gamper trophy with my one present, and then handed out the moud Zatara headed a lobbed ball The ball sailed above the head of fi rst half goals, one from each team sides seemed satisfi ed with a point to father and grandfather, it was a great match tickets to another round of ap- towards Ouadrassi who tapped in Muaither’s Mohamed Medhat and and a scoreless second half meant their name. excitement that I felt before the game. plause. Gulf Times 2 Monday, December 12, 2016 SPORT

QATAR STARS LEAGUE PREVIEW Al Sadd on a high aft er crushing Al Sailiya stun win over Al Gharafa 2-1, Rayyan get lucky

Defending champions Al Rayyan benefit from Al Wakrah own goal to score 1-0 win Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferriera (R) speaks to the press ahead of his team’s match against Umm Salal.

By Sports Reporter spot in the standings and wants Doha to further underline his team’s credentials as they target their fi fth QSL title. l Sadd coach Jesualdo “After the good performance Ferriera could hardly against El Jaish, we want to look hide his glee as he forward to win the game and get Aspoke about his team’s the three points. This year we crushing win over Al Rayyan in have many teams fi ghting for the last week. the fi rst place and the stand- “Against Al Rayyan the result ings are tight so we cannot slip wasn’t expected but I am de- up against an Al Kharaitiyat and lighted with how my side pre- loose points,” Belmadi said at his formed. The players where hap- pre-match press conference. py and now we go into the game The Algerian tactician also against Umm Salal today full of went on to stress that his side confi dence,” the Portuguese na- must perform against teams with tional told reporters yesterday. a lower standing in the league Ferriera also said that his side despite their headline grabbing can gain plenty of positives from win over El Jaish last time out. the Al Sadd result. “Week in week out we have “The game against Al Rayyan seen how teams in relegation was almost perfect, we showed trouble can cause issues for the a good performance throughout bigger sides in the league. Le- and the whole team played at a khwiya has to show the right very high level. This shows our mentality and attitude against Al confi dence and the team that it is Kharaitiyat in order to win.” possible to get big results against Belmadi was also eager to great teams in the league.” talk up youth prospect Moaz Ali Talk turned Umm Salal, with who made the diff erence against Ferriera calling for plenty of con- Jaish. “Moaz came on and scored centration from his team. “Umm the winning goal. Last season we Salal are a good team who have struggled with our squad. This quality players. I expect them to year I have a better and bigger test us, however I trust my play- squad. Every game I have young ers they know what to do to win players on the bench, which is this game. We need the three important to develop the club. points to be at the top of the “As the season progresses I league. will need everybody, especially “The game against Umm Salal when we are fi ghting in many will not be easy. When you come diff erent competitions” added Al Rayyan’s Sebastian Soria (C) defends with his teammates during their match against Al Wakrah yesterday. At bottom, action from the Al Gharafa-Al Sailiya match. from a big result you have a huge Belmadi. responsibility so we need to con- As for Al Kharaitiyat, they are By Sports Reporter in the 65th minute with a goal from Vlad- conceded an own goal in the 34th minute. centrate against this side,” added at rock bottom of the QSL stand- Doha mir Weiss. Moayed Hassan sent a ball Defender Fakhroo, under pressure from the tactician. ings and will be hoping for an over to the Slovakian international who Sergio Garcia of Al Rayyan mistakenly Ferriera ended the press con- upset. Their Tunisian head coach controlled it and waited for the keeper to tapped the ball into his own net follow- ference revealing that his squad Ahmad al-Ajlani was of the l Sailiya brought Al Gharafa’s make a move before curving the ball into ing a corner kick that had sailed above the will step up in the absence of opinion that anything can hap- eight-game unbeaten run to a the far corner to make it 2-1. goalkeeper’s head. Jurgutha Hamroun “All players pen in a football game. shuddering halt with a 2-1 win Gharafa pushed hard for an equal- For the fi rst time in almost two hours are very important. Hamroun “There is no game in football Aat Al Ahli stadium yesterday. iser but Sami Trabelsi’s side held on to on the pitch, Al Rayyan players broke is missing for this game and the that can be lost without being Sami Trabelsi’s men scored two fi rst infl ict Al Gharafa’s fi rst defeat in eight into smiles as coach Michael Laudrup player who will replace him will played. Lekhwiya will be the fa- half goals for only their second win of the QSL games. The win takes Sailiya up to watched from the touchline presenting a be ready. His absence will not vourites, but at the end of the day tournament. seventh place with twelve points from 11 sombre look. aff ect the collective spirit of the we will be playing eleven against Al Sailiya scored the fi rst goal of the games, while Pedro Caixinha’s Al Gharafa Rayyan could have doubled their lead team going into the game.” eleven. We will need luck on our game early on as they took the lead in the stay in fourth with 20 points. on the 35th minute. Sebastian Soria Meanwhile, Lekhwiya will be side to get this win.” eighth minute. The returning Bahrain in- Meanwhile, reigning champions Al charged towards the goal but defender aiming to put pressure on table- The Tunisian also revealed his ternational Faouzi Aaish chested down a Rayyan needed an own goal by Al Wak- Mohamed Arafa produced a well-timed toppers El Jaish when they take side’s approach going into the long ball inside the box and then took it rah’s Abdulrahman Fakhroo to post a 1-0 tackle to kill the threatening move inside on Al Kharaitiyat in the Qatar game. “Each coach is looking past two defenders before easing it past win in a tough encounter. his own box. Stars League today. for a balance between defence the keeper. Playing their fi rst game after the 5-0 In the 55th minute, Soria again wasted a Coach Djamel Belmadi is on and attack. We have to play with Al Sailiya doubled their advantage dumbfounding the goalkeeper. thrashing at the hands of Al Sadd, Al golden opportunity to score for Al Rayy- a high after his team handed El discipline against Lekhwiya. We in the 36th minute with a wonderfully Gharafa pushed on in the second half Rayyan stitched together a couple of im- an. Soria charged into the Al Wakrah box Jaish their fi rst defeat of the sea- have to take care and be at full worked goal. It came after a brilliant bit and switched to a more attacking for- pressive moves in the opening exchanges and dribbled past Wakrah keeper Enyass son last week to climb to second focus throughout the tie. of interplay between the Sailiya forwards. mation to reduce the defi cit. Abdulghani of the tie. Veteran striker Sebastian Soria who had darted off from the goal-line. Aaish sent a cross to Sayaf Mohsin, who Munir had two chances to score in the fi red a bullet towards the Al Wakrah goal Thankfully Al Wakrah defenders headed it towards Mohamed Mudather 53rd minute but both his eff orts were but goalkeeper Mohamed Enyass dived to Fakroo and Sultan al-Bareek off ered stiff Endurance who leaped into the air and scored with saved by Sailiya keeper Gregory Gomis. his right to block the shot. resistance as Soria ran out of gas while an improvised shot with his right foot Pedro Caixinha’s men pulled one back In a shocking run of play, Al Wakrah trying to fl ick the ball into an open net.

QCA conducts coaching camp at Pakistan International School

Hamad Towaim al-Marri rides Al Sadd Endurance Team-owned Queops De Varneuil to victory in the 120km CEI** for Senior riders at Sealine, Mesaieed, on Saturday.

The Qatar Cricket Association, under the presidency of MA Shahid, hosted a coaching camp for junior boys at the Pakistan International School earlier this week. The camp, according to QCA General Secretary, Manzoor Ahmad, was a big success with 175 students, aged between 8 and 11 years, taking part. HE the Minister of Culture and Sports Salah bin Ghanem al-Ali Talking about the camp, which was hosted on December 6, Ahmad said, “The QCA contacted various expatriate schools in Qatar with playing facilities. We shortlisted presents the winner’s trophy to Saeed Hamad Saeed Juma after some schools and then the decision to hold the camp at Pakistan International School was taken. Camps at the remaining five schools will be conducted per their sched- the latter won the 100km CEI* for Junior riders in the National ule. “The QCA provided its off icials and qualified coaches whose sole was to create interest among the students about the game. We’re really delighted to announce that Day Endurance Cup at Sealine, Mesaieed, on Saturday. The win- we achieved our goal and off ered coaching to 175 boys.” ner rode Al Shaqab Endurance Team-owned LP Hara to victory. Gulf Times Monday, December 12, 2016 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT INJURY Mkhitaryan injury not serious: Mourinho Mkhitaryan tames AFP very dangerous or diffi cult. Manchester “He brings everything I want an attacker to play. Maybe one week out and it is better to be anchester United fresh for Boxing Day.” manager Jose Mour- Mkhitaryan has scored inho played down two goals in two games, hav- the severity of an in- ing opened his United account Spurs to stop Man Mjury sustained by match-winner against Zorya Luhansk in the Henrikh Mkhitaryan during his Europa League, and looked to be side’s 1-0 win over Tottenham on his way to becoming a guar- Hotspur yesterday. anteed starter. Mkhitaryan, 27, settled the “I am happy with that from game with his fi rst Premier Henrikh,” Mourinho added. League goal, running onto Ander “Not just the way he’s creating Herrera’s pass in the 29th minute but his defensive participation in United’s bad run and powering a shot past goal- the team. He crossed the line to be keeper Hugo Lloris. a better player. He crossed the line But he left the fi eld strapped mentally, that others have to cross. ‘After so many matches playing well but not winning, we needed points more than to a stretcher with six minutes “I want more from some of my remaining after his left ankle ap- attacking players. The two mo- performance. Against Tottenham it’s diff icult to get a result without playing well’ peared to roll as he was caught by ments of recovering the ball are visiting left-back Danny Rose. crucial moments. Mkhitaryan AFP “We don’t think it’s a serious was superb on that.” Manchester injury,” Mourinho said. “We don’t United’s win ended a run of think maybe Henrikh can play for four successive league draws at a week. I was afraid it was serious, Old Traff ord and took them to enrikh Mkhitaryan scored his but it looks like it’s not. within six points of the Champi- fi rst goal for “Maximum a couple of weeks. It ons League places. Manchester United and was later doesn’t look like something that is Now to see what happens next. stretchered off as Jose Mourin- ho’sH side claimed a timely 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur yesterday. MISTAKE Mkhitaryan converted Ander Herrera’s through ball just before the half hour to end a frustrating run of four successive home draws and give United just a second Blundering West win in nine league matches. It was the Armenian playmaker’s sec- ond goal in two games, after he opened Ham keeper gift s his account for the club against Zorya Luhansk on Thursday. He exited on a stretcher after turn- Liverpool point ing his ankle in a late challenge by Dan- ny Rose, but Mourinho said: “We don’t think it’s a serious injury. Maximum a couple of weeks.” Mourinho’s team remain 13 points below leaders Chelsea, but closed to within three points of fi fth-place Spurs and six of Man- chester City, who occupy the fourth and fi nal Champions League berth. United once again failed to convert their dominance into goals, but unlike in their recent 1-1 draws against Arsenal, West Ham United and Everton, they were not made to pay. “After so many matches playing well but not winning, we needed more the points than the performance,” Mourinho said. West Ham United goalkeeper Darren Randolph. “But I knew against Tottenham it’s dif- fi cult to get a result without playing well. AFP long ball over the top, but Karius But we played very well.” Liverpool turned aside the shot at his near Initially kept on the sidelines by Mour- post. inho following his arrival from Borus- Karius was then caught out as sia Dortmund, Mkhitaryan has become ivock Origi scored for West Ham drew level in the 27th something of a lucky charm for the Por- Manchester United’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan celebrates after scoring against Tottenham Hotspur yesterday. the fourth consecutive minute, getting a hand to Payet’s tuguese, who will be relieved the injury is match to save a point free-kick as it was fl oated over not grave. that was parried by his team-mate Results counter-punch, however, and there were for frail Liverpool as the wall, but failing to stop it. Defeat curbed Spurs’ recent revival, Hugo Lloris. nervous moments early in the second half Dthey were frustrated in their at- That equaliser aff ected Liv- which had seen them beat Swansea City Mkhitaryan saw an eff ort blocked by Chelsea 1 (Costa 76) West Brom 0 as Tottenham went on the attack. tempts to stay in touch with erpool’s rhythm, despite half- 5-0 and secure a Europa League place Jan Vertonghen, Herrera gave Lloris some Manchester United 1 (Mkhitaryan 29) De Gea boxed away a shot from Eriksen Premier League leaders Chelsea chances for Jordan Henderson with a 3-1 win over CSKA . catching practice with a dipping volley Tottenham 0 before Victor Wanyama gave the hosts yesterday. and Roberto Firmino soon after- Mauricio Pochettino’s side remain and Michael Carrick whistled a shot over Southampton 1 (Boufal 53) Middles- a big let-off , completely miscuing his Jurgen Klopp’s side took an wards, and they went behind six without an away league win since Sep- from range. brough 0 header after Eriksen’s free-kick found early lead through Adam Lal- minutes before half time to an- tember 24. “It was a disappointing result, United goalkeeper David de Gea had to Liverpool 2 (Lallana 5, Origi 48) West him unmarked six yards from goal. lana’s stylish fi nish, but weak- other soft goal. but if we analyse the game I think it was a deal with a zippy free-kick from Chris- Ham 2 (Payet 27, Antonio 39) Seeking to soothe the home fans’ nesses at the back allowed Dim- This time Havard Nordtveit’s very competitive game and we need to take tian Eriksen, but the hosts looked the frayed nerves, Pogba took it upon himself itri Payet’s free-kick and a neat long diagonal pass out of defence positive things from that,” Pochettino said. more likely scorers and duly went ahead to try to extend United’s lead. fi nish by Michail Antonio to give fl icked off Henderson to wrong- Tottenham centre-back Toby Alder- in the 29th minute. right and saving from Ibrahimovic. The France midfi elder left the Spurs West Ham a surprise half-time foot Matip, who was caught on his weireld made his fi rst start in eight weeks Harry Kane played the ball straight to At the other end, Son Heung-Min cut crossbar shuddering with an arcing 25- lead at Anfi eld. heels as Antonio ran into the space after a knee injury and he and his defen- Herrera, whose inviting pass between in from the right and let fl y with a left- yard free-kick and then stung Lloris’s Loris Karius, the Liverpool behind him to fl ick the ball beyond sive colleagues quickly found themselves the Spurs centre-backs freed Mkhitar- foot eff ort that de Gea had to tip over, palms with a crisp shot following a one- goalkeeper, was arguably at Karius — who was caught in no- under examination. yan to run through and smash a rising but the spring was in United’s step as the two with Herrera. De Gea had to claw fault for Payet’s goal, but then man’s land — and in. It took United less than two minutes shot past Lloris. teams went off at half-time. away another Eriksen free-kick, but saw Hammers counterpart Dar- Klopp’s team were though to carve Spurs open, Zlatan Ibrahimovic The Spurs goalkeeper was called into Their failure to take their chances despite Mkhitaryan’s premature 84th- ren Randolph make a mistake level within three minutes of the teeing up Paul Pogba for a left-foot shot action again shortly after, dropping to his left them vulnerable to the threat of a minute exit, United saw the game out. for Origi’s equaliser by failing to restart. Mane spun to cross from hold Sadio Mane’s cross. the left, Randolph lost his bal- The 2-2 draw did at least lift ance and the ball as he stretched BOTTOMLINE West Ham out of the relegation to try to gather, and Origi turned zone, although it extended their it in via the post. run without a Premier League Spirits restored, Liverpool al- victory to six matches. most regained the lead within It looked like being a gloomy moments, as Wijnaldum steered day for Slaven Bilic’s side when a shot just wide on the turn from they conceded a well-worked goal the edge of the penalty area. Costa gem sends Chelsea top in the fi rst fi ve minutes, as Mane Wijnaldum had another good AFP they couldn’t break down Albion’s tion in the 41st minute when he crossed from the left and Lal- chance just after the hour mark well-drilled rearguard and it was plunged to his right to keep out lana took a touch to control before after being played into space the visitors who threatened fi rst Luiz’s free-kick. steering a shot past Randolph. down the left, but placed his ef- when Chris Brunt won a tackle With Chelsea still labouring Yet even in the early stages fort beyond the far post. iego Costa fi red Chel- with Marcos Alonso before drill- to make the breakthrough af- Liverpool’s defensive frailties Henderson then bent a fi ne 25- sea back to the top of ing a powerful strike wide. ter half-time, Luiz’s free-kicks that marked last weekend’s 4-3 yard shot towards the top corner the Premier League as Despite his reputation for were the only source of menace defeat at Bournemouth were ap- midway through the second half, the Spain striker’s late costly errors, David Luiz has for Foster, who saved another of parent once again. only for Randolph to deny him winnerD clinched a hard-fought been the model of consistency the Brazilian’s eff orts after it de- Antonio found space too eas- with magnifi cent fl ying save. 1-0 victory against West Brom- since returning to Chelsea this fl ected off Hazard. ily as he sprinted between cen- The home side fi nished the wich Albion yesterday. season, but the Brazil defender Whether he was aff ected by tre-backs Dejan Lovren and Joel stronger but couldn’t fi nd that Antonio Conte’s side had been reverted to his old bad habits the injury or not, Hazard was Matip to collect Winston Reid’s elusive winner. knocked out of fi rst place by Ar- when he allowed Salomon Ron- well below his best, leaving senal on Saturday, but they reo- don to brush him off the ball, Chelsea short of invention in the pened a three point lead over the presenting the burly Albion fi nal third and hindered by their Best still to come, says goal-hero Costa Gunners thanks to Costa’s su- striker with a clear path into the insistence on playing sideways perb fi nish in the closing stages penalty area. rather than penetrating behind Diego Costa warned Premier shock lead before the Blues at Stamford Bridge. the Albion defence. League defenders his best is finally broke the deadlock. Costa’s 12th league goal in his REAL WARRIOR Conte sent on Willian and Fa- yet to come after the Chelsea “The best way to attack is to last 15 appearances gave Chelsea Fortunately for Luiz, Rondon bregas in a bid to spark Chelsea striker maintained his hot defend well,” he said. “They a ninth successive league win for was unable to hit the target and into life and the changes paid streak in yesterday’s 1-0 win had a few chances in the the fi rst time since 2007. the centre-back was quick to dividends in the 76th minute, over West Bromwich Albion. beginning, but we are well The west Londoners have hold up his hand in contrition. with a helping hand from Albion Costa’s 12th league goal in his organised and strong.” scored 23 goals and conceded Caught in Albion’s defen- defender McAuley. last 15 appearances lifted Chel- Cesc Fabregas came off the just two in that blistering streak, sive web, it was almost half an When Fabregas played a hope- sea back to the top of the table, bench to play the pass that raising hopes of a Premier hour before Chelsea untangled ful ball down the right fl ank, with a three-point advantage led to Costa’s winner and the League title in Conte’s fi rst sea- Chelsea striker Diego Costa celebrates after scoring against West themselves long enough to man- McAuley was in position to snuff over second placed Arsenal. former Arsenal son in charge. Bromwich Albion at Stamford Bridge in London yesterday. age their fi rst shot when N’Golo out any danger, but he was too But ominously for Chelsea’s saluted the feisty forward for While this was far from Chel- Kante’s scuff ed eff ort defl ected casual and Costa showed why title rivals, the 28-year-old refusing to let McAuley take sea’s best eff ort under the Ital- the right solution,” Conte said. infl uential performance at East- off team-mate Pedro before Conte dubbed him a “real war- believes he still has room for the ball away from him. ian, their refusal to be denied by “It wasn’t easy but my players lands. drifting just wide. rior” this week as he took full improvement. “It was a good pass but it was a stubborn opponent suggests showed me great character and It was 38 years since Albion It didn’t help Chelsea’s cause advantage. “I am in great form, but not the all about Diego for the goal, they have the required character motivation to win.” had left the Bridge with three that Eden Hazard took a bruising Muscling McAuley off the best,” Costa told BT Sport. he made the pass special,” and class to last the pace in the Conte made one change from points, but Tony Pulis’s side ar- challenge from Gareth McAuley ball, Costa was suddenly clean Rather than take the spotlight Fabregas said. title race. last weekend’s impressive win rived in confi dent mood after that left the Belgium midfi elder through but there was still work for himself, Costa praised the “He fought for the ball. We had “I’m very happy. We faced a against title rivals Manchester winning three of their last four nursing his wound before gin- to be down and the Spaniard was way Chelsea’s defenders had to push them but I think the tough, physical team. They’re City as Serbia midfi elder Ne- matches. gerly returning to fray. up to the task as he curled a fi ne kept their concentration to game was asking for a change diffi cult to break down and we manja Matic replaced Cesc Fa- While Chelsea monopolised Albion goalkeeper Ben Fos- fi nish into the far corner to send ensure Albion didn’t snatch a and I’m glad for that.” showed great patience to fi nd bregas despite the Spaniard’s possession in the early stages, ter was fi nally called into ac- Chelsea back to the top. Gulf Times 4 Monday, December 12, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT STATEMENT Conte calls possibility of Chelsea points Higuain double deduction ‘a joke’ wins Turin derby for Juventus

Juve’s 13th victory of the campaign kept the five-time champions on top and moved Chelsea manager Antonio Conte. them seven points ahead of Roma and AC Milan before their clash in Rome today The Guardian Premier League win in succes- London sion, and pointed out it had been Agüero’s challenge – the Argen- tina forward is currently sitting helsea are confi dent they out a four-match ban – which had will avoid the imposition sparked the fracas in Manches- of a points deduction as ter. “For me, if you are involved in they contemplate their a situation where you are not at Clatest charge of failing to control fault, why must you pay?” said the their players, at Manchester City Italian. “Why? I don’t understand last weekend, with Antonio Conte this. At the end of the Manchester dismissive of the possibility of City game, my players tried to keep such a sanction as “a joke”. their calm. It would be a joke [if the The Premier League lead- FA imposed such a punishment on ers, who re-established a three- his club]. You must be honest and point advantage at the top with understand which team is at fault. a 1-0 win over West Bromwich “We are trying to improve all Albion, were charged last week aspects, and also this. We had a with a breach of Rule E20 for a bad record in the past, but now we fi fth time in 19 months after Ser- are diff erent. I don’t know what gio Aguero’s wild lunge at David happened in the past. I know what Luiz sparked a mass brawl on the is happening in the present, and touchline in stoppage time at the that is why I ask if this is a joke or Etihad stadium eight days ago. not. After the game between City The Football Association’s and Chelsea, you could see very independent disciplinary com- clearly that my players tried to mission had branded Chelsea’s keep their calm.” persistent breaches of the rules Diego Costa’s goal defeated a as “abysmal” when fi ning them stubborn West Brom side to force £375,000 and warning them as Chelsea three points clear at the to their future conduct after ugly top, with Conte gleaning more scenes in May’s fractious derby satisfaction from the result than against Tottenham Hotspur, and his side’s swashbuckling recent had concluded: “The time can- demolition of Everton. “I do be- not be too far distant when a cause, when you have an easy commission concludes the only win, sometimes you can lose proper sanction is a points de- concentration or focus,” he said. duction.” Those four previous “My team showed me great charges had taken place under character, great attention, and the stewardship of José Mour- great motivation to try and win. inho and Guus Hiddink. They are such a tough team to Conte was incredulous when break down, so I’m pleased. We confronted with the prospect in showed maturity and patience to the aftermath of his team’s ninth fi nd the right solution and win.”

Juventus’ forward Gonzalo Higuain from Argentina (R) celebrates after scoring during the Italian football match between Torino and Juventus yesterday. Defiant Guardiola says he won’t change style after latest City defeat AFP 2015 that ended their 20-year wait for Results of several promising counter-attacks and Turin bragging rights — the pressure was all on were left dazzled by Dybala when he re- A defiant Pep Guardiola said sis on possession. Torino. Cagliari 0 Napoli 5 (Mertens 34, 69, 72, placed Mandzukic with 20 minutes re- he would not change his play- “I want to play the football I Juve were forced to deploy a makeshift Hamsik 45, Zielinski 51) maining. ing style despite Manchester feel,” Guardiola said. onzalo Higuain hit his 19th Se- defence in the continued absence of Le- Atalanta 1 (Kurtic 47) Udinese 3 (Za- Dybala sent Lichtsteiner down the City’s humbling 4-2 loss at “I cannot say we played badly rie A brace and Miralem Pjanic onardo Bonucci and Andrea Barzagli but pata 45, Fofana 72, Thereau 87) right with a deft fl ick, only for the Swiss Premier League champions or didn’t play without the added a last-gasp third as in- after seeing an Adem Ljajic drive blocked, Bologna 0 Empoli 0 to blunder his pass for Higuain as he Leicester on Saturday. intention to create. jury-depleted Juventus came Torino goalkeeper Joe Hart needed to act Palermo 0 Chievo 2 (Birsa 14, Pellissier waited in the box. City have now won just four of “Always I try to control the Gfrom a goal down to end Torino’s hopes quickly to stop Mario Mandzukic turning Moments later Falque found Ljajic in 49) their past 15 games in all com- games so we concede few of derby glory with a 3-1 win yesterday. in from close range after a wayward Sami Torino 1 (Belotti 16) Juventus 3 (Hi- space on the left and he curled a superb petitions but Guardiola insists goals, in here I cannot do that Juve’s 13th victory of the campaign Khedira eff ort. guain 28, 82, Pjanic 90+2) right-foot shot inches wide of Buff on’s it’s just about performing to and I have to analyse why. kept the fi ve-time champions on top and Torino settled quickly and on the far upright from outside the area. the top of their ability. “I want to win games, I don’t moved them seven points ahead of Roma quarter hour stunned Massimiliano Al- Higuain broke free down the left but “It is not about the system,” he want to lose games. I feel and AC Milan before their clash in Rome legri’s men with a well-worked opener. the diminutive playmaker’s creative his shot was well over Hart’s crossbar, told reporters. “We defended what I feel and in the Premier today. Daniele Baselli kept the ball in play at skills, they were soon back level. but the Argentine made amends when well with these players at the League there are some special Torino remain in seventh place but the right touchline and delivered a cross Higuain had seen little of the ball in he held off 21-year-old defender Antonio beginning of the season. things, but the pitch is the their fi fth reverse of the campaign leaves for Andrea Belotti, who sidestepped the opening 25 minutes but the Argentine Barreca to control a long ball and swivel “Now we have to stand up and same. What I believe is good Sinisa Mihajlovic’s men 14 points off the Swiss defender Stephan Lichtsteiner to made no mistake just before the half hour to beat Hart with a powerful strike. analyse what happened, espe- and will be good.” pace. send a header past Gianluigi Buff on and when Mandzukic accidentally fl icked The Stadio Olimpico was stunned and cially mentally to encourage “I’m not disappointed with Mihajlovic had upped the stakes at a into the far bottom corner. Juan Cuadrado’s through ball off his heel. could only gasp as Higuain saw another the players to step forward.” my players,” he said. “When I dramatic pre-match press conference Paulo Dybala started on the bench for It sent Higuain clear and he coolly eff ort from exactly the same position Guardiola, one of the most need to tell them something attended by a 60-year-old fan and the champions Juve despite making his re- chipped over Hart and into the bottom blocked soon after. successful managers in his I will tell it to them. They are club’s long-serving kit man at which he turn from a six-week injury lay-off in a corner on 28 minutes. Torino’s heads went down and when generation in his spells with professional and old enough claimed the “whole of Torino” was set on 2-0 Champions League win over Dinamo Torino resumed in positive fashion, Dybala sent Higuain through into the box Barcelona and Bayern Munich, to know what happens. beating their arch rivals. Zagreb in midweek, when Higuain broke Iago Falque unleashing a bullet from the with a clever pass it took two quickfi re likes his teams to play attrac- “Hopefully in the future we But with only one win from the past a fi ve-week goal drought. edge of the area that Mandzukic blocked. saves from Hart before Pjanic fi red the tive football, with the empha- can improve.” 21 derbies — a 2-1 defeat of Juve in April Although Juve could have done with But the hosts failed to make the most rebound in to wrap up the points.

BUNDESLIGA to use video refs in 2017/18, says head referee The German league is set two-year period. to introduce video assistant Several countries including referees for the start of the France, Australia, Germany, Controversial win for Gladbach 2017/18 season, according to Brazil, Italy, Portugal and the AFP ert Hartmann refused to give director Max Eberl said their Helmut Krug, manager for the Netherlands have been se- Berlin the goal, even though replays three Bundesliga games against German Football League (DFL) lected to conduct the tests. showed Sommer did not have a Mainz, Augsburg and Wolfsburg referees. At a training centre in Co- glove on the ball when De Blasis matter more than the Barca de- “If everything works like it logne, Bundesliga referees are orussia Moencheng- kicked it. feat. should, we’ll go ‘online’ for the using the system by replaying ladbach claimed their “The ball was in my hand, but “I’ll say it very clearly: up un- start of the 2017/18 season,” controversial scenes in past fi rst Bundesliga win it all happened very quickly. It til Christmas, we must deliver said Krug, a former FIFA ref- games — ‘off line’ — and the for 11 weeks yesterday was a very diffi cult decision to results,” Eberl said before kick- eree, was quoted as saying by DFL hope to use it ‘online’ for toB relieve the pressure on coach make,” Sommer told Sky after off . SID, an AFP subsidiary. the start of next season. Andre Schubert with a contro- the fi nal whistle. But this was another poor “There will be a link estab- “We’re still training all the ref- versial 1-0 victory over 10-man To add insult to injury, Hart- performance from Gladbach, lished between the referee erees and we’ve gone through Mainz. mann sent off Mainz midfi elder whose defence looked shaky, and a video assistant. the two training modules Danish defender Andreas Jean-Philippe Gbamin for a sec- especially in the controversial “The video assistant will have off line,” said Krug. Christensen netted ‘Gladbach’s ond yellow card on 90 minutes. scene around the disallowed the possibility of influencing “Now we have to go through crucial winning goal on 76 min- “It’s a pity that we have to talk goal and Schubert still remains the decisions of the referee.” the whole thing ‘online’ out on utes when the ball fl ew his way about things other than foot- in danger of becoming the sixth The assistant video referee will the pitch.” after captain Lars Stindl’s shot ball,” fumed Mainz coach Martin Bundesliga coach sacked this help off icials during diff icult FIFA president Gianni Infan- cannoned off a Mainz defender Schmidt when asked about the season. decisions such as penalties, tino has said he is in favour of and the centre-back stabbed disallowed goal as his side suf- On Saturday, Bayer Munich free-kicks and off side rulings. introducing video refereeing home. fered their fourth away league went back to the top of the table The technology is currently for the 2018 World Cup in But Mainz had a goal ruled defeat in a row. with a 5-0 win over Wolfsburg being tested in Germany and Russia. out when striker Pablo De Blasis The result lifts Gladbach up after RB Leipzig’s three-week trialled at the FIFA Club World The move to bring in video poked his shot into the Gladbach to 12th, a point below Mainz and run as leaders was ended by a Cup in Japan. technology follows the wide- goal on 89 minutes after the ball six from the relegation places shock 1-0 defeat at Ingolstadt. The International Football spread introduction of goal-line rolled free of Borussia’s goal- after a fi rst Bundesliga win since Both Leipzig and Bayern have Association Board (IFAB), an technology, which was used at keeper Yann Sommer following September 24. 33 points, but Carlo Ancelotti’s independent body, approved the 2014 World Cup and this a save. After their 4-0 Champions Bavarian giants top on goal dif- video technology testing in year’s Champions League and De Blasis was already off Moenchengladbach’s Danish defender Andreas Christensen (R) League thrashing at Barcelona ference with the teams to meet March to be carried out over a Europa League finals. celebrating, but referee Rob- celebrates after scoring against Mainz yesterday. in mid-week, Gladbach’s sports in Munich on December 21. Gulf Times Monday, December 12, 2016 5 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT CLARITY Ronaldo declared 20 million euros in Real Madrid are Swiss banks: reports

AFP Kantonalbank. Madrid The player had just 33,452 eu- ros in fi ve bank accounts in his native Portugal, the newspaper ristiano Ronaldo de- added. team to avoid in clared income of over Ronaldo had 14 million eu- 225 million euros in ros invested in 19 SICAVs — an 2015, including 20 mil- investment fund similar to mu- Clion euros held in 22 Swiss bank tual funds — in Luxembourg, the accounts, a Spanish newspaper newspaper added. reported yesterday as the Real The rest of his foreign holdings Madrid star battles accusations was made up of shares, bonds of tax evasion. and real estate. C’League draw The Portuguese international Ronaldo’s fi nances have been earned 203.7 million euros outside in the spotlight after an inter- of Spain and 23.5 million inside the national consortium of media ‘We have done our job and there are surprises with teams that finished second that country, according to a copy of his organisations claimed earlier 2015 tax return obtained by daily this month that a huge data leak you would expect to finish first. We are used to explosive draws. We expect a gem’ newspaper El Mundo. involving 18 million documents The fi gures match the details showed the player hid 150 million of the player’s income published euros from image rights in the Thursday by the player’s man- British Virgin Islands. agement company Gestifute, Spanish tax authorities are in- which argued they show Ronaldo vestigating the allegations. was in compliance with Spain’s Ronaldo, 31, denies wrongdo- tax authority. ing and said after Wednesday’s But El Mundo provided a more 2-2 draw with Borussia Dort- detailed breakdown of his fi - mund that “he who owes nothing nances. isn’t afraid”. It said he had 20 million euros The fi nancial details released in Swiss banks — the vast major- by his management company ity, more than 17 million euros, in last week relate only to 2015 and three accounts at Swiss private Spanish tax authorities are re- bank Mirabaud. portedly focusing on possible The rest of his money in the irregularities in his tax declara- country was held in 19 accounts tions as a non-resident between in regional Swiss bank St. Galler 2011 and 2014.

ABOUT A GAME Besiktas: Venerable Istanbul side with opposition streak

WATCH OUT: Real Madrid’s Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo gestures during a training session at Valdebebas training ground in Madrid.

AFP while in Turin also lost the 1998 fi nal — to United — 2008 champions but trophy expect to get a gem.” Paris Real — says he’s in no hurry for a reunion match losers 12 months later. English interest of course extends with the Zebras. If a repeat proves too much for Real — beyond Arsenal — who aside from Real “We will see on Monday who we get. who could meet Group A winners Arsenal could face Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern, even former champions and nine If you ask me, I don’t want Juventus, for in Monday’s draw — ’s Bar- Benfi ca, Porto or Sevilla — with Leices- dreaming of a fi rst crown — today’s two reasons,” said Zidane. celona will be lurking as potential cham- ter having topped Group G in this their draw for the last 16 of the Champi- Juventus, European champions in 1985 pions after pushing Manchester City into maiden season. ons League throws up a raft of fas- and 1996, emerged atop Group H ahead second place in Group C. Leicester can face a similar crop of ri- Turkish flags decorate the Vodafone Arena football stadium. cinatingS permutations as the competition of Sevilla after crucially winning 3-1 in vals to Arsenal, plus Paris Saint Germain, switches into knockout mode. Spain against rivals who did not concede BARCA FAVOURITES though until mid-February they will be AFP bahce Palace. Conventional wisdom says group win- a single goal in their other fi ve matches. Enrique’s fi ve-times champions, whom concentrating on bolstering their sagging Istanbul That stadium — which was ners can feel favoured as they are drawn In the 20 years which have elapsed since bookmakers make narrow favourites, Premier League title defence. named after the second presi- out of the hat against a pool phase run- Juve’s last triumph, Spain — or rather Real cannot play City again as fi rst phase re- “Now, forget the Champions League dent of modern Turkey Ismet ner-up. and Barcelona — have dominated the tour- peats are ruled out. (until the February resumption) and put esiktas football club Inonu — was knocked down and But few group winners, if any, will be nament, sharing nine crowns. That means they could get Paris Saint our brain on the Premier League.” of Istanbul, is one of the over 40,000 capacity Voda- enthused by a draw with holders and The remainder have gone to England Germain, runners up to Arsenal, or Bay- Pep Guardiola, twice a winner as coach Turkey’s oldest sports fone Arena built in its place. 11-times champions Real Madrid. (four), three each to Germany and Italy ern Munich, second in Group D behind of Barca, will seek to push Manches- organisations with an Real were denied top billing in Group and one to Portugal. Atletico Madrid, Barca’s semi-fi nal con- ter City at least a step beyond last year’s impassionedB fan base known OPPOSITION STREAK F after 1997 champions Borussia Dort- Zidane is aware that no club has man- querors last season but beaten in the fi nal semi-fi nal loss to Real. for their opposition to the au- The club was founded as a gym- mund came back to draw 2-2 on match- aged to retain the European Cup since for the second time in three years by Real. His charges’ potential opponents are thorities. nastics club under the Ottoman day six in the Bernabeu. the Champions League format was in- Enrique says Lionel Messi and com- Atletico, Dortmund, Juve, Monaco and Twenty nine people, mainly Empire in 1903 and its full name Meringues’ coach troduced in 1993. There have been near pany have no preferences. Napoli. For the German contingent, police offi cers, were killed on is still Besiktas Gymnastics Club — who lifted the trophy as a player with misses — notably AC Milan, who won in “We have done our job and there are Bayern’s Thomas Muller “will take who Saturday in double attacks out- (BJK). Its focus rapidly became Real in 2002 then again as coach last May 1994 then lost the 1995 fi nal. surprises with teams that fi nished sec- we get”, while Dortmund captain Marcel side its stadium that followed football but like most Turkish — was on the losing side in the 1997 fi nal Then came Ajax, winners in 2005 and ond that you would expect to fi nish fi rst,” Schmelzer told reporters simply that “we the club’s home Super Lig match clubs it proudly remains a multi- while with Juve. fi nalists a year later; Juve as 2006 win- he said in allusion notably to Real. don’t want to travel to Sevilla,” Europa against Bursaspor in the brand sports club. And the 44-year-old Frenchman, who ners then 2007 fi nalists and Manchester “We are used to explosive draws. We League winners in the past three seasons. new Vodafone Arena opened The club’s famously leftist earlier this year. and anti-establishment fan club Besiktas won the match 2-1, Carsi are seen as natural foes of CLUB WORLD CUP boosting its title hopes to make Erdogan and like to chant slogans the club joint leaders with local against his rule. rivals Basaksehir. Carsi members played a key But now the night of Decem- role in 2013 protests against Er- ber 10, 2016 will be remembered dogan over the development of not for football but for a tragedy an Istanbul park that represented Mexicans set date with Madrid that will forever leave a mark on one of the biggest challenges to the club’s history, which goes the Turkish strongman. AFP mounting pressure. Quarter-fi nal results back to the Ottoman Empire. Thirty fi ve members of the Osaka Club America, who also beat “Terrorists... attacked our he- group were put on trial on wide- Jeonbuk in the quarter-fi nals of Jeonbuk Motors (South Ko- roic security forces who ensure ly-ridiculed charges of trying to the FIFA tournament 10 years rea) 1 (Kim Bo-Kyung 23) Club that both our fans and Bursas- stage a coup but all were acquit- ilvio Romero struck ago, will face European champi- America (Mexico) 2 (Silvio por’s supporters are safe. We ted in late December 2015. twice as Mexican side ons Real Madrid, led by talisman Romero 58, 74) will stand fi rm against the vile To the amusement of fans, the Club America beat Asian Cristiano Ronaldo, in Yokohama attackers who will never achieve April 4 opening of the stadium champions Jeonbuk Mo- on Thursday. Mamelodi Sundowns (South their goal,” the club said in a did not take place at a game but torsS 2-1 on Sunday to set up a The hulking Kim Shin-Wook, statement. at a ceremony in front of almost Africa) 0 Kashima Antlers dream Club World Cup semi- instantly recognisable with his (Japan) 2 (Yasushi Endo 63, The club said that among empty stands. fi nal with Real Madrid. peppermint green mohican, Mu Kanazaki 88) those killed was Vefa Karakurdu, Some said this was due to fears Local favourites Kashima was a constant menace but well a senior police offi cer in charge Erdogan could be booed by fans Antlers salvaged some pride for shackled by markers in a tense of security at games who was at a match. Asia, however, when the Japa- fi nish as the Mexicans clung on fending from the Africans. a member of its congress, and The club won the Super Lig ti- nese title holders toppled South for the win. Kashima, fresh from clinching Tunc Uncu who worked at its of- tle last season with its star player Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns Kashima, who came from be- their eighth J-League crown last fi cial merchandise shop. Mario Gomez of Germany who 2-0 in the day’s second quarter- hind to beat part-timers Auck- weekend, will face South Ameri- The attacks took place around was top scorer in the Super Lig. fi nal in Osaka. land City 2-1 in the tournament’s can Libertadores Cup holders the perimeter of the gleaming But Gomez shattered fans by In the early kickoff , Kim Bo- curtain raiser on Thursday, were Atletico Nacional of Colombia new stadium that is the pride leaving in the close season, say- kyung swept Korean power- gifted their opening goal by in the competition’s fi rst semi- and joy of the club’s fans who call ing he could not carry on due house Jeonbuk in front after 23 Sundowns goalkeeper Denis fi nal on Wednesday. their beloved side the Kara Kartal to the political situation in the minutes before Romero pounced Onyango in the 63rd minute. “We struggled at the start (Black Eagle). wake of the failed July 15 coup. twice to send the CONCACAF Latching on to a knock-down to deal with their spirit,” said Turkish President Recep Luminaries from the past representatives through to the from Shoma Doi, Yasushi Endo Kashima coach Masatada Ishii. Tayyip Erdogan had in April in- of Besiktas including English last four. Club America forward Silvio Romero reacts after his second goal scuff ed his left-foot shot which “But we settled down in the augurated the brand new water- former manager Gordon Milne, “The players showed charac- against Jeonbuk Hyundai yesterday. somehow squeezed under On- second half, found a nice balance front stadium on the Bospho- 79, who guided the club in a stel- ter, attitude and heart,” America yango, bobbling out of his de- and scored two good goals. rus and the team has played to lar period from 1987-1994, and coach Ricardo la Volpe told re- fear,” he added.”We will have to hour mark and the Argentine spairing grasp and over the line It was important to stay calm packed stands ever since. taking consecutive titles in 1990, porters. “We made some changes work twice as hard but everyone striker volleyed home the win- almost in slow motion. and we will have to be just as pa- Besiktas in 2013 played for the 1991 and 1992. and tweaked the system a bit in expects us to lose so there will be ner via a slight deflection off Substitute Mu Kanazaki killed tient against Nacional.” last time at their old stadium in The club’s fans are also known the second half and got the goals. no pressure on us.” Jeonbuk forward Kim Shin- the game off by smashing home Spanish giants Real are sched- the same historic location on for their irreverent humour in- “We passed a test today and Romero equalised with a Wook after 74 minutes as the from close range with two min- uled to arrive in Japan early the shores of the Bosphorus just cluding slogans like “it’s not we will play Real Madrid with no clinical header just before the K-League side wilted under the utes left after more sloppy de- Monday morning local time. above the Ottoman-era Dolma- about you and me, it’s Besiktas!”. Gulf Times 6 Monday, December 12, 2016 SPORT

NBA NFL Kuechly remains James explodes for in concussion 44 points as Cavs protocol Reuters Vereen has missed the last nine St. Augustine, Florida games with a triceps injury suff ered in Week 3 against the Washington Red- skins. The six-year veteran underwent arolina Panthers linebacker surgery and returned to practice last Luke Kuechly, a three-time week when he was designated for re- topple Hornets Pro Bowl selection, has not turn from IR. cleared the NFL’s concus- Vereen participated in his fi rst pad- sionC protocol and has been ruled out of ded practice on Thursday since the LeBron reaches 7,000 assist milestone as he scored a season-high 44 points Sunday’s game against the San Diego surgery. Chargers, the team said on Saturday. Kuechly, the National Football BROWNS SIGN CONTRACT League’s defensive player of the year in EXTENSION WITH TAYLOR 2013, has been sidelined since suff er- The Cleveland Browns signed corner- ing the injury against the New Orleans back Jamar Taylor to a three-year con- Saints on November 17 and will miss a tract extension. third straight game due to concussion The deal is worth $15mn, a league for a second consecutive season. source told Cleveland.com. It includes Drafted by the Panthers ninth over- a $3mn signing bonus and $10.05mn all in the 2012 NFL Draft, Kuechly had over the fi rst two years. initially been listed as questionable for Taylor, who was set to become a free Sunday’s game and coach Ron Rivera agent after this season, was acquired said on Friday that he would be “good by the Browns in a draft day trade with to go” as long as he passed the fi nal test Miami in 2013 after being picked in the of the protocol. second round by the Dolphins. The 25-year-old was a participant in Friday’s practice for the fi rst time since GAUSE MOVES UP FROM PRACTICE the injury and met with the team’s SQUAD medical staff on Saturday before being The Denver Broncos promoted line- ruled out for Sunday by an independ- backer Quentin Gause from their prac- ent neurologist. tice squad and placed wide receiver With Kuechly out, the Panthers (4- Marlon Brown on injured reserve. 8) have lost their last two games and Brown was signed by the Broncos prop up the bottom of the NFC South. three weeks ago after he was out while However, they did receive some good recovering from a back injury. He was news on Saturday when strong safety not active in the Broncos’ previous two Kurt Coleman and cornerback Daryl games. Worley both cleared the concussion protocol and were declared available to ALBRIGHT MAKES IT TO ACTIVE play against the Chargers. ROSTER The Buff alo Bills promoted linebacker GIANTS ACTIVATE VEREEN Bryson Albright from their practice The New York Giants activated running squad to the active roster. Albright is back Shane Vereen from the injured re- expected to be part of the team’s kick serve list for Sunday night’s home game and punt coverage units for Sunday’s against the Dallas Cowboys. game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (left) looks to pass during the game against Charlotte Hornets in Cleveland, Ohio, on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports)

AFP slowing down. He says he is taking ing to make. You can’t block them. You hometown after Miami gave up on the Los Angeles better care of his body and the results can’t contest them. aging veteran. are evident on the court. “When he’s shooting the ball like Wade, playing for the second time “I’ve re-arranged a little bit with my that, there’s nothing you can do, other against his team he spent the fi rst 13 eBron James became the fi rst diet and things of that nature and it’s than blitz, and that’s what he wants seasons with, proved to be a diff er- frontcourt player to reach the worked to my benefi t,” he said. “And you to do, and then he really makes ence-maker. 7,000 assist milestone as he for me to have back-to-back nights you look bad.” Wade likes the way the Bulls are able scored a season-high 44 points like this after coming off a long road In Memphis, the host Grizzlies to win games without playing their best. Lto lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a trip, just shows that everything is shocked the Golden State Warriors 110- “In this league, there’s going to be 116-105 win over the Charlotte Hor- working in the right direction.” 89 for its sixth straight win, holding the some nights when you’re going to play nets. This was James’ fi rst 40-point game Warriors to a season low for points. amazing, there’s going to be some James hit the magic number Sat- during the regular season since Febru- It was only the second time this sea- nights when you don’t play well and urday in front of a crowd of 20,500 ary 26, 2015 when he scored 42 in a son that the Warriors failed to score there’s going to be some nights when at the Quicken Loans Arena by skip- home win against the Golden State 100 points. you play just good enough to get a ping a nifty pass to teammate Tristan Warriors. Their previous low for points this win,” said Wade, who also had three Thompson who was driving to the “I didn’t want to play Bron this season was 97 in a 20-point setback assists and a steal. basket. many minutes,” Cavaliers coach Ty- to the Los Angeles Lakers on Novem- In Los Angeles, Chris Paul scored 20 “The last couple years this is the ronn Lue said. “But he came to me ber 4. points and dished out a season-high best I’ve felt. I’ve put a lot of work into and said, ‘Man, coach, I’m fi ne. Kyrie Centre Marc Gasol fi nished with 19 20 assists, and Los Angeles extended my body, into my craft,” James said. (Irving) doesn’t have it tonight.’ I was points, eight rebounds, six assists, two the woes of New Orleans with a 133- The 44 points was his best out- like, ‘No.’ He was like, ‘Man, I’m telling blocks and a steal for Memphis, who 105 rout at Staples Center. ing since returning to Cleveland and you. I’m fi ne.’ scored 30 points off 23 Warrior turno- equalled the 44 points he scored in a “And then he started raining threes. vers. RESULTS game one overtime loss against the They made a comeback but he was LA Clippers ....133 New Orleans ...... 105 Golden State Warriors in the 2015 NBA playing with great pace and we had to RETRIBUTION FOR WADE Utah ...... 104 Sacramento ...... 84 fi nals. ride him tonight.” In Chicago, Jimmy Butler scored 31 San Antonio ..130 Brooklyn ...... 101 The Cavaliers delivered two home Kemba Walker scored 24 points and points, Dwyane Wade fi nished with Chicago ...... 105 Miami ...... 100 wins this weekend, and besides Cody Zeller had 17 points and nine re- 28 and Taj Gibson added 13 as Chica- Memphis ...... 110 Golden State ...... 89 eclipsing 7,000 career assists, James bounds for the Hornets, who had their go beat Miami 105-100 at the United Houston ...... 109 Dallas ...... 87 also moved into ninth place on the all- three-game winning streak snapped. Center. Cleveland ...... 116 Charlotte ...... 105 time scoring list during the victories “He was phenomenal,” Hornets It was another moment of retribu- Washington ... 110 Milwaukee ...... 105 Carolina Panthers’ Luke Kuechly, the NFL’s defensive player of the year in 2013, over the Miami Heat and the Hornets. coach Steve Clifton said of James. “He tion for Wade who left the Heat at Denver ...... 121 Orlando ...... 113 has been sidelined since suff ering the injury against the New Orleans Saints on James is not showing any signs of made three or four threes that he’s go- the end of last season to return to his Indiana ...... 118 Portland ...... 111 November 17. (Charlotte Observer/TNS)

NHL Bruins fail to score win against last-place Maple Leafs

By Steve Conroy goals, people would be loving our game right now.” that could have tied the game. Dominic Moore Boston Herald (TNS) Last night marked the 20th time in 29 games set Czarnik up all alone in front but he could this season that the B’s have fi nished with two or only jam the puck into Andersen’s pad. fewer goals. And again, the lone tally came from Toronto went right back down the ice follow- he Bruins face an extremely diffi cult the top line when Brad Marchand cut a two-goal ing the Czarnik bid and James van Riemsdyk week with games against the Cana- defi cit in half late in the second period when he scored on a redirection at 9:52. It was the back- diens on the road in Montreal, in Pitts- stole a pass from Maple Leafs goalie Frederik breaker for the B’s. burgh against the defending Stanley Andersen (32 saves) and jammed home the re- “Right there I just couldn’t get the puck up. I TCup champion Penguins and at home, to close bound of his own wraparound attempt. was in tight and tried to fi gure it out quick and a back-to-back set, against the Anaheim Ducks. The second and third lines again produced it just didn’t work,” said Czarnik, who has two A win against the last-place team in the East- nothing. goals in 25 games. ern Conference last night at the Garden would Asked if he would consider fl ipping right Julien pulled Tuukka Rask (16 saves) for an have been nice. It didn’t happen. wingers David Pastrnak from the top line with extra skater with over two minutes to play, but After failing to score in a dominant fi rst pe- David Backes on the second line to balance out Connor Brown added an empty-netter. riod, the Bruins fell behind by multiple goals the scoring, Julien said he wasn’t ready to do “I think off ensive frustration is warranted at for the third straight game and wound up los- that just yet. this point,” Backes said. “We just haven’t done a ing, 4-1, to the talented but green Toronto Ma- “I don’t think it’s because of the lines, be- good enough job scoring goals. We played a heck ple Leafs at the Garden. The B’s have lost three cause the chances are there,” Julien said. “Every of a fi rst period. We limited them to two shots straight (0-2-1). line’s getting scoring chances, but nobody’s fi n- and we had an opportunity to have a team that’s In the fi rst period, the Bruins outshot the Ma- ishing. So we can change lines to please every- a younger team and really put them behind the ple Leafs by an 11-2 margin (22-5 in total shots body, it doesn’t mean the puck’s going to go in 8-ball. Instead, they got a second lease on life taken) but went into the second period with the the net. When you look at individual statistics and they were able to capitalise.” game scoreless. and you look at the number of chances they’ve Then, just 1:44 into the second period, To- had and you look at the number of goals they RESULTS ronto rookie Auston Matthews scored off a Dav- have, it just doesn’t add up. It really isn’t about San Jose ...... 4 Carolina ...... 3 id Pastrnak turnover in the neutral zone, putting lines, I wouldn’t hesitate to make changes. And Calgary ...... 6 Winnipeg ...... 2 the B’s on the chase for the rest of the night. we are moving around guys at times, but the one Arizona ...... 4 Nashville ...... 1 “It seems like every game we’re outchanc- line that’s been pretty steady for us is the (Pa- Toronto...... 4 Boston...... 1 ing teams, but we don’t outscore teams,” Bruins trice Bergeron) line.” Toronto Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews (second from right) celebrates with teammates after scoring a Montreal ...... 10 Colorado ...... 1 coach Claude Julien said. “That’s our biggest issue Bergeron and Krejci are both stuck at four goal during the NHL game against Boston Bruins in Boston on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports) Pittsburgh ...... 4 Tampa Bay ...... 3 right now. Our scoring’s not there and if you don’t goals, well off a pace you could expect from the Florida ...... 4 Vancouver ...... 2 score goals you don’t win hockey games. Because top two centers. Even Marchand, at eight goals, expectations, but he’s having a hard time creat- month. Rookie Austin Czarnik had some great Columbus ...... 6 NY Islanders ...... 2 of that, we’ll criticise everything else in our game, will be hard-pressed to match his career high of ing anything away from the top of the crease. chances last night, none better than a short- Los Angeles...... 4 Ottawa ...... 1 but our game isn’t that bad. If we were scoring 37 set last year. Backes’ seven goals aren’t far off The third line, meanwhile, hasn’t scored in a handed bid midway through the third period Philadelphia ...... 4 Dallas ...... 2 Gulf Times Monday, December 12, 2016 7 SPORT

FOCUS RUGBY 7S Sounders beat Perfect day as Blitzboks Toronto to claim make Cape Town quarters

AFP better, but I am pleased that we topped maiden MLS Cup Cape Town the pool.” Fiji topped Pool B, New Zealand beat England 33-7 to top Pool C and Scot- Seattle win on penalties after goalkeeper Frei torments former teammates outh Africa picked up where land had the better of Wales in their they left off last weekend in Du- defi ning Pool D clash. bai by sweeping into the Cape England speedster Dan Norton be- Town Sevens quarter-fi nals on came England’s top scorer (222 tries), SaturdayS with three wins in three pool and third-highest try scorer in sevens games. history behind Argentina’s Santiago The Blitzboks defeated defending Gomez Cora and Kenya’s Collins Injera. World Series and Olympic champions Fiji to win the Dubai Sevens seven days SEVENS WORLD SERIES RESULTS ago and they were just as clinical on POOL A home ground again where they won the South Africa 28 USA 10 Cape Town title last season. Australia 36 Russia 0 “It’s been a good week for us. There South Africa 41 Russia 0 are a lot of things here in Cape Town Australia 0 USA 19 that can distract us but, over the last USA 26 Russia 17 few days, we put last week’s win in Du- South Africa 29 Australia 7 bai behind us,” said South African cap- tain Philip Snyman. POOL B “The guys played some nice rugby Fiji 28 Kenya 22 here today and I think we’ll keep on France 50 Japan 7 building.” Fiji 33 Japan 7 South Africa topped Pool A with France 14 Kenya 33 wins over Russia (41-0), the United Kenya 24 Japan 5 States (28-10) and Australia (29-7). Fiji 28 France 19 They were scheduled to face Wales in the fi rst of the quarter-fi nals yesterday. POOL C fi nished the day as top England 19 Argentina 14 South African try scorer with four New Zealand 19 Canada 19 touchdowns, while and England 33 Canada 10 Philip Snyman scored three each. New Zealand 26 Argentina 12 Blitzboks coach said that Argentina 43 Canada 14 it was a diffi cult day, despite the good England 7 New Zealand 33 results. “Teams are now looking at diff er- POOL D ent ways to counter us and especially Wales 21 Scotland 24 Australia played a very physical match Samoa 29 Uganda 5 against us,” said Powell. Wales 17 Samoa 0 “We have a number of quick steppers Scotland 38 Uganda 7 Seattle Sounders celebrate their MLS Cup final victory over Toronto FC in Toronto on Saturday. (AFP) in our team and our opponents are try- Wales 29 Uganda 7 ing to stop that. So it could have been Scotland 21 Samoa 19 Reuters “The few times we hit the goal Frei Toronto picks things out.” It was perfect ice hockey weather at BMO Field, which in three weeks will he Seattle Sounders claimed host the NHL’s Centennial Classic out- their fi rst Major League Soc- door game, but the bone-chilling tem- cer Cup by beating Toronto peratures did little to cool down a fi red FC 5-4 on penalties after their up capacity crowd of close to 36,000. Ttitle game ended 0-0 after extra-time Toronto made a lively start and on Saturday. enjoyed the run of play in a scrappy After Toronto’s Justin Morrow hit opening half. the crossbar, Seattle defender Roman The Reds’ best scoring chance came Torres coolly hammered home the de- early when Altidore squeezed a shot cider as the Sounders fi nally celebrat- from inside the area that sliced by the ed victory following seven seasons of post and a diving Frei in the second near misses. minute. With zero shots on goal after 120 After the break it was Sebastian minutes it looked as if the Sounders, Giovinco, the other half of Toronto’s who have reached the playoff s in each strike partnership, fi nally fi nding of their eight years in the league, would space down the left wing coming close come up short yet again but found the Seattle Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei (left) stops Michael Bradley’s penalty when he ripped a shot that just missed target when it mattered most. kick during the MLS Cup final against Toronto FC in Toronto on Saturday. (AFP) the near post. Brad Evans, Andreas Ivanshitz, Jo- Toronto nearly ended the drama evin Jones and Nicolas Lodeiro also The Seattle keeper’s biggest save, the ball might have gone in.” with an injury time winner when scored in the shootout for Seattle however, did not come in the shootout For TFC and their fans it was a Bradley sent in a corner that Frei while Sounders goalkeeper capped an but deep into extra time when the Swiss crushing result to a contest they had narrowly punched clear just before a evening of spectacular saves by de- dove across the net at full stretch and dominated for 120 minutes but could diving Altidore could get his head on nying Morrow and Toronto captain with his left hand tipped away a looping not breach a Seattle defence that had the ball. Michael Bradley. header from Jozy Altidore. conceded just three goals in fi ve play- But it was Frei’s save on Altidore in Stefan Frei, who spent fi ve seasons “It looked like it was going to off matches. the 108th minute that Vanney believes with TFC, returned to torment his go in and then all of a sudden here “They always had numbers around robbed his team of a title. former teammates earning MLS Cup comes this paw and he gets a hold the goal and in the box,” lamented “That was one of the great saves most valuable player honours after of it,” praised Sounders coach Brian Toronto coach Greg Vanney. “When- that I have seen in a big moment be- shutting out a high-powered Toronto Schmetzer. ever we got into those areas there were cause that goal to me ends the game,” South African captain Philip Snyman (left) breaks through on his way to score a try attack that had produced 17 goals in “It was a tremendous save but there times we just couldn’t get that fi nal said Vanney. “We win if we do that. He during the group stage series match against Australia in Cape Town fi ve playoff contests. were a couple of other times I thought pass to someone who could fi nish. saved the game for them.” on Saturday. (AFP)

RUGBY Saracens run riot against Sale in European Cup

AFP Saracens director of rugby Mark Munster are atop the pool after Spedding go over before Paddy Jack- Paris McCall later backed Farrell to skip- handing Leicester a record Euro- son gathered his own grubber to per England in the Six Nations pean loss, running out 38-0 victors hand the advantage back to the Irish should Northampton’s Dylan Hart- at their near-impregnable Thomond province at the end of an enthralling efending champions Sara- ley be banned following his red card Park ground. fi rst 40 minutes, 22-18. cens romped to a six-try, in Friday’s defeat to Leinster. Racing took the lead against Glas- A high-tempo start to the sec- 50-3 win over English ri- “Owen is ready. He’s one of those gow through Juan Imhoff , but the ond period saw Marshall crash over vals Sale on Saturday to players who leads in every way be- Scottish side then took over through for his second, All Blacks full-back takeD a huge step closer to the Euro- cause he leads from the front,” Mc- two tries from Alex Dunbar and Ali Charles Piutau outpacing the de- pean Cup quarter-fi nals. Call said. Price, with Finn Russell kicking 13 fence after bluffi ng his way into Boosted by the return from inter- “Some of his defending in the sec- points before Carter pulled back a space down the right wing to cross in national duty of England stars Jamie ond quarter was out of this world. He converted try near the death. the corner. George, , Mako Vuni- leads through his actions, but also Munster’s demolition of Leicester But Clermont hit back through pola, George Kruis and powerful lock through his messages and commu- was thanks to tries from Simon Zebo, England winger Nick Abendanon , Saracens claimed their nication with the team.” Jaco Taute (2) and a penalty try, New to keep the French side in the hunt. third win in three games. Ulster edged Clermont 39-32 in Zealander Tyler Bleyendaal hitting Skipper Damien Chouly then went The bonus point triumph allowed a nine-try thriller as Munster and four penalties and three conversions. over, Morgan Parra’s conversion tak- them to open a 10-point lead in Pool Glasgow also sent out markers. A see-saw fi rst-half in Ulster’s ing Clermont to within fi ve points. 3 although three-time champions The result saw Ulster go second in home of Belfast was witness to two Ulster had New Zealand-born Toulon can close the gap when they Pool 5 on nine points, three behind ambitious teams willing to run eve- prop Rodney Ah You sin binned late- face Scarlets in the match scheduled leaders Clermont, who picked up rything saw the lead change hands on for a high tackle, and the Irish for yesterday. two bonus points despite the defeat. seven times. province tried to run down the clock, George, Marcelo Bosch, Sean There was more French heartbreak Clermont’s Fijian No 8 Peceli Yato with Pienaar at the helm. But with Maitland (two), Chris Wyles and Ri- when last season’s losing fi nalists opened the scoring, Ulster’s Luke 20 seconds to play, they gifted Cler- chard Barrington all scored tries for Racing 92 went down to a 23-14 de- Marshall splitting the defence for a mont a fi nal chance, a knock-on in while Farrell added 13 points with feat by Glasgow. straight run-in and then Ian Hend- midfi eld ending French hopes. the boot before Alex Lozowski took Racing, featuring a glut of inter- erson crossing after a Ruan Pienaar Toulouse notched up a 36-6 bo- over kicking duties. nationals including ex-All Blacks cross-kick as Ulster roared back. nus-point Pool 2 win away at Zebre Saracens’ George Kruis wins a lineout during the European Rugby Champions Cup match A sole Alan MacGinty penalty ac- playmaker Dan Carter, currently sit But slick hands saw South Af- in a match which ended with 16 min- against Sale at Allianz Park in London on Saturday. (Reuters) counted for all of Sale’s points. last in Pool 1 with no points rican-born France full-back Scott utes to play because of thick fog. Gulf Times 8 Monday, December 12, 2016 SPORT

SWIMMING Joy of six for Hosszu at Short Course Worlds

AFP Clos continued his successful meet with his RESULTS Montreal third gold of the championships in the 50m but- MEN terfl y. 4x50m medley relay Le Clos, who had smashed his own world 1. Russia (Andrei Shabasov, Kirill Prigoda, Ale- ungary’s Katinka Hosszu powered record to claim gold in the 100m butterfl y on ksandr Popkov, Vladimir Morozov) 1min 31.52sec to her sixth gold medal at the Short Thursday, was once again too hot for the com- 2. United States 1:31.97 Course World Champion- petition. 3. Belarus 1:32.49 ships on Saturday with another domi- The 24-year-old from Durban hit the wall 50m butterfly Hnant display in her all-conquering year. in 21.98sec, almost half a second faster than 1. Chad Le Clos (RSA) 21.98 Swimming’s “Iron Lady” — a star of the Rio American , who took silver in 22.40. 2. Tom Shields (USA) 22.40 Olympics where she won three gold medals Australia’s David Morgan won bronze in 22.47. 3. David Morgna (AUS) 22.47 — fi nished more than two seconds clear of her But there was an upset for teenager Lilly King, 400m individual medley nearest rival to claim the 200m individual med- the Olympic champion, who suff ered a surprise 1. Daiya Seto (JPN) 3:59.24 ley crown. defeat in the 100m against Jamai- 2. Max Litchfield (GBR) 4:00.66 The 27-year-old had already lit up the cham- ca’s Alia Atkinson. Atkinson, the world record 3. David Verraszto (HUN) 4:01.56. pionships in Windsor, Ontario with victories in holder, fi nished in 1:03.03, with King just be- the 100m medley, 400m medley, 200m butter- hind in 1:03.35. WOMEN fl y and both the 100m and 200m backstrokes. In the men’s 400m medley, Japan’s Daiya Seto 200m individual medley On Saturday she added to her haul, lead- made it a hat-trick of world titles with another 1. Katinka Hosszu (HUN) 2:02.90 ing from start to fi nish to come home in 2min commanding performance in the event he has 2. Ella Eastin (USA) 2:05.02 2.9sec, ahead of Ella Eastin of the United States, dominated over the past four years. 3. Madisyn Cox (USA) 2:05.93 who touched in 2:05.02. Seto, gold medallist in the multi-stroke dis- 50m backstroke Another American, Madisyn Cox, took bronze cipline at both the 2012 and 2014 short course 1. Etiene Medeiros (BRA) 25.82 in 2:05.93. championships, claimed his third consecutive 2. Katinka Hosszu (HUN) 25.99 But Hosszu was denied the opportunity to claim title to fi nish in 3:59.24. 3. Alexandra Margaret De Loof (USA) 26.14 a seventh gold medal later on Saturday when she Britain’s Max Litchfi eld won silver in 4:00.66 100m breaststroke was pipped for fi rst place by Brazil’s Etiene Medei- while Hungary’s David Verraszto took bronze 1. Alia Atkinson (JAM) 1:03.03 ros in the fi nal of the 50m backstroke. with a time of 4:01.56. 2. Lilly King (USA) 1:03.35 Medeiros, the world record holder over the Russia, whose men had claimed gold in the Katinka Hosszu of Hungary competes in the 200m Individual Medley final on day five of the 13th 3. Molly Hannis (USA) 1:03.89 distance, produced a late spurt to edge out 4x50 freestyle on Friday, again demonstrated FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) in Windsor, Canada, on Saturday. (AFP) 4x200m relay Hosszu in 25.82sec, with the Hungarian claim- their relay power to take victory in the 4x50 1. Canada (, , ing silver in 25.99. Alexandra Margaret De Loof medley relay. Morozov fi nished in 1:31.52, just ahead of the nal event, where Canada’s women’s 4x200m re- Kennedy Goss, ) 7:33.89 of the United States took bronze in 26.14. The Russian quartet of Andrei Shabasov, Ki- United States and Belarus. lay quartet claimed a popular gold ahead of the 2. United States 7:38.65 Elsewhere Saturday, South Africa’s Chad le rill Prigoda, Aleksandr Popkov and Vladimir The biggest cheer of the night came in the fi - United States. Russia took bronze. 3. Russia 7:39.93

BOXING PREPARATION Tokyo starts Joshua ‘excited’ construction of main by Klitschko Olympic stadium fi ght at Wembley Briton quickly disposes of American Eric Molina in a third round stoppage win

AFP Manchester, United Kingdom

nthony Joshua says the size of the occasion will not get to him when he boxes Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley on AprilA 29 in “the biggest fi ght in British boxing history”. The Briton quickly disposed of Attendants watch a computer-generated image of the new national stadium American Eric Molina in a third round during its groundbreaking ceremony in Tokyo yesterday. (AFP) stoppage win on Saturday and his next title defence against Klitschko was AFP comes in just under the cap for the then immediately announced from the Tokyo contractors, led by construction giant ring. Taisei Corp. Joshua, 27, made a second defence The new venue is being built on the of IBF world heavyweight title against onstruction of the main sta- site of the former national stadium which Molina, who he fl oored in the third dium for the Tokyo 2020 Ol- was used for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. round with a crunching right to the ympics offi cially started yes- Concerns that ballooning costs could jaw before forcing the stoppage after terday, more than a year after hit a staggering $30bn — four times the the American got up from a count. theC original blueprints were torn up initial estimate and almost triple that The WBA version of the world ti- following public outcry over skyrock- of the 2012 London Olympics — have tle is also expected to be on the line eting costs. forced organisers to rethink plans for against Ukrainian Klitschko, who The stadium is due to be completed several venues. ruled for nine-and-a-half years until by the end of November 2019, fi ve Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike an- losing the IBF, WBA and WBO belts on months behind schedule. nounced recently that the host city points to Briton Tyson Fury a year ago. “I believe, after four years, many would build a new aquatic centre with Promoter Eddie Hearn hopes a athletes will challenge their physical 15,000 seats, costing less than the orig- record-breaking 90,000 fans will be limits at this stadium and empower inal design for a 20,000-seat arena. inside Wembley to see the fi ght, and spectators and the society,” Prime Koike has dropped a proposal for a Joshua — the 2012 Olympic gold med- Minister Shinzo Abe said at a ceremony cheaper alternative of moving the ca- allist — said: “That’s defi nitely one to to mark the start of building work. noeing venue outside Tokyo but prom- get excited for.” Japan approved the new stadium ised to cut construction costs on that “I just wanted to focus on this fi ght plans in September after Abe scrapped and another facility. with Molina but to see Klitschko here the initial design by the late Iraqi- A decision on whether to build a new tonight makes it real,” he told a post British architect Zaha Hadid as costs volleyball venue in Tokyo or use an ex- fi ght press conference. soared beyond $2 bn. isting one in Yokohama, south of the “It doesn’t matter whether it’s The 149bn yen ($1.29bn) price tag capital, was postponed until later this 90,000 or nine people, it’s the same for architect Kengo Kuma’s proposal month. regulations and rules and it’s to win. “I’m going to box Klitschko for 12 rounds, make him miss and make him pay, and if the knockout comes I will be able to say I did something no one else did. “But I’m not going in there to say I’m going to knock Klitschko out in two rounds. It is the perfect time for me to move up another step and con- test my heavyweight championship belt against one of the legends of our sport.” England’s Anthony Joshua (right) delivers the winning punch against USA’s Eric Molina during the IBF World Heavyweight Championship boxing match in Manchester, England, on Saturday. (AFP) 90,000 CROWD Joshua’s sixth professional fi ght — all don Mr (Sadiq) Khan about transport “It’s just another fi ght, man. You Look at Bernard Hopkins, he’s 52 next 83 seconds of it — took place at Wem- around the venue,” Hearn told report- can’t build yourself up and get carried month and he’s fi ghting next week- bley Stadium on the undercard of Carl ers. away. If I beat Klitschko, they will say end, so you can’t write him off . That’s Froch-George Groves, but most of the “Every time he (Joshua) fi ghts he you’ve got to beat David Haye now, or what good living and lifestyle can do 80,000 had not arrived by the time he could do 30,000 so I’m confi dent we Luis Ortiz,” Joshua said. for you. was in action early in the evening. will do that lot. They are at diff er- “In order to beat Klitschko I need to “It’s risk versus reward. People The rematch between Froch and ent stages of their careers: the hottest go to another level.” wouldn’t call my name out if there was Groves attracted Britain’s biggest at- prospect in boxing against a legend. Klitschko, 41 in March, has more as much money on the table as there is. tendance for a boxing event since the It’s the biggest fi ght in British boxing experience of the big stage and despite “There’s money and titles on the Second World War but Hearn hopes history.” his age and inactivity — he will have line. All he has to do is get in the ring Joshua-Klitschko sets a new record. Joshua, who sparred with Klitschko been out of the ring 17 months — Josh- and he’s hit the jackpot, one way or Joshua and Klitschko will meet on early in his professional career, does not ua says he is still dangerous. another. (From left) Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Olympic Minister Tamayo Wednesday to publicise the event and see beating Klitschko as being the defi n- “I’ve fought no one like Klitschko, “I don’t think he needs the dough Marukawa, Vice Sports Minister Toshiei Mizuochi and Tokyo Governor Yuriko Hearn hopes to extend the capacity. ing moment of his career after register- that’s what makes it interesting,” said but everyone needs an extra few quid. Koike inaugurate the groundbreaking of the new national stadium during a cer- “We’re looking to go to 90,000, we ing his 18th consecutive knockout from Joshua. How long is he going to be around for? emony in Tokyo yesterday. (AFP) need to speak to the mayor of Lon- as many professional fi ghts. “He’s a sharp opponent for sure. This is his last hurrah.” Gulf Times Monday, December 12, 2016 9 CRICKET

FOCUS COMMENT England will not bat out to draw Test, England wobble says Anderson

Reuters on in the fourth innings.” Mumbai India had a lead of 51 at the start of the fourth day but an eighth-wicket stand between ngland will not look to Virat Kohli, who scored 235, aft er Kohli’s third play for a draw on the and Jayant Yadav extended fi nal day of the fourth that advantage to 231. test against India “It is immensely frustrat- butE would rather try to score ing,” Anderson said. “Coming quickly to set the hosts a tar- to the ground this morning, get and keep alive the series, needing to get three wick- fast bowler James Anderson ets with them 50 ahead, if we said yesterday. could get them we’re still well double century The touring side, down in the game.“Unfortunately 2-0 in the fi ve-match series, we didn’t bowl as well as we trail India by 49 runs with could have fi rst thing.” Jayant Yadav becomes India’s first No. 9 to score a Test hundred four second-innings wick- Anderson dismissed Kohli ets remaining at the close of four times during India’s the fourth day. On a turning test series in England in 2014 Wankhede Stadium pitch, but the batsman has already batting fourth will not be easy scored 640 runs in the ongo- for the hosts, who made 631 in ing series at an average of 128. their fi rst innings. England’s most prolifi c England lost three wick- wicket-taker felt the India ets cheaply in their second captain, who has scored three innings before Joe Root and double hundreds in 2016, was Jonny Bairstow launched a not tested enough in home counter-attack with brisk fi f- conditions. ties to bring down the defi cit. “I just think any technical “I enjoyed watching Root defi ciencies he’s got aren’t in and Bairstow bat. I thought play out here. The wickets just they did it with real positive take that out of the equation,” intent and showed you can said Anderson, who has 467 still score runs out there,” An- test wickets. derson told reporters. “There’s not that pace in “We hope that’s given the the wicket to get the nicks, lads down the order a bit of like we did against him in confi dence going into tomor- England — with a bit more row — because we’re certainly movement. When that’s not not going to be trying to bat there, he’s very much suited out for a draw. to playing in these conditions. “If we’re going to keep this “He’s a very good player of series alive, we’re going to spin and if you’re not bang on have to try to get past them the money and don’t take your and try to put some pressure chances, he’ll punish you.”

India’s captain Virat Kohli celebrates after scoring a double century on the fourth day of the fourth Test against Eng- India’s Jayant Yadav plays a shot on the fourth day of the land at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai yesterday. (AFP) fourth Test against England in Mumbai yesterday. (AFP)

Reuters the fourth wicket before the former fell leg mid-wicket off leg-spinner Adil Rashid P. Patel c Bairstow b Root ...... 15 Mumbai before to off -spinner Jayant Yadav for 77. but his celebration was quite muted com- R. Ashwin c Jennings b Root ...... 0 The wickets of Ben Stokes, who made pared to when he completed his hundred R. Jadeja c Buttler b Rashid ...... 25 18, and Ball to off -spinner Ravichandran on Saturday. He raised both his hands J. Yadav st Bairstow b Rashid ...... 104 ndia captain Virat Kohli struck a sub- Ashwin towards the end further damp- while completing the run and took off B. Kumar c Woakes b Rashid ...... 9 lime double century before his bowlers ened England’s hopes of saving the match. his helmet before acknowledging the ap- U. Yadav not out ...... 7 picked up six England wickets to put Bairstow was given out by umpire Bruce plause from the sizeable Sunday crowd at Extras (b5, lb8, w3) ...... 16 the hosts on course for a series-clinch- Oxenford fi rst on 32 and then on 37 but the the ground, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Total (10 wickets, 182.3 overs) ...... 631 Iing victory in the fourth and penultimate England wicket-keeper managed to over- Kohli accelerated after the fall of Yadav Fall of wickets: 1-39 (Rahul), 2-146 (Pu- Shami and Saha to miss Chennai Test test at the Wankhede Stadium yesterday. turn the decisions both times on review. and was out caught at the cover boundary jara), 3-262 (Vijay), 4-279 (Nair), 5-305 (Pa- Trailing 2-0 in the series, England off Chris Woakes. Yadav, whose previous tel), 6-307 (Ashwin), 7-364 (Jadeja), 8-605 India fast bowler Mohamed Shami and wicketkeeper Wriddhi- needed a win in Mumbai to keep alive KOHLI DOUBLE highest score was 55, hit 15 boundaries in (Yadav), 9-615 (Kohli), 10-361 (Kumar) man Saha will continue to be out of action after the injured duo the series but the tourists now require Earlier, the 28-year-old Kohli was out his knock and looked in discomfort only Bowling: Anderson 20-5-63-0, Woakes were ruled out of the team’s fifth and final Test against England something extraordinary to even save the for a career-best 235 and added 241 for against a couple of short deliveries from 16-2-79-1, Ali 53-5-174-2 Rashid 55.3-5-192-4, starting on Friday in Chennai. match following Kohli’s batting master- the eighth wicket, the highest for India, the England fast bowlers. Ball 18-5-47-1, Stokes 10-2-32-0, Root 10-2- The 26-year-old Shami played the first three tests of the series class. India piled on 631 in their fi rst in- with Yadav, who scored 104, his maiden In the process, Yadav became the 16th 31-2 but missed the fourth in Mumbai with a sore knee and has nings on the fourth day, a lead of 231 runs test hundred. Kohli, who was on 147 over- batsman to score a hundred at No. 9. The England 2nd innings been advised rest and rehabilitation. over England, after Kohli’s third double night, and Yadav continued to torment previous highest by an Indian at this posi- A. Cook lbw b Jadeja ...... 18 “He will be going to the National Cricket Academy, Bengaluru century of the year. the England bowlers who went wicket less tion was a 90 by Farokh Engineer against K. Jennings lbw Kumar ...... 0 to start his recovery programme,” the Indian cricket board The touring side were 182 for six in their in the fi rst session after India resumed on New Zealand at Chennai in 1965. J. Root lbw J. Yadav ...... 77 (BCCI) said in a statement yesterday. second innings at stumps, still trailing by 451 for seven. The right-handed batsman Rashid fi nished with four wickets. M. Ali c Vijay b Jadeja ...... 0 Fast bowler Ishant Sharma, who has not played in the series 49. Jonny Bairstow was unbeaten on 50 has now scored a double hundred in all J. Bairstow not out ...... 50 so far and was released for his marriage ahead of the fourth with nightwatchman Jake Ball falling for three series India have played in 2016 — Scoreboard B. Stokes c Vijay b Ashwin ...... 18 match, is expected to return to the squad for the Chennai Test. two in the last over before the close. in West Indies, against New Zealand and England 1st innings 400 (K. Jennings J. Ball c Patel b Ashwin ...... 2 The Indian selectors had named paceman Shardul Thakur as a Paceman Bhuvneshwar Kumar dis- now against England. 112, J. Buttler 76; R. Ashwin 6-112) Extras (b13, lb2, nb2) ...... 17 back-up for Shami for the Mumbai test. missed fi rst-innings centurion Keaton Kohli, who has already scored 640 runs India 1st innings (overnight 451-7; V Kohli Total (6 wickets, 47.3 overs) ...... 182 Saha suff ered a hamstring tendon injury in the second test at Jennings for a golden duck and left-arm in the series at an average of 128, drove Ball not out 147, J. Yadav not out 30) Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Jennings), 2-43 (Cook), Visakhapatnam and did not play in Mohali and Mumbai. spinner Ravindra Jadeja sent back England for a straight four on the fi fth delivery of L. Rahul b Ali ...... 24 3-49 (Ali), 4-141 (Root), 5-180 (Stokes), He is undergoing rehabilitation programme at the NCA, the captain Alastair Cook for 18 and Moeen the day to get past 150, signalling another M. Vijay c & b Rashid ...... 136 6-182 (Ball) BCCI added. Ali for nought to leave England tottering harrowing session for the England bowl- C. Pujara b Ball ...... 47 Bowling: Kumar 4-1-11-1, U. Yadav 3-0-10-0, Wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel replaced Saha for the hosts, who at 49-3 at tea. Joe Root and Bairstow hit ers. Kohli, who hit 25 fours and a six in his V. Kohli c Anderson b Woakes ...... 235 Jadeja 18-3-58-2, Ashwin 16.3-1-49-2, J. Ya- are up 2-0 in the five-match series. brisk fi fties during their stand of 92 for knock, got past his 200 with a single to K. Nair lbw b Ali ...... 13 dav 6-0-39-1.

SPOTLIGHT Arthur plots demise of former team Australia

‘homework-gate’ scandal and fourth consecutive test loss in thrashed the Proteas in the dead Reuters Starc fi res bouncer at Arthur before Brisbane Test Melbourne months later, opening bats- India in 2013, only captain Ste- rubber test in Adelaide, giving man David Warner punched ve Smith, wicketkeeper Mat- home fans hope of another quick Melbourne: Australia have changed personnel-wise as England’s Joe Root at a bar on thew Wade, Warner and spinner renaissance. been a “closer” team since well, so we’ve developed mas- he merry-go-round of a boozy night out during the Nathan Lyon are likely to face “Every team has got a cycle so former head coach Mickey sively as a squad since the time coaching jobs in inter- Champions Trophy tournament Pakistan at the Gabba. it happens to every team,” Arthur Arthur made way for Darren of Mickey Arthur, and I think all national cricket inevi- in London. While coaching Pakistan to a said of the home side’s run of fi ve Lehmann, according to pace for the better.” tably leads to awkward With team discipline appear- 2-0 test series loss in New Zea- losses from six matches. spearhead Mitchell Starc. Arthur was sacked three weeks Treunions but few could be more ing in complete disarray, Arthur land last month, Arthur would Since taking the Pakistan job Now directing Pakistan, South before the 2013 Ashes, after a thorny than Mickey Arthur’s was dismissed three weeks be- have noted with interest how in May, Arthur has played a part African Arthur is keen to steer breakdown of team discipline encounter with his old team fore the Ashes and replaced by South Africa were able to hum- in the south Asians’ own revival, the south Asians to a win during the 4-0 series loss away Australia. Darren Lehmann, who remains ble Australia 2-1 on home pitch- which has included taking the against his old team when to India and later in England. Three years after being sacked Australia’s coach. es, without pace spearhead Dale top test ranking for the fi rst time the three-Test series starts in Australia have lost five of their as the side’s head coach, the A resident of Perth for over six Steyn and regular captain AB de in August following the 2-2 draw Brisbane on Thursday. last six Tests to put Lehmann South African will hope to guide years, Arthur said he felt no extra Villiers. in England. Starc was never able to cement under pressure, but Starc said Pakistan to a breakthrough test motivation in beating the home He would have recognised It was a brief reign and they his position in the Test side dur- the straight-talking former test series win Down Under, with the side. Lehmann was the ultimate ben- the criticism that rained down have since slipped to fourth on ing Arthur’s 19-month tenure batsman was the right man to fi rst match starting in Brisbane “We just want to win every efactor of his dismissal, given on the Australian team from the table behind third-ranked from 2011-13, and said Australia guide a rebuilding team which on Thursday. test series we play,” the 48-year- the autonomy that Arthur said pundits and former players and Australia after their disappoint- were a better team under his blooded four debutants in their Coaches rarely get to choose old told local media in Brisbane. he personally craved but was washed away chairman of selec- ing New Zealand tour. successor Lehmann. last match against South Africa. the manner of their exit but But he was aggrieved by the never aff orded. tors Rod Marsh and a string of No team from the subconti- “I didn’t have too much time “(Arthur) probably rode the Arthur’s dismissal was espe- dismissal and the blow smarted Three years on, Arthur faces under-performing players. nent has ever won a test series with him... he obviously had his game a little bit more and I cially acrimonious, and the trig- for years. an Australian team emerging Most familiar to Arthur, how- in Australia but Arthur has form diff erent theories,” Starc told lo- think at times found it hard to ger for a high-profi le severance A leak of his testimony dur- from another crisis but with ever, may be Australia’s ability to breaking droughts, and led the cal media in Brisbane yesterday. watch,” Starc said of the South claim against his former em- ing his legal challenge against head coach Lehmann given the regenerate and come roaring out Proteas to a fi rst series win in the “He was a nice guy. Africa’s coaching. ployers Cricket Australia. Cricket Australia painted the chance to right the ship. of the abyss. country in 2008. “Our team has changed im- “Whereas Boof instils a lot of He was less than two years into team as dysfunctional and riven Within a year of his sacking, “For these guys to come here mensely since he’s been put out confidence in you. He’s got that the post when his tenure began by a personality clash between CHANGED PERSONNEL Australia whitewashed England and win would be amazing,” he of the job... we’re a lot closer. laid-back, old-school attitude to unravel during the 2013 tour captain Clarke and vice captain Arthur may have intimate 5-0, enjoyed a rare series win in said. “We are under no illusions. “Boof’s (Lehmann) obviously but doesn’t sugar-coat any- of India where Michael Clarke’s Shane Watson. knowledge of the Australian South Africa and re-captured Australia are a fantastic cricket brought his own coaching thing. That’s what this young team were whitewashed 4-0. He later described his coach- system, but the personnel have the top ranking in tests. team and, in these conditions, theories and concepts. group needs as well... some Four players were stood down ing environment as “suff ocat- changed. Last month, a raw Australian it’s going to be very tough for “The group has obviously hard truths sometimes.” for a test during the infamous ing” in a book last year and said Of the team he coached to a team featuring four debutants them.” Gulf Times 10 Monday, December 12, 2016 SPORT

GOLF SPOTLIGHT English and Kuchar win Emotional Brazel Franklin Templeton scores win of career Shootout AFP Miami

arris English and Matt Kuchar won the Franklin Templeton Shootout on Saturday after shooting a seven- at Hong Kong Open under-par 65 in the fi nal round of the Hpairs event in Florida. English and Kuchar’s victory at Tiburon ‘I’d just say thanks for the support over many years. It’s been a bit of a tough ride’ Golf Club continues their strong run in the event, which they won in 2013 before fi nishing runners-up in 2014 and 2015. AFP The duo clinched their second win in the Hong Kong tournament after prevailing in a nip-and-tuck fi nal round duel with Jerry Kelly and Steve Stricker, who had trailed by one shot at the nheralded Australian Sam start of the day. Brazel wept yesterday after “It was back and forth all day,” Kuchar said clinching the Hong Kong afterwards. “We got off to a nice start, but we Open in thrilling style with knew the battle was on when Jerry eagled the Ua birdie at the fi nal hole, sealing by fi rst.” far the biggest victory of his career. The decisive blow came on the par-fi ve 17th, The world number 480 defeated when English drilled a superb second shot to Spanish Ryder Cup star Rafa Cabrera 15ft to set up an eagle chance. Bello – ranked 447 places above him The 27-year-old from Georgia duly rolled in – on the 18th after Brazel agonising- the putt to put him and Kuchar one-shot clear ly missed a birdie on the 17th. at 28 under heading to the 18th tee. Brazel, 37, whose partner died “I hit it right where I wanted to and luckily it suddenly from bacterial meningitis went in,” English said. in 2009, cried as he dedicated the The leaders were made to sweat on the fi nal improbable victory to his family, hole however when English’s tee-shot ended saying: “This is for you guys.” up deep in the reeds on the banks of the 18th Asked if he had a message for his fairway water hazard, eff ectively leaving it to loved ones, his voice again cracked Kuchar to bring home the win. as he added: “I’d just say thanks for The 38-year-old veteran held his nerve, the support over many years. making the green in two and then rolling a long “It’s been a bit of a tough ride.” birdie putt to within two feet. Brazel had never won a four- Kelly, who had earlier holed a monster round tournament before Sunday, 50-footer on the 16th for par to keep him and and until he gained his Asian Tour Stricker at the top of the leaderboard, had one card in 2013 was grinding out results last chance to repeat his heroics to force a play- on lower-level circuits such as the off . Queensland Sunshine Tour in Aus- However, the 50-year-old world number tralia. 176’s long putt for birdie just slid past the top He admitted he was still in shock of the hole leaving Kuchar with the formality from his giant-killing total of 267, of a three-foot par putt to seal the win. which also saw off a challenge from Charley Hoff man and Billy Horschel fin- US Masters champion Danny Wil- ished two off the lead in third on 26 under after lett, who had held the lead at one a remarkable 11-under-par round, which was point but ended in sixth place on 271. played under the better ball format. “I certainly didn’t expect to be in Lexi Thompson and Bryson DeChambeau here this afternoon but I’m thor- meanwhile fi nished tied for 11th on 16 under oughly impressed that I am!” he said after a fi nal round fi ve-under-par 67. as he faced the media. Thompson, a seven-time winner on the “I was supposed to be taking a 9.30 LPGA Tour, was only the second woman to fl ight back to Australia tonight but I compete in the event following Annika Soren- don’t think I’ll be making that!” stam’s appearance with Fred Couples in 2006. He had earlier said winning the $2 million Hong Kong Open would Sam Brazel of Australia (L) holding the winner’s trophy with Scott Hend of Australia holding the Asian Tour Order of Merit trophy after the final round of the “mean the world” to him - and his UBS Hong Kong Open at the Hong Kong Golf Club. (AFP) Shiff rin wins 11th straight fellow Australian golfers including Scott Hend mobbed him on the fi nal and until Sunday the highlight of his fect his play, with three consecutive Final scores Jason Scrivener (AUS) 67-69-68-70 World Cup slalom green to douse him in champagne. career was fourth place at the World birdies on holes 11, 12 and 13, seeing 267-Sam Brazel (AUS) 66-66-67-68 275-Pep Angles (ESP) 69-71-71-64, American Mikaela Shiff rin extended her Hend, the Asian Tour Order of Classic Championship in Singapore him move into the lead - and a re- 268-Rafa Cabrera Bello (ESP) 64-65- Liang Wen-chong (CHN) 70-70-69- women’s World Cup slalom winning run to Merit winner, called the victory last year. Brazel had been tied at 12 markable tee shot on the par-three 70-69 66, Steve Lewton (ENG) 68-67-73-67, 11 races with success at Sestrieres yester- “life-changing” for Brazel, adding: under par with Cabrera Bello go- 12th which rolled to within a foot of 269-Andrew Dodt (AUS) 69-67- Adilson Da Silva Car (BRA) 69-71-68- day. The 21-year-old queen of the discipline “You beauty!” ing into the last hole, but a stunning the hole was possibly the pick of the 67-66, Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) 67, Carlos Pigem (ESP) 68-68-71-68, posted the best time in both legs to beat Cabrera Bello, who has not won second shot from the fairway saw the bunch. 66-68-67-68 Juvic Pagunsan (PHI) 67-71-68-69, Slovakia’s Veronika Velez Zuzulova by 1.09sec on the European Tour since the 2012 Australian within 15 feet of the fl ag. Elsewhere, defending champion 270-David Lipsky (USA) 66-70-66-68 Joel Stalter (FRA) 70-70-66-69, and Switzerland’s Wendy Holdener by 1.21. Dubai Desert Classic, had to settle for The Spaniard was also on to the Justin Rose, who was struggling with 271-Danny Willett (ENG) 68-66-71-66 Peter Uihlein (USA) 66-70-69-70, The Olympic champion and double world second place, fi nishing with a round green in two shots but could not a bad back, was never in contention 272-Paul Waring (ENG) 71-68-68-65 Thongchai Jaidee (THA) 67-68-69- champion extended her lead in both the of 268. Australia’s Andrew Dodt and make the putt, while Brazel sunk his and ended the week with at two un- 273-Pablo Larrazabal (ESP) 69-70- 71, Edoardo Molinari (ITA) 72-68-64- overall and slalom World Cup standings as England’s Tommy Fleetwood were to thunderous cheers. der par 278. 68-66, Danny Chia (MAS) 69-66- 71, David Howell (ENG) 70-70-63-72. she made it 23 World Cup victories to date — tied third on 11 under par at 269. Brazel said he had been a “nervous And US Ryder Cup star Patrick 71-67 all but one in slalom. Shiff rin is now just one The fi rst prize cheque of $333,330 wreck” on the back nine as a host of Reed, who came third last year, ad- 274-Marcus Fraser (AUS) 71-69-68- Selected: win away from matching Swiss legend Vreni more than trebled Brazel’s earnings players jockeyed for the leadership. mitted he had had a “rough” time, 66, Jorge Campillo (ESP) 66-71-70- 278-Justin Rose (ENG) 70-69-70-69 Schneider’s mark of 12 straight successes. for the season on the Asian Tour, But his nerves did not appear to af- ending at just one under par on 279. 67, Jbe Kruger (RSA) 66-72-69-67, 279-Patrick Reed (USA) 70-70-70-69.

MOTORSPORT Rosberg dreaming of quiet Xmas and movie stardom

AFP “It was an incredible time and I am Nice, France proud to have been involved, to have Technical head Lowe could follow defeated Lewis and become a world Rosberg out of Mercedes champion. But that’s now passed. I ormula one world champion made it and now go on to other things. London: Technical head Paddy Lowe reduce his workload. Nico Rosberg was looking for- “For example, I want to spend more could be about to follow newly- “I love motorsport and the engineer- ward to a quiet Christmas be- time with my family. My little girl, retired Formula One world champion ing of it but it is relentless. It really is fore plotting his next bid for the Alaia, is a year and a half and that only Nico Rosberg out of the door at intense. I’m still working 60 hours a bigF time... as an action hero movie star. happens once.” dominant Mercedes. week and there comes a time when “I’d really like that,” the blond and Rosberg added that the fi nale of the The motorsport.com website I’d like to do other things as well,” he photogenic 31-year-old German told season was one of the most intense pe- reported multiple sources “with said. Lowe’s contract at Mercedes AFP when he revealed his dream of an riods in his life and career. good knowledge of the situation” is due to expire at the end of the acting career. The fi nal race in Abu Dhabi, which indicating that Lowe, who has helped year, according to reports in Britain “I know some German actors. Per- was won by Hamilton, encapsulated Mercedes to win three successive and Germany, and the 53-year-old’s haps one day, that would be nice. I have their rivalry especially with the Briton constructors’ titles, was set to join future has been the subject of con- some experience because when you are going on to face accusations that he rivals Williams. siderable speculation. a racing driver, you have to do a lot of deliberately backed up Rosberg into the Mercedes, who were rocked by McLaren, his previous employers, fi lmed commercials. chasing pack in a desperate attempt to Rosberg’s retirement announce- last week ruled out a move for the “An action hero...that would make thwart the German’s title dreams. ment only five days after he won the Briton amid reports that Lowe was me very happy!” “The toughest thing was mentally. title at the end of last month in Abu poised to accept an off er from a rival Rosberg stunned Formula One by re- There were a lot of sacrifi ces and as the Dhabi, had no comment on rumours team. tiring just fi ve days after wrapping up championship got closer, the pressure that have been rife since September. “We have absolutely no plans to his maiden world world in Abu Dhabi was monstrous,” explained Rosberg There was no immediate response re-hire Paddy, since we are entirely last month. whose father Keke was also F1 world from Williams, who use Mercedes satisfied with our current senior en- Since then, his timetable has been champion in 1982. engines and whose Finnish driver gineering management team,” said a fi lled by promotional obligations, in- “The last race was incredibly in- Valtteri Bottas has become the book- spokesman.Lowe is one of three top cluding Saturday’s function with Ger- tense. Lewis is obviously one of the makers’ favourite to replace Rosberg managers running Mercedes — the man insurance giants Allianz in Nice, best drivers in the world. It was a tough next season. others being shareholders Toto Wolff which will end in time for Christmas. Rosberg insisted that he has no re- “But everyone has a choice, everyone battle but I loved the competition.” Lowe started his F1 career with and Niki Lauda, who is the non-exec- “The fi rst true moment of free time grets about calling time on his career, has their road. I had a great career and Rosberg said that he would like to former world champions Williams in utive chairman. will be at Christmas, I’m really excited a decision which left fans disappointed succeeded at what I wanted to be suc- have more children although he jok- 1987, and spent six years there. The Were he to go, Mercedes are expect- about it. I will be with my wife, my little that there would be no further instal- cessful at. I also know that some were ingly suggested that he and wife Vivian team finished fifth overall this year. ed to sign former Lotus and Ferrari girl, we’ll be in Ibiza with a Christmas ments in his fi ery relationship with disappointed because the battle with are at loggerheads over how big their Williams current technical head Pat technical head James Allison who is tree and enjoy a typical turkey dinner,” Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton. Lewis was beautiful. family should eventually become. Symonds is 63 and told Reuters in a currently on ‘gardening leave’. said Rosberg. “I am aware that the majority of peo- “To those people, I want to say — “I hope to have more children, that recent interview that he would still Allison, whose wife died suddenly of “Then I’m going to look for projects ple support my decision. There’ll al- look at the last three years and cherish would be great — a whole football team be at the team next year, while also meningitis earlier in the year, left Fer- where I can use my competitiveness, ways be people who think otherwise,” the fantastic memories. That’s what I’m of them! But Vivian isn’t too convinced indicating that he was looking to rari by mutual agreement in July. but we will see in the new year.” said Rosberg. going to do. by this idea.” Gulf Times Monday, December 12, 2016 11 SPORT

TENNIS PORSCHE GT3 CUP Qatar’s Frijns posts emphatic victory Qatar ExxonMobil By Sports Reporter GT3 Cup racing at its very best, Doha delivering for fans the high- octane action that the region’s most professional series has atar-based driver become known for. Charlie Frijns Blustery conditions, a packed claimed a sweet vic- grid and drivers engaged in bat- tory to win the sec- tles throughout made it a hard- Open to celebrate its ondQ race of Round 2 of Season 8 earned victory for Frijns over of the Porsche GT3 Cup Chal- twelve laps especially after fall- lenge Middle East at the Dubai ing behind rival Cullen on the Autodrome with a near-per- fi rst corner opening lap. But he fect performance. soon regained his composure After waiting three years and drove fl awlessly from the to win his fi rst race, Frijns re- second lap to take a memorable turned to the top step of the win over the most competitive silver jubilee in 2017 podium for the second time in and international grid in the se- the opening four races of Sea- ries history featuring 16 drivers son 8. The Doha resident start- from 12 diff erent countries. ‘It is a great privilege to welcome our fans once again in the 25th anniversary of the world ed in race from pole position “It might have looked easy and dominated from the front for people watching but when class event. Qatar ExxonMobil Open is a symbol of the strategic and enduring partnership of the grid to cross the line and you’re out in front with these take the chequered fl ag by a experienced drivers behind between energy company ExxonMobil and QTF, and is aimed at taking the sport to signifi cant margin of 6.137 sec- you, you know that one mis- onds, ahead of Britain’s Tom take could easily cost you the higher heights and bringing the community of Qatar the finest tennis and entertainment’ Oliphant who fi nished second. lead. I think in the end I had a Championship contender fi ve-second gap, so I just kept and winner of the previous pushing through all the way to By Sports Reporter nity of Qatar the fi nest tennis and enter- day’s race in Dubai, Ryan Cullen the chequered fl ag and across Doha Boris Becker won the tainment.” of Ireland, held onto the fi nal the line. I am very happy with inaugural edition of “As we are about to experience another place on the podium in third, the result,” Frijns added. the event in 1993. exciting week of top-level tennis, I would managing to keep rival Dylan Just outside the main po- eld consistently since 1993, the like to appreciate everyone, especially the Pereira of Luxembourg at bay dium the top six positions were 2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open committees that have worked assiduously behind. Pereira fi nished fourth. completed by Pereira (fourth), will celebrate 25 years of top class to ensure a successful event yet again,” he It was another outstanding Saudi Arabia’s Bandar Alesayi tennis tournament, one that has added. triumph for Frijns, who won (fi fth) and rookie star Al Faisal Hbecome a pacesetter on the ATP World Tournament Director Karim Alami said: in Bahrain on the opening al-Zubair of Oman in sixth. Tour’s 250 series and the highest prize- “We are happy to welcome the world once weekend. Over the last two days Dubai money event of the Tour. again to Doha. Qatar is the hub of global “I had a really good start but has welcomed one of the big- The 2017 tournament will be held from sport and we are passionate about tennis. as I approached the fi rst turn gest grids in the history of the January 2 to 7. I’ve no doubt that the 2017 Qatar Exxon- my tires weren’t hot enough series thanks to a host of fresh Since its inception, the season-opening Mobil Open will surpass the previous edi- and I made a small mistake new faces making their full de- event, which won the award as the best 250 tions in all ramifi cations.” which allowed Ryan Cullen but. Almost half of the drivers, ATP Tour tournament of 2015, has contin- “Without any doubt, our tournament to overtake. I kept very close to line up at the Autodrome, ued to attract some of the best players who has grown over the years to become one of behind Ryan and continued were completely new to the descend on the city of Doha at the begin- the most keenly contested tennis events in to apply the pressure. In the grid, marking an exciting new ning of every year to display fantastic skills the region and on the ATP Tour. second lap I managed to over- chapter for Porsche GT3 Cup and athleticism on the courts of the ultra- “Through this event we could move ten- take and take back the spot at Challenge Middle East. It is a modern Khalifa International Tennis & nis forward in our region and also helped in the front of the pack. Over the fi tting tribute to the strength, Squash Complex. developing the game with increasing inter- next couple of laps I managed global reputation and momen- Just like in the previous years, the courts ests,” he added. to extend my lead and I just had tum the championship has are ready to be set ablaze by the skills of The venue was inaugurated by His High- to focus and make sure I didn’t gained over eight seasons. some of the top players in the world of ness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, make any mistakes.” Following a winter break, men’s tennis at this year’s event with world the Father Emir, in 1992. The stadium had For fans the second race in as fans can expect more of the number one Andy Murray leading the pack an initial capacity of 4,500 seats but it was many days in Dubai more than same on January 27th and 28th of gladiators. later enlarged in 2008 to seat the current made up for the disappoint- next year as the race returns to The maiden event featured German capacity of 7,000 spectators. ment of the opening race which the Dubai Autodrome for Round superstar Boris Becker, who won against Year 2008 also saw additional renova- featured the deployment of the 3 before heading to Yas Marina the backdrop of a semi-fi nal victory over tions to the set-up of the venue with the safety car. The second race was Circuit in Abu Dhabi on Febru- Sweden’s Stefan Edberg before thump- addition of new stands, VIP boxes, Lower, clean and showcased Porsche ary 10th and 11th for Round 4. ing Croatia’s Goran Ivanisevic in the fi nal Middle and Upper sections and the VIP 7-6(4), 4-6, 7-5 to lift the maiden Golden Village, Public Village and Food Court. Falcon Trophy. Currently, the venue has one Centre This time around, another clash between Court, four show courts, and 20 outside Murray and the defending champion and courts. This makes the Khalifa Interna- world number two Novak Djokovic of Ser- tional Tennis & Squash Complex the ideal bia is a very tempting and likely prospect setting for one of the greatest sporting and one tennis fans cannot aff ord to miss. events on the world stage. Other superstars who will be grazing the Set up of the Public Village, VIP Village, Doha skyline are Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the and Kids Zone are now underway and the 2012 champion, and Tomas Berdych among venue is being transformed into an interac- others. In all, there are 25 direct and three tive, entertaining home for tennis and so wild card entries for the tournament in ad- much more. dition to four qualifi ers in the singles event Tickets are now available in malls in- while the doubles will have 16 teams par- cluding Land Mark, City Center and Villag- ticipating — a tradition that dates back to ordinator, said: “It is a great privilege to strategic and enduring partnership be- gio in addition to the tickets kiosk located the very fi rst event. welcome our fans once again to Doha in the tween energy company ExxonMobil and at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Tareq Zainal, Assistant Secretary Gen- 25th anniversary of the world class event. QTF, and is aimed at taking the sport to Complex. Tickets can also be purchased eral at QTF and the event’s General Co- Qatar ExxonMobil Open is a symbol of the higher heights and bringing the commu- online through www.qatartennis.org.

FOOTBALL Gazwan Al Nasser, Da Magic Moment star among stallions and mares By Sports Reporter Masraf Al Rayan, Doha

Barwa Bank lead azwan Al Nasser won gold among the stallions for the third straight Gtime this year. On Saturday, the bay groups in Aspire stallion was adjudged as the winner in the 19th Qatar National Purebred Ara- bian Horse Show, even as owner Nasser Banks Tournament Mohamed al-Hajri enjoyed a double on the day, with DA Magic Moment topping the By Sports Reporter Championship round among the mares. Doha This was the second time these two horses had won gold this year, with the duo achieving a similar feat at the Qatar he ‘Aspire Banks Tournament’, organised by As- National Arabian Horse Show for Indi- pire Zone Foundation in collaboration with Qatar vidual Owners in April this year. Central Bank, concluded its sixth week with fi ve For Gazwan Al Nasser, it was a hat-trick, Tthrilling matches between some of the tourna- with the stallion having struck gold at ment’s leading teams. Qatar National Arabian Horse Show for Week six of the popular tournament saw Group A teams Local Bred Horses too. Standard Chartered Bank play Barwa Bank and Interna- Gazwan Al Nasser had made it to tional Bank of Qatar taking on Qatar Central Bank. Mean- Saturday’s Championship round at the while, Group B teams Qatar National Bank played Qatar Al Shaqab Arena after impressing the Islamic Bank, Qatar International Islamic Bank took on panel of judges in the merged preliminary Ahli Bank and Mashreq Bank played Masraf Al Rayan. round for Class 13 and 14 (7-10yo and 11yo Da Magic Moment was adjudged Senior Mare Gold Champion. After the latest round, Barwa Bank lead Group A with 12 & above Stallions) earlier in the day. points after a 4-2 win over fourth-placed Standard Chartered. The stallion beat Saad Salem Al Hajri- Qatar Central Bank remain in second place despite a remark- owned duo D Daff er and Kamar Al Gazal, able 7-3 win against sixth-place International Bank of Qatar. both of whom had made it to the finale In Group B, Masraf Al Rayan took the lead with 12 points through Class 12 for 4-6yo Stallions, for the in fi ve games after securing a well-deserved 5-4 win title of the Qatar National Stallion 2016. against Mashreq Bank, who currently rank fi fth. Mean- DA Magic Moment topped the Champi- while, the match between Qatar National Bank and Qatar onship round at the two-day horse show Islamic Bank ended in a draw, leaving the former in sec- for Senior Mares, edging out Al Nasser ond place, temporarily, and the latter in third. Ahli Bank Stud-owned Rihab Al Nasser and Al moved into fourth after winning against Qatar Interna- Sraiya Stud’s Lamana, who won silver and tional Islamic Bank with a 4-2 scoreline. bronze respectively. In the seventh and fi nal week of qualifying, which takes Al Shaqab-owned horses swept all three place on Saturday (December 17), Group A will see Qatar podium places in both Junior Champion- Central Bank play Barwa Bank, International Bank of Qa- ships Fillies and Junior Championships tar play Commercial Bank and Standard Chartered play Colts categories. Among the fillies, Elluara, Doha Bank. Group B will see Mashreq Bank play Qatar winner of Class 4B for 2yo fillies on Day One, Islamic Bank and Qatar International Islamic Bank play was adjudged as Qatar National Filly 2016, Gazwan Qatar National Bank. after she beat Empuza (Class 4C for 2yo Al Nasser Running every Saturday from November 2016 to Janu- fillies) and Safiat Al Shaqab (Class 3A for 1yo was named ary 2017, the Aspire Banks Tournament sees strong com- fillies), winners of their respective classes on Senior petition between members of staff from 12 banks across the first day. Medan Al Shaqab was crowned Champion Qatar. The qualifying rounds take place until December 17, as the Qatar National Colt for 2016, ahead of Stallion. whereas the quarter-fi nals, semi-fi nals and fi nal will take Radad Al Shaqab and Baher Al Shaqab. place in the fi rst and second weeks of January 2017. Monday, December 12, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

TABLE TENNIS/ ITTF WORLD TOUR GRAND FINALS , Yuling win titles to reassert Chinese supremacy ‘I’m very happy to win my fifth Grand Finals title. I was in quite good form in this tournament’

By Sahan Bidappa Doha

here was no stopping Ma Long yesterday as the Chinese leg- end won his fi fth ITTF World Tour Grand Finals, in Doha. TIt capped off a memorable year for Ma Long, who won his fi rst Olympic gold in Rio in August. The lanky, muscular 28-year-old from the northeastern province of Liaoning is a diff erent beast compared to his other Chinese counterparts. Many say he is the best to have played the game. His technical skills are second to none, and is renowned for his scorch- ing serve and deceptive spin. All that was on display at the Ali Bin Hamad al- Attiyah arena yesterday, as the defend- ing champion beat his closest-rival in an entertaining title clash 4-2 (11-5, 11-4, 11-9, 7-11, 12-14, 11-9). This is the second consecutive year that the 19-year-old highly-rated Zhen- dong has lost to Ma Long in the fi nal. Last year in Lisbon, Portugal, Ma Long needed seven games to beat his rival. While he saved himself the strain of playing an extra game, yesterday’s fi - nal, however, reaffi rmed the belief that Zhendong will be the best bet to stop the Winners of ITTF World Tour Grand Finals pose with off icials and delegates after the conclusion of the event in Doha yesterday. Ma Long won the men’s crown, with Zhu Yuling taking the women’s title. PICS: Noushad Thekkayil Ma Long juggernaut in coming years. After sweeping past the fi rst two games, Ma Long was given a stiff test by his younger opponent. Zhendong used his deceptive backhand spin shot to good eff ect. But World champion Ma Long won the third game as well, before Zhendong fought valiantly. Trailing 7-10 and 11-12 in the fi fth game Zhendong saved four match points and then one more in the sixth at 8-10. However, Ma Long eventu- ally sealed the title, ironically when Zhen- dong’s backhand spin missed the table. “I’m very happy to win my fi fth Grand Finals title. I think was in quite good form during this tournament, es- pecially in the fi nal. “Against Zhendong, I played well at the start but I did not deal with cru- cial points well enough, even though I was leading comfortably. But still it was good enough to be able to win the match,” said Ma Long. “I think it’s common for any athlete to become impatient when you reach Action from the men’s title clash between China’s Ma Long and his compatriot Fan match point and I made that mistake Zhendong. Long won 4-2 (11-5, 11-4, 11-9, 7-11, 12-14, 11-9). (RIGHT) Long with women’s today. The good thing is I won the sixth winner Zhu Yuling, who beat Germany’s Han Ying 11-9, 12-10, 12-10, 11-3. game. Of course I feel it was a shame to lose the fi fth game with four match pull out from her quarterfi nal match ruled the tournament, with Yuling be- points on hand. against Han Ying. coming the tenth player from the Asian “But in the match, I have to control Yesterday, the No.11 seed Ying had no powerhouse to win the title. my emotions as much as possible,” the answer to Yuling’s trademark consist- The Chinese-born Han Ying did have champion paddler added. ency as her own defensive game faltered the consolation of becoming the fi rst Ma Long ‘s fi fth title means his near- on the big occasion. player representing a national associa- est challenger is the now-retired com- Yuling, who started the year with tion from outside Asia to reach the fi - patriot , who won the cov- three ITTF World Tour titles to her nal of the women’s singles event at the eted trophy three times. name, fi nally ended an 18-month wait Grand Finals. This was also the 14th all Chinese to win another winner’s trophy. There were no Chinese victories in men’s fi nal, and 16th time a Chinese “I was anxious because this was the the doubles or under-21 events, though. player has won in 21 editions of the fi rst time I was playing in the fi nal of the Hina Hiyata of Japan beat Hong Kong’s tournament. World Tour Grand Finals. I was eager to Doo Hoi Kem 4-1 in the under-21 wom- Unsurprisingly, the women’s title win. Luckily, I could stay calm at crucial en’s singles fi nal before partnering Yui also went to China, with third seed Zhu points,” Yuling said. Hamamoto to success against Doo and Yuling proving to be too good for Ger- “This triumph is mainly due to my Lee Ho Ching in the women’s doubles. many’s Han Ying as she won 4-0 (11-9, experience of playing on the tour in the South Korea’s Jeoung Youngsik and 12-10, 12-10, 11-3) in a one sided fi nal. past few years. Lee Sangsu beat Japan’s Masataka This was the fi rst title of the year for “Winning this tournament at the end Morizono and Yuya Oshima 4-2 in the the 21-year-old Yuling, who benefi tted of this year is a small step for me. I hope I men’s doubles fi nal. from compatriot Ding Ning’s with- can play well in the next year. Now, I will Taiwan’s Liao Cheng-Ting beat drawal midway through the tourna- spare no eff ort to prepare for 2020 Tokyo Yuto Muramatsu of Japan in four ment. The Olympic champion was laid Olympics,” she added. straight games to secure the men’s un- low by a high temperature and had to Like men, Chinese women too have der 21 title.

FOOTBALL Key partners confi rmed ahead of Match of Champions

By Sports Reporter sors this game would not have been the inspiration of Qatar’s ambitions in fi cial transport partner for the Match of Doha possible,” he said. world football, and we are proud to be Champions. Qatar Tourism Authority will be the sponsoring an event that aims to ful- Speaking at the event, Hisham Saleh presenting sponsor. Rashed al-Qurese, fi l the same aspirations that we have al-Mana, Chairman and Managing Direc- C Barcelona will take on Saudi Chief Marketing and Promotion Offi cer for Qatar, its industries and its people. tor of Saleh Al-Hamad Al-Mana Group of Arabian club Al Ahli tomor- at Qatar Tourism Authority, said: “The Congratulations to the executives of Companies, said: “It’s a huge honour to row in the highly anticipated hosting of this Match of Champions both football clubs, Qatar Airways and be associated and to be part of the success F‘Match of Champions’ at Al is testament to the growing strength the Qatar Football Association, for or- of this event right here in Doha, involving Gharafa’s Thani bin Jassim Stadium. of Qatar’s position as a destination for chestrating such a key highlight on Qa- two of the most prominent football teams Ahead of the big game, the Local Or- global sporting events. tar’s events calendar.” in the world. Nissan will be the offi cial ganising Committee (LOC), comprising “We are pleased to join hands yet Ooredoo has been formally confi rmed transporter for the teams during their stay of the Supreme Committee for Delivery again with our partners at Qatar Air- as the Offi cial Telecom Sponsor. Chief in Qatar. I would like to thank the organ- & Legacy (SC), Qatar Football Associa- ways to bring this event to Doha, at- Operating Offi cer Yousuf al-Kubaisi izing committee for their eff orts to make tion and Qatar Stars League, welcomed tracting fans of the two teams from commented: “Having the current La this event a great success.” a host of key match sponsors to a sign- around the region to enjoy football, Liga and Saudi Professional League Anti-Doping Lab Qatar (ADLQ) ing ceremony at Al Bidda Tower — Qa- played in world-class facilities, and champions play in Doha will help inspire confi rmed itself as the offi cial partner tar’s Home of Football — yesterday. surrounded by our authentic Arabian football fans in Qatar, and encourage ahead of the evening friendly match. Nasser al-Khater, CEO of the LOC, hospitality. our next generation of football stars to Salem Hamad al-Deaya of ADLQ re- welcomed the sponsors and hailed their “This historical match, together with work hard and follow their dreams. This vealed the importance in taking part in eff orts in preparing to make the game a the attractive packages we have worked is a huge step forward for our country’s the Match of Champions. “The chance major success for the fans who will at- with Qatar Airways and Qatar Airways Nasser al-Khater, CEO of the Organising Committee, and Rashed al-Qurese, Chief standing as a top sporting destination to promote the initiative of clean sport tend the game. Holidays to provide regional audiences, Marketing and Promotion Off icer of Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) at the signing and Ooredoo will do all it can to ensure during the Qatar Airways-Match of “Firstly, I would like to thank every- promise an unforgettable experience ceremony yesterday ahead of tomorrow’s game between Barcelona and Al Ahli. this event is shared around the world via Champions seemed the right thing to one who has taken the step to become a for Qatar’s visitors this week.” our award-winning Supernet.” do. The match presents the perfect op- key sponsor for the Match of Champi- Salem Ghanem al-Kubaisi, Chief Al Ahli Saudi FC and FC Barcelona are Football is a global game, uniting people Saleh Al-Hamad Al-Mana Co, the portunity to emphasize how important ons between FC Barcelona and Al Ahli. Corporate Services Offi cer of Katara two of the most famous football clubs from all around the world, which is ex- exclusive agent for Nissan, Infi niti & it is to fi ght doping and highlight values The match promises to be an exciting Hospitality, said: “We are delighted to in the region and the world, and their actly what we at Katara Hospitality do. Renault in Qatar, has been announced of integrity and honesty that are key to one, and without the help of our spon- be supporting the Match of Champions. strong ties with Qatar are well known. “The Match of Champions draws on by Qatar Football Association as the of- our work at the ADLQ,” he said.