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WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 EnglandE crush India by 227 runs in opener To take 20 in alien conditions is a brilliant job from tthe bowlers. Standing here, having won the first game is vvery pleasing. (But) we know India are going to come back hhard at us.

England Joe Root, Sport |08

ENGLAND VS INDIA 1ST TEST: England: 578 and 178, India: 337 and 192 (Gill 50, Kohli 72; Leach 4/76, Anderson 3/17) England won by 227 runs

FIFA Club World Cup: State-of-the-art venue set to host blockbuster final ‘Diamond in the Desert’ ready to shine THE PENINSULA – Education City station situated within walking distance of this The past few days have seen the ultramodern arena. It is also a football world focused on the lasting symbol of sustainability Middle East and the FIFA Club after becoming the first 2022 World Cup Qatar 2020. As fans tournament venue to receive a around the globe have tuned into five-star rating from the Global the action, they have been intro- Sustainability Assessment System. duced to two FIFA World Cup “The stadium is equipped Qatar 2022 venues. with premium facilities to accom- Alongside Ahmad Bin Ali modate all stakeholders from Stadium, Education City Stadium match audiences to football has been front and centre, while players,” Al Jabir added. the world’s top clubs have battled “For example, the stadium can it out for the prestigious title. As host more than one football match anticipation builds for the tour- per day. It is equipped with four nament’s final match day on Feb- dressing rooms instead of the ruary 11, the ‘Diamond in the standard two dressing rooms Desert’ is ready to showcase an option found in other stadiums. It exciting conclusion to the week- also has a cooling system in the long event by staging the third- bowl and the spectators’ tiers, place play-off between Al Ahly The 40,000-capacity making the experience more com- SC and SE Palmeiras and the final venue is ready to stage fortable, especially during between FC Bayern München and summer.” Tigres UANL. the third-place play-off Set to host eight matches up The 40,000-capacity venue between Al Ahly SC and SE to the quarter-finals stage during was tasked with staging four Qatar 2022, Education City is matches over three match days Palmeiras and the final ready to welcome the world when at the Club World Cup. On Feb- between FC Bayern football’s showpiece event takes ruary 4, reigning Qatar Stars München and Tigres UANL place in less than two years’ time. League champions Al Duhail SC For Al Jabir, the Club World Cup took on Egyptian giants and CAF on Thursday. is another key moment for a Champions League holders Al venue project she has been part Ahly in a second-round clash. On of from the beginning. Sunday, Education City played “Attending an official match host to recently-crowned CONMEBOL provide a centralised hub for football “The pitch maintenance was where necessary to maintain the in the stadium and seeing it operational Libertadores champions Palmeiras in competitions to complete their another challenge, since the stadium required playing conditions.” with live broadcasting on international the competition’s first semi-final, as schedules in 2020 due to the COVID-19 hosted 13 matches over seven days. The Located 13km from Doha city centre television makes me feel proud and they faced CONCACAF Champions pandemic. Top of that list was the 2020 utilisation of the pitch was high, which and at the heart of Qatar Foundation – confident with our readiness to host the League holders Tigres UANL. AFC Champions League, as the venue led to wear on the field of play, partic- a vibrant centre for knowledge and inno- FIFA World Cup 2022, which always Those match days have given hosted a total of 23 matches. This ularly in the warm-up and goal areas. vation – fans that have attended Club motivates us to look for the best to worldwide exposure to Education City included ten games in the West Region Thankfully, the team was monitoring World Cup matches have enjoyed the ensure we provide an unforgettable and are the latest milestones for a venue section and 13 matches in the East this closely and managed to have the venue’s accessible nature, especially via experience of the matches that will be that is a source of pride for those closely Region portion of Asia’s top club com- turf restored and promptly replaced the Doha Metro’s Green Line, with hosted in our stadiums in 2022.” connected to it. “I recall Education City petition. Staging these matches provided Stadium as a huge hole in the ground valuable feedback. Education City Stadium in 2014, and I often catch myself over- “We learned many lessons that whelmed to see how quickly this exca- helped us to test the venue and read- vation became a huge diamond located iness of the systems and the facilities to in the middle of universities and schools host such events,” said Al Jabir. “The AFC in Education City,” said Engineer Champions League was an opportunity Muneera Al Jabir, Education City Sta- for us to know more about the operation dium’s Precinct Manager. of the stadium and how it could be “Every now and then, when I stand improved from different aspects.” in the middle of the pitch, and look Hosting a large number of high- around at the beautiful infrastructure, level matches provided some mainte- and all the details from the colour of the nance challenges for the stadium staff. spectators’ seats to the quality of the “The challenges were mainly related to grass, I cannot help but feel pure pride the COVID-19 precautions and safety as well as gratification to see that all our of the people participating and working hard work has paid off.” in the stadium. The stadium had three Since being inaugurated last June rounds of disinfection per match day as the third tournament-ready venue for facilities like the press conference for Qatar 2022, Education City has been room, players’ bench areas and com- put to good use, as Qatar stepped up to petition and bubble area,” Al Jabir said. Sixth title would be cherry on top of historic Bayern run: Lewandowski

AL RAYYAN REUTERS – having netted 24 times in points ahead of second- the Bundesliga this season. placed RB Leipzig. Bayern Munich’s quest for Tigres stunned Palmeiras Spanish club Barcelona The title at the Club World the Club World Cup title -- 1-0 to book their spot in the won six titles in 2009 after Cup would be the cherry on their sixth trophy in less final. scooping up all domestic, top. We can write history but Bayern than nine months -- would “The title at the Club European and international it is also a big challenge. Munich's crown an historic run for World Cup would be the titles they competed in, Robert the German powerhouse, cherry on top,” The Poland including the Club World When you are that close to a Lewandowski top scorer Robert Lewand- striker told a virtual news Cup. title then you want to win it. scoring his team's owski said yesterday. conference. “We can write “The next final for us The next final for us means first goal against Bayern will meet history but it is also a big means that we can win the that we can win the sixth Egypt's Al Ahly Mexican side Tigres in the challenge. When you are sixth title. That means a lot during the second final of the competition on that close to a title then you for football history,” title. That means a lot for semi-final of the Thursday after Egyptians Al want to win it.” Bayern have Lewandowski said. football history. We can play FIFA Club World Ahly, the African Cham- won the domestic double as “We can play better better than we did in the Cup Qatar 2020 pions League winners, take well as the Champions than we did in the semi- semi-final. The important part at the Ahmad Bin on Palmeiras of Brazil in the League in 2020 along with final,” the forward said. is now and we want to win Ali Stadium on third-place playoff. the German and European “The important part is now Monday. Lewandowski scored Super Cup crowns. and we want to win every every game and win this title PIC: SALIM as well: Lewandowski MATRAMKOT/THE both goals in their 2-0 over They are also currently game and win this title as PENINSULA Al Ahly on Monday, while top of the Bundesliga, seven well.” WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 11

QFA President meets Saudi and Brazilian counterparts QNA – DOHA

President of Qatar Football Association (QFA), Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani yesterday met with the President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation Yasser Al Misehal and his accompanying delegation, in the presence of Secretary-General of QFA, Mansour Al Ansari; Executive Director of QFA President’s Office, Ali Daoud; and Executive Director of the Office of Strategic and Institutional Planning, Mushtaq Al Waeli. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the FIFA Club World Cup, hosted in Doha for the second year running. Later, the QFA President met with President of Brazilian Football Con- federation Rogerio Caboclo. The meeting dealt with reviewing issues of President of Qatar Football Association Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani with the President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation Yasser Al Misehal joint interest and enhancing cooper- (left) and the President of Brazilian Football Confederation Rogerio Caboclo during meetings held in Doha yesterday. ation between the two associations.

Bayern Munich get set for ‘very We lived up to our billing as favourites and deservedly athletic’ Tigres in CWC title clash advanced to the final. We wanted to have THE PENINSULA — DOHA game. We must learn from the the ball, we were in mistakes we made against Al control, we’d have Coach Hansi Flick expressed his Duhail SC and FC Bayern liked to double the satisfaction after Robert Munich before facing Palmeiras, Lewandowski’s brace fired as we are keen to win the bronze lead earlier. We were Bayern Munich into the final of medal,” said Mosimane. clearly in command in FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2020 “The game against Palmeiras the first half, we could final, keeping intact their will not be easy. They are a chances of lifting a record- strong team and have many have scored more equaling sixth title this season. good players and we must goals. Lewandowski scored one prepare well for the match Tigres are very goal apiece in each half as the against them in order to achieve European champions defeated the bronze medal,” he added. athletic, they Egypt’s Al Ahli 2-0 in the second Al Ahly captain Mohamed El deservedly went semi-final on Monday at the Shenawy said: “Congratulations Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, a Qatar to Bayern. It was a great game. through to the final. 2022 FIFA World Cup venue. We tried to implement our We’ll prepare for it “We lived up to our billing as strategy. I think we gave a good and we want to win favourites and deservedly acaccountcount of oourselves.urselves. ThThee teteamam advanced to the final,” Flick said plaplayedyed well. We plaplayedyed againstagainst the title. If we succeed after the victory. ththee European the team will have “We wanted to have the ball, CChampionsh ampions rounded off a we were in control, we’d have LLeagueeag ue liked to double the lead earlier. winner. WWee phenomenal season We were clearly in command in ccanan learn a with a sixth title. It the first half, we could have llotot frfromom would be an scored more goals,” he added. ththisis foforr the The German giants will take ffuture.”uture.” outstanding success, on Tigres UANL in title clash even in FC Bayern’s tomorrow at Education City Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski (second right) celebrates with team-mates afterr scorin scoringg a a goal against Al Ahly in the second semi-final. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA Stadium. extraordinary history: Ricardo Ferretti’s Tigres Hansi Flick created history when they succeed the team will have okay, really. Then we made too Ahly coach Pitso MosimaneMosimane became the first Mexican club to rounded off a phenomenal many mistakes and had to run urged his players to llearnearn fromfrom reach the event’s final after a season with a sixth title. It would more. That wasn’t ideal. Overall, mistakes and go all out fforor stunning 1-0 victory over Copa be an outstanding success, even we moved the ball around victory against Palmeirasmeiras in Libertadores champions Pal- in FC Bayern’s extraordinary without going for goal and just third position play-offoff to bebe meiras in the first semi-final at history,” he added. maintained possession. Al Ahly played at Educationon CityCity Education City Stadium on Bayern Munich’s Joshua came out of the break well. The Stadium, tomorrow.. Sunday. Kimmich said his team was not bottom line is that it wasn’t a bril- “Bayern are numberber one “Tigres are very athletic, they at its best against Al Ahly but said liant performance, but the win in Europe. They didn’tt aallowllow deservedly went through to the they were the deserving winners was deserved,” he said. us to have the balll forfor a final. We’ll prepare for it and we against the African champions. Al Ahly eye third position long time. We rarelyly had Hansi Flick want to win the title. If we “The first 30, 35 minutes were Following loss to Bayern, Al the chance to playy ourour World's best keep on getting better No secrets to City’s for champions FC Bayern Munich winning run, says

FIFA.COM - DOHA December, when they were crowned – for At the halfway point in the current Bun- coach Guardiola the first time – as The Best FIFA Men’s Player desliga season, Lewandowski had already In a sport that boils down to scoring goals at and The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper. amassed a remarkable 22 goals. In the league’s REUTERS – MANCHESTER one end and keeping them out at the other, If anything, they have continued to entire history, no-one had ever managed such FC Bayern München have long relied on two improve in the weeks since. Both have set a remarkable tally at the halfway point, with Manchester City will not get carried away by their stellar masters in those respective trades. impressive new Bundesliga records and, yes- Gerd Muller’s record of 20 from 1968/69 having recent form as they prepare for a stern test from Swansea They have been at the club for a com- terday, served up their respective special- been eclipsed. City in Wednesday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie, manager Pep binedined ttotalotal ooff 16 yyears,ears, anandd bbothoth hhaveave sstoodtood itiesities once againagain as BayernBayern openedopen their FIFA Guardiola said yesterday. accusedccused in seasons ggoneone byby ofof Club World Cup campaigncampaign wiwitht a couple of Manuel Neuer A 14-game winning run in all competitions has lifted havingaving passed their peak. In LewandowskiLewandowski ggoalsoals and a NeNeuerue clean sheet. By the end of 2014, Neuer was already a City to the top of the Premier League, five points clear of truth,ruth, given the scale ooff WithWith keeperkeeper and striker alikeal sure to be world champion with club and country, and Manchester United with a game in hand. They have also theirheir previous acachieve-hieve- key men in tomorrow’s final against Tigres had been lauded for revolutionising – if not advanced to the final of the League Cup, where they face ments,ments, and the fact bobothth UANL,UANL, FIFA.com looks closercl at these perfecting – the role of sweeper-keeper. But Tottenham Hotspur in April. arere nnowow wwellell inintoto ttheirheir modern-daymom dern-day ggreats.reats. the years that followed were blighted by “I only think about the next game and try to prepare 30s,0s, it would be entirelyentirely injuries and, at times, indifferent form. well, there are no secrets,” Guardiola told reporters when understandablenderstandable if tthathat RobertRobert LLewandowskiewan Suggestions that he was on the slide have asked about the reason behind their recent success. werewere tthehe case. A supreme centre-forward,centntreree forward, the beenbeb en emphatically disproveddisproved, however, and “What happens in the past is just that. We are calm But RobertRobert PolePole hhasas evolvedevolvvedd aandnd Neuer’s heroics were a key factor in when we lose and it’s the same now. The reason is that we Lewandowskiewandowski aandnd improvedimproved over rerecentcent BayernBayern reclaiming theth UEFA Cham- are thinking of the next game, and now it’s Swansea.” City ManuelManuel NeuerNeuer,, at yearsyey ars to becbecomeome a pions LeagueLeague lalasts season and needed three second-half goals to claw back a two-goal 322 and 34 respec-respec- leader and tteam-eaam- settingsetting up this sesecond tilt at the deficit when these two sides met in the FA Cup quarter- tively,vely, are playing focusedfocused aall-rounderll-rounder in Club World Cup.Cup. finals in 2019, and Guardiola is hoping for smoother passage betteretter tthanhan eever.ver. Bayern’s squad.squadd. 198:198: TheThe numbernumb of clean this time around. Recognitionecognition of thathatt “It“It has gonegoone so far sheets Neuer hhasa kept in the “It was a difficult game in 2019,” the Spaniard said. “I camea m e in thatthat hehe cacanan almostalmost BundesligaBundesliga alone. His 197th, reg- know Swansea’s consistency defensively. They are solid, enjoyenjoy an assistassist now,” isteredistered last monthmo against don’t concede chances or goals. It will be a real difficult ThomasThomas MMulleruller former clubclu Schalke, saw test and we will have to put in a good performance.” reflectedreflected withwith a smile thethe 34-year-old3 set Sergio Aguero, City’s record goalscorer, has missed their recently.recentlyy. a new record, previous nine games having initially been forced to self- GoGoalsalls rremainemain hhisis surpassings the isolate after coming into contact with someone who tested stockstock in tradetrade long-standing positive for the novel coronavirus, before testing positive ththoughough and,and, rigrightht benchmarkb set himself. now,now, theretheree isis no-one by Bayern “Yesterday he trained with the group for 10-15 minutes Manuel legend Oliver in worldworld ffootballootbballl mmoreore Robert Lewandowski and later he did some part alone. Day by day he is feeling Neuer adeptadept at sscoringcoring tthem.hem. Kahn. better,” Guardiola said. 10 SPORT WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021

Successful organisation of CWC extremely beneficial: Al Nuaimi

QNA – DOHA the preparations for thee World Cup 2022 since thee Director of Communication at outbreak of the Coronavirusus the Local Organising Qatar is the only country crisis led, in one way oror Committee for the ongoing that recently hosted another, to a slowdown in thehe FIFA Club World Cup in Doha continental and global workflow at the beginning of Fatima Al Nuaimi has termed the pandemic, but after takingng the organisational success of sporting events, with precautions and healthth the tournament so far under large participation in light measures in coordination withth various challenges due to the of the current crisis, after the Ministry of Public Healthth current coronavirus implementing health and the Workers’ Welfare teamm (COVID-19) pandemic as an procedures and measures in the Supreme Committee, a extremely beneficial expe- mechanism was reached thatat rience and an exceptional in coordination with the significantly preserved thehe opportunity to benefit and Ministry of Public Health: safety of workers, whilele develop expertise as the World Fatima Al Nuaimi ensuring the pace of work Cup 2022 draws closer and will within the planned timetable be held in less than two years for completion of all projects, Di Maria out of from now. thanks to the emergency plans In an exclusive interview provide a wonderful and east and west zones, and spe- events and to enhance the pro- for the World Cup projects that PSG’s CL first with Qatar News Agency (QNA), exceptional experience to the cifically the final of the tour- vision of a distinctive expe- have proven their worth. Al Nuaimi said that the FIFA fans, players and adminis- nament, which was attended rience for fans and visitors to Al Nuaimi noted the dis- leg match Club World Cup is a pilot tour- trators during the by 10,000 fans, followed by the Qatar during the World Cup. tinctive role that sport can play nament for the State of Qatar, tournament. distinguished organisation of Al Nuaimi stressed that in mitigating the psychological against Barca and its main objective is to Al Nuaimi, also the Director the Amir Cup with the presence organising the tournament effects of the outbreak of the improve the preparations and of Communication Department of 50 percent of the stadium’s under the repercussions of Coronavirus, which guarantees REUTERS – PARIS various operational plans at the Supreme Committee for capacity, saying that nearly coronavirus allowed them to the improvement of public before hosting the first edition and Legacy, also con- 900 players and technical gain more experience, as the health, the preservation of Angel Di Maria will miss Paris of the World Cup in the Middle firmed that Qatar has achieved teams from 30 teams partici- organisers took advantage of society and its safety, as well St Germain’s Champions East and the Arab world, which great success in its pivotal role pated in the AFC Champions this new phenomenon for the as ensuring a bright future for League last-16 first leg against is what was achieved during in hosting a series of local, League competitions alone, and global community to test their future generations. Barcelona at the Camp Nou this year’s edition that tested regional and international 76 matches played at a number abilities to deal with such situ- She also said that the Qatar with a thigh injury, coach two new World Cup stadiums, events during the year 2020 of World Cup Qatar 2022 sta- ations and emergency matters World Cup is getting more and Mauricio Pochettino said namely Ahmad Bin Ali and despite the pandemic, thus diums, during which the largest in the future. more important day by day in yesterday. Education City. achieving the leadership safe space of its kind - known She said that Qatar is the view of the various challenges “For Angel it’s over. We Every tournament or event position on the global sports as the “medical bubble” - was only country that recently and the current crisis, as it will will communicate in a week hosted by Doha during the map by establishing new set up since the outbreak of the hosted continental and global be one of the largest global to see where we are,” coming period provides us with standards in maintaining the pandemic. sporting events, with large par- gatherings in the post-Corona- Pochettino told a news con- the opportunity to benefit and health and safety of all Qatar is preparing - after ticipation in light of the current virus crisis, and this will ference ahead of today’s develop our expertise in light participants. less than two years - to host the crisis, after implementing undoubtedly be accompanied French Cup last 64 game at of getting closer to organising Al Nuaimi said that sta- World Cup 2022. It aims to test health procedures and by challenges, but it will give Ligue 2 side Caen. the World Cup 2022, she said, tistics showed impressive the readiness of the various measures in coordination with us at the same an important Di Maria sustained the stressing that they continued achievements after the success stadiums and facilities of the the Ministry of Public Health. opportunity to unite the world injury during PSG’s 2-0 victory to work closely with all of hosting the AFC Champions tournament by hosting a Al Nuaimi pointed out that through a shared passion for at Olympique de Marseille, partners to achieve success and League competitions for the number of major sporting the challenges that have faced football. which left them third in the Ligue 1 standings three points behind leaders Lille. PSG travel to Barcelona next Tuesday. Pochettino added that the team would not change their style of play in the absence of Di Maria, who has had a good 2021 so far. “We want to be compet- itive, even without Angel. And it doesn’t mean we have to change our style, we want to play with the same ideas,” he said. Goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who has been out for a week with a groin injury, should be back in time for the Barca clash as PSG said he will make his return to group training Fans at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium during the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2020. PIC: ANVAR SADATH tomorrow.

Shandong to Atletico Madrid’s Luis Suarez looks dejected as Celta Vigo’s Facundo Ferreyra Mourinho ‘very sorry’ for take 'emergency celebrates after scoring their second goal. measures' over referee after death threats REUTERS – LONDON defender Ryan Sessegnon, who is on loan ACL expulsion at German side Hoffenheim, after he had Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose been targetted on social media in REUTERS – HONG KONG Mourinho yesterday sympathised with November. referee Mike Dean after he and his family “We speak with the players if the sit- Chinese Super League side Shandong received death threats in backlash to uation arises,” Mourinho told reporters Luneng have said they have taken “emer- controversial red card decisions. ahead of today’s FA Cup fifth-round tie at gency measures” to try to reverse their Dean was criticised after he sent off Everton. expulsion from this year’s Asian Champions Southampton defender Jan Bednarek “Of course I feel very sorry for Mike League (ACL). during their 9-0 defeat at Manchester Dean, for Tuanzebe, and with every Mike Shandong, who qualified for the conti- United last Tuesday and West Ham United Dean and every Tuanzebe of this world. nental event by winning the Chinese FA Cup midfielder Tomas Soucek during Satur- This week was them, the week before last year, were removed from the compe- Atletico winning day’s 0-0 draw away to Fulham. was others. If the situations goes in the tition on Monday due to “overdue payables” He will not officiate Premier League same direction, next week will be to that led to the Asian Football Confederation games this weekend. others. cancelling the club’s license to play in the run interrupted by A number of players including Man- “I think something has to be done... tournament. chester United’s Marcus Rashford and Axel what we do in our professional lives, the Shandong said in a statement yesterday late Celta leveller Tuanzebe, and Chelsea’s Reece James have success we have, the mistakes we make is they “took emergency measures immedi- also been subjected to online abuse in one thing. Another thing is to go to the ately to respond to the situation” after REUTERS – MADRID and scored a similar goal to put recent weeks. private life and social life. Then, of course, receiving notification from the AFC. Atletico ahead in the 50th Mourinho said he had reached out to something has to be done.” “We are currently working on the issue,” Atletico Madrid striker Luis minute, this time connecting the statement added. Suarez continued his deadly with a Renan Lodi ball to score Shandong have 10 days from being run of form by scoring twice at his seventh goal in four league informed of the decision to appeal their home to Celta Vigo on Monday games. Europa League: Real Sociedad expulsion from the competition, which has but could not prevent the La Celta had faded in the been expanded from 32 to 40 teams for the Liga leaders drawing 2-2 as second half after a strong 2021 edition. Chinese media reported yes- their eight-game winning display before the break but the vs United match moved to Turin terday that Shandong had been expelled streak ended. visitors pulled level in the 89th REUTERS – MADRID exception of passengers who are residents because of the club’s failure to comply with Atletico were missing six minute through debutant or citizens of Spain or Andorra. a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport players due to COVID-19, Facundo Ferreyra, who had Manchester United’s Europa League last-32 The ban was extended on Tuesday to pay an outstanding amount to a former including record signing Joao only been on the pitch for 13 first leg game away to Real Sociedad has until March 2, jeopardising Atletico member of ex-coach Felix Magath’s staff. Felix, and they fell behind in the minutes. been moved from San Sebastian to Turin Madrid’s Champions League last-16 first Shandong had been drawn to play in 13th minute to a well worked The draw interrupted as a result of Spain’s travel restrictions to leg at home to Chelsea, which was due to Group J of the ACL alongside Thailand’s Port goal from Celta when Santi Atletico winning run since their fight the spread of COVID-19 variants, take place at the Wanda Metropolitano FC, Should Shandong’s challenge to their Mina ghosted into the box loss to Real Madrid on Dec. 12 UEFA said in a statement yesterday. stadium on Feb. 23 but can no longer be expulsion not be successful, the club will be unmarked to turn home a cross but they still hold a comfortable The match will kick off at the Juventus held in Spain. replaced by Shanghai SIPG as China’s fourth from Hugo Mallo. advantage at the top of the Stadium at the scheduled time: 6.55 p.m. The fixture cannot take place in France, representative alongside Chinese Super Suarez equalised on the standings, leading second- (1755 GMT) on Feb. 18. Germany, Belgium or Portugal as those League winners Jiangsu Suning, Guangzhou stroke of halftime by sliding in placed Barcelona by eight The game was moved due to Spain’s countries are also restricting travel to and Evergrande and Beijing Guoan. to meet a Marcos Llorente cross points with a game in hand. ban on arrivals from Britain, with the from Britain. WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 09 Day two of the Australian Open in Melbourne Nadal, Barty advance in straight sets

AP - MELBOURNE beat Yannick Hanfmann 6-3, 6-3, 6-4. fresh air,” the 12th-seeded Azarenka In night matches to cap Day 2, fifth- said. “That really took a toll.” Facing a break point late in the third seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas beat Gilles Sloane Stephens lost to No. set, Rafael Nadal sprinted to his left and Simon 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 and No. 9 Matteo 26-seeded Yulia Putintseva 4-6, 6-2, hit a running forehand winner from Berrettini defeated Kevin Anderson, a 6-3 and Paula Badosa, who went way out wide. two-time finalist at majors, 7-6 (9), 7-5, through a three-week isolation A slow-motion fist pump was a 6-3. because she tested positive for very subdued celebration by his In her first match at a major in COVID-19, served for the match but standards. more than a year, top-ranked Ash Barty dropped the last four games and was The 20-time major champion dropped only 10 points in a 6-0, 6-0 beaten by Liudmila Samsonova 6-7 (4), wasn’t going to let the lingering back rout of Danka Kovinic. 7-6 (4), 7-5. soreness that bothered him ahead of Barty lost to Sofia Kenin in the Aus- Two-time Australian Open quar- My back is not perfect, the Australian Open stop him from tralian Open semi-finals last year and terfinalist Tennys Sandgren also went getting through the first round as soon then skipped the US Open and her title through the hard lockdown. After as I said a couple of as he possibly could. defence at the French Open because losing to No. 21 Alex de Minaur 7-5, 6-1, days ago. Every day Laslo Djere, ranked 56th, watched she stayed in Australia during the 6-1, Sandgren said for those who’d the winner land, held out both hands, COVID-19 pandemic. been through it, the tournament is “not that I’m able to go and no doubt wondered what more he Sofia Kenin struggled with nerves feasible.” needed to do to win a point. in her first match as a defending “I’ve never walked on to a court in through, probably When Djere, going for everything, champion at a Grand Slam tournament a Grand Slam knowing that I’m there are more double-faulted to open what became earlier in the day before beating 133rd- probably not going to be able to win,” the last game of the match, a woman ranked wild-card entry Maddison he said. chances to get better. in the crowd at Rod Laver Arena yelled Inglis 7-5, 6-4, In other results on a sunny Day 2 out “It’s all right, Laslo.” But Barty only needed 44 minutes with the temperature in the low 70s That’s the thing now - Easy for her to say. to advance, saying she’d missed tennis Fahrenheit (low 20s Celsius), Aus- there is always a Nadal finished off a 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 “every single day” during her time tralian wild-card entry Alexei Popyrin win in just under two hours yesterday away from the sport. saved four match points to beat No. 13 chance to improve, in his first competitive match of the “The competitor in me missed what David Goffin 3-6, 6-4, 6-7 (4), 7-6 (6), year - he didn’t play for Spain at the this is all about,” she said. “Coming out 6-3 and 17-year-old Spaniard Carlos and that’s why I’m ATP Cup last week because of the back here and really enjoying the thrill of Alcaraz defeated Botic Van de Zands- here playing and stiffness. the fight.” chulp 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 to become the “My back is not perfect, as I said a Garbiñe Muguruza, the Australian youngest man to win a Grand Slam fighting to try to get couple of days ago,” Nadal said. “Every Open runner-up last year, defeated match since Thanasi Kokkinakis in better and then give day that I’m able to go through, Margarita Gasparyan 6-4, 6-0. 2014. probably there are more chances to Players who were forced into hard And an even younger player, myself a chance: Nadal get better. That’s the thing now - there lockdown - not allowed to leave their 16-year-old Coco Gauff, won 6-3, 6-2 is always a chance to improve, and rooms for 14 days after landing in Aus- against Jil Teichmann to set up a that’s why I’m here playing and fighting tralia last month - have struggled in second-round showdown against fifth- to try to get better and then give myself the opening round. seeded Elina Svitolina. a chance.” Victoria Azarenka, a two-time Aus- Other seeded players advancing A minor change to his service tralian Open champion and the runner- included No. 6 Karolina Pliskova, No. motion was among the precautions he up at last year’s US Open, appeared to 21 Anett Kontaveit and No. 25 Karolina took “survive” for the first round. have trouble breathing and received Muchova. “I need to go day-to-day,” he said, medical attention in the second set of No. 13 Johanna Konta left the court “and just try to stay positive.” a 7-5, 6-4 loss to Jessica Pegula of the for medical treatment after winning He’ll next play American qualifier United States. the first set against Kaja Juvan and Michael Mmoh, who outlasted Viktor Azarenka noted how difficult it was retired after dropping serve and falling Troicki 7-6 (3), 6-7 (3), 3-6, 7-6 (3), 7-5. to prepare for a major tournament after behind 2-0 in the second. While Nadal has been slowly being one of 72 players who were in a Mayar Sherif made history for building into the tournament, Russia’s hard quarantine for two weeks - not Egyptian tennis, beating fellow qual- ATP Cup-winning teammates have allowed to leave their hotel rooms for ifier Chloe Paquet 7-5, 7-5 to become been on a roll. any reason - after potentially being the first woman from her country to Daniil Medvedev extended his exposed to COVID-19 on her flight to win a Grand Slam match. winning streak to 15 matches with a Australia. “Obviously, it means a lot,” Sherif 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 win over Vasek Pospisil “The biggest impact for me per- said, “because finally this is barrier that and seventh-seeded Andrey Rublev sonally has been not being able to have I had to pass, a mental barrier.” Kokkinakis ends six-year “I feel it’s an issue of maturity. Tennis players never relax, no mentally. But a win is a win and I’ll take it.” victory wait at matter which round, which tournament. I feel like now I Sofia Kenin on her victory over local wildcard Spain’s Rafael Nadal in action during his first- round match against Serbia’s Laslo Djere at approach it differently. I accept the fact that it can go wrong. Maddison Inglis to open her title defence. the Australian Open in Melbourne yesterday. home Open I’m more open to adaptation, to uncertainty.” Former French Open and Wimbledon champion “The most creative way possible is hitting against the wall and REUTERS - MELBOURNE Garbine Muguruza on how her outlook has changed as soft cushions. Doesn’t work. But I think the biggest impact for she has grown older. me personally has been not being able to have fresh air. That All business Barty Thanasi Kokkinakis completed really took a toll.” an emotional victory over “I pulled my ab and that made it difficult for me to serve and Victoria Azarenka on preparing for a Grand Slam while Kwon Soon-woo of South doles out Melbourne Korea in the Australian Open that is why I had to retire. I feel like I am in a bit of shock so I in quarantine. first round yesterday, his first don’t fully know yet anything. I haven’t yet been able to check ‘double bagel’ win at his home Grand Slam in with the physios.” Johanna Konta on why she retired “We went mini-golfing at Holey Moley, which is pretty fun. It’s since 2015. Kokkinakis, who from her first-round match. probably my favourite mini-golfing spot in the world. My whole beat Roger Federer in Miami team went, and I came in last twice. We’re going again today REUTERS - MELBOURNE in 2018, missed last year’s “My back is not perfect. Every day that I’m able to go through, to get a rematch, and my goal is to not come in last.” Australian Open due to glan- World number one Ash Barty barely broke sweat as she dular fever which caused him probably there are more chances to get better. Today it’s not Coco Gauff on how she is spending her time away from swept into the second round of the Australian Open with to lose 10 kilograms in weight. great. I needed to change a little bit the motion of my serve. the courts. a 6-0 6-0 thrashing of error-prone Danka Kovinic on Rod Elbow and knee injuries That’s what I tried to survive today.” Laver Arena yesterday. have interrupted the 24-year- Rafa Nadal on his back injury. “I try to focus on me, not on social media. I try (not) to be a The Australian won the first 16 points and lost only 10 old’s career and he was forced part of the social media and don’t hear the comparison with of 60 over the 44-minute match as the hapless Kovinic to battle his way back through “I wanted the fans to interact and help me choose what I Rafa. I try to do this.” sprayed 28 unforced errors - almost one every other point the secondary tours. should wear because I think it’s a pretty important topic for a Teenager Carlos Alcaraz on comparisons with fellow -- to succumb to the dreaded “double bagel” scoreline. “Massive relief. Just happy “I wanted to go out there and almost take the sting, take to get in front of the crowd women’s tennis player. They voted for the white and gold, so I Spaniard Rafa Nadal after winning his first Grand Slam the pepper out of the match a little bit and get it on my again and play on that court,” kind of married these two.” main draw match. terms as much as possible right from the get-go and make the Australian wildcard told Belinda Bencic on running a social media poll asking it feel like she had a real mountain to climb,” Barty said. reporters after his 6-4 6-1 6-1 fans to help her choose her outfit. “I have doubles. I’m probably in good enough shape to play “I think that was probably the most pleasing thing win. “It was a great experience. half court decently well. That being said, if it’s hot and humid, overall, right from the start I set the tone and was able to “Had a lot of friends and family “Obviously she’s playing the defending champion, so of course maybe not.” run away with it.” there watching. Just playing Such one-sided contests will do nothing for ticket sales with that energy and that she’s more loose. I obviously am tight. I wasn’t there 100% Tennys Sandgrenon on his plans after his singles exit. at a tournament struggling to get fans through the gates, crowd and being able to win, but Barty will not care a jot as she seeks to become the first Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas shakes hands with France’s so much work behind the homegrown singles champion at the Grand Slam since Gilles Simon after winning his first-round match in scenes, so much pain.” 1978. Once considered a top Melbourne, Australia. The 24-year-old played her first tournament in almost prospect, Kokkinakis reached a year last week and walked away with the title but she a career-high ranking of 69 in knows there will much be tougher tests ahead if she is to 2015 but has slipped down to land a second Grand Slam crown at the end of next week. 267th after skipping the entire She was also the top seed at Melbourne Park last year 2020 season. Kokkinakis after winning her first Grand Slam title at the 2019 French received a congratulatory Open but fell to eventual champion Sofia Kenin in the message from 20-times Grand semi-finals. Slam winner Federer, who is While she has had a long layoff, not having to quar- missing this year’s tournament antine for two weeks before the tournament like her rivals at Melbourne Park due to should be an advantage and her draw was kind. fitness issues. Barty believes, however, that there are more threats “Obviously, I didn’t want than ever in the women’s game. to think about the finish line “I think more than anything is you’re seeing that the but I thought about it from the women’s game is getting so strong, the depth is incredible. first set,” said Kokkinakis, You certainly can’t underestimate anyone,” Barty said. whose parents are Greek “Every single opponent deserves to be here and has the immigrants. “So at 5-Love I felt right to press you as much as possible.” this massive roar and massive Next up for Barty is a second-round match against cheer from the crowd. I started Spain’s Sara Sorribes Tormo or local wildcard Daria tearing up, it was a bit of a soft Gavrilova. moment. It was just so much “It will be a challenge if she gets through,” she said of stuff behind the scenes to get compatriot Gavrilova. back to that point. Yeah, defi- “I always enjoy testing myself against other Aussies. If nitely got a bit emotional.” she does get through, it will be a ripper.” Sport WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2021 08 England crush India by 227 runs in opener

AP — CHENNAI England fast bowler “Collectively, the bowling spell of 3-5 with 6 runs con- James Anderson (centre) unit was good but we needed ceded. He finished the innings England inflicted on India its takes a of Ajinkya to contain a few more runs and with 3-17. first home loss in four years by Rahane on the final day create more pressure. It was a Dom Bess then had Wash- overwhelming the host on the of Chennai Test. slow wicket and didn’t help the ington Sundar caught behind last day of the first Test and bowlers. Credit to England, they as India collapsed to 117-6, winning by 227 runs yesterday. PIC COURTESY: ENGLAND got stuck in and put up a big losing four wickets for 25 runs India, handed a 420-run total on the board.” England in the space of 45 deliveries. target to win but batting for a won the toss and scored 578 Kohli held out England for draw, was bowled out for 192 and 178. India made 337 and 72 from 104 balls, including nine half an hour before tea. England didn’t enforce the boundaries, until Stokes got him Fast bowler James Anderson follow-on on Monday to delib- with a ball that kept low, and turned England’s fortunes in his erately prevent India from soon after India’s 14-Test first over of the day with genius winning. But India began the unbeaten run at home was in-swingers. He bowled last day well. Gill and ended. Shubman Gill with his second Cheteshwar Pujara briskly delivery and Ajinkya Rahane added 33 runs for the second SCOREBOARD with his fifth to reduce India to wicket. Pujara was the first to ENGLAND 1st innings 578 92-4 in the morning session. go, outfoxed on 15 by another INDIA 1st innings 337 Six overs later, Rishabh Pant clever delivery from Leach. ENGLAND 2nd innings 178 was caught at short extra cover, Gill then reached his third INDIA 2nd innings (target 420 - overnight chipping the ball off Anderson half-century in four Tests off 81 39-1) again. India went to lunch deliveries. He added 34 runs R. Sharma b Leach ...... 12 144-6. with Kohli, who was cruising S. Gill b Anderson ...... 50 was comfortable until Anderson was handed the C. Pujara c Stokes b Leach ...... 15 in his first Test after paternity ball. Suddenly, the wickets of V. Kohli b Stokes...... 72 leave, scoring 72 until he was Gill, for 50, and Rahane, for a A. Rahane b Anderson ...... 0 R. Pant c Root b Anderson ...... 11 undone by a Ben Stokes in- duck, were cartwheeling in a W. Sundar c Buttler b Bess ...... 0 cutter that kept low. remarkable first over of reverse R. Ashwin c Buttler B Leach ...... 9 Spinner Jack Leach cleaned swing. S. Nadeem c Burns b Leach ...... 0 up with 4-76 and Jofra Archer “The reverse swing was I. Sharma ...... 5 sealed the win by dismissing huge for us but we knew we had J. Bumrah c Buttler b Archer ...... 4 Jasprit Bumrah. to get the lengths right. I Extras (b8, lb5, nb1) ...... 14 “To take 20 wickets in alien managed to do that,” Anderson Total (58.1 overs, all out) ...... 192 conditions is a brilliant job from said. Fall of wicket: 1-25 (R. Sharma), 2-58 (Pujara), the bowlers,” said England “The pitch was slow so 3-92 (Gill), 4-92 (Rahane), 5-110 (Pant), 6-117 captain Joe Root, man of the reverse swing helps us seamers (Sundar), 7-171 (Ashwin), 8-179 (Kohli), 9-179 match for his double century. first Test but came from behind Following a sixth successive the standings but a 2-1 series feel we can take a wicket any (Nadeem), 10-192 (Bumrah) “Standing here, having won to win that series 2-1. away win, England is on top of win will be enough to still make ball. I am feeling great. We had Bowling: Archer 9.1-4-23-1, Leach 26-4-76-4 the first game is very pleasing. India has lost in Chennai for the world Test championship the final. a good tour of Sri Lanka and (nb1), Anderson 11-4-17-3, Bess 8-0-50-1, Stokes (But) we know India are going the first time since 1999. The table. But it needs two more “We didn’t put enough have managed to carry on the 4-1-13-1 to come back hard at us.” teams remain in Chennai for the wins to qualify for the final pressure on England with the form here as well.” Toss: England Result: England won by 227 runs In Australia recently, India second Test of the four-match against New Zealand in June. ball in the first innings,” Kohli Anderson also removed Series: England lead the four-Test series 1-0 was bowled out for 36 in the series starting on Saturday. India dropped to fourth in said. Pant on 11 for a destructive Root hails England ‘GOAT’ Anderson

South Africa after reverse-swing masterclass coach Mark Boucher REUTERS — CHENNAI never let you down.” Root, who was to be still getting better, still being man-of-the-match after his as fit as he has ever been, it’s a huge England captain Joe Root (pictured)ictured) 218218 in thethe firstfirst inningsinnings creditcredit to hishis desiredesire to playpla for For someone at 38 to be likened James Anderson to “fine ofof hishis 1100th00th TTest,est, England. He’s a great role modelmo to still getting better, still wine” after the 38-year-old’sar-old’s marvelledmarvelled thethe rest ofof thethe ggroup.”roup.” reverse-swing masterclasss helpedhelped at Ander-Ander- AndersonAnderson saisaidd hehe was happyhap to being as fit as he has ever secure a comprehensive victoryictory in son’sson’s sskillkill getget Shubman Gill and AjinkyaAji been, it’s a huge credit to the opening Test againstst IndiaIndia andand Rahane clean bowled on a track yesterday. where the ball usually kept low.lo his desire to play for Anderson had managedd twotwo “It’s“It’s alwaysalways nice to seese the England. He’s a great role wickets, both tailenders, inn a stumpsstumps cartwcartwheelingheeling out of the model to the rest of the subdued display duringng ground, doesn’t happenhappen very India’s first innings on a flatat oftenoften at mymy age,age, so yeah group. track at Chennai’s MAA rreallyeally happy witwithh it,” Chidambaram Stadium. AnAndersonderson totoldld a vvideo It turned out he hadd conference.conference. Joe Root Boucher bemoans saved his best for the final England’sEngland’s rorotationt England captain morning when his spec- policypolicy mmeans tacular three-wicket burst AndersonAnderson iiss not mental frailties effectively snuffed out certaincertain to playpla the said he would put his hand up when India’s hopes of securing a secondsecond Test, espe- England pick their playing XI for the after Pakistan draw in the ciallycially witwithh the next match, also in Chennai, from series-opener. ttendencyendency to Saturday. “He is like a fine wine - aalternatelternate him “Yeah, of course. When a series defeat getting better and better,”,” longevity.longevity. aandnd SStuart batsman gets in rhythm and in form, Root said after equallinging “He’s“He’s the GOATGOAT of BroadBroad tot get they want to just keep batting, keep Michael Vaughan as England’snd’s most English cricket,” RoRootot thethe bebest out that rhythm going, and it’s the same REUTERS — LAHORE successful Test captain followingwing the ssaidaid of the LancashiLancashirere ofof tthehe vet- for bowling, you want to keep that 227-run victory. bowler.bowler. erans.era going as much as possible,” he South Africa coach Mark Boucher blamed “When there’s pressure,e, hehe willwill “F“ForForor someonesosommeonene atat 38 AndersonAnAnde added. mental fragility and an inability to drive home their advantage in key moments of the second Test for the side’s series loss to Pakistan that WI must centred around now all too familiar batting Kohli has no regrets picking collapses. South Africa were defeated by 95 runs in improve in Rawalpindi on Monday to lose the two-match series 2-0. every aspect: Nadeem ahead of Kuldeep Chasing a daunting 370 for victory, they were well-placed just after lunch on the fifth day on Simmons REUTERS — CHENNAI spinners had failed to put pressure “We were quite clear on what we 241 for three with two set batsmen, but lost their on England, the India captain said, wanted to play, what combination last seven wickets for the addition of only 33 runs. REUTERS — DHAKA India captain Virat Kohli (pictured) “Yeah, that’s a fair assessment. we wanted to play. There are no “The way we played in big moments really did not regret picking Shahbaz “You need your bowling unit col- regrets whatsoever on that decision.” cost us,” Boucher told reporters. Nadeem over but felt lectively to step up and create enough It was a bitter return to action for “Our match awareness of when to tighten West Indies need to find a way the support spinners had let the team pressure on the opposition and we Kohli who missed the last three Tests the screws was lacking. That is the reason why keep up the momentum down in their opening Test defeat by probably didn’t achieve that in this in Australia to attend the birth of his we lost the game. rather than just battling to one England yesterday. game. daughter. Yesterday’s loss was his “We didn’t bat well, didn’t field well but our off victories, coach Phil Left-arm orthodox spinner “In the second innings we put fourth consecutive Test defeat as bowling stood out. We created opportunities (in Simmons said after his side Nadeem managed four wickets enough pressure on them, but not captain and Kohli blamed it on how the field), we just didn’t take them. That cost us, secured a thrilling three- overall, including two as England enough to win a Test match, not India batted in the first innings when in this game alone, about 150 runs.” wicket win over Bangladesh amassed 578 in the first innings to enough to come back into the game.” they managed 337 in reply to Eng- Boucher feels there was a hangover from in the first Test in Chattogram take early charge of the contest, while Formerrmer EEnglandngland cacaptainptain land’sland s mammoth totaltotal.. heavy series defeats in India and Sri Lanka in on Sunday. all-rounder Washington Sundar went Michaelel VaugVaughanhan waswas amonamongg “I“I think the Test probablprobablyy shiftshiftede recent years that created anxiety within the team Chasing an imposing wicketless. those ssurprisedurprised by what he in theirtheir ffavouravour whwhenen wwee batted iin when cool heads were needed. 395-run target, the visitors’ Kohli did not name the duo but called tthehe “ridiculous“ridiculous the first innings,”innings,” KohliKoh “I think it’s more mental. There’s lots of scars remarkable fifth day counter- when asked if he felt the support decision”on” notnot ttoo saidsaid at the ppresen-resen from past tours to the sub-continent. Some guys attack was led by debutant playay tation ceremony.ceremony. who have had technical issues in the past, like Kyle Mayers who struck 210 Kuldeep,eep, “We“We werewer Aiden Markram, spent time at the crease and not out to help his team to but KoKohlihli lookinglooking to bat llongon was able to fight his way through it. It’s more victory late in the final session. You need your bowling said hhee andand wewe wwereere notno mental than anything else. “Every time you win, it is wantedted ableable to do that.that. AAndn “It’s stupid ways to get out in really important more important you look at unit collectively to step up varietyi ety I don’tdon’t tthinkhink therethere wawas moments of the game.” ways to improve. When a and create enough havingi ng enoughenough applicatiapplicationo South Africa have no Test series for the fore- team loses, they will try to pickedd offoff-- sshownhown by us as a seeable future after Australia pulled out of a improve, so we as winners pressure on the opposition spinnersrs Rav-Rav- battingbatting unit.” planned tour of the country in March-April citing have to do the same. We have and we probably didn’t ichandranndr a n TheThe secondsecon fears over the COVID-19 pandemic, despite to improve in every aspect,” Ashwinin anandd Test,Test, also ini Cricket South Africa agreeing to all their safety Simmons said. “I am tired of achieve that in this game. Sundar.r. “W“Whenhen ChennChennai,a demands. these one wins and then you playay two off- beginsbegins ono “It will be good to get some four-day games struggling for the next three spinners,ers, KuldeepKuldeep Saturday.Saturda in the domestic competition and get everyone or four games. We have to Virat Kohli more oorr llessess becobecomesmes playing,” Boucher said, looking for a silver lining. make sure we don’t go back- India captain a similarar kind of spinner takintakingg the “That’s where the guys get some good con- wards again.” ball away,”way,” Kohli told a video fidence and match awareness gets conference.ence. highlighted.”