QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Salah strikes twice as Liverpool to third in Premier League MONday, FEBRUARY 1, 2021 page 14 Attiyah cruises to record-breaking 15th win at International Rally Abdulaziz Al Kuwari and Khalid Al Suwaidi make it a Qatar podium 1-2-3; Kuwait’s Al Thefiri starts MERC 2 title defence in style Tribune News Network Losail

Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah con- tinued to rewrite his own his- tory by securing a comfortable victory in the Qatar Interna- tional Rally on Sunday. The Qatari and French co-driver Matthieu Baumel managed the pace perfectly over the closing stages and guided their Autotek Motor- sport Volkswagen Polo GTi R5 to a winning margin of 1min 48.4sec over Abdulaziz Al Ku- wari and his new Irish co-driv- er James Fulton. Attiyah duly broke his own record of achieving a 15th victory in Qatar and a record breaking 77th MERC win in the 218-event history of the series. Baumel earned his 26th regional rally victory on the 41st running of the Qatar event to overhaul both Chris Patterson and Giovanni Bernacchini in the Hall of Fame. He now has his sights set on Ronan Morgan’s re- cord of 41 successes. “Today we did a really good job,” said Attiyah. “Leg Winners of Qatar International Rally 2021 Nasser Al Attiyah and French co-driver Matthieu Baumel (centre), first runners-up Abdulaziz Al Kuwari one was a nice fight between and his Irish co-driver James Fulton (left), and second runners-up Khalid Al Suwaidi and his Portuguese co-driver Hugo Magalhaes during the me and Kris Meeke. It was (be- prize-giving ceremony at Katara on Sunday. (Pics: QMMF) coming) a nice race but when Nasser Al Attiyah and Matthieu Baumel celebrate their win at Katara. Kris get out from the race it was an easy day for us today. It was great to have some high level in the Qatar Rally. If you look this year we had seven R5s. It was an amazing race. Thanks to the QMMF. I hope to continue in this level for this championship and this year.” Al Kuwari won three of the second’s day’s six special stages in his Tok Sport Skoda Fabia R5 and was pleased with the runner-up spot after in- frequent rally appearances in recent seasons. Khalid Al Su- waidi and his navigator Hugo Maghalaes rounded off the po- dium places to make it a Qa- tari driver 1-2-3. Any hope of seeing Al-Atti- QMMF’s Executive Director Amro Al Hamad applauds as Khalid Al Suwaidi yah and visiting WRC star Kris and Hugo Magalhaes raise their trophies at Katara on Sunday. Meeke battling for stage wins on the final day fizzled out when the Ulsterman was un- It has been a very successful start for the able to restart after the team International Middle East Rally Championships. We discovered engine damage on his SRT Skoda Fabia R5 that (QMMF) added a lot of soul into the Qatar International was sustained on stage five. Rally, and a full podium of Qatari names which includes “Unfortunately no day two Nasser Al Attiyah, Abdulaziz Al Kuwari – after a gap of more for us,” said Meeke. “On the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) senior committee member Abdulrazaq Al Kuwari (left) and Losail Circuit Sports Club (LCSC) than a year and a half, Khalid Al Suwaidi – after more than last stage on Saturday, quite Vice-President Khalid Al Remaihi (right) with Abdulaziz Al Kuwari and James Fulton at Katara on Sunday. three years. Fourth overall Nasser Khalifa Al Atya. It has close to the finish, there were been amazing to see them all excel. Complete domination some waves (bumps) and I was on a similar line to my first in all five classes. Co-driver Nasser Al Kuwari proving that pass in the morning. But the he’s on top in Group N when it comes to navigation. car skipped and landed nose Saleh Al Saif, the first Saudi participant after a long time in on the next dip. This damaged Qatar and he made history by winning the newly-added the front bumper and took the T4 category. We have been astonished by how ell the water pipe off the radiator. That put an end to our rally. I rally came out given the challenging Covid times, the really enjoyed the experience. restrictions, to put in place the new protocols to ensure It’s a different kind of rally- everyone’s safety. ing here. It’s a bit like a jigsaw puzzle and to try to work it out Amro Al Hamad, Executive Director, QMMF is a challenge enough.” Nasser Khalifa Al Atya and R5 1hr 57min 16.9sec Lancer Evo X (MERC 2) 2hr Lebanese co-pilot Georges 4. Nasser Khalifa Al Atya (QAT)/ 34min 09.7sec Nader gave the host nation a Georges Nader (LEB) Ford Fi- 10. Zakariya Al Amri (OMN/ another driver inside the top esta R5 2hr 09min 41.6sec Mohamed Al Mazroui (OMN) four and Kuwait’s Meshari Al 5. Meshari Al Thefiri (KWT)/ Subaru Impreza (MERC 2) 3hr Thefiri began the defence of Meshari Al Thefiri of Kuwait and Nasser Al Kuwari. Saudi Arabia’s Saleh Al Saif and his co-driver Spanish co-driver Oriol Nasser Al Kuwari (QAT) Mitsubi- 01min 00.2sec his MERC 2 title in impressive Vidal on their Can-Am Maverick X3 following their T4 triumph. shi Lancer Evo X (MERC 2) 2hr 11. Henry Kahy (LEB)/Carlos fashion by winning the show- Al Aufi reached the finish in drive in his Skoda Fabia 1.6 to 17min 10.9sec Hanna (LEB) Skoda Fabia 1.6 room category and finishing seventh and eighth and Leba- take 11th place. 11 of the original for his rivals. Lebanon’s Jad Al ternational Rally at the end 6. Saleh Al Saif (SAU)/Oriol (MERC 3) 3hr 01min 40.3sec fifth overall in his Mitsubishi non’s Ahmad Khaled was 17 starters completed the rally. Aawar retired before the end of of February. Vidal (ESP) Can-Am Maverick X3 2021 Qatar National Rally – po- Lancer Evolution X. ninth. Rally first timer Sheikh A furious three-way battle the morning’s loop. 2021 Qatar International Rally – (T4) 2hr 19min 45.2sec sitions after SS11 (unofficial) FIA T4 cars are permitted Suhaim Al-Thani retired his waged for outright success in This event was held under positions after SS11 (unofficial) 7. Rashid Al Mohannadi (QAT)/ 1. Khalid Al Mohannadi (QAT)/ in gravel rounds of the series R5 Skoda before the last stage the Qatar National Rally be- the chairmanship of QMMF 1. Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah Yousef Juma (JOR) Subaru Kirill Shubin (RUS) Polaris RXR this season and Saudi Ara- and missed out on a potential tween Ahmed and Khalid Al President Abdulrahman Al (QAT)/Matthieu Baumel (FRA) Impreza (MERC 2) 2hr 22min 1000 (T3) 2hr 17min 42.6sec bia’s Saleh Al Saif showed that top 10 finish. Mohannadi and Ahmed Allouh. Mannai, senior committee Volkswagen Polo GTI R5 1hr 31.3sec 2. Ahmed Allouh (QAT)/Firas the Can-Am Maverick X3 is a Oman’s Zakariya Al Amri They each won a stage on the member Abdulrazaq Al Ku- 50min 48.5sec 8. Zakariya Al Aufi O( MN)/Am- Allouh (QAT) Can-Am Maverick competitive package, setting a duly rounded off the top 10 and morning loop but time delays wari and the QMMF’s Execu- 2. Abdulaziz Al Kuwari (QAT)/ mar Al Balushi (OMN) Mitsubishi X3 (T3) 2hr 26min 15.3sec 3. fifth fastest stage time on the Lebanon’s Henry Kahy clinched cost Allouh his chance later tive Director Amro Al Hamad. James Fulton (IRL) Skoda Fabia Lancer Evo IX (MERC 2) 2hr Ahmed Al Mohannadi (QAT)/ way to a superb sixth place. maximum points in the MERC on and Khalid Al Mohannadi Action will resume in the R5 Evo 1hr 52min 36.9sec 33min 51.9sec Mubarak Al Khulaifi (QAT) Can- Qatar’s Rashid Al Mohan- 3 category for two-wheel drive secured the win by the margin FIA Middle East Rally Cham- 3. Khalid Al Suwaidi (QAT)/Hugo 9. Ahmad Khaled (LEB)/Musa Am Maverick X3 (T3) 2hr 42min nadi and Oman’s Zakariya vehicles after another measured of 8min 32.7sec after problems pionship with the Oman In- Magalhães (POR) Skoda Fabia Djiyerian (JOR) Mitsubishi 24.3sec. 12 Monday, February 1, 2021 Sports FIFA CWC Qatar 2020: Meet the Contenders

Al Duhail SC SC Country: Qatar Country: Egypt Qualified: Host nation champions Qualified:CAF Champions League winners FCWC record: First appearance FCWC record: Sixth appearance (best fin- Head coach: ish: 3rd in 2006) As reigning (QSL) champi- Head coach: Pitso Mosimane ons, Al Duhail SC will be flying the flag of the host Widely regarded as world football’s nation at this year’s FIFA Club World Cup. The Red most decorated club, Al Ahly SC have been Knights will be making their debut in the competi- a dominant force in Egyptian and African tion after edging Al Rayyan to last season’s league football, with their success earning them title by a single point. Founded in 2009 as Lekh- the accolade of ‘Club of the Century’ from wiya SC, the club rebranded under the name Al the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Duhail when it merged with El Jaish SC in 2017. Since coming into existence, Al Duhail’s impact on Qatari club The Cairo-based outfit will be making their football has been impressive, as last season’s league triumph was their seventh QSL title. The club’s honour sixth appearance at a FIFA Club World Cup after defeating arch-rivals Zamalek SC 2-1 in the 2020 CAF Cham- roll also includes three Amir Cup titles, three crowns and two Sheikh Jassim Cup successes. Al pions League final. Their best finish in the competition was third at Japan 2006. Founded in 1907, Al Ahly’s Duhail’s domestic success over the past decade has also earned the club nine consecutive appearances in trophy cabinet includes a remarkable 139 titles in domestic and international club competitions. They are the AFC Champions League since 2012, with the outfit set to take part again in 2021. Al Duhail are led Egypt’s most decorated club, having won 42 titles, 37 Egyptian Cup crowns and by head coach Sabri Lamouchi, who is a familiar face to followers of the QSL. The former France international 11 Egyptian Super Cups. This includes a domestic league and cup double triumph last season. The Red enjoyed spells with Al Rayyan, Umm Salal and Al Kharaitiyat in the latter stages of his playing career. He was Devils are also Africa’s most successful club, with 20 titles to their name. This includes the CAF Champions also El Jaish’s last head coach before the club joined Lekhwiya to become Al Duhail in 2017. The current League (9), CAF Confederation Cup (1), CAF (6) and the defunct CAF Cup Winners’ Cup (4). Led squad includes several members of Qatar’s national team, including key players that led the Maroons to AFC by former South African international Pitso Mosimane, Al Ahly’s current squad includes Egyptian international Asian Cup glory in 2019. They include centre back Bassam Al Rawi, midfielders and Assim Madibo, as goalkeeper and club captain and left-back Ali Maaloul, who was in Tunisia’s World Cup well as the tournament’s best player and top goal scorer . squad at Russia 2018.

nom- he eyes inated to Tof the represent the football world will Oceania region at Hyundai FC soon be on the Middle Qatar 2020, withdrew Tigres UANL Country: Korea Republic Country: Mexico Qualified:AFC Champions League winners East for the first major from the competition Qualified:CONCACAF Champions League winners FCWC record: Second appearance (best finish: 6th place tournament of the year. because of COVID-19 FCWC record: First appearance in 2012) Head coach: Ricardo Ferretti Head coach: Hong Myung-bo The FIFA Club World quarantine meas- No debutant at a FIFA Club World Cup will feel After claiming their second AFC Champions Qatar 2020™, ures required by au- more delighted at having the opportunity to face the title with a 2-1 victory over Iranian side Persepolis in presented by Alibaba thorities in New Zea- world’s best clubs than Tigres UANL. The Mexican Qatar last month, Ulsan Hyundai FC will make their outfit have been a strong contender to win the CON- second FIFA Club World Cup appearance when they Cloud, will be held from land. CACAF Champions League title in recent years – only return to the Middle East in early February. The Korea 4-11 February after the an- The tournament will also to come up short at the final stage on three previ- Republic club’s triumph in Doha followed their maiden nual competition was delayed ous occasions. Last month, however, Tigres finally success as Asian club champions back in 2012. showcase two FIFA World reached the regional summit when they defeated Founded in 1983 as Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i, the by two months due to the Cup Qatar 2022™ stadiums: Los Angeles FC 2-1 in the final of the 2020 edition. Tigers concluded their 2020 campaign with success COVID-19 pandemic. Ahmad Bin Ali and Education Founded in 1960, Club de Futbol Tigres de la in the AFC Champions League. On the domestic front, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon have been Ulsan narrowly missed out on more silverware by fin- The top clubs from five City. one of the more consistent sides in Mexico in re- ishing runners-up in 1, three points behind of football’s six continental As part of our FIFA Club cent seasons. Among their seven Liga MX titles, champions . It was the same confederations will join host World Cup build-up, qa- their last four triumphs were achieved between 2015 opponent that Ulsan fell short to in the two-leg Korean and 2019 (three Apertura titles, one Clausura crown). FA Cup final, as Jeonbuk secured a league and cup dou- nation representatives Al tar2022.qa takes a closer The Monterrey-based outfit’s honour roll also includes ble with a 3-2 aggregate win. Duhail SC in determining look at the six clubs three Copa MX titles and three consecutive Campeon Along with their two AFC Champions League titles, Ul- de Campeones crowns (2016, 2017, 2018). In his third san’s honour roll includes winning K League 1 in 1996 and who will be crowned seeking to win the spell as Tigres head coach, Brazilian-born Ricardo Ferretti 2005, the Korean FA Cup in 2017, five Korean League Cup the world’s best. prestigious title. is a familiar face in Mexican club football. titles and a Korean Super Cup in 2006. At Qatar 2020, the Auckland City Nicknamed ‘Tuca’, the 66-year-old has been in his current Tigers will be led by a new head coach. Late last month, Korea (SC) role since 2010. That longevity and commitment has finally Republic football legend Hong Myung-bo replaced Kim Do-hoon, FC, who been rewarded with the opportunity to showcase his Tigres side who led the side to Asian glory and secured the club’s berth at the were on a global stage. Ferretti’s squad is a mix of Mexican and foreign upcoming Club World Cup. Hong’s squad includes several players who talent. Defenders Hugo Ayala, Diego Reyes and Carlos Salcedo all have appeared in the FIFA World Cup for Korea Republic. appeared at a FIFA World Cup for Mexico, while winger Javier Aquino featured for El Tri at Brazil 2014 and Russia 2018.

FC Bayern Munich SE Palmeiras Country: Germany Country: Brazil Qualified:UEFA Champions League winners Qualified:CONMEBOL Libertadores winners FCWC record: Second appearance (best finish: FCWC record: First appearance winners in 2013) Head coach: Head coach: Hans-Dieter Flick One of the most successful clubs in A German and European football power- Brazilian football, SE Palmeiras were the house, FC Bayern Munich will be looking to follow last club to book their place at the FIFA Club a highly-successful 2019-20 season by claiming World Cup Qatar 2020 following a dramatic a second FIFA Club World Cup title in Qatar. 1-0 victory over fellow Brazilian side Santos Their debut appearance in the competition in the 2020 final on 30 resulted in the Bavarians winning the title at January 2021. Their triumph in the Maraca- Morocco 2013. They also claimed the precursor to the Club World Cup on two occasions, winning the Intercon- na Stadium in Rio de Janeiro was the Sao Paulo outfit’s second title, having won the South American club crown tinental Cup title in 1976 and 2001. Bayern secured their berth at Qatar 2020 after claiming their sixth UEFA for the first time back in 1999. Though they will be making their Club World Cup debut in the Middle East, Palmei- Champions League title with a 1-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the final last August. Founded in 1900, Bay- ras appeared in the 1999 Intercontinental Cup final, where they lost 1-0 to English giants Manchester United. ern are Germany’s most successful club, having won a record number of Bundesliga (30), Cup (20), Super Cup They also won the first intercontinental club tournament in the Copa Rio back in 1951. Known as O Verdao (The (9) and League Cup (6) titles. Alongside their six UEFA Champions League titles, Bayern’s success in European Greens), Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras was founded in 1914 and hold the record for the most Campeonato club football includes winning the now-defunct UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in 1967, the UEFA Cup (now UEFA Europa Brasileiro Serie A championships with ten titles to their name. Their honours list also includes three Copa do League) in 1996 and two UEFA Super Cup crowns in 2013 and 2020. Led by former Bayern midfielder Hans- Brasil titles and a Copa dos Campeoes crown in 2000. Regionally, the club have also enjoyed great success in Dieter Flick, the Bavarians boast some of world football’s top players. Last month, Polish international Robert , having won 25 titles over the course of a century. Palmeiras are led by head coach Abel Lewandowski was crowned The Best FIFA Men’s Player after topping the scoring charts in both the Bundesliga Ferreira, who became the second Portuguese and third European coach to lead a South American club to a Copa and UEFA Champions League, while German international and FIFA World Cup™ winner Manuel Neuer was Libertadores title. In 2019, fellow countryman Jorge Jesus led Brazilian side Flamengo to the title and a runner- named The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper. Lewandowski was also named in the FIFA FIFPro Men’s World11 2020 up finish at the last Club World Cup in Qatar. Ferreira’s squad includes two members of Brazil’s gold-medal win- alongside Bayern team-mates Alphonso Davies (Canada) and Joshua Kimmich (Germany). ning side from the Rio 2016 Olympics in goalkeeper Weverton and centre back , while his defensive backline features Paraguayan international Gustavo Gomez and Uruguayan left-back Matias Vina. Sports Monday, February 1, 2021 13 FIFA CWC 2020 to take place amid strict health and safety protocols Tribune News Network be back in the country for the Club Doha “We’re very pleased to be hosting the FIFA World Cup.” Club World Cup for the second time in Qatar’s successful implementa- Following the successful host- February and will ensure it’s delivered in a tion of COVID-19 safety measures ing of the AFC Champions League way that safeguards and prioritises the health has been applauded by the global and Amir Cup finals, Qatar is gear- football community, including ing up to host the FIFA Club World and safety of fans, players and officials. The many who attended the inaugura- Cup™ for the second time, with tournament offers us a golden opportunity to tion of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on matches taking place from 4-11 Feb- test our stadiums, training sites and 18 December – an event which safe- ruary 2021. infrastructure as we continue to gear up for ly hosted thousands of fans. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 the FIFA World Cup in 2022.” Commenting on the impor- pandemic, the six-team tournament tance of Qatar hosting the FIFA – which was originally due to take Nasser Al Khater, Chief Executive Officer, LOC Club World Cup, Nasser Al Khater, place in December 2020 – will be Chief Executive Officer of theL OC, held amid strict health and safety said: “We’re very pleased to be host- protocols which have been fine- a vaccination certificate obtained a In recent months, Qatar has suc- ing the FIFA Club World Cup for tuned in recent months. week after the second dose or pre- cessfully hosted 77 matches during the second time in February and Players and officials will be part sent record of COVID-19 infection the AFC Champions League by im- Players and officials will be part of medical bubbles designed to protect their will ensure it’s delivered in a way of medical bubbles designed to pro- after 1 October 2020. plementing a strict bubble system health and wellbeing. that safeguards and prioritises the tect their health and wellbeing. Ad- At the stadiums and surround- and setting an international bench- health and safety of fans, players ditional safety measures will include ing precincts, fans must wear a mark when it comes to the safe re- – from our team hotel, to the train- – which culminated in victory at Al and officials. The tournament offers regular COVID-19 testing, safe mask, adhere to social distancing, sumption of professional football. ing ground and on match day itself.” Janoub Stadium on 19 December. us a golden opportunity to test our transportation methods, regular take a temperature check on arrival Qatari striker Almoez Ali played “Knowing that health and safety He said: “The health and safety stadiums, training sites and infra- disinfection of all tournament ven- and show the status of their Ehteraz for reigning Qatar Stars League measures were also implemented on of everyone involved in the tourna- structure as we continue to gear up ues, including training and media track and trace application. Clinics champions Al Duhail SC during the bus, in the dining area, changing ment was the number one priority. for the FIFA World Cup in 2022.” facilities, as well as the provision of will be set up within each tourna- the AFC Champions League and he rooms and all common areas was I was tested on arrival and spent Al Khater added: “During a medical staff in stadiums through- ment venue to treat anyone who dis- spoke of his experience during the also very reassuring. When com- time in quarantine before joining global pandemic which is affecting out the competition. plays COVID-19 symptoms. tournament. bined with regular testing, we felt at up with my teammates. We were everyone, we continue to believe in A limited number of fans will FIFA Club World Cup Qatar “As players, we felt very safe,” ease that we could we focus on the tested before every match and the the power of football to unite people be allowed to attend the matches 2020™ stadiums will operate at said Ali, who will also represent Al important task at hand – the foot- bubble system was strictly imple- and spread joy during these difficult – in line with Qatar’s public health 30% capacity throughout the tour- Duhail during the FIFA Club World ball,” he added. mented throughout our entire time times. Qatar is committed to play- guidelines. To be able to collect a nament. A total of seven matches Cup. “All the precautions were clear- Korea Republic international in the country. We were all thank- ing a role in ensuring the continua- ticket, fans are required to provide will be played in two FIFA World ly communicated ahead of time, and Kim Tae-hwan played for Ulsan ful to Qatar and the Local Organis- tion of top-level club football while a negative COVID-19 antigen test Cup Qatar 2022™ stadiums: Ah- that level of support was tangible in Hyundai FC during their successful ing Committee for making us feel the pandemic continues to affect within 72 hours of a match, present mad Bin Ali and Education City. every touchpoint of the competition AFC Champions League campaign safe and secure, and are happy to people’s lives.”

PREMIER LEAGUE Palmeiras emerge Copa Salah double sends Liverpool third Libertadores champs DPA minute when he unleashed London a spectacular strike into the roof of the net before setting Liverpool jumped to third up Jack Harrison to finish the in the Premier League on third goal. with late win over Santos Sunday after Mohamed Salah “Last couple games I’ve scored twice in a 3-1 win at been a little bit off it. It’s al- DPA West Ham United. ways nice to get a goal,” Bam- Berlin The Premier League cham- ford said. pions are now four points be- “It was nice to get the as- Palmeiras of Sao Paulo are hind leaders Manchester City sists, a lot of the boys would’ve the Copa Libertadores champi- and one away from second- expected me to shoot, but I ons for the first time since 1999 placed Manchester United put it on a plate (for Harrison after winning a dramatic all- with a tally of 40 points. Pat- to score).” Brazilian final 1-0 over city ri- rick Bamford made Liver- German manager Tuchel vals Santos on Saturday at the pool’s new position possible took over from the sacked for- legendary Maracana stadium. after he helped 12th-placed mer Blues midfielder Frank The sole and winning goal Leeds United stun Leicester Lampard on Tuesday after came only in the 99th minute City 3-1 with a goal and two signing an 18-month contract. thanks to striker Breno Lopes assists. He oversaw an unevent- in a game that took 104 min- And Chelsea completed the ful 0-0 draw against Wol- utes to hear the final whistle. first win of Thomas Tuchel’s verhampton Wanderers on The match had a slow pace tenure as manager on Sunday Wednesday but was delighted in the first half with both nerv- with a 2-0 win over Burnley at when his new team claimed ous teams moving tentatively. Stamford Bridge. victory under his guidance for The result were 45 minutes Liverpool ended a run of the first time. with few chances, no shots on five games without a win on Two of the club’s Span- target and many fouls. Thursday after defeating Tot- ish defenders scored the goals The two sides had good goal tenham 3-1, but it came at with Cesar Azpilicueta blasting opportunities after the break - a cost by losing German de- Callum Hudson-Odoi’s pass Palmeiras with a free-kick from fender Joel Matip and winger into the top corner five min- midfielder and Sadio Mane to injury. Juergen utes before half-time. Marcos Santos with defender Lucas Klopp confirmed before his Alonso then netted before the Verissimo - but the spark of a team arrived in London that end of his first appearance better half soon died off. Mane’s muscle strain was “not since September. Palmeiras keeper Wever- serious but serious enough to “It should be a signal to ton denied Felipe Jonatan miss this game.” our guys up front that we the opener with a nice save in Players of Palmeiras celebrate with the trophy on the podium after winning the Copa Libertadores football tournament by defeating Santos 1-0 It was another name on needed two defensive players the 76th minute. Later Santos in the all-Brazilian final match at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday.( AFP) an extensive injury list for the to score,” Tuchel pointed out. coach Cuca saw a red card after Reds, who are already without “We lack at the moment a touchline scuffle with an op- ertadores qualification zone. a recognised central defender that last precision in the box. posing player. “It’s painful to get so close, with the long-term absences of We will work on this. But in When the game looked but that’s football, one team Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez the end I cannot care less. We set to go to extra-time Breno has to win,” Alison said. plus the latest knocks to Matip are happy to have the win.” Lopes emerged as a hero. The “Nobody believed we and Fabinho. Chelsea’s win sees them striker headed in a cross from would get here. We have to Captain Jordan Hender- overtake Everton in seventh to make it 1-0 and secure appreciate these boys, they son dropped back to help on 33 points, while Burn- the title for Palmeiras - on the fought a lot. It’s painful but academy graduate Nat Phillips ley drop to 16th place on 22, incredible mark of 99 minutes. we have to move forward. We in Klopp’s 12th different pair- which is eight points clear of This was Lopes’s second knew it was going to be a diffi- ing since the loss of van Dijk in the relegation zone. goal for the team he joined in cult game. We conceded a goal October. November 2020. in the last minutes and it was After an uneventful first The first one he scored in a hard to strike back, there was half, Curtis Jones made an league game against Vasco da no time. But we fought until instant impact off the bench Gama on Wednesday. the end,” he added. in the 57th minute when “It’s a day I will never for- Palmeiras secured a spot he played Salah through to get, to score the Libertadores in the Club World Cup semi- break the deadlock with an winner,” Lopes told broad- final and will face the winner expertly curled finish. Liver- caster SBT. “Our supporters of the match between Mexico’s pool launched a counter attack deserve it. Palmeiras have Tigres UANL and South Ko- for Salah’s second when the been working for a long time Palmeiras’ Breno Lopes (left) celebrates after scoring against Santos during their all-Brazilian Copa Liberta- rea’s Ulsan Hyundai. Egyptian winger neatly tucked for this title. I’m very happy, I dores final at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, late on Saturday.( AFP) The other semi-final will away Xherdan Shaqiri’s cross. can’t explain the feeling. feature European champions Georginio Wijnaldum “From the moment I took ras’ staff trusted me. Today I Santos midfielderA lison de- move forward” as the domestic Bayern Munich against either added a late third with Craig this challenge I had to be pre- proved I’m ready to play here,” scribed the last minute defeat as league is not over yet and the Al Duhail of hosts Qatar or Dawson grabbing a consola- pared for everything. Palmei- Lopes said. “painful” but said they “have to club are seven points off the Lib- Al Ahly of Egypt. tion goal for West Ham. Liv- erpool’s climb up the table was possible after Leicester were undone by an outstanding per- formance by Bamford. Suarez brace helps Atletico Madrid go ten points clear in La Liga Harvey Barnes struck in the 13th minute to give the DPA Morata only managed 12 in 34 as Lemar cross-shot past Jer- Mauro had bundled over Lemar. hosts a short-lived lead be- Barcelona matches. Suarez got the first emias Ledesma to make it 2-1. Negredo got his second in cause Stuart Dallas burst goal in the 28th minute when Referee Jesus Gil then the 71st minute after Jose Gime- through to restore parity for Luis Suarez scored twice as he curled a free-kick over the gave Cadiz a penalty after nez failed to clear and Jan Oblak Leeds on their next attack. Atletico Madrid beat Cadiz 4-2 wall from the edge of the area. Koke’s handball in injury time had to save at close range from There were two more goals away on Sunday, extending their Atletico’s lead was short of the first half. Atletico loanee Ivan Saponjic as before the break from Leices- Liverpool’s Egyptian midfielder lead at the top of La Liga stand- lived as Alvaro Negredo scored Gil over-ruled his decision Cadiz pushed for the equaliser. ter’s Ayoze Perez and a header Mohamed Salah (up) watches as ings with a 10-point lead over the equalizer seven minutes after reviewing the incident, de- But Koke scored from An- from Leeds frontman Bamford his shot beat West Ham United’s second-placed Real Madrid. later with a curling shot from ciding the ball had struck Koke’s gel Correa’s assist on minute but both were disallowed for Polish goalkeeper Lukasz Fabians- Suarez has now scored 14 just inside the area. arm. Suarez scored his second 88 and Atletico held on to go offside. ki for their second goal during the Luis Suarez celebrates scoring goals in 16 games. Last season A minute before half-time from the spot five minutes into 10 points clear of second-placed Bamford delivered a mo- English Premier League at The against Cadiz CF on Sunday. (AFP) Atletico’s top scorer Alvaro Saul Niguez flicked in a Thom- the second half after Marcos Real Madrid. ment of brilliance on the 70th London Stadium on Sunday. (AFP) 14 Monday, February 1, 2021 Sports QOC signs agreements with Aamal, Ibin Ajayan for Team Qatar Supporters Program

QNA Doha

The Qatar Olympic Commit- tee (QOC) signed on Sunday two agreements with Aamal QPSC and Ibin Ajayan Pro- jects, under which the two companies join Team Qatar Supporters Program. HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, Aamal QPSC Chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassem Al Thani, Chairman of Ibn Ajay- an Projects Mohammed bin Mahdi Ajayan Al Ahbabi at- tended the signing ceremony. The support of Aamal and Ibn Ajayan Projects contrib- utes to providing the optimal environment for preparing and equipping elite athletes for major tournaments and setting up the training camps HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, Aamal QPSC Chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassem Al Thani, and Chairman of Ibn Ajayan Projects Mohammed bin Mahdi Ajayan Al required for them. Aamal Ahbabi attended the signing ceremony. signed a three-year agreement with QOC. Ibn Ajayan Projects Games in Tokyo. tournaments, including 2020 to expand and develop this Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim the massive practice of these this sponsorship will achieve signed a four-year agreement HE the QOC President Olympic Games in Tokyo. national role, which is positive Al Thani commented: “I am sports in the Qatari society. In its desired goal, and that we with QOC. affirmed that the role of the He added that national for the country and its global pleased to witness the co- support of the importance that will witness Al Adaam team HE QOC President Sheikh private sector in supporting companies, and within the sporting position. operation with the Olympic our wise government attaches achieving great success.” Joaan thanked Aamal and Qatari sports is important and framework of their commit- Sheikh Joaan indicated that Committee and support the to promoting the importance Chairman of Ibn Ajayan Ibin Ajayan Projects, appreci- essential, as it is increasing ment to their social respon- all the QOC capabilities are, AlAdaam team, which we of sport in human life as part Projects Mohammed bin Mah- ating their valuable contribu- steadily, praising Aamal and sibility, are considered one of and will remain fully devoted hope will see excellence and of a healthy lifestyle, this di Ajayan Al Ahbabi expressed tion in supporting elite ath- Ibin Ajayan Projects for their the main partners in the de- to the Qatari sports teams and success in the coming period. sponsorship is an important his happiness to contribute letes, which will be positively active involvement in support- velopment of the sports move- Qatari athletes in all individual In Aamal, we appreciate the part of our company’s social to support Team Qatar and reflected on their participa- ing elite athletes, which will be ment in the country and that and team games and tourna- great efforts made by the Qa- responsibility, as we carry out Qatari athletes, stressing the tion in the upcoming events, clearly demonstrated through they play a role that deserves ments to achieve new accom- tar Olympic Committee to many activities aimed at rais- state provides all capabilities foremost among which is the participation of these Qa- thanks in this regard, stressing plishment at all levels. sponsor sports and commu- ing awareness of best prac- to raise the level of sports and the upcoming 2020 Olympic tari athletes in the upcoming the importance of continuing On this occasion, HE nity activities and to promote tices. Finally, we hope that athletes in Qatar.

AUSTRALIAN OPEN Alvarez, Caballero dominate Rebooted Osaka ready Hilton Salwa Beach triathlon Tribune News Network Doha to make amends Hilton Salwa Beach & Re- sort’s marina was indeed the Agencies warmest place to be as the latest Melbourne Qatar National Triathlon Series event was held on Saturday. The last time we saw Naomi Challenging conditions con- Osaka front the press in Mel- tinued to very much character- bourne, she cut a glum figure ise this race. With 100 meters after a dispiriting loss to Coco cut due to previous day storm, Gauff in the third round of from the 750m swim to stay Australian Open 2020. within the shelter of the marina “This one hurts a little bit and the bike course an atypi- more,” she said after her title cally long 28km, this was a day defence ended. “I feel bad for for cyclists with both strength … my entire team. We came and skill as wind pushed at over here to win the tournament, 50kmph down to the newly re- and I’m sort of, like, the vessel opened Saudi border. that everyone’s hard work is Competitors fully expected put into. And I wasn’t able to to work hard after the U-turn do what I was supposed to do.” at Bu Samra and perhaps were Season 2020 was a pro- pleasantly surprised that the found one for the Japanese star, up-wind section was not more who became the highest annual of a battle. Overall, average earner in women’s professional speeds were comparable to a sporting history, and a vocal more typical race day. advocate for racial justice. She It was Spanish couple pair was simultaneously impactful of Aday Alvarez and Isora Sosa on court, winning her third ma- Caballero who took wins in jor trophy at the US Open. Japan’s Naomi Osaka hits a return during a training session in Melbourne on Sunday, ahead of the men’s and women’s races. That was the last time Australian Open Grand Slam tennis tournament starting February 8. (AFP) Isora swam 9:15, convinc- Osaka played an official ingly beating the two swim match, meaning she enters specialists Sarah Nicholls and the Australian summer on an There’s so many interesting new people. I think I’m one of the new people. As long Michelle Shillabeer (both Tri- 11-match winning streak. as Serena’s here, I think she’s the face of women’s tennis. Club Doha). Her challenger Her transformation into on the bike was Julie Melville one of the sport’s most deco- I feel tennis is very interesting because it’s like a video game where you can select a (Rasen Adventure Shop), who Isora Sosa Caballero was the fastest in individual disciplines of Hilton rated and visible stars prompt- character and everyone’s different. We all have our different strengths and weaknesses. took back 33 seconds and on Salwa Beach Resort & Villas Qatar National Triathlon Series 2020-21. ed one journalist on Sunday the run Toni Snoxell (TriClub to ask how it felt to be “seen Three-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka of Japan Doha) went 73 seconds faster Triathlon Federation we had ERINI (TriClub Doha) 1:54:05 3. as the face of women’s tennis for the best 4.6 KM run split the privilege to host the Hilton Rasha SAJEER KALANDAN (TriClub these days”. naments in recent memory. maybe don’t try to divert your her semifinal win over Jen- (17:35) of the day but that was Salwa Beach Resort & Villas Doha) 2:03:19 Women 18-39 1. “There’s so many interest- And it turns out Osaka feels energy to college just yet. nifer Brady was “probably like nowhere near enough to over- Triathlon on the resort prem- Isora Sosa Cabalerro 1:18:35 2. ing new people. I think I’m similarly. “I’m glad she was able top two matches I’ve played in turn the swim advantage that ises. Hilton is a corner stone Toni Snoxell (TriClub Doha) 1:20:59 one of the new people,” she “I feel tennis is very inter- to win a Grand Slam so fast. my life”. Sosa Caballero had on either. in hospitality and with this 3. Adeline Cormary (TriClub Doha) answered. “As long as Serena’s esting because it’s like a video Hopefully she’ll continue to After her firstouting at the The fastest in the individu- comes our responsibility to 1:25:44 here, I think she’s the face of game where you can select a grow, which I know she will.” Day At The Drive exhibition al disciplines; Sosa Caballero, support and take part in major Women 40+ 1. Julie MELVILLE women’s tennis.” character and everyone’s dif- Barty is someone she in Adelaide against Williams, Melville and Snoxell ranked as sporting events and helping (Rasen Adventure Shop) 1:20:32 That may be slightly mod- ferent. We all have our differ- hoped to avoid. Osaka is happy to be playing the top three overall. with Qatar’s Vision 2030.” 2. Daniela SPOSI (TriClub Doha) est, given the explosion in Osa- ent strengths and weakness- “I don’t want to play her in her lead-up matches at the For Aday too, a dominant The Qatar National Tri- 1:22:45 3. Karen MONTGOMERY ka’s social media following, es,” she said. a Grand Slam final, but maybe same venue as the year’s first swim (07:43) was a good foun- athlon Series is supported by (TriClub Doha) 1:31:11 endorsement portfolio and “I find it really fun to watch in another tournament,” Osa- Grand Slam event. dation for a perfect race. Oth- Qatar Olympic Committee and Relay: 1. Ahmed Atari / Fadel Al stature in the past 12 months. everyone else play because I ka smiled. She opens her summer ers, with the exception of Guil- sponsored by Rayyan, Wa- Khater / Khalid Alqahtani (QTRI But it is true she forms personally watch them. I’m “All the matches we played campaign at the WTA Gipps- lame Soutter (Team Al Jassra), ter, Carrefour, Rasen Sports, TEAM REALLY 1) 1:06:29 2. Stuart part of a burgeoning cast of like, ‘Oh, I would have gone for were really tough on me, the land Trophy against either Ajla not coming within minutes Sports Corner and Yalla Toys. Bloor / Marwan Aljalham / Rachid exciting women’s stars who this shot’, but they do some- most recent one being in the Tomljanovic or Alize Cornet. of him on the bike and even Boudalla (Rasen Adventure Shop) will contribute to the ‘fullest’ thing different. For me, it’s finals of Beijing I guess two “I would say during the Ethan Bennet’s (Millfield Tri- Results 1:06:57 3. Abdulrahman Alolan / field at a Grand Slam event in something that I learned from.” years ago. I know she has the exhibition I just tried to have athlon) incredible 15:13 run Junior Men 1. Matteo FRANCESCHI Nayef Al Mesallam / Mohammad a long time. Swiatek is someone who ability to win Grand Slams. fun and experiment a little,” didn’t bring him close. (TriClub Doha) 1:14:02 2. Patricio Alsulaiti (QTRI TEAM REALLY 2) Osaka will be joined by has inspired her. She won the French. she said. First Qatari athlete was Saad GUTIERREZ (TriClub Doha) 1:16:08 1:09:21 (best all Qatari team) world No.1 Ash Barty, who “I thought it was really “I think that’s something “I feel like there’s a lot of Almejali (Qtri) in 8th in his cat- 3. Liam HALLEUX (TriClub Doha) Qatari Category has not played for 11 months. amazing how she was able to, that’s going to continue to shots that I’m missing. I would egory. Saad led a trio of Mubarak 1:27:29 Men 18-39 1. Aday ALVA- Qatari Junior: 1. Abdulaziz AL-JABER Bianca Andreescu will return like, be super focused in all her happen. love to be able to do them Alajji (NeverWasted Team) and REZ DIEZ DE ULZURRUN 1:07:01 2. 1:27:41 2. Abdulaziz MAJID AL- to competition after an even matches,” Osaka said of the But not in Australia, if properly, be confident with Abdulla Al Menhali (QTri) over Ethan BENNETT (Millfield Triathlon) GHANIM 1:48:00 Qatari Men 18-39 longer absence. The two new- Polish teenager’s run to the Osaka has her way. how I feel about it. Drop shots the line to close out the top 10 in 1:08:46 3. Erik SOLBERG (TriClub 1. Saad ALMEJALI (Qtri) 1:17:42 2. est major champions – Sofia Roland Garros title. The world No.3 is a for- is one of those shots. I feel like the 18-39 age group. Doha) 1:12:49 Men 40+ 1. Steve Mubarak ALAJJI (Neverwasted team) Kenin and Iga Swiatek – are “I ate dinner with her last mer champion in Melbourne I’m getting better at slicing. As many as 263 competi- MACKLIN (TriClub Doha) 1:11:14 2. 1:18:05 3. Abdulla AL MENHALI in the mix. And so is Williams, year here. She was talking and is at her very best on hard That’s something that I prac- tors registered for the event. Christophe OWENS (TriClub Doha) (QTRI) 1:19:08 gunning for a 24th Grand about how she might go to courts. The level she attained ticed during the off-season. Etienne Gailliez, Coun- 1:16:17 3. Simon MORTIMER Qatari Men 40+: 1. Soliman ALAD- Slam singles title. college. I was telling her, like, at times during her US Open “As for everything else, try General Manager, Hilton, 1:16:17 AWI (QTRI) 1:26:33 2. Abdulaziz It shapes as one of the she’s really good, and I think run was extraordinary, with hopefully you’ll see it during Qatar, said, “We’re so proud Junior Women 1. Ailsa CAMERON ALMOHANNADI 1:27:50 3. Nasser more exciting women’s tour- she’s going to do really well. So the 23-year-old revealing that my matches.” (ausopen.com) that together with the Qatar (TriClub Doha) 1:31:11 2. Anvitha MUBARAK (QTRI) 1:31:04.