www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAGE | 21 PAGE | 23 RossiRos takes pole Al Arabi edge in Japan, Al Kharaitiyat LorenzoLo third for key victory

SUNDAY 16 OCTOBER 2016 • 15 MOHARRAM 1438 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar UCI chief praises Qatar for developing cycling culture

By Rizwan Rehmat cycling out here. There’s a lot of premature to make the final call and from those watching the race “We have a contingency plan The Peninsula interest in supporting, funding on Qatar’s role as hosts of the UCI action from the sidelines. in place but it is just that: a contin- and sponsoring cycling by way of World Road Championships. “Some riders have said some gency plan,” Cookson said. running events here or sponsor- With today being the last day positive things as well; we should “As at this moment in time, it ing and running teams. That’s a of the eight-day championship, it bear that in mind,” Cookson said doesn’t look like it will be needed. DOHA: UCI President Brian good thing, I think,” Cookson told is the first time that the prestigious when asked about reaction from The full distance will be raced,” Cookson yesterday said cycling the media. event has stopped by at a country riders about the warm weather. Cookson said. interest is growing in the region In 2002, Qatar became the in the Middle East. “Obviously this is a part of Just a day before the cham- and praised the efforts of the first country in the region to “I don’t think we’re going to the world where cycling is not an pionships kicked off in Doha, Local Organising Committee stage a UCI event and a few years be in the Gulf every two or three immediately popular sport, but I Cookson said cycling was winning (LOC) in Qatar for ‘doing a good later the Qatar Cycling Federation years for the World Champion- think we’ll see a good crowd on over new audiences pretty fast. job’ in hosting the UCI World Road (QCF) added a women’s event to its ships but let’s make an appraisal Sunday. It is what it is. We’re here,” “We’ve witnessed a tremen- Championships. annual calendar. at the end of the week,” Cookson he said defiantly. dous change in fortunes for our Cookson was speaking at a After Qatar’s ground-breaking said. Cookson said despite con- sport in the last two decades. I press conference during a break success, countries like Oman and “We’ve got to bear in mind that cerns about the rising mercury come from the UK where cycling in competition yesterday. the UAE followed with their own it’s not just about spectators on the during competition time, there activity used to be moderate. But all “I think it’s fair to say that this UCI events in what was seen as a ground, but also about television had been ‘no actual cases of heat that has changed now. More peo- is a part of the world where inter- positive jump in cycling popular- images and the television audi- exhaustion.’ ple than ever are riding bicycles on est in our sport is growing,” Cook ity in the region. ence as well,” he said. “We have not had any cases of a daily basis. The same is the case said. Four years ago, Qatar suc- “The decision to come here heat exhaustion or heat stroke, as with Switzerland, where I’m cur- “It’s still relatively small in cessfully bid to host this week’s was made four years ago, there I’ve been advised by the medical rently based,” Cookson said. terms of the number of specta- UCI World Road Championships, was a lot of discussion about it at team. We’ve had plenty of cases “People have woken up to the tors on the roadside but we are another first for the sport-loving the time,” Cookson said. of exhaustion, plenty of cases of health benefits of cycling. Rid- here. They are doing a good job nation. When questioned about the riders being extremely fatigued, ing a bicycle to work helps cut for us, they’re promoting the race Cookson - who served as pres- warm weather that has engulfed which you get at any World Cham- your spending on fuel. People well, the standard of organisation ident of British Cycling from 1996 the Qatari capital over the past pionships, but no actual cases of are wholeheartedly embracing is high,” he added to 2013 before taking charge of week, Cookson said there was heat exhaustion, so I’m advised by the new culture of healthy liv- UCI President Brian Cookson “There’s a lot of interest in the world body said it would be mixed reaction from the riders our medical team,” Cookson said. ing,” he said.

Defending UCI Road World Champion, Slovakia’s Peter Dideriksen stuns favourites Sagan . to become world champion

Danish prodigy comes from behind to spoil Dutch star ’s birthday party

Cavendish and Sagan The Peninsula ready for battle DOHA: Denmark’s shocked pre-event AFP favourites to win the Women’s Elite Road Race at the UCI Road World Championships Doha 2016 DOHA: Britain’s Mark yesterday. Cavendish (pictured) will The twenty-year-old Dan- be eying a possible sec- ish prodigy came from behind ond world road race title to spoil Kirsten Wild’s birthday in Doha today, but should party for the world title, timing face a stern challenge her sprint to perfection to take from reigning champion the coveted rainbow jersey. Peter Sagan. Finland’s Lotta Lepisto took For the first time third, with defending champion since 2011 the World of Britain finish- Championship course is ing fourth. best suited to sprinters, “I think it is a surprise for giving in-form Cavend- everybody,” said Dideriksen Denmark’s Amalie Dideriksen (centre) on her way to win the Women’s Elite Road Race at the UCI Road World Championships ish plenty to be excited immediately afterwards. about. The 31-year-old “I know I am OK in the sprint, Doha 2016 yesterday. Briton won that race in but taking the world champion- 2011 in Copenhagen when he was the height of his pow- ship is unbelievable.” The strong Dutch team had that had no impact on her final senior podium place at the ers. After seemingly being eclipsed by German Marcel Dideriksen already won the dominated the later stages of the WOMEN’S ROAD RACE position. World Cycling Championships Kittel as the world’s best sprinter since, Cavendish was juniors world title twice and she race and it seemed like the even- 1. Amalie Dideriksen (Denmark) 3:10:27” Wild, record winner in the for Finland. back in form this season, winning four stages during is only the sixth woman to win tual winner would come from 2. Kirsten Wild () Ladies Tour of Qatar, went full Before the sprint finish it July’s Tour de France before claiming Olympic silver the senior world Road Race title their ranks before Dideriksen’s 3. Lotta Lepistoe (Finland) pace when Vos gave way, but the looked as if America’s Amber on the track in Rio in August in the omnium. after also having won junior gold last minute intervention. 4. Elizabeth Deignan (Great Britain) sprint was just a little too long. Neben was on course for a rare Qatar also holds good memories for Cavendish, (France’s CatherienMarsal and The Dane finished the 5. (Italy) “It would’ve been good if double. who won the Tour of Qatar in February for the sec- Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, Lithua- 134-kilometre course in a time 6. Roxane Fournier (France) there were more breakaways. But She had already taken gold in ond time after also succeeding in 2013. nia’s Diana Žiliūtė, Briton Nicole of 3hr 10min 27sec. 7. () I’m not really disappointed,” she the individual time trial earlier Today’s race could set up a fascinating encounter Cooke and Dutchwoman Mari- Pre-race favourite Wild, a explained. this week and the 41-year-old 8. Sheyla Gutierrez (Spain) with one of the star’s of the year. anne Vos the other five). four-time winner of the Ladies She also added that despite made an almost decisive breaka- 9. Joelle Numainville (Canada) Peter Sagan won’t be giving up the rainbow jersey The tight finish looked set Tour of Qatar, admitted she was losing the gold medal, her birth- way carving out a lead of almost he won last year easily and has proved that even in flat to deliver gold for Wild after unhappy to have come second on 10. Jolien D’Hoore (Belgium) day party will definitely occur: a minute in the closing stages. sprints he can match the pure sprinters. sterling work by her Dutch team- a flat course with such a strong “It’s my birthday today and I’m The UCI Road World Cham- Last year he saw off the challenge of Australia’s mates set her up for a potential team ride. but she was brought back to going to have a party tonight.” pionships Doha 2016 draw to a Michael Matthews to win gold and he has continued title-winning finish 300m from Wild suffered a crash at a the bunch by team mate Rox- The surprise bronze medal close today when the men com- his good form throughout 2016. the line. roundabout in the first full lap, ane Knetemann, but admitted for Lepisto, was the first ever pete in the road race. SUNDAY 16 OCTOBER 2016 21

Piercy maintains Rossi takes pole in lead in rainy Napa Japan, Lorenzo third

AFP World Champion shrugs-off the pain after LOS ANGELES: Bill Haas a horrifying crash to defied difficult weather con- ditions to thrust himself into grab a front row spot contention on Friday at the US PGA Tour Safeway Open, where Scott Piercy remained Qatar Cricket Association and Qatar Airways officials present a trophy atop the leaderboard when Reuters darkness halted the rain- to a champion skipper. delayed second round. Haas, playing in the mar- MOTEGI: Yamaha rider Valentino Rossi quee group on Thursday and took pole at the Japanese MotoGP yes- QCA honours Friday with Phil Mickelson terday, with team-mate Jorge Lorenzo and defending champion recovering from a horrifying crash in Emiliano Grillo, teed off early practice to qualify third. Qatar Airways in the worst of the wind and Rossi, second in the championship rain in Napa, California, north race 52 points behind Marc Marquez, of San Francisco. lapped the Motegi circuit in one minute Cricket champions They played just three 43.954 seconds, ambushing the Spaniard holes before play was late in a lively qualifying session. suspended. Rossi’s team mate Lorenzo earlier After a delay of more than escaped serious injury after his bike high- The Peninsula putting in improved showing at two hours, Haas returned and sided near turn two and hurled him into the international level, our long completed a two-under par 70 the air before he slammed back down on association deserves a fair share that gave him an eight-under his back. of this success. I want to congrat- total of 136 and the clubhouse The Spaniard was air-lifted to hos- DOHA: The Qatar Cricket Associ- ulate all the winners and wish they lead. pital for tests but returned to the track, ation (QCA) honoured the winners will continue to excel in the future,” Piercy, who fired a shrugging off the pain to grab a front row of the Qatar Airways Cricket Tour- Ali Akbar Farabi said. course-record 62 on Thurs- spot next to Marquez on a day of glori- nament 2016 at a glittering prize QCA President MA Shahid day, was four-under through ous sunshine. distribution ceremony held at Hol- thanked Qatar Airways and its CEO 10 holes when play was halted, “I thought I injured my left foot but iday Villa Hotel recently. Akbar Al Baker, and said, “The QCA and atop the leaderboard on finally it was just a muscle problem,” he Al Feroz Youngsters won the is proud with the way the game is 14-under par. said in trackside interview. Division A crown, while the Divi- progressing in the nation. A lot of Piercy’s day was high- “I had a lot of pain ... I forgot about the sion B championship was claimed credit must go to our long-time lighted by a hole out for eagle crash and the pain. Movistar Yamaha MotoGP’s Italian rider by Tusker Club and Travels partner Qatar Airways for support- at the par-five ninth hole. “Rossi made a great, great lap time. Valentino Rossi in action during the emerged the winners in the Divi- ing our various activities. We wish American Johnson Wag- But better than expected (for me) after MotoGP-class fourth free practice session sion C. It is worth mentioning that this relationship grows well beyond ner was 12-under through the flight this morning.” at the Japanese Grand Prix in the Twin more than 60 outfits contest for many more years to come.” 14 holes and ’s Paul Rossi, the seven-times premier class Ring Motegi Circuit in Motegi yesterday. three titles every year. QCA General Secretary Manzoor Casey was 11-under through champion and runner-up last year, was Ali Akbar Farabi, Manager Tick- Ahmad said, “The sport has grown 12 when play was halted for thrilled to grab pole, having felt under the eting Operation, Qatar Airways, in Qatar many folds over the years. the day. Casey was three- weather during the race weekend. JAPANESE GRAND PRIX GRID Doha, was the chief guest. The QCA Every year, we’re taking measures under four the day after five “I’m not at 100 percent, I’m a little bit 1 S T R O W officials present on the occasion which help the game and players. birdies and two bogeys. sick,” he said. 1. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 1min 43.954sec, 2. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) at included M A Shahid (President), We’ll continue our efforts as we World number 12 Casey “When I saw 43.9 (seconds) I was very 0.180sec, 3. Jorge Lorenzo (ESP/Yamaha) 0.267 Manzoor Ahmad (General Secre- have a long way to go. -- who finished the 2015-16 happy. tary), Gul Khan (Head of Domestic “Qatar Airways has been playing season with back-to-back “It will be very important to start from Cricket), Syed Hassan Raza (Tech- a crucial role in rising level of the 2ND ROW runner-up finishes and a pole tomorrow and we will see.” nical Committee Head), Mohammad local cricket. This would have not 4. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 0.340, 5. Cal Crutchlow (GBR/LCR Honda) 0.448, 6. fourth-place at the US PGA Marquez has an outside chance of Asif (Accountant) and Jamshaid been possible without the assistance Tour Championship -- says clinching the championship on Sunday, Aleix Espargaro (ESP/Suzuki) 0.540 Ahmad (Office Administrator). of Qatar Airways. We hope that this he’s looking at the first tour- but must win the race and have Rossi fin- “We’re delighted to gather here partnership between Qatar Airways nament of the US PGA Tour’s ish 15th or lower and Lorenzo no better 3RD ROW once again to celebrate another and the QCA will prosper further 2016-17 season not so much as than fourth. He was in the box seat to take 7. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Suzuki) 0.585, 8. Hector Barbera (ESP/Ducati) 1.026, 9. Pol year of hard work and success and help the sport reap benefits.” a fresh start, but as a chance to pole after posting a quick early lap but Espargaro (ESP/Yamaha Tech3) 1.278 by teams and players, contest- “We all congratulate the cham- finish out the calendar year on made errors on his later efforts as Rossi ing in the Qatar Airways Cricket pion teams for their success. In the a high note. He’s seeking his roared to the top of the timesheet in the 4TH ROW Tournament 2016. Qatar Airways next season, we hope more teams first US PGA Tour title since final minute. 10. Danilo Petrucci (ITA/Ducati Pramac) 1.828, 11. Scott Redding (GBR/Ducati and the Qatar Cricket Association would lift their level and challenge 2009. Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso will start Pramac) 1.873, 12. Alvaro Bautista (ESP/Aprilia) (Fastest Q1 time - 1:45.614) have been working together to ele- the winners strongly, which will While Haas climbed up fourth on the grid in front of fifth-placed vate the standards of the sport in make the matches tougher and more the leaderboard, playing part- Cal Crutchlow and Aleix Espargaro. the country. With the Qatar team interesting,” he added. ner Mickelson survived some wayward efforts off the tee to post a second straight 69 for a six-under total that had him tied for 10th at the end of play. Bautista stuns raging Djokovic in Shanghai Lee leads in AFP made,” Djokovic grumbled to media. “When you go to change your Korea as racquet, I went to change my (ripped) shirt and then he gives me rivals falter SHANGHAI: Novak Djokovic a warning. Well, he was the star of smashed his racquet, angrily tore his the show. That’s what he wanted to shirt and raged at the chair umpire be today.” Reuters as he was stunned in the Shang- Nineteenth-ranked Bautista put hai Masters semi-finals by Roberto away two brilliant forehands as he Bautista yesterday. fought off break points in the ninth INCHEON: American Alison The defending champion and game, and he then pounced as Djok- Lee shot a four-under 68 to 12-time Grand Slam winner was ovic was serving to stay in the first move three strokes clear of the broken once in the first set and set. field after the third round of three times in the second as he lost A sublime disguised lob set up the KEB Hana Bank Champi- 6-4, 6-4 in his first defeat to the break point and when Djokovic onship yesterday as her main Spaniard. fired wide to hand over the set, he title challengers at the $2m The world number one has been snapped and repeatedly slammed co-sanctioned event in South out of sorts since he won his first his racquet into the deck. Korea faltered. French Open title in June, losing Djokovic grabbed a towel and Lee started the day a shot early at Wimbledon and the Olym- cleaned up his racquet splinters as behind overnight leader Brit- pics and complaining he had lost the second set got underway, but tany Lang with Cristie Kerr motivation. tempers frayed again at 1-1 over a and South Korean number one The 29-year-old Serb, whose top serve he felt was long. Park Sung-hyun in hot pur- ranking is under threat from Andy “Are you seeing anything today? suit two strokes further back. Murray, hummed to keep up his spir- Are you seeing anything?” fumed However, all three of her its during his quarter-final escape the Serb, gesticulating at Bernardes. rivals failed to break par on against German qualifier Mischa Then Djokovic, angry at failing Saturday, with Lang and Kerr Zverev. to secure a break point in game five, carding matching 72s and But the three-time champion theatrically tore his shirt at the neck Park slumping to a one-over failed to keep his cool in a stormy and went to change it mid-game, Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain hits a return against Novak Djokovic of Serbia in their men’s singles semi- 73 after back-to-back double appearance at Shanghai’s Qi Zhong receiving a time violation warning. bogeys at the 14th and 15th left Tennis Centre as his nosedive in They exchanged breaks before finals match at the Shanghai Masters tennis tournament in Shanghai yesterday. INSET: Djokovic smashes her seven shots off the pace. form continued. Djokovic was broken again to be left his racket after losing a point during yesterday’s semi-final. Lee missed a short putt Djokovic later admitted he staring at defeat -- only to save three on the third hole but hit back “didn’t feel good” mentally, and it match points before getting it back as he arrowed a pass down the line. played this week. I’m feeling really in today’s final. Djokovic was seek- straight away with four con- showed as he continued his tirade on serve in a tense game nine. “I’m so happy,” said Bautista, good on this court and I hope to ing his 11th title in China -- where secutive birdies. Another at Brazilian chair umpire Carlos But a forehand into the net who had lost all five previous enjoy it until the last point here.” he has never lost a final -- after bogey at 14 was followed by Bernardes. brought up a fourth match point matches against Djokovic and is now Murray, the world number winning three Shanghai Masters, birdies at 15 and 18. “I just don’t understand, you on his own serve, and this time in his first Masters final. two, and Gilles Simon play later six China Opens and the 2008 Ten- know, the decisions that he has Bautista grabbed the opportunity “I’m just so happy how I’ve to decide who will meet Bautista nis Masters Cup. 22 SUNDAY 16 OCTOBER 2016 SPORT Stylish Chelsea hammer the Foxes as City stumble again

culmination of their astonishing title David Silva just before halftime, De Infantino fires Conte answers his triumph. But Claudio Ranieri’s side Bruyne’s poor penalty was comfort- still seem to be suffering a hangover ably saved by the Dutchman and critics with a brilliant from those celebrations. Everton cashed in when Romelu back at Loew display against They have made a dismal defence Lukaku hit City on the break in the of the title so far and are the first 64th minute with his sixth goal of the over World Cup the champions as reigning English champions to lose season. Jagielka then fouled substi- Guardiola’s city fail to their opening four away games since tute Aguero, only for the Argentine to Blackburn in 1995-96. miss his second penalty of the week criticism impress Having vowed to rotate his team following his failure for Argentina more often to cope with their hectic against Paraguay, but a Nolito header Reuters schedule, Ranieri left Riyad Mahrez, finally broke Everton’s resistance in Islam Slimani and Danny Simpson the 72nd minute. Agencies on the bench ahead of Tuesday’s At the Emirates Stadium, Theo ZURICH: FIFA President Gianni Champions League clash against Walcott scored twice as 10-man Infantino has said Joachim Loew Copenhagen. Arsenal beat Swansea City 3-2 in (pictured) needs to be more open Yet the changes did little to put a Bob Bradley’s first game in charge to helping football’s development LONDON: Chelsea gave Antonio spring in Leicester’s step and For the of the Welsh club. after the Germany coach criti- Conte a well-timed vote of con- fifth time this season, poor defend- The in-form England forward cised plans to expand the World fidence as Diego Costa and Eden ing from a corner was Leicester’s struck midway through the first Cup. Hazard inspired a 3-0 win against downfall as Nemanja Matic was given half and added his second from Loew, whose Germany side spluttering champions Leicester, space to backheel the cross and, with close range when Jack Cork’s defen- won the 2014 World Cup, has while Manchester City’s dominance Foxes captain Wes Morgan reacting Chelsea’s Victor Moses sive header fell conveniently into his criticised Infantino’s plans to over Everton, at Etihad Stadium too slowly, Costa was left unmarked (right) celebrates after path after 33 minutes. increase the amount of teams ,barely got them a 1-1 draw, yesterday. to finish clinically at the far post. scoring their third goal as Swansea were offered a lifeline from 32 to 40 or 48 and said it Conte had to endure speculation Watching the influential N’Golo Leicester City’s Wes Morgan five minutes later when an error by would dilute the quality of the he was in danger of being sacked just Kante at work in Chelsea’s midfield reacts during their English Switzerland international Granit tournament. three months into his Chelsea reign underlined how much the France Premier League match at Xhaka gifted possession to Gylfi “It’s easy for the world cham- after bookmakers suspended betting international’s presence has been Stamford Bridge in London, Sigurdsson, who struck a beautiful pions to have an opinion about the on his dismissal on Thursday. missed by Leicester since he moved England, yesterday. curling shot beyond Petr Cech and World Cup,” Infantino told report- If there was any doubt in the to the Blues in the close-season. into the far corner of the net. ers on Friday. mind of Chelsea owner Roman Lacking the relentless tempo Mesut Ozil’s fierce volley from “What can I say to him? That Abramovich about Conte, this con- that carried them to the title, Leices- an Alexis Sanchez cross gave Arse- he must be open to renewal, for fident performance, which gave ter were bereft of any menace and it nal their third goal, only for Borja football, for football development. Chelsea a second successive Pre- was no surprise when Chelsea pun- Baston to pull one back for Swan- “Not everyone has the chance mier League victory, gave a glimpse ished them with a second goal in the capped Chelsea’s stylish show with both had penalties saved by Maarten sea and Xhaka’s afternoon ended to qualify for the World Cup every of the potential force the former Italy 33rd minute. a fine goal in the 80th minute. Stekelenburg in a 1-1 draw with early when his foul on Modou Bar- time like Germany do.” coach is trying to build. Pedro, lying on the turf after slip- Exchanging passes with substitute Everton. row earned him a straight red card. The FIFA council is studying Costa’s seventh league goal of ping, poked a pass to Hazard, who Nathaniel Chalobah, Nigeria winger City retained their Premier Tottenham dominated possession proposals for the format and size the campaign put Chelsea ahead and scampered clear as the ball bounced Moses ran clear into the penalty area League lead but now only on goal at the Hawthorns without scor- of the 2026 World Cup. Hazard added the second before Vic- fortuitously off his shoulder before and planted a low shot past Sch- difference from Arsenal after their ing and were made to pay the price These range from keeping the tor Moses sealed the rout. rounding Schmeichel and slotting meichel before celebrating with an dominance - they had 18 shots on when former Spurs star Nacer Chadli current 32-team competition, to a The last time Leicester walked into the unguarded net for his first extravagant back-flip. goal- was dented by more prob- scored eight minutes from time. But 48-team tournament put forward out onto the Stamford Bridge pitch, Chelsea goal since August. Manchester City squandered lems from the spot as they have now Dele Alli’s 89th-minute equaliser by Infantino last week. The coun- they were given a guard of honour But Leicester remained second their 100 percent home record after missed half their penalties this sea- preserved Spurs’ unbeaten league cil is due to make a decision by by Chelsea’s players to mark the best all over the pitch and Moses Kevin de Bruyne and Sergio Aguero son. After Phil Jagielka had fouled record. January 10, 2016.

Mourning Messi scores on return in Deportivo rout Thailand asks to move World Cup qualifier AFP away from home in La Liga for Rafinha bundled home a sec- the first time in 23 games, tri- ond 15 minutes later after Lux had umphing 3-2 at Leganes. saved Gerard Pique’s initial effort. Barca have traditionally Suarez brilliantly turned Reuters MADRID: Lionel Messi took just struggled on weekends following away from the Deportivo three minutes to score on his international breaks and Depor- defence when receiving Neymar’s return from injury as Barcelona tivo had also drawn 2-2 on their through ball before slotting home BANGKOK: The Football Associ- enjoyed the perfect preparation last two visits to the Camp Nou, the third. ation of Thailand (FAT) is seeking for the visit of Manchester City in but never threatened another Messi was next to be intro- to move the home World Cup Mourinho calls for midweek with a 4-0 thrashing of upset as Barca got back to win- duced from the bench and took qualifier against Australia on Deportivo la Coruna, yesterday. ning ways after losing 4-3 to Celta just three touches to find the net November 15 out of the country respect ahead of The Spanish champions Vigo two weeks ago. when he flicked another Neymar amid mourning for the death of were already 3-0 up thanks to Neymar smashed a vol- assist over the helpless Lux. King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Luis Suarez and a double from ley against the bar and Suarez Deportivo were reduced to 10 A number of domestic sport Liverpool clash Rafinha when Messi was intro- somehow headed the rebound men 25 minutes from time when competitions, including soc- duced after nearly a month out over early on. Laure’s frustration boiled over as cer and golf tournaments, have Reuters with a groin problem just before However, Barca had to wait he saw red for elbowing Neymar been cancelled or postponed out the hour mark and wasted no just 21 minutes to open the scor- in the face. of respect for the long-reigning Barcelona’s Lionel Messi celebrates after time in scoring his ninth goal of ing when Rafinha exchanged a And Lux produced a bril- monarch who died on Thursday the season. one-two with Suarez before drill- liant flying stop to prevent Messi scoring against Deportivo de la Coruna at the age of 88 in a Bangkok MANCHESTER: Manager Jose Barca are behind Sevilla by a ing a low shot that had too much rounding off his return with a during their La Liga match at the Camp hospital. Mourinho (pictured) has called for point after the Andalusians won power for German Lux. fifth. Nou Stadium in Barcelona, Spain, yesterday. The FAT said it had consulted both sets of supporters to respect with soccer’s world governing each other when his Manchester body FIFA and written to Aus- United team visit Anfield to play tralia and the Asian Football Liverpool in the Premier League Confederation (AFC) to ask if the tomorrow. match could be re-located. The rivalry between the 4th University League starts on Thursday “Changing the time for the clubs is one of the most fiercely match isn’t an option, so the contested in world football and match must definitely be on matches have been littered with The Peninsula our mutual objective in spreading Saturday,” FAT spokesman Patit unsavoury incidents in the past. the most popular sport in the world Supapong said yesterday. Last season, both clubs were among young people at the univer- “We have discussed two fined by UEFA for crowd distur- sity level. options with FIFA. First, we’re bances and supporters engaging DOHA: The 4th University League “We thank our sponsors for their hoping for an agreement with in illicit chanting when they met official draw took place this week- ongoing support and commitment Australia to let us play an away in the last 16 of the Europa League. end at Qatar Foundation’s Recreation towards the development of the sport match first. Second, we might The chants aimed at Liverpool Center. in general and this league in partic- have to find a neutral venue to supporters concerned around the This season will feature 8 col- ular,” he added. play if the first option fails.” Heysel and Hillsborough stadium leges and universities from across The sponsors of this year’s edi- Australia’s FA said it was tragedies while those directed at Qatar, drawn into two groups of four. tion include the Supreme Committee waiting for advice from FIFA and United fans referenced the Munich The universities will first play group for Delivery & Legacy, who are the the AFC. An official (left) conducting the draw of the 4th University League at air disaster in 1958. stage matches followed by a semi- Official Strategic Sponsor,Nike, Al Thailand have lost all four of “In football, we have some finals stage contested by the top two Qatar Foundation’s Recreational Center in Doha, Qatar on Friday. Kass, QNB, and Ooredoo, the Offi- their qualifiers and are bottom ‘football tragedies’, which is the teams from each group. cial Telecommunications Partner. of Asia’s Group B, which is led by big match that you lost, the mis- Group A includes Qatar Univer- to begin on Thursday,October 20. Qatar Football Association (QFA), Ooredoo have come on board Saudi Arabia on 10 points. take that some player did and sity, Texas A&M University at Qatar, Matches will be played every Thurs- noted that the fourth edition will be this year for the first time and will As Thais begin a year of you can make fun of it in a pos- Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar day at 6 p.m and 7 p.m , with a winter even more competitive and exciting be supporting the University League mourning for their king, parties itive way,” the Portuguese told and Qatar Aeronautical College. break scheduled between December than previous editions. for the upcoming three seasons. and celebrations will be toned reporters. Group B includes Northwestern 1 and January 12. He said: “We are delighted to “We are delighted to be col- down, with the government ask- “But the human tragedy is University in Qatar, University of The games will be held on Pitch organise the University League for laborating with the Qatar Football ing for people to “refrain from something much, much more seri- Calgary in Qatar, Georgetown Uni- One at Qatar Foundation, in an the fourth season. One of the unique Association to host this event,” said festivities” for 30 days. ous and I think is the last thing versity School of Foreign Service in 8-a-side format, and the closing cer- things about the University League Mohammed Al Saoud, Head of Rec- After an executive meeting on somebody should use on a foot- Qatar and College of the North Atlan- emony will take place on January 19. is the level of competitiveness wit- reation Services at Qatar Foundation. Friday, FAT cancelled all matches ball pitch. tic – Qatar. Speaking at the launch of the new nessed by the teams throughout the “We feel privileged to be able to pro- in its competitions for the rest of “These need our respect, so I Preparations for the fourth edi- season,Ibrahim Shaheen Al Sulaiti, tournament.” vide the opportunity for university the year, awarding the titles to would be really sad if in such a big tion of the University League have Vice Chairman of the School and He added: “Organising the league students in Qatar to be able to com- the league leaders and relegat- match that was a negative point.” been completed with matches set University League Committee in with Qatar Foundation highlights pete with one another in this league. ing teams in the drop zones. SPORT SUNDAY 16 OCTOBER 2016 23 Al Arabi edge Al Kharaitiyat for key victory

Khouki and Khalfan score for the Reds against Thunders; Al Ahli and Al Wakrah share points in one-all draw

The Peninsula

DOHA: Goals by Boualem Khouki and Ahmed Khalfan yesterday powered Al Arabi to a convincing 2-1 win against Al Kharaitiyat, their second of the Qatar Stars League (QSL) season. Both goals came in the first Action from the QSL match between Al Arabi and Al Kharaitiyat at Al Khor Stadium yesterday. half with Khouki scoring in the 5th minute followed by a slicked move minute when he fired home off an charged out of his position. With volleyed the ball from close range from Khalfan as Al Arabi picked up indirect corner kick. ball at his feet and the goalkeeper but his shot missed the Al Arabi three points. Bristling with confidence, Al embarrassingly out of position, goalpost by a narrow margin much Al Kharaitiyat’s Jarralah Al Arabi’s captain Khouki helped the Khalfan charged into Al Kharaiti- to the frustration of the Congolese Marri reduced the deficit in the 87th boys in red draw first blood with a yat box and tapped the ball past forward. well-taken header that sailed past defender Domingos Nascimento When Paartalu Endel Erik Al Kharaitiyat goalkeeper Ahmed Santos to give the visitors their sec- opted for a long-range missile from Qatar Stars League Sofyan Abonora. ond goal soon after the half-hour 20 yards out in the 82nd minute, Results & Fixtures Quick-footed Khouki - return- mark. the failed attempted pretty much ing from national duty after a Four minutes from the first-half summed up Al Kharaitiyat’s edgy Yesterday’s Results couple of 2018 FIFA World Cup whistle, Al Kharatiyat’s Abdelmoula performance in round three of QSL. Al Kharaitiyat 1 Al Arabi 2 qualifying matches - headed home Berrabah curled in a beautifully- In the second match yester- on a corner kick from close range taken free-kick but Al Arabi day, Al Ahli and Al Wakrah shared Al Ahli 1 Al Wakrah 1 to give Al Arabi a 1-0 cushion in goalkeeper Rajab Hamza Kassim points in an one-all draw. just the 5th minute of the clash at punched away the ball in a slick Mohsine Moutaouali gave Al Sailiya 1 Al Rayyan 1 Al Khor Stadium. save close to the goalline. Al Wakrah the lead in the 69th Muaither SC 1 Al Gharafa 2 Khalfan made it 2-0 in the A couple of minutes into minute. A minute later, Al Ahli 31st minute. Khalfan - lurking the second and Al Kharaitiyat’s equalised with Ndombe Mubele Al Ahli goalkeeper Amer Abdulla Al Dosari collects the ball as Mohmad Saad Today’s Match to the edge of the Al Kharaitiyat Loteteka Bokilla was booked for a finding the back of the net. Al Sulaity of Al Wakrah takes evasive action during the Qatar Stars League box - picked up a long ball from rough tackle on Al Arabi skipper Today, Lekhwiya take on Al (QSL) match at Al Ahli Stadium in Doha yesterday. The match ended in an Lekhwiya vs Al Sadd at Lekhwiya Stadium, 6.00pm the centre of the field and slipped and striker Khoukhi. Sadd in the match of the week at one-all draw. past goalkeeper Sofiyan who had At the one-hour mark, Bokilla Lekhwiya Stadium.

Qatar played Massive turnout of fans for brave football, Ride of Champions in Doha says coach Cano The Peninsula

The Peninsula Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Thani. sport closer to the public. I am con- MANAMA, BAHRAIN: Coach Among cyclists, Belgian legend fident that cycling will continue to Oscar Cano on Friday lauded the Eddy Merckx and Kazakhstan’s 2012 prosper in Qatar in the coming days,” performance of his side, saying London Olympic Games gold med- he opined. Qatar played ‘brave’ football in DOHA: The Ride of Champions, a allist Alexandre Vinokourov were Dutch Ambassador Dr Bahia their 1-1 draw against Iran. mass cycling event for fans during the prominent names in attendance. Tahzib-Lie participated in the Ride Iran defender Abolfazl Raz- the historic UCI Road World Cham- Braillard was all praise for the of Champions along with several zaghpour turned from villain pionships Doha 2016, proved to be an Ride of Champions: “As you know, other embassy staff members. She to hero in less than 60 minutes unforgettable celebration of cycling. the French love cycling. So I am said she enjoyed the day. when his team held Qatar in their A record number of 950 riders, really happy to have been a small “You know, cycling is part of Group C opener at the AFC U-19 Pakistan bowler Sohail Khan (second right) celebrates with team- belonging to 72 different national- part of this event. Cycling is a healthy the Dutch DNA. So when I was first Championship Bahrain 2016 at ities and residing in 38 countries, pastime and we will try to help pop- invited to the Ride of Champions, I mates after taking the wicket of West Indies batsman Marlon Samuels the Bahrain National Stadium on took part in the event yesterday. ularise it more in Qatar,” he said. immediately agreed to be a part of on the third day of first day-night Test at the Dubai International Friday. The Ride was the biggest-ever Belgian Ambassador Payot was it. Several colleagues from the Dutch Cricket Stadium in Dubai yesterday. Razzaghpour first gifted Qatar turnout of local and international excited to support the Ride of Cham- Embassy also joined me. It was a the lead with an own goal in the cyclists for an event organised in pions event. great experience for all of us,” she 38th minute but turned saviour Qatar. “I came to the Ride of Champions said. after netting a powerful left-footer The riders passed through differ- to personally support the initiative. Sheikh Khalid was delighted Bravo battles to keep from outside the box to earn a pre- ent parts of The Pearl-Qatar before The large turnout of participants with the overall successful event. cious point for his side. ending in a looped course, the exact proves that cycling is a very popu- “The UCI Road World Champion- The Group C match played on place where the elite women and lar sport here. It was a perfect way ships Doha 2016 is the biggest cycling the opening day of the AFC U-19 men’s races would finish. to showcase the sport in the coun- competition to be held in the Middle West Indies afloat Asian Cup on Friday. A number of VIPs took part in the try and help it grow further in the East. We wanted a mass event of equal “The first game at any event event, including French Secretary region,” he said. proportions to commemorate the is dangerous. You don’t know of State for Sport Thierry Braillard, French Ambassador Chevalier occasion. I am so happy that almost what to expect,” Cano said on the French Ambassador to Qatar rode a bicycle with a French flag 1,000 riders responded to our call to AFP SCOREBOARD Friday. Eric Chevalier, Belgian Ambassador proudly attached, and enjoyed every action. It speaks volumes about our “But I would say the team Christophe Payot, Dutch Ambassador moment of his Ride of Champions cycling culture,” he said. Pakistan (I innings): 579-3 decl played brave football. They were Dr Bahia Tahzib-Lie, UCI President experience. Some enthusiasts, like Saudi West Indies (I innings): the better side,” he said. Brian Cookson and UCI Road World “I took two rounds of the cir- Arabian Omar Al Inizi, cycled all DUBAI: West Indian batsman K Brathwaite lbw Shah 32 “Iran got the equaliser from a Championships Doha 2016 Local cuit and it was quite an exhilarating the way from their home country to Darren Bravo followed up Marlon L Johnson lbw Shah 15 good attack. But I feel it is impor- Organising Committee Chairman experience. Such events bring the Doha to be a part of the experience. Samuels’ half-century to keep Paki- tant not to lose the first game at D Bravo (batting) 56 stan at bay in the first day-night Test any tournament,” he said.

in Dubai yesterday. M Samuels lbw Sohail 76 “I am proud of my team. We Bravo was unbeaten on 56, with J Blackwood (batting) 14 can qualify for the next stage. We Jermaine Blackwood 14 not out, as Extras (B-8, LB-5, NB-5) 18 will focus on the second game West Indies, 211-3 at dinner, still Total (for 3 wkts at dinner) 211 now,” he said. trail Pakistan’s first innings total Qatar play Yemen (October Fall of wickets: 1-42, 2-69, 3-182. of 579-3 declared by 368 runs with 17) and then Japan (October 20) seven wickets in hand. Bowling: Amir 13-3-32-0 (1nb); Sohail 12-2- in their remaining preliminary West Indies still need 169 more 37-1; Shah 26-11-71-2; Riaz 12.3-2-31-0 (3nb); stage fixtures. runs to avoid the follow-on. Nawaz 11-4-21-0 (1nb); Ali 2.3-1-6-0. “We are looking forward to Pakistan, who removed over- the next games,” he said. “Japan night batsman Kraig Brathwaite is a good side but we are well pre- in the second over of the day, were settling down quickly on a flat Dubai pared,” Cano said. left frustrated by a 118-run stand for stadium pitch. “We should aim for a win,” he the third wicket between Samuels He took a single off spinner said. and Bravo. Bravo has kept the fight Mohammad Nawaz to reach his 24th “This is a strong group. We with his 16th half-century, com- Test fifty and continued in an aggres- have good sides playing here. We pleted with a fluent boundary off sive style with 13 boundaries. must be at our best in the next two leg-spinner Yasir Shah. He has so far Samuels looked set for his first games,” he said. hit six boundaraies and a six. hundred since April last year but fell Iranian coach Amir Husain Shah has threatened to take leg-before to paceman Sohail Khan said: “We made some mistakes in wickets, having so far taken 2-71 as he missed an incoming delivery the first half. We corrected those in his 26 overs. The Dubai stadium and was caught right in front. Sam- mistakes in the second half.” pitch has not taken much turn which uels cracked 13 boundaries in his He added: “I think the play- Pakistan could have exploited as 139-ball stay. ers have been impacted by warm Bravo and Samuels were steady in Pakistan had looked for quick weather. We played good football the two-hour session. wickets after West Indies resumed to get the equaliser.” The Ride of Champions, a mass cycling event for fans during the UCI Road World Championships Doha Samuels hit two boundaries off at 69-1 and were rewarded with He said: “Qatar played good 2016, proved to be an unforgettable celebration of cycling. A record number of 950 riders, belonging to the first two balls he faced, driving one when Shah bowled Brathwaite football. It was an exciting 72 different nationalities and residing in 38 countries, took part in the event yesterday. powerfully to leg-spinner Shah and for 32. match.”