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TENNIS Federer in 14th Wimbledon last-eight, Murray cruises Querrey follows up his win over Djokovic by beating Mahut to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final

AFP Results London MEN (ROUND IV) oger Federer reached his 14th 28-Sam Querrey (USA) bt Nicolas Wimbledon quarter-fi nal and Mahut (FRA) 6-4, 7-6 (5), 6-4 tied Martina Navratilova’s all- 6-Milos Raonic (CAN) bt 11-David time Grand Slam record of 306 Goff in (BEL) 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 Rmatch wins yesterday. 3-Roger Federer (SUI) bt Steve The seven-time champion achieved Johnson (USA) 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 his double landmark by seeing off Steve 9-Marin Cilic (CRO) bt 5-Kei Johnson of the US 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 in the Nishikori (JPN) 6-1, 5-1 - retired fourth round on Centre Court. 32-Lucas Pouille (FRA) bt 19-Ber- Federer, the third seed, next takes on nard Tomic (AUS) 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, Croatia’s Marin Cilic for a place in the 10-8 semi-fi nals. 12-Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) bt 7-Ri- Cilic, the ninth seeded Croatian, chard Gasquet (FRA) 4-2 - retired progressed to his third Wimbledon 2-Andy Murray (GBR) bt 15-Nick quarter-fi nal when Japanese fi fth seed Kyrgios (AUS) 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 Kei Nishikori pulled out of their last-16 clash with a rib injury in the second set. WOMEN (ROUND IV) Federer has a 5-1 record over Cilic but 1-Serena Williams (USA) bt 13-Svet- the big Croatian stunned the 17-time lana Kuznetsova (RUS) 7-5, 6-0 major champion in the US Open semi- 21-Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (RUS) fi nals in 2014 on his way to his maiden bt 27-Coco Vandeweghe (USA) 6-3, Grand Slam title. 6-3 “He blew me off the court in the US 19-Dominika Cibulkova (SVK) bt Open a few years ago and I hope to get 3-Agnieszka Radwanska (POL) 6-3, him back,” said Federer. 5-7, 9-7 Johnson, playing in his fi rst fourth Elena Vesnina (RUS) bt Ekaterina round at a Slam, was comprehensively Makarova (RUS) 5-7, 6-1, 9-7 out-played in the fi rst two sets. 5-Simona Halep (ROM) bt 9-Madi- He rallied to break the 34-year-old son Keys (USA) 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-3 Federer in the fourth and sixth games of 4-Angelique Kerber (GER) bt Misaki the third set but the former American Doi (JPN) 6-3, 6-1 college champion was reeled in on both 8-Venus Williams (USA) bt 12-Carla occasions. Suárez Navarro (ESP) 7-6 (3), 6-4 “Best of fi ve matches are always Yaroslava Shvedova (KAZ) bt 28-Lu- tough,” added Federer, whose 14th ap- cie Safarova (CZE) 6-2, 6-4 pearance in a Wimbledon quarter-fi nal matches the mark of Jimmy Connors. “I’m happy with how I played. It But yesterday he had a quarter-fi nal wasn’t as easy as maybe it looked. Steve place wrapped up in just 24 minutes has picked up a lot of confi dence in the when seventh-seeded compatriot Ri- last few weeks and he has a nice game Switzerland’s Roger Federer celebrates a point during his Wimbledon fourth round match against Steve Johnson of the US yesterday. (AFP) chard Gasquet quit with a back injury for grass but I think I mixed it up well.” at 2-4 down in the fi rst set. Federer has reached the last eight French veteran Nicolas Mahut 6-4, 7-6 from his stunning upset of Djokovic. time in his career to beat Belgium’s the event. In an all-Czech match-up, world without dropping a set, easing to four (5), 6-4 to reach his fi rst Grand Slam “I’m not going to lie. After the No- David Goffi n. Murray, the 2013 champion, eased to number 64 Jiri Vesely takes on 10th seed successive wins on Centre Court. “I quarter-fi nal. vak match, I watched every highlight Raonic, a Wimbledon semi-fi nalist a 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 win and will face French and 2010 runner-up Tomas Berdych. would never have thought I would win Querrey, the 28th seed, is the fi rst I could over and over. Enjoyed the hell in 2014, won 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. 12th seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for a place The winner faces French 32nd seed the fi rst four rounds in straight sets. I now American in the last-eight at Wimbledon out of that moment,” he said. Second seed Andy Murray brushed in the semi-fi nals. Lucas Pouille, who made the quarter- need to play my best tennis,” he added. since Mardy Fish in 2011 which was per- Querrey will next face Canadian aside Australia’s Nick Kyrgios to regis- Tsonga had needed fi ve sets and four fi nals of a Slam for the fi rst time by Sam Querrey followed up his shock fect timing for US Independence Day. sixth seed Milos Raonic, who came ter his 50th Wimbledon match win and and a half hours to beat John Isner in seeing off 2011 quarter-fi nalist Bernard defeat of Novak Djokovic by beating Querrey said he still hasn’t come down back from two sets down for the fi rst reach his ninth straight quarter-fi nal at the third round. Tomic, 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, 10-8.

FOCUS Bride-to-be Cibulkova stuns Radwanska, Kerber reaches QFs

AFP Grand Slam title. the United States. London German fourth seed Kerber cruised into After conquering her dislike of grass, she her third Wimbledon quarter-fi nal with a faces defending champion Serena, who beat 6-3, 6-1 thrashing of Japanese world number Russian 13th seed Svetlana Kuznetsova 7-5, ride-to-be Dominika Cibulkova sent 49 Misaki Doi. 6-0, for a place in the semi-fi nals. world number three Agnieszka Rad- Kerber, who won her maiden Grand Slam “I’m not supposed to say this, but really I wanska crashing out of Wimbledon crown in Melbourne in January, has yet to didn’t like grass at all. Now it’s kind of chang- yesterday, while Australian Open drop a set in four matches and could leave ing a little,” Pavlyuchenkova said. Bchampion Angelique Kerber cruised into the Wimbledon as the world number one if she Venus Williams also strode to victory quarter-fi nals. wins the title and Serena Williams fails to against a scampering Carla Suarez Navarro, Cibulkova defeated Poland’s Radwanska make the semi-fi nals. beating the Spaniard 7-6 (3), 6-4 to reach the en route to her fi rst grass-court title at East- “I’m feeling my tennis is getting better and Wimbledon quarter-fi nals. bourne last month and emulated that result better every day. This is what counts in the At 36 years and 17 days, eighth seed Venus with a surprise 6-3, 5-7, 9-7 fourth round vic- second week of a Grand Slam,” Kerber said. is the oldest woman to appear in the last 16 tory to secure her fi rst Wimbledon quarter- “It’s important for my confi dence. But I at Wimbledon since Martina Navratilova 22 fi nal berth since 2011. know I have still a long way (to win Wimble- years ago. The 27-year-old will play Russian world don). I have to play really good.” With both the Williams siblings winning number 50 Elena Vesnina, who beat Ekatarina Kerber plays Romania’s Simona Halep, yesterday, this is also the fi rst time since 1999 Makarova 5-7, 6-1, 9-7 in a gruelling three- who fought back to reach her second Wim- that more than one player aged 30 or over set match. bledon quarter-fi nal with a 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, reached the Wimbledon quarter-fi nals. Cibulkova cried tears of joy as she rolled on 6-3 victory against American ninth seed Venus won the last of her seven Grand Slam the court in celebration after the fi nal point, Madison Keys. titles when she lifted the Wimbledon tro- but the triumph could come with a sting in Fifth seed Halep, a former French Open phy for a fi fth time in 2008 and hasn’t made the tail as she will have to postpone her wed- runner-up, made the semi-fi nals at the All the semi-fi nals of a major since the 2010 US ding if she makes it to Saturday’s fi nal. England Club in 2014. Open. The 2014 Australian Open runner-up is Lying in wait for Venus is Kazakhstan’s due to get married to fi ancé Miso Navara in FESTIVITIES Yaroslava Shvedova, who reached her fi rst Bratislava on the same day after planning the Russian 21st seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, Wimbledon quarter-fi nal with a 6-2, 6-4 win big occasion nine months ago. who celebrated her 25th birthday on Sunday, over Czech 28th seed Lucie Safarova. World Slovakia’s Dominika Cibulkova celebrates her win over Poland’s Agnieszka Radwanska during their Radwanska, beaten in the 2012 reached her fi rst Wimbledon quarter-fi nal number 96 Shvedova is the lowest ranked Wimbledon fourth round match yesterday. (AFP) Wimbledon fi nal, is still waiting for her fi rst with a 6-3, 6-3 win over Coco Vandeweghe of player left in the women’s tournament. Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, July 5, 2016 EURO 2016

SPOTLIGHT Pogba propels fi ve-star France back into form AFP world record fee this week, fi nally had Even then Pogba didn’t escape Paris the swagger of a man tipped to take the scrutiny and criticism, though, as a tournament by storm. Nothing illus- vengeful pump of the arm—apparently trated that better than his goal. directed at the press box—caused a n extended 24-team format The last facet of the game Iceland media furore. was always going to make would have envisaged conceding from Former England international Gary Euro 2016 a marathon not a was set-pieces. Lineker even joined his list of detrac- sprint and, inspired by pre- Yet Pogba bullied Jon Dadi Bodvars- tors, tweeting: “Is Pogba the world’s tournamentA golden boy Paul Pogba, son out of the way to send a towering most overrated player?” hosts France may be timing their run header into the top corner to open the Pogba’s over-exuberance also near- for the line perfectly. fl oodgates with France’s second goal. ly cost France dear a week ago when Pogba was to the fore, scoring his It hasn’t always been an easy ride he conceded a penalty inside the fi rst side’s second goal as France disman- through the Euros for Pogba. Twenty- minute against the Republic of Ireland. tled England’s conquerors Iceland 5-2 three nights ago as France opened the Like Payet on opening night, Griez- at Paris’ Stade de France in the quar- competition he was unceremoniously mann saved the day with a quickfi re ter-fi nals on Sunday, a week to the day substituted by Deschamps with his double to down the Irish. from the fi nal at the same venue. side looking for a winner against an However, a French side that had un- The hopes of an expectant nation obdurate Romania. til now survived on moments of indi- will now rise to a crescendo ahead of a They were rescued that night by vidual brilliance, suddenly clicked into blockbuster clash against old foes and Payet’s stunning last-minute winner, a free-fl owing unit in Paris to bring world champions Germany in Mar- but that didn’t prevent Deschamps Iceland’s fairytale run to a crashing seille in the last four on Thursday. taking aim at Pogba. halt. Griezmann added France’s fourth Most importantly for coach Didier “I’m not going to be too hard on him before half-time to become the tour- Deschamps after an underwhelming but clearly his potential is such that he nament’s top scorer with four goals. route to the quarter-fi nals, all his stars can contribute a lot more,” came the Payet had already added his third are beginning to shine with Dimitri warning shot from a disgruntled coach. of Euro 2016 by that point and a dou- Payet and Antoine Griezmann also on Deschamps followed up on his ble for Giroud means France now have target, while the often-criticised Ol- threat by dropping Pogba, and surpris- three of the top fi ve scorers in the com- ivier Giroud scored twice. ingly, Griezmann for France’s second petition. And behind them they have Pogba personifi ed a France side game against Albania. a revitalised Pogba preparing the am- coming good at the right time. The Both made amends by coming on to munition with which to fi re. Juventus midfi elder, rumoured to be turn the game as Griezmann and Payet With such an array of attacking tal- making a return to Jose Mourinho’s netted in the fi nal moments to secure a ent in fi ne form, even mighty Germany Midfielder Paul Pogba scores France’s second goal against Iceland off a header during Sunday’s Euro 2016 quarter-final clash. (AFP) Manchester United for a potential nervy 2-0 win. should be concerned.

FOCUS Fans now have reason to believe France can deliver French fans are notoriously critical of their national team, and have had some disappointment over the years, but they finally celebrated together with the players after an emphatic 5-2 win over Iceland for a place in the Euro semi-finals

DPA Saint-Denis, France

livier Giroud left the Stade de France pitch draped in a French fl ag and with a big Osmile, after he and his team- mates had celebrated with their de- lighted fans until long after the fi nal whistle. A 5-2 drubbing of surprise team Ice- land seemingly helped strengthen the bond between the players and their supporters—as les Bleus fi nally shook off all the shackles that had denied them a truly convincing showing in the fi rst four games as Euro 2016 hosts. Arsenal’s Giroud, jeered by the fans just two months ago, scored twice; Ju- ventus midfi eld ace Paul Pogba fi nally found the net with a thumping head- er; Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griez- mann struck for a tournament-leading fourth time; and playmaker Dimitri Payet of West Ham was also on target. France scored at last in the fi rst half after some very late wins against Ro- France supporters celebrate their national team’s Euro 2016 quarter-final victory over Iceland at a fan zone in Marseille, as Iceland fans (right) are seen praying for a miracle at a public screening in Reykjavik. (AFP) mania and Albania early on, and a 2-1 second-half comeback against Ireland vourites but we want to write a new in the last 16. chapter in French football history,” This confi dence booster was bad- Giroud said. Five takeaways from France-Iceland clash ly needed as France now face world The defeat spoiled the outing for Fast and furious Olivier Giroud scored two great goals champions Germany in the semi-fi nals Iceland fans who had hoped their na- from his only two chances, rising on Thursday in Marseille—aiming to tional football team would provide a After a series of wins that needed last- majestically above the Iceland defence stay on course towards winning a third new upset against the Euro hosts. minute goals, France took control of to head his second before he was straight big event on home ground, “Reluctantly, Iceland’s adventure is the game from the start. Olivier Giroud taken off . Antoine Griezmann brutally following Euro 1984 and the 1998 over,” public broadcaster RUV sum- fired the tournament hosts ahead in exposed the Iceland defence with World Cup. marised on its website following the the 12th minute—the first time France his chipped goal that was the 100th “We had a very good start, did what 5-2 defeat after an amazing run at the scored in the first half. And they never scored at Euro 2016. we needed to do to score. We were very championships. let Iceland hit back. The performance clinical and on top of the game,” coach Yet, the national team’s perform- was a tough lesson for any England Defence doubts Didier Deschamps said. ance has won the hearts of the people player watching. Paul Pogba, who Looking at the team’s celebration of the North Atlantic country. headed the second goal, played fast The only worry for Didier Deschamps with the often critical French fans, “I’m convinced that the football and furious after a disappointing start must be his defence. How did they fall Deschamps said it was the idea of the adventure is only beginning. You were to Euro 2016. With two goals in the for the Aron Gunarsson throw that players to go into the curve to the sup- great, guys, and give us all hope! 100% final two minutes of the half by led to Iceland’s first goal? Substitute porters who had unfurled a huge ban- pride!” Dagur B Eggertsson, mayor of Dimitri Payet and Antoine Griezmann, Sverrir Ingason had a clear chance for ner before kick-off and even came up Reykjavik, wrote on Twitter. France had already killed off their op- a second that produced a world-class with their own version of the Icelandic In the capital Reykjavik, thousands ponents. You cannot argue with a 5-2 save by France goalkeeper Hugo “huh” chant and clap. of fans—many clad in blue and draped win—on paper. Lloris. Birkir Bjarnason was com- “There has always been a lot of sup- in Icelandic fl ags—watched the match pletely unmarked when he headed Iceland’s second goal. “It’s not ideal port. I am happy for the players but on a huge screen at the Arnarholl ven- France midfielder Paul Pogba and other players acknowledge the crowd after the win. Iceland run out of steam even if I made some changes,” said also for the fans. The team is loved by ue, a hill in the centre of the city. (Below) Iceland midfielder Aron Gunnarsson kisses his infant son after the match. (AFP) It was another brave never-say-die the fans. They are not insensitive al- After the fi nal whistle, the crowd Deschamps. “But there are so many Iceland performance but they looked positives to take from tonight.” though clearly it was less stressful to- hailed their team with a massive ren- jaded, as if they have not had time to night,” Deschamps said. dition of the so-called “volcano clap” recover from their glorious 2-1 win over Going out with grace Deschamps was delighted that his that also graced the stands of the sta- England. Captain Aron Gunarsson had attackers found the net and Giroud diums where Iceland played. one of the rare threatening moments With Viking-like horned helmets, big spoke of “probably my best perform- In Paris, Hannes Halldorsson, Ice- with his trademark long throw-in into beards, and a serious sense of fun, ance at a major tournament”. land goalkeeper told Siminn sport: the France penalty area and Jon Dadi Iceland’s fans charmed everyone they Pogba, the centre of criticism for an “We can hold out heads up high after Bodvarsson volleyed the ball just over. met from Marseille to Paris at Euro alleged obscene gesture after one of the tournament even though the game His throw in the second half eventu- 2016. Before Sunday’s match, several the two late goals against Albania, cel- didn’t go as planned.” ally led to Iceland’s goal by Kolbeinn thousand gathered at bars outside ebrated his strike without a dap dance “The supporters have been amazing Sigthorsson. Even when losing badly, Paris nightspot Moulin Rouge for what move. “It was a good match and a great and it doesn’t matter if we are fewer,” they poured forward looking to score. most already suspected would be victory,” Pogba said. “I was pretty good he added. Iceland have made their mark. one last party in France. “We have big out there and I hope we can continue His teammate Gylfi Sigurdsson also hearts,” said Gudny Gardars, 40 — and scoring many goals.” praised the fans for their support. Dynamic attack most neutrals agreed with her. They However, the France camp is all too “I’m disappointed with how we be- It’s now become diff icult to choose had plenty to cheer in the stadium aware of the task ahead of them against gan but the French were simply too good which of the French players is most with the goals from Kolbeinn Sigthors- the Germans who have won their last for us. We had to run a lot to get the ball on form heading into the crunch semi- son and Birkir Bjarnason. Iceland leave three knockout matches, all at the and maybe we were a bit tired. At least I final against Germany on Thursday— with a lot of positives and maybe World Cup: the 1982 and 1986 semi- felt like that,” he said. “I have no words and that must please French coach some Premier League contracts for fi nals and 2014 quarters. to describe the supporters, applauding Didier Deschamps. Man-of-the-match their players. “They are world champions and fa- us even though we were losing.” Gulf Times Tuesday, July 5, 2016 3 EURO 2016

FINAL BEFORE THE FINALE France aim to avenge 2014 World Cup defeat against injury-plagued Germany ‘It’ll be a great match, we have a lot of desire to get our own back for the World Cup. They are the world champions and they are often in the last four of major tournaments. I hope we shall come out once again with the right result’

AFP out, while captain Schweinsteiger is Paris doubtful with a new knee injury. Ger- many have defender Mats Hummels suspended while Gomez and Sami rance will have the perfect op- Khedira are out with injury. Gomez will portunity to avenge their de- miss the rest of the tournament. feat to Germany in the 2014 As Loew acknowledged, France were World Cup when they take on buoyed by Sunday’s 5-2 hammering of theirF old foes in the Euro 2016 semi- minnows Iceland in their quarter-fi nal. fi nals on Thursday, according to star And the hosts can expect near-fanati- striker Olivier Giroud. cal support in Marseille, the heartland “It will be a great match, we have a of the nation’s die-hard fans. lot of desire to get our own back for the Nevertheless, Loew shows lit- World Cup,” Giroud said after his two tle concern as Germany rest up after goals helped France thrash Iceland 5-2 Saturday’s tense quarter-fi nal penalty in Sunday’s quarter-fi nal. shootout win over Italy. “I’m not wor- A header from Mats Hummels ried about who the favourite is,” said knocked France out in the quarter-fi - Germany’s head coach. “It would be nal in Rio de Janeiro two years ago and easy to say that we have a few inju- Germany went on to win their fourth ries and France are favourites as they global crown. But an even more painful played really well. elimination at German hands lingers “But that does not matter at all in the French sporting memory — the over 90 or 120 minutes. It is like it was 1982 World Cup, which featured the against Italy: a game of two teams with infamous fl ooring of Patrick Battiston outstanding individuals. Both have a by Harald ‘Toni’ Schumacher. clear direction, even if France naturally Arsenal forward Giroud said the play off ensively. I love games like this.” showdown with Germany in Marseille Loew was very clear that Schwein- will be “a completely diff erent match” steiger, who has a strained knee, will to the romp against the Icelanders. only face France if fully fi t. The Man- “They are the world champions and chester United star had only recently they are often in the last four of ma- recovered from tearing the medial liga- jor tournaments,” Giroud said. “I’m ment in his right knee in March. very proud of what this France side is “If a player is less than 100% fi t, achieving and I hope we’ll come out then I won’t play him,” said Loew. “I once again with the right result.” made that mistake once before in my In contrast to France’s straightfor- career and I won’t do it again.” ward passage, Germany were given a Loew refused to be drawn about severe test in their quarter-fi nal. the mistake he referred to—passing it Italy took them to an error-strewn off from earlier in his career as a club penalty shootout in Bordeaux on Sat- coach. But he has been in this situation urday before Joachim Loew’s side tri- before with Germany. Loew played umphed 6-5. Michael Ballack in the Euro 2008 fi - The Germans suff ered injuries that nal, when Germany were beaten 1-0 by ruled out Mario Gomez for the rest of The match on Thursday takes place Spain, when the defensive midfi elder the tournament and left key midfi elders almost 34 years to the day since the Germany head coach Joachim was carrying a calf injury. Sami Khedira and captain Bastian Sch- 1982 World Cup semi-fi nal in Seville Loew (top left) during a team With Gomez sidelined by a torn weinsteiger struggling to be fi t in time. which ended in a traumatic defeat for thigh, Bayern Munich pair Thomas training session yesterday. Despite those setbacks, France Michel Platini’s team. Mueller and Mario Goetze are the coach Didier Deschamps is in no doubt Schumacher’s shoulder-charge on France forward Olivier most likely options to feature up front that Germany are the class act of the Battiston left the French substitute against France. tournament. “Germany are the best with three broken ribs, broken teeth Loew says both could even start. “It team, there is no doubt about that, and cracked vertebrae. The German would be an option (to start Mueller up even if Italy gave them a few scares. But goalkeeper escaped without even a front), but perhaps we’ll play with two we are there in the fi nal four and we’ll booking as the referee claimed he had strikers, I still have to weigh things up,” give it our all,” Deschamps said. “They not seen the incident. he said. are one of the rare teams which can France roared to a 3-1 lead in extra- With Khedira out with a partially control a match. It will be a great game time but the Germans fought back to torn groin and Schweinsteiger doubt- but it won’t be a stroll in the park.” equalise with goals from Karl-Heinz ful with a knee strain, Loew has a big- France striker Antoine Griezmann Rummenigge and Klaus Fischer. The ger problem to resolve in the defen- said taking on the Germans in front of Germans, inevitably, won the penalty sive midfi eld. Liverpool’s Emre Can or a predominantly French crowd at the shootout 5-4, but went on to lose to Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Weigl are Stade Velodrome will help. Italy in the fi nal. the most likely candidates to partner “We’ll have to give everything we’ve Toni Kroos in Marseille. got, it’ll be a semi-fi nal at home, in Bring on France, roar Germans Loew was clear that Joshua Kim- front of so many supporters,” he said Despite a mounting injury list, Ger- mich, Germany’s 21-year-old hero in after his goal against Iceland left him many coach Joachim Loew is relishing Bordeaux for converting one of the top of the Euro 2016 scorers’ charts facing the Euro 2016 hosts in Thurs- spot-kicks in the shoot-out marathon, with four. day’s semi-fi nal under the motto— will stay at right-back, even though he Hummels will not be there to torture ‘Bring on France’. is a defensive midfi elder. France again as he did on that stifl ing “It’s great that there’s a game like “That is not something to consid- hot day in Rio as he is suspended for this. I love playing knock-out games er,” said Loew. “Joshua Kimmich has the semi-fi nal. against teams of this calibre,” said always played for us in that position Deschamps withdrew Giroud and Loew in Evian yesterday. (right-back). It was an option to move key defender Laurent Koscielny during Loew’s cause for optimism over the him there during the Italy match, if I the Iceland game as they were at risk of Marseille semi-fi nal is not obvious had had to, but not for the game against suff ering the same fate. with three key players defi nitely ruled France, I have other midfi eld options.” Will never manage England, vows Coleman

AFP He’s lost his job so England now quarter-finals, semi-finals, final. We Terry Venables. Dinard, France will search again, but it’s something didn’t,” he said. Coleman only took up the role, that would never, ever enter my “We had to come and perform in January 2012, due to the tragic thinking, to be honest. for us, for inside our camp. I suicide of his childhood friend Gary ales manager Chris Cole- “I’m a Welshman through and thought we had a good chance of Speed, who was Wales’s manager at man would “never, ever” through. At international football, it getting to the quarter final. I never the time of his death, and he said that Weven consider taking was only Wales, it would only ever came out and said to the players: thoughts of Speed had never been charge of his team’s beleaguered be Wales. My next job after Wales, ‘That is what we can do.’ far away during his time in France. British rivals England, he said whenever that is, will be somewhere “We don’t think: ‘We’ve got a “It is not because I am at a ahead of tomorrow’s Euro 2016 maybe abroad. To manage another game here. We’ve got to win it tournament. I always think of him,” semi-final against Portugal. country? No, I wouldn’t. That’s not to get to this or that stage three Coleman said. “Everyone else Having guided Wales to a first something I would consider.” games down the line.’ For some will say they know him through ever major tournament semi-final While Wales are looking forward countries that was the case. It football. That was not the case with by masterminding a stirring 3-1 win to the biggest match in their wasn’t for us.” me. I met him through football, but over Belgium last Friday, Coleman’s history, England have embarked He added: “The next game in then we were friends since 10 or 11. star is firmly in the ascendant. upon the now familiar round of the (qualifying) campaign was “That is when our paths crossed England are seeking a new soul-searching that follows their the biggest one and it’s been the and we stayed mates. I don’t need manager after Roy Hodgson elimination from every major same in the tournament. The next football to remind me of ‘Speeds’. stepped down following their last tournament. one is even bigger. We don’t need Everyone else can do that. But 16 humiliation by Iceland and while England’s Football Association to change anything we do. We’ll when we beat Belgium, I did not Coleman is not expecting a call has pledged to carry out a “defini- go into it as the underdogs, no just think of Speeds as he was one from the Football Association, he tive review” of the tournament to problem at all.” of my friends. says he has no interest in the job. identify where Hodgson went When Coleman walks out at “I have lost two or three friends “I have a lot of time and respect wrong. Asked for his opinion, Stade de Lyon, he will become only who have died too young. It is for Roy Hodgson,” the 46-year-old Coleman suggested that pre-tour- the fourth British man to coach a horrible. I can’t say because of that told reporters at Wales’s media nament target-setting may have team in a major tournament semi- game I thought of Speeds as I don’t centre in Dinard, northwest France. had a negative eff ect. “The bigger final after former England manag- need Belgium or a big game to “I think he’s a very good manager. countries have got to get into the ers Alf Ramsey, Bobby Robson and think of him. I always think of him.” Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, July 5, 2016 EURO 2016

FOCUS Pepe misses Portugal training with Bale has ruthless muscle pull

AFP Marcoussis, France

Ronaldo in his sights entre-back Pepe missed Portugal’s training yesterday for the Euro 2016 Csemi-final against Wales because of ‘Bale is just a nice guy, a nice human being, a family guy. He’s livelier on the pitch than off it because muscle pain, the Portuguese Football Fed- eration (FPF) announced. he doesn’t say a lot. He’s very much one of the lads. He’s quiet, unassuming—that’s just his personality. Pulling the Real Madrid player out of training was just a precautionary measure He has matured a bit more as he has got older, but he has always been the same person really’ ahead of tomorrow’s match in Lyon, the federation said. The 33-year-old was the only player missing from the session for Fern- ando Santos’ men. Midfielder Andre Gomes Gareth Bale (centre) during and left-back Raphael Guerreiro returned the Wales team’s training from knocks over the weekend. session yesterday, ahead of “I was pleased with the way all my play- tomorrow’s semi-final clash ers played, but I have to say that Pepe had against Portugal. (Reuters) a huge match,” said Santos, after Pepe’s performance in the quarter-final win over Poland on penalties. Gomes insisted that he had fully recov- ered from a muscle problem that kept him out of the Poland game and was ready for the Wales clash. “All the players who took on Poland did their best and played very well,” said Gomes. “I hope I can count on the con- fidence of the coach for the next match. We suff er more being away (from the team).” Portugal, led by three-time World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, are hoping to reach the final of a major tournament for the second time after their 1-0 loss on home soil in the Euro 2004 final to underdogs Greece. The only certain absentee is defensive midfielder Wil- liam Carvalho, who is suspended, with Danilo Perreira favourite to take his place in the side. This could be the last chance for Real Madrid teammates Pepe and Ronaldo to finally claim silverware in international football. Ronaldo has had a diff icult tourna- ment, although he did score the two goals in the 3-3 group-stage draw with Hungary that dragged Portugal into the last 16. Gomes defended his captain and Portu- gal’s most important player. “He has worked for the group and that’s the most important thing,” he said. “Cristiano is for us what (Gareth) Bale is for the Welsh.” Wales manager Chris Coleman has two places to fill in his team for the semi-final clash, after Aaron Ramsey and Ben Davies both picked up suspensions with yellow cards in their stunning last-eight victory over Belgium. Arsenal midfielder Ramsey, who has scored one goal and made four assists in the tournament so far, is a big miss for Coleman, while Davies has also impressed. Leicester City’s Premier League winner Andy King is expected to come in for AFP cess has been built upon a remarkable of the lads. 1-1 draw, the three-time World Play- ing contributed to Madrid’s 11th Eu- Ramsey, while experienced defender James Lyon unity which their star man fosters. “He’s quiet, unassuming—that’s er of the Year lashed out at the Atlan- ropean Cup win in May—and hot on Collins could replace Davies. “With our team spirit, it’s like be- just his personality,” said Wales boss tic islanders’ “small mentality” — an the heels of Lionel Messi’s retirement At the Wales team’s training base in ing with your mates on holiday,” said Chris Coleman. “He has matured a outburst at odds with the widespread from international football—whoev- Dinard, northwest France, Bale was seen he two most expensive Bale last week, clearly more at ease bit more as he has got older, but he fondness for Iceland’s fairytale run. er emerges victorious from Ronaldo training apart from his teammates. While his players in football go head- with the joviality in the Wales camp has always been the same person re- A missed penalty against Austria and Bale’s personal duel will be fa- teammates warmed up on the pitch, the Real to-head tomorrow when than the pressure cooker Madrid ally—very quiet and it doesn’t fl oat was papered over by a double against vourite to win the Ballon d’Or as the Madrid star and midfielder David Edwards TCristiano Ronaldo leads dressing room. his boat all the attention he gets.” Hungary, which saw him become the world’s best player for 2016. were put through their paces by a fitness Portugal against club teammate Ga- “Together stronger” has been the Despite the quiet nature, Cole- fi rst player to score at four European “Ronaldo is a cannibal. He wants it coach. A Football Association of Wales reth Bale and Wales in a Euro 2016 motto of Wales’ historic campaign. man insists that Bale is a leader in his Championship fi nals. all. Even in a situation where it seems spokesman said Bale was not injured while semi-fi nal which could lead one to A unity captured perfectly in the own right by setting standards for his Ronaldo has subsequently been so diffi cult to focus on the personal the 26-year-old himself said it was merely unprecedented glory. goal that kick started their run after teammates to match. kept quiet by both Croatia and Po- objective like this, he doesn’t lose part of his recovery process after Friday’s 3-1 Bale is junior partner when the Bale smashed a free-kick into the “He could be a little bit more de- land in the knockout stage, but will sight of achieving it,” said Madrid quarter-final win over Belgium. two line up for Real Madrid, despite Slovakia net just 10 minutes into manding because of his game. But still never have a better chance to cap sports daily Marca on Sunday. “I felt a bit stiff after the game, which is winning two Champions Leagues in their fi rst match at a major tourna- that’s why he has got so much re- a glorious career with a maiden in- “He is not just playing for the fi rst normal,” he said. “It was just an extra bit of three years since arriving in Spain ment for 58 years. spect of the players because he’s not ternational triumph as Portugal have (tournament win for Portugal), but recovery on my own. I have nothing to be wor- for a world record fee to team up with With much hype and the expecta- like that. progressed to the last four without also his fourth (Balon d’Or).” ried about and I’ll just continue as normal.” Ronaldo. tions of a nation resting on his shoul- “They automatically want to grav- winning a match in 90 minutes. By contrast, Coleman insists a Defender Davies and in-form midfielder However, his performances and ders, Bale wheeled away in celebra- itate that way to where he is. And “I’ve always said, and I don’t hide Zurich gala in January will be the fur- Ramsey were also present for the training three goals in France in leading Wales tion and headed straight into a pack that’s how it should be, you know. It’s it, that I would love to win a title with thest thing from Bale’s mind in Lyon. session, despite both being suspended for to their fi rst semi-fi nal in a major of adoring teammates and coaching not bringing him down to where we the national team. We’re on the right “I don’t think that is in Gareth’s tomorrow’s game in Lyon. The only absen- tournament, allied to his starring role staff by the Wales bench. are, and myself included, because he road,” he said after squeezing past the head. Of course he’s a human being. tee from the 23-man squad was winger at the end of Madrid’s season, sug- “Bale is just a nice guy, a nice hu- is a special talent.” Poles on penalties. Thoughts will run through his mind, David Cotterill, who observes a customised gest Bale at 26 is in line to take over man being, a family guy. He’s livelier Ronaldo’s road to a third Euros However, Ronaldo will also have but he’ll be thinking about how we training schedule devised in consultation from Ronaldo, now 31. on the pitch than off it because he semi-fi nal has been more testing. his eyes on the individual prize when perform in the next game and noth- with his club, Birmingham City. The key to Bale’s and Wales’ suc- doesn’t say a lot. He’s very much one Frustrated by Iceland in an opening facing Bale in Lyon. With both hav- ing beyond that,” Coleman said.

BOTTOMLINE Dinard succumbs to charms of Bale and Wales AFP diffi cult time for France.” shakes at Davy’s Cafe, which proudly Dinard, France Last November’s deadly attacks Gareth Bale poses with displays a Wales fl ag and a French Tri- in Paris, claimed by the Islamic State a Wales fan. (Reuters) colore either side of its entrance. group, cast a pall over the build-up to “Everyone supports them. We knew areth Bale’s Wales have cap- the tournament. But the Wales squad’s they were coming, so we’ve been sup- tured imaginations across remote location about 320 kilometres porting them from the start,” said Europe with their run to the (200 miles) west of Paris has enabled Mandalina Robert, a waitress from Euro 2016 semi-fi nals and them to banish all thoughts about se- Davy’s who served the squad. Gnowhere are they more popular than in curity from their minds. On her brush with Real Madrid star their Dinard base in northwest France. “I can’t say we feel it here,” Wales Bale, who was seen slurping a Cookie The sleepy Brittany resort town, manager Coleman said at the start of Milkshake, she said: “I knew it was which has a population of around the tournament. “It’s a relaxed atmos- Gareth Bale. But I didn’t know he was 10,000, has played host to Chris Cole- phere and that’s down to the people of the most expensive player in the world! man’s squad for a month and the mu- Dinard.” My friends were a bit disappointed not tual aff ection between players and lo- As well as enabling Coleman’s squad to have been here.” cals has been clear to see. to live and train in peace environment, Recalling the visit, Bale said: “We’ve The players have been taking walks the choice of Dinard as a base for the been received very well here in Dinard. on the beach, playing football with lo- team had historical and cultural reso- The people, the fans have been amaz- cal youngsters and posing for selfi es, nance. Migrants from what would be- ing, welcoming us. Not just in the town, while Dinard’s shopkeepers and bar come Wales settled in Brittany in the but back at the hotel after games. We’re owners have festooned the town with fi fth and seventh centuries after fl eeing happy to give everyone pictures and Wales fl ags and window displays. Anglo-Saxon invaders in Great Britain autographs. It’s been an amazing jour- “The Welsh players are very ap- and there are striking similarities be- ney and an amazing place to stay. We’d proachable and close to their fans,” tween the Welsh and Breton languages. like to thank them for all the support says Didier Dre, who runs a shop sell- Staff at the Novotel Thalassa hotel, and the hospitality they’ve given us.” ing toys, postcards and beach furniture where Wales are staying, have been Wales play Portugal in Lyon tomor- just around the corner from Dinard’s applauding the players on their return row, with a place in the fi nal against Plage de l’Ecluse beach. to Dinard following matches in other either Germany or hosts France at “We’ve seen very famous play- parts of France, most recently after stake. In reaching the semi-fi nals in ers like Gareth Bale taking selfi es with Friday’s stunning 3-1 quarter-fi nal win their fi rst major tournament in 58 supporters. They’re a very relaxed, over Belgium in Lille. years, Coleman’s men have already very cool team. I think that’s their Prior to the match, the players ven- surpassed expectations. strength. It brings us (the people of tured into town for a walk along the And whatever happens against Por- Dinard) visibility in the media. And it Promenade des Allies, pausing to sign tographs. Belgium, and midfi elder David Ed- about on the beach, both still carrying tugal, there is a small corner of Brit- creates a nice bit of atmosphere, at a autographs for fans and pose for pho- Sam Vokes, a goal-scorer against wards took part in an impromptu kick- ice-creams. The players bought milk- tany where they will not be forgotten. Gulf Times Tuesday, July 5, 2016 5 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Iceland exit Euro 2016 but leave with heads up high ‘I have no words to describe the supporters, applauding us even though we were losing’ Land of geysers and glaciers can generate footballers too Iceland’s fans react during the public screening of the quater-fi nal Euro 2016 match against France in Reykjavik, Iceland. (AFP) Iceland’s run to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 showed that a Nordic island known for its volcanoes and pioneering geothermal power has the potential to generate plenty of its own talented footballers too. At the start of the 24-team tournament few would have pre- dicted a nation of just 330,000 people, 100 soccer professionals and only amateur clubs, would knock out England on their way to the last eight. “It is something no one expected us to do, which is good because it gives kids back home hope that this is possible,” their Swansea City midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson said. “We have 10-15 players who are at a really good age. The future will be bright for Iceland.” The performances in France have provided the current squad with a perfect stage to display their talents and Icelandic players will have more opportunities to move to Europe’s bigger clubs. Iceland is now firmly on the scouting map. “Iceland’s future looks good,” said outgoing Swedish coach Lars Lagerback. “There are some young players here, and if everyone stays in good clubs or even better clubs, the future looks really positive.” Much of the success story has been down to the Icelandic soccer associa- tion’s decision to create the infrastructure for people to play the game all year round despite the cold weather. More investment is now likely. To some, Iceland’s arrival on the European scene is not a surprise. The country’s youth teams have increasingly qualified for top tournaments. The under 21s are just behind France in current Euro qualifications, having beaten the French 3-2 in September. “You could see it coming — maybe not beating England, but you could see they would be competitive and would end up in a final tournament,” UEFA’s interim General Secretary Theodore Theod- oridis said. As the country starts the next goal of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup, some of those younger players will be needed. Older heads such as midfielder Kari Arnason or defender Ragnar Sigurdsson are likely to have passed their peak by 2018 and others like Eidur Gudjohnsen will have retired. But the Icelanders have shown their potential in France with a defeat of Austria and draws with Portugal and Hungary in the group stage and a 2-1 knockout victory over England. The run ended with Sunday’s 5-2 defeat by the hosts. None of those results was a fluke for a young team which was solid and organised throughout. In addition to a strong defence, Iceland showed they also had a killer instinct as their eight goals in five games highlight- ed. Losing master tactician Lagerback will be a loss. Qualification for the World Cup will be tougher than the Euros with Europe having just 13 spots allocated instead of the 24 for this tournament. But the bonus of Euro 2016 is that Iceland will not fear a group containing Croatia, Turkey, Ukraine and Finland.

DPA city. Reaching the quarter-fi nals football,” outgoing co-coach Saint-Denis, France/Reykjavik had exceeded even the wildest Lars Lagerback said. Iceland hungry for more of the ‘big stage’ dreams in the country of just “The players did a marvellous over 300,000 — with Monday’s job. I am very proud of the play- Gylfi Sigurdsson has promised Iceland will past decade. “We can be proud of what we player in the 23-man Icelandic squad, but eroic Iceland fi nally 2-1 triumph over England natu- ers. Iceland’s future is good. It is not be content to bask in the glory of their did, even though we wanted more. he believes many more of his compatriots ran out of steam on rally standing out. a privilege and fantastic. I have Euro 2016 heroics having had a taste of the “We have had great support from all over the deserve a chance to ply their trade in the Sunday night, but not “Reluctantly, Iceland’s adven- been privileged before but this is highs and lows of tournament football. world and it is has been a fantastic journey. world’s richest league. even their 5-2 collapse ture is over,” public broadcaster really something extra.” The smallest nation ever to take part in the Sadly it ended tonight.” “Lots of the players probably want to play againstH hosts France could seri- RUV summarised after the end The other coach, Heimir Hall- European championship with a population of Iceland started the tournament by stunning in the Premier League, but it is a question of ously dampen the overall feeling of an amazing run at the cham- grimsson, will now be in charge just 330,000 stunned England to reach the Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal with a 1-1 draw. right place at the right time,” said Sigurdsson. of pride at the nation’s fi rst Eu- pionship. on his own of a team that won last eight. They received a reality check in a Ronaldo’s comment that they had a “small “They are good guys, good personalities and ropean championships. Reykjavik mayor Dagur B Egg- the hearts of many and left eve- 5-2 thrashing by hosts France on Sunday. mentality” because of their dogged defence good players as well.” Fans and players celebrated ertsson tweeted: “I’m convinced ryone proud. But Iceland’s cool blue replica shirts had al- won only more supporters for Iceland. The big challenge ahead of Iceland is replac- together until long after the fi - that the football adventure is “We can be very proud over- ready sold out before the France defeat. They They held Hungary by the same score and ing veteran Swedish coach Lars Lagerback, nal whistle, the whole squad had only beginning. You were great, all. It is something special for a have made their mark. beat Austria 2-1 to reach the last 16 and create who will hand over the reigns to co-coach a group photo taken in front of guys, and give us all hope! 100% small team. No one expected us “Of course this experience was (an) incred- one of the biggest shocks of all time by com- and part-time dentist Heimir Hallgrimsson the supporters, and all had some pride!” to go this far,” captain Aron Gun- ible, fantastic three or four weeks for us and ing back from a goal down to beat England after the tournament. fi nal renditions of their now fa- It didn’t matter in the end narsson said. I’m sure all the players want to experience 2-1. Halldorsson, who plays for NEC Nijmenen “It’s been a fantastic journey these last four- mous and fearful “volcano clap” that Iceland collapsed in the fi rst Iceland leave France with just this again,” said Swansea City playmaker Sig- in the Netherlands, believes Iceland now and-a-half years. All the support I’ve got from routine. half by letting in four goals at the one defeat Sunday, after urdsson. “We’ve got the World Cup coming belong among Europe’s best. everywhere I’ve been in Iceland and around “I have no words to describe the Stade de France. They were draws with Portugal and Hun- up and hopefully we can qualify again.” “Now we have gotten a taste of being at the the game has been absolutely fantastic,” said the supporters, applauding us rather credited to fi ghting back gary before the wins over Austria Goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson had a night big stage, we love it and we belong here. Lagerback. “It’s something really, really extra even though we were losing,” after the break with goals from and England. Apart from their to forget at the Stade de France as a double “It is going to be very tough, but we are going this tournament with all the fans coming here midfi elder Gylfi Sigurdsson said. Kolbeinn Sigthorsson and Birkir football they will also be re- from Olivier Giroud bookended goals from to go all in and give it all we have to qualify and what we heard from back home and all There was also a rousing ren- Bjarnason. membered for the good-natured Paul Pogba, Dimitri Payet and Antoine (for the World Cup). the interest and positivity.” dition of it in Reykjavik, where “We were paralysed and pas- appearance and their humour, Griezmann to send France into a semi-final “I think we’ve shown with the consistency Lagerback took charge in his seventh major thousands of fans — many clad sive, maybe because we were with the fi nal statement left to meeting with old foes Germany. we had in the tournament other than tonight finals having led his native Sweden to five in blue and draped in Icelandic close to something big. But Sigthorsson. However, Halldorsson hailed Iceland’s “fan- that we belong up there with the big boys and Nigeria at the 2010 World Cup. He fl ags — watched the match on respect to the team how they “We can’t complain, its diffi - tastic journey” from whipping boys to serious and we can get results and we’ll go for it.” believes the future for Iceland can be bright a huge screen at the Arnarholl turned it around in the second cult to win the Euros on the fi rst contenders on the European stage over the Sigurdsson was the only Premier League even without his expertise. venue, a hill in the centre of the half. They showed we can play attempt,” he said.

FOCUS United’s Smalling injuries caused by fainting due to food poisoning RALLYING Manchester United’s Chris Smalling has been taken Antonio extends contract with West Ham Nigerian Musa set for to hospital with food poisoning after fainting in Bali, although for a while it seemed the England Midfielder Michail Antonio has extended his con- defender might have suff ered a more serious tract with West Ham United until 2020, the Premier problem. League club said yesterday. After joining from A picture of Smalling was posted on Twitter with a Championship side Nottingham Forest in Septem- record move to Leicester bandage around his head, a brace on his neck and ber, the 26-year-old scored eight league goals in 26 a drip coming out of his arm. appearances. “I am delighted to have signed a new AFP The post suggested he had been hurt while having contract. I have always believed in my own ability Moscow a surfing lesson while other reports said he had and when I am given the opportunity I will take it been stung by a jellyfish. and hopefully I have showed that,” Antonio told the The truth, however, proved more mundane and the club’s website (www.whufc.com). nglish champions Leicester City are set to break their 26-year-old, who played for England at Euro 2016, West Ham, who secured a Europa League spot for record transfer fee for the second time in a matter has now fully recovered. the second successive year after finishing seventh, of days by buying Nigerian international attacking “Chris has had food poisoning during his holiday open their 2016-17 campaign against Chelsea at Emidfi elder Ahmed Musa, his agent told the BBC which resulted in him fainting yesterday. He was Stamford Bridge on August 13. yesterday. taken to the hospital and is now feeling fine,” a The 23-year-old, who scored a brace for Nigeria in a 3-2 United spokesman said yesterday. Sunderland’s Mannone extends contract defeat of Lionel Messi’s Argentina at the 2014 World Cup, will see his present side Russian outfi t CSKA Moscow receive City sign Ukraine Zinchenko Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone has signed £16.6million ($22.1mn, 19.8mn euros) — a record outlay for a two-year contract extension that will keep him at Leicester. “Everything has been fi nalised and Musa will be in Manchester City signed Ukraine midfielder the Stadium of Light until 2018, the Premier League England for his medical on Wednesday,” Musa’s agent Tony Oleksandr Zinchenko from Russian club FC Ufa, club said. The 28-year-old Italian, who joined from Harris told BBC Sport. the Premier League club announced yesterday on Arsenal in 2013, made 19 league appearances last Musa and Sunday’s signing former France Under-21 mid- Twitter. season to help Sunderland avoid relegation after fi elder Nampalys Mendy, who joined from Ligue 1 side Nice Zinchenko, 19, appeared in all three of Ukraine’s they finished 17th in the table. “Sunderland AFC on a four-year deal for a club record at the time of £13mn, will matches at Euro 2016, coming on as a substitute goalkeeper Vito Mannone has agreed a new con- bolster the Foxes squad for a tilt at the Champions League. against Germany and Northern Ireland before tract with the Black Cats. The Italian shot-stopper Musa’s soon to be former coach Leonid Slutsky said the Ni- starting against Poland. has penned a new two-year deal, keeping him on gerian — who scored 53 goals in 161 matches for CSKA since He scored two goals in 26 games for Ufa last sea- Wearside until 2018,” the club said in a statement joining them in 2012 — would be ideal for the Premier League. son after joining from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2015. on their website (www.safc.com). Sunderland open “If you look at the way things are done over there you’ll see Zinchenko is the third summer signing for new City their 2016-17 league campaign at Manchester City he is a player just made for English football,” Slutsky said. manager Pep on August 13 when City’s Pep Guardiola will make According to the BBC Musa rejected the advances of Guardiola following Ilkay Gundogan and Nolito. his English top-flight debut as manager. Leicester’s rivals Southampton, Everton and West Ham. Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, July 5, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS EU tells Spanish Forget Zlatan, we start clubs to repay from zero: PSG coach state aid Reuters ‘What Blanc achieved was great. But I decided to change, to start a new cycle with a new coach’ Brussels uropean champions AFP Real Madrid and rivals Paris Barcelona and Valen- Ecia were among seven Spanish soccer clubs ordered by fter a week in the Paris Saint EU antitrust regulators to refund Germain (PSG) hot-seat, millions of euros of unfair fi nan- Spanish coach Unai Emery cial support they had received. unveiled three new signings Real Madrid were told to pay yesterdayA as he told fans to forget the back 18.4mn euros ($20.5mn) in past and focus on the future. one case after the city authori- PSG’s star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic ties in the Spanish capital over- signed with Manchester United on Fri- compensated them when a land day after bagging 51 goals last season, transfer fell through. but dazzling dribbler Hatem Ben Arfa, The sums were relatively Belgian international defender Thomas small for clubs that can aff ord Meunier and holding midfi eld general to pay ten of millions of euros in Grzegorz Krychowiak have all joined transfer fees for a single player. since Emery took over. “Using taxpayers’ money to “We start from zero,” the 44-year- fi nance professional football old said as he met the French press for clubs can create unfair compe- the fi rst time at the Ligue 1 champions’ tition,” Competition Commis- Parc des Princes yesterday. sioner Margrethe Vestager said “Zlatan in Paris. That was beautiful. in a statement. I had something similar at Sevilla,” said “Professional football is a Emery, who won three Europa League commercial activity with signif- titles at Sevilla. icant money involved and public “But what happened in the past is money must comply with fair over.” competition rules.” “Now we focus on the future and Real Madrid and Spanish I’m happy and proud to be here,” added champions Barcelona are re- Emery, who explained in Spanish that garded as the wealthiest clubs in his recruitment drive was more or less world soccer with annual turno- complete. ver of in excess of 500mn euros. Meanwhile club president Nasser al- Valencia were ordered to pay Khelaïfi promised the new coach would back 20.4mn euros as one of assure the continued success of the three local clubs given cheap French champions. loan guarantees by a state- “Our main objective is to go as far as owned credit institution to help is possible in the Champions League,” them out of fi nancial diffi culties. he said. “What Laurent Blanc achieved Hercules must pay 6.1mn eu- was great. But I decided to change, to ros and Elche 3.7mn on the same start a new cycle with a new coach,” he grounds, the European Com- said, after agreeing a generous sever- mission said. ance package with the outgoing coach Paris Saint-Germain’s president Nasser al-Khelaifi (R) poses with Paris Saint-Germain’s new Spanish coach Unai Emery holding a jersey reading ‘Welcome Unai’ at the Parc Finally, four clubs, Real Ma- two weeks ago. des Princes stadium in Paris. (AFP) drid, Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao Ben Arfa was as dramatic as Emery and Atletico Osasuna, benefi ted when his turn in the press spotlight Belgian international defender Meu- where he was an Emery favourite. “To from a lower corporate tax rate came. “A year ago I was unemployed, nier from FC Bruges The 6ft 3in (1.9m) continue working with Unai Emery ob- for more than 20 years, paying now I’m at one of the best clubs in the right-back, 24, who featured twice viously played a part in my choice. I’m 25% rather than a 30% norm world,” said the 29-year-old former for Belgium at Euro 2016, has signed a coming to Paris to experience strong for sports fi rms. The four would boy wonder whose career nosedived four-year deal for an undisclosed fee. emotions and to win as many trophies each pay back up to 5 mn euros, when he fell foul of a FIFA ruling two “I’m honoured to have been chosen as possible,” the 26-year-old said. the Commission estimated. seasons ago and spent a year on the by PSG, with all their great players,” PSG president al-Khelaïfi said he Separately, the Commission sidelines. Meunier, who has 12 Belgium caps, told was “very satisfi ed” with the signing. cleared Dutch aid provided to “This is sheer happiness,” he said. his new club’s website. “These past two seasons, he was very FC Den Bosch, MVV Maas- “I can go up a whole new level here,” Poland international Krychowiak effi cient with Sevilla, in particular on tricht, NEC Nijmegen, Willem the former Lyon, Marseille and New- signed a fi ve-year deal with PSG the European scene, and he was one of II Tilburg and PSV Eindhoven, castle forward said. PSG also fought off on Sunday for a fee of 26mn euro the most prominent players in the Euro French player Hatem Ben Arfa presents his new PSG jersey at the Parc des Princes saying this complied with the rivals across Europe to snap up giant ($28.9mn) after also quitting Sevilla (2016).” stadium in Paris. (Reuters) bloc’s rules.

DECISION Spain confi rm Del Bosque departure Torres signs new one-year contract with Atletico

AFP Madrid

panish internation- al striker Fernando Torres has signed a new one-year contract with AtleticoS Madrid, the Spanish club announced yesterday. The 32-year-old returned to Atletico on an 18-month loan deal from AC Milan in December 2014 and had been a free agent after his contract expired at the end of the 2015/16 season. “I am happy to be here. I never had any doubts about where I wanted to be during the course of this process — even though we didn’t know what was going to happen,” Torres said in a state- ment on Atletico’s website. “In the end, the important thing is that I got what I had The resignation of Spain’s World Cup and Euro tions. The Portuguese coach, hired in July 2014, hoped for.” winning head coach Vicente del Bosque was was let go following the 2018 World Cup qualify- Last season Torres helped off icially confirmed by the Royal Spanish Football ing draw with Gabon in a tricky group alongside Atletico fi nish third in La Liga Federation (RFEF) yesterday. The 65-year-old had Ivory Coast, Mali and Morocco. and reach the fi nal of the Cham- announced that he was to retire on Thursday, Costa was the best paid manager of any national pions League, which his side lost after his side had been outclassed in the last 16 of side on the continent, news website Gaboneco on penalties to Real Madrid. Euro 2016 by Italy. Former Real Madrid boss Del revealed in May. He scored 11 league goals in 30 Bosque led Spain to the 2010 World Cup and Euro “If I receive 70,000 euros a month, a salary appearances last season and net- 2012 titles, after taking over from Euro 2008-win- which makes me the best paid (manager) in ted once in Europe against Bar- ning coach Luis Aragones. Aff rica, it’s because I’m the best coach,” former celona in the Champions League “The coach informed the president of the RFEF Porto and Standard Liege player Costa quarter-fi nal. his desire to not remain at the head of the nation- said. Torres started his career at al team,” the federation said in a brief statement. He made those comments as questions begun Atletico and captained the team The second half of Del Bosque’s stint was disap- to be raised over Gabon’s performances on the until he left for Liverpool in pointing, with the 2-0 defeat to Italy following a pitch, the most recent a 2-1 friendly loss to reign- 2007, before signing for Chelsea shock group-stage exit from the 2014 World Cup ing African champions Ivory Coast. in 2011 and then leaving for AC in Brazil as defending champions. Gabon, who co-hosted the Cup of Nations in 2012 Milan in 2014. with Equatorial Guinea, stage the 2017 edition “It is great news for us because from January 21 to February 12. Fernando belongs here and all Gabon sack manager Costa Costa’s successor is due to be named on July Atletico fans are happy that he Luis Perez Caminero added in and is a point of reference for academy have a mirror in which Gabon have sacked their manager Jorge Costa 30 in time for the first World Cup qualifiers in will continue with us,” Atletico the statement. all of his teammates. The play- to look and he always has great six months before hosting the Africa Cup of Na- October. Madrid sporting director Jose “He knows our club perfectly ers who have come up from our advice for them.” Gulf Times Tuesday, July 5, 2016 7 SPORT

BASEBALL Flores hits Cubs for six as New York Mets win 14-3

Agencies to sweep the Baltimore Orioles with a New York 9-4 win. Smith hit his 10th home run of the season, and his fourth of the series, to ilmer Flores tied a fran- lead a Seattle off ense that had 10 hits. chise record with six hits as the New York Mets beat White Sox 4, Astros 1 the Chicago Cubs 14-3 to Jose Quintana dazzled for seven Wsweep a four-game series. innings and the Chicago White Sox Flores, whose homer leading off the won their fourth consecutive series by second inning launched a seven-run claiming the rubber match against the outburst, is just the second Met to have Houston Astros 4-1. six-hit game. Quintana (6-8), often the victim of The Mets (44-37) outscored the poor run support, limited the Astros Cubs (51-30) 32-11 in a rematch of last (43-39) to just two hits and two walks year’s National League Championship while recording four strikeouts. Series, which New York also swept in four games. Tigers 5, Rays 1 Ian Kinsler started a rally with a Nationals 12, Reds 1 double and scored the tying run in Stephen Strasburg did not allow a the eighth, then capped a four-game hit or run in 6 2/3 innings as the fi rst- sweep with his 200th career home run place Washington Nationals slugged in the ninth as the Detroit Tigers beat a season-high six homers to crush the the Tampa Bay Rays 5-1. last-place Cincinnati Reds 12-1. It was another late-inning collapse Strasburg, who came off the disabled for the Rays, who have dropped 16 of list before the game, had not allowed a 18 games. hit when manager Dusty Baker pulled him after throwing 109 pitches with Phillies 7, Royals 2 two outs into the seventh and a runner The Philadelphia Phillies wasted on third. little time jumping on Kansas City Strasburg (11-0, 2.71 ERA), who Royals starting pitcher Yordano Ven- struck out fi ve and walked four, is the tura en route to a 7-2 win in a game last qualifying starter in the majors highlighted by a three-run home run who does not have a loss. He has won 14 from Cameron Rupp in the fi rst inning. games in a row dating back to last year and is the fi rst National League starter to Yankees 6, Padres 3 begin the year 11-0 since Andy Hawkins Mark Teixeira drove in three runs of the San Diego Padres in 1985. with a pair of homers after Didi Gre- gorius hit a solo homer and the New Red Sox 10, Angels 5 York Yankees defeated San Diego 6-3 Sean O’Sullivan, recalled from the to prevent a three-game Padres sweep. minors to make the spot start, turned in a strong performance and the Boston Pirates 6, Athletics 3 Red Sox used a seven-run fi fth inning Left-hander Francisco Liriano gave to beat the Los Angeles Angels 10-5 at Minnesota Twins right fielder Max Kepler (26) hits an RBI single during the fifth inning on Sunday at Target Field in Minneapolis. up three runs over fi ve innings and Fenway Park. ended his fi ve-game losing streak as Yunel Escobar had two RBIs for Los driving him from the game before he Happ (11-3) allowed fi ve hits and one League West with a 5-4 victory over the Angeles Dodgers to a 4-1 win over the the Pittsburgh Pirates rallied for the Angeles (33-49), which could not build could record an out in the fifth inning. run to win his fi fth straight start and Arizona Diamondbacks. Colorado Rockies. third straight game to defeat the Oak- on Saturday’s 21-2 bludgeoning of It was Hamels’ shortest outing in 29 give the Blue Jays a split in the four- The Giants (52-32) are 18-4 against McCarthy (1-0) conceded just two land Athletics 6-3 and complete a se- Boston and lost for the 11th time in 13 games since being traded to Texas game series. division opponents since being swept hits and one walk while collecting eight ries sweep. games. from the Philadelphia Phillies last in a four-game homer series by Arizona strikeouts and throwing 72 pitches in Twins 5, Rangers 4 summer. Giants 5, Diamondbacks 4 on May 18-21. They lead the NL West by his fi rst game since April 2015, when Cardinals 9, Brewers 8 The Minnesota Twins got to one (11 innings) fi ve games. he underwent Tommy John surgery. Stephen Piscotty slugged a two-out of the best pitchers in the American Blue Jays 17, Indians 1 grand slam home run in the bottom of League and hung on late in a 5-4 win J.A. Happ struck out a season-best Ramiro Pena’s pinch-hit double Dodgers 4, Rockies 1 Mariners 9, Orioles 4 the sixth, leading the St. Louis Cardi- over the Texas Rangers. 11 in seven innings and the Toronto Blue drove in the go-ahead run in the 11th in- Right-hander Brandon McCarthy The Seattle Mariners used another nals to a three-game sweep of the Mil- Minnesota scored five runs off Jays crushed the Cleveland Indians 17-1. ning, and the San Francisco Giants con- pitched fi ve shutout innings in his fi rst off ensive outburst, and yet another waukee Brewers with a rain-soaked 9-8 Rangers left-hander Cole Hamels, Russell Martin had fi ve RBIs, while tinued their roll through the National appearance in 14 months to lead the Los home run from left fi elder Seth Smith, win.

GOLF ROUND-UP Emotional Chalmers Johnson wins WGC Akron title breaks winless spell

AFP ers knocked in a short eagle putt Washington for fi ve points. Colt Knost came in third place as disaster befalls Day at 35. Tim Herron had the best reg Chalmers snapped round of the day Sunday, 13, and AFP golf,” Day said. “Disappointed, but I’ve the longest winless jumped from 19th place to fourth. Washington got to try and focus on what I did great drought of any active Brendan Steele (12) and Steve this week, move on, and try and get bet- player on the USPGA Wheatcroft (fi ve) tied for fi fth at ter for the next one.” TourG by making an eagle on his 32. ustin Johnson, coming off It was Johnson’s 11th career triumph closing hole Sunday to capture the First-round leader Martin his fi rst major victory at last in a US PGA event, his third in WGC Barracuda Championship. Laird of Scotland (three) and Ben month’s US Open, fi red a four- tournaments, and the 32-year-old The 42-year-old Aussie had Martin (minus-two) shared sev- under par 66 Sunday to over- American’s third win a row where he ral- gone 385 previous starts without a enth place at 31. takeD top-ranked Jason Day and win the lied in the fi nal round. win, and as a bonus he earns a spot Seattle: Canadian Brooke World Golf Championships Bridgestone Johnson, three shots behind the lead in the Open Championship later Henderson went wire-to-wire to Invitational. Sunday at Firestone, was fi ve adrift en- this month in Scotland. successfully defend her title at the Johnson birdied three of the last six tering the fi nal round at the 2015 WGC An emotional Chalmers was Portland Classic on Sunday. holes for enough of a cushion to allow for Cadillac Championship but won and was relieved to get his fi rst PGA Tour Henderson, who claimed her a closing bogey and still win with a 72- four off the pace last month at Oakmont win in Reno, Nevada. fi rst major at the KPMG Wom- hole total of six-under 274 at Firestone before a fi nal-round fi ghtback for his “In golf you always have to en’s PGA Championship east of Country Club in Akron, Ohio. fi rst major crown. think that something good is Seattle last month, carded a fi nal “I played good this weekend,” John- “I feel great,” Johnson said. “I feel like around the corner,” said the teary- round of 71 for a 14-under-par 274 son said. “I drove it really well, had a lot my game is where it has been all year. eyed Chalmers. total and a four-shot victory over of shots from the fairway. I rolled the ball The last couple weeks I’ve just putted a His eagle on the 72nd hole Stacy Lewis (69) at the Columbia really well with the putter.” little bit better and the game shows it.” sealed a six-point victory at the Edgewater Country Club. Scott Piercy, who fi nished second be- Day, whose streak of fi ve wins when he Montreux course and left the Syd- Norway’s Suzann Pettersen hind Johnson at the US Open last month, led or shared the lead after 54 holes was ney native with a good feeling. (72) fi nished third at nine-under. settled for second again by one stroke af- ended, missed a 4.5-foot par putt at 15 “I thought my game was get- World number two Hender- ter a fi nal-round 70. to fall back into a share of the lead with ting close and today I got reward- son began the fi nal round with a Australia’s Day, who defends his PGA Johnson. ed,” he said. “Today was a battle, two-shot lead over Mariajo Uribe, Championship crown at the end of the On the tee at 16, Day smacked a tee but the fi rst three days it went re- who pulled even with a birdie at month, suff ered a late meltdown with a shot into the trees left of the fairway, ally well for me.” the 11th. However, the Colom- bogey at the par-3 15th and a double bo- then blasted out from under a limb It also got the cash registers bian faded badly in her fi nal seven gey at the par-5 16th to help hand John- across the fairway and into trees on the ringing. Chalmers, who only holes with two bogeys and back- son the victory. right side. He smashed a third shot into a needed a par or better on the fi nal to-back double bogeys on 17 and “I played pretty good up until the putt water hazard on his way to a double bo- hole to win, collected one of the 18. Henderson, who had three on 15. I hit it a little bit hard through the gey, falling to four-under. biggest paydays of his career at birdies and two bogeys, said it had break and that cost me a bogey,” Day Johnson, meanwhile, sank a 16-foot $576,000, which is about 20 times been a strange round. said. birdie putt at 17 and then found him- what he had made so far in 2016. “It was kind of a weird day of “Sixteen is always a tough par-5 if self into the left trees at 18. He clipped a “I been out on the Web Tour golf,” the 18-year-old told Golf you don’t get a good drive there... kind branch on his second shot and landed in and I only made about $25,000 so Channel. “I made a couple of of made a mess of it. I really had two bad dense rough but put his third onto the far,” said Chalmers, who has two putts down the stretch when I holes. but really one hole that derailed green and took a bogey that still kept him career wins on the Web Tour and needed to. me, which was 16.” ahead by two shots over Piercy and Day. fi ve on the Tour of Australasia. “To be a repeat champion is Day fi nished with a round of 72 to “He played tremendous golf on the Chalmers carded a score of very cool.” share third with a US trio — world weekend,” Day said. “Unfortunately I four in the fi nal round of the event Henderson’s third career LPGA number two Jordan Spieth, Matt Kuchar didn’t do the best I could to try and beat which uses the Modifi ed Stabl- win puts her in the right frame of and Kevin Chappell. him.” eford scoring system. His 43 total mind heading into the Women’s The results set up an intense show- Both parred 16, meaning they had to was a half dozen points ahead of US Open at CordeValle near San down in two weeks at the year’s third make the fi rst eagles at the last at Fire- runner-up Gary Woodland who Jose, California next week. major tournament — the British Open at stone since 1984 to force a playoff . Nei- wound up with a 37. “Three wins on the LPGA Tour Royal Troon. ther did as Day went into the rough and Dustin Johnson plays a shot on the 11th hole during the final round of the World Heading to hole No. 18, Chalm- against the best players in the “It’s disappointing to not get the win made bogey while Piercy put his ap- Golf Championships - Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club South ers was sitting at 38 with Wood- world and being able to compete here, but I feel like it’s coming around proach to eight feet and birdied to fi nish Course in Akron, Ohio. land done at 37. A bogey would on the highest stages is amazing,” nicely. I’m playing some pretty good second alone. have forced a playoff , but Chalm- Henderson said. Gulf Times 8 Tuesday, July 5, 2016 ROAD TO RIO

ATHLETICS CAS to rule on Russian athletes competing Gatlin cruises to Rio, at Rio by July 21 Geneva: The Court of Arbi- the IAAF has grounds to sus- tration for Sport (CAS) said pend an entire athletics team, yesterday it will decide whether given that such a move invari- to overturn the ban against ably results in punishments for Russia’s athletics programme individuals with no positive by July 21, two weeks before drug tests on their record. Felix powers home the start of the Rio Games. The Hogg said the court’s deci- International Association of sion will be narrowly focused Athletics Federations (IAAF) on the validity of IAAF com- banned Russia’s entire track petition rule 22.1 which holds Gardner wins the women’s 100m in 10.74sec ahead of Bartoletta in second and field federation following that “athletes whose National revelations of massive, state- Federation is suspended by the sponsored doping. IAAF are ineligible for competi- The suspension first an- tions.” nounced in November was The ROC and the 68 Russian maintained last month, which athletes have specifically asked appeared to all but crush Rus- the court to “order that any sia’s hopes of sending athletes Russian athlete who is not cur- to the Games in Rio de Janeiro, rently the subject of any period which open on August 5. But of ineligibility for the com- the announcement from CAS mission of an anti-doping rule off ers yet another last chance violation may participate at the for Russia’s disgraced track and 2016 Olympic Games,” assum- field programme. ing they otherwise qualified. The IAAF, the Russian Olym- Russian off icials have blasted pic Committee (ROC) and 68 what they call the IAAF’s hypoc- Russian athletes have reached risy, noting that two American ‘a specific arbitration agree- celebrity sprinters — Tyson ment’ which lets CAS decide on Gay and Justin Gatlin — will the validity of the IAAF ban, a be among a series of athletes statement from the Lausanne- competing in Rio who have based court said. “The parties previously tested positive for have agreed to an expedited doping. procedure which should International Olympic Com- conclude on 21 July 2016,” the mittee executives last month statement added. said the IAAF had full authority Qualification for most athlet- to decide on which athletes can ics events closes on July 11. But contest in Rio. IOC president with the Russian case under Thomas Bach said anyone who intense public scrutiny and gets the green light from the facing political pressure from IAAF will be allowed to com- Moscow, the IAAF may retain pete under the Russian flag. some flexibility to extend key That was at odds with the deadlines. IAAF position: the governing The IAAF ban followed a No- body said that athletes who vember report from the World individually proved they were Anti-Doping Agency which said drug free could compete under Russia’s track and field pro- a neutral flag, as the Russian gramme had been corrupted track and field federation to the point where even clean would remain banned. Several drug tests were meaningless. Russian track and field stars When it maintained the ban last have already filed petitions month, the IAAF said individual with the IAAF to establish their Russian athletes who proved drug-free credentials. they had not been tainted by But if CAS overturns the the country’s tarnished system blanket ban, those individual could still be cleared for Rio. petitions could be rendered CAS is not going to conduct meaningless. The court did not such a case-by-case review of provide a list of the 68 athletes Justin Gatlin sprints to victory in the 100 metres final during the 2016 US Olympic Track & Field Team Trials at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon on Sunday. (AFP) each athlete, a spokeswoman involved in the case, but it likely for the Lausanne-based court, includes most potential Olym- AFP “Well, I trust Bobby.” Katy Hogg, told AFP. The issue pians with no positive drug Eugene, United States Elsewhere on Sunday, English Gardner in the CAS appeal is whether tests on their record. won the women’s 100m in 10.74sec ahead of Tianna Bartoletta in second and Tori ustin Gatlin clocked the fastest Bowie in third. There was another season 100 metres of the year to book his best in the men’s 400m, where LaShawn ticket to Rio at the US Olympic tri- Merritt suggested he is ready to reclaim als here on Sunday as Allyson Felix the Olympic crown he won in the 2008 Palestine swimmer for Rio shruggedJ off her injury woes to power to Beijing Games with victory in 43.97sec. victory in the 400m. Merritt, whose career was derailed by a Gatlin won in a blistering 9.8 seconds string of failed dope tests in 2010 which at Hayward Field to edge out young pre- led to a 21-month ban, has now clocked tender Trayvon Bromell who was second the fastest times in the world over in 9.84sec with Marvin Bracy third in both 400m and 200m this season. The 9.98sec. The win sends the 34-year-old 30-year-old produced a devastating fi n- 2004 Olympic champion to Rio as the ish to accelerate clear of Gil Roberts and biggest threat to reigning champion Us- David Verburg in the fi nal stretch. ain Bolt. Gatlin, twice banned for doping “I worked the last 50 a little bit more off ences during his controversial career, than I did in the previous rounds,” he said. had earlier signalled his readiness by set- “I still feel like I had a little bit left so I’m ting a season-best 9.83sec in the semi- pleased about it.” fi nals. “I was trying to get me a ticket on In other events on Sunday, double Ol- that boat going to Rio,” a delighted Gatlin ympic decathlon champion Ashton Eaton said afterwards. confi rmed his place in Rio by completing “My family has a ticket and that put a straightforward victory in the multi- pressure on me to punch my ticket,” said event discipline. Eaton fi nished with Gatlin, who confi rmed he will not race 8,750 points, well clear of Jeremy Taiwo again before Rio after running in the with 8,425 and Zach Ziemek in third. 200m here this week. Asked if he had a In the women’s high jump, teenage message for injured Jamaican rival Bolt, Allyson Felix celebrates after winning the women’s 400m in 49.68 during the 2016 US pretender Vashti Cunningham — the Gatlin smiled and gave a thumbs up. “I Olympic Team Trials. (USA TODAY Sports) daughter of legendary Philadelphia Ea- don’t know how you print this — but you gles quarterback Randall Cunningham — can print that. Emoji thumb,” he joked. The 30-year-old from Los Angeles is an amazing team of people that didn’t let confi rmed her Olympic ticket with a sec- Gatlin’s season-best time was matched aiming to become only the third woman me face it alone.” ond place fi nish behind Chaunte Lowe. Swimmer Mary al-Atrash, 22, who will be one of the six athletes in the women’s 400m by Felix, who kept after Valerie Brisco-Hooks of the US in Felix had been in fi fth coming off the “To be able to go to the Olympics, I’m representing Palestine at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, poses her dream of an Olympic 400-200 dou- 1984 and Marie-Jose Perec of France in fi nal curve before fi nding an extra gear more happy than disappointed about fi n- for a photo at the Beit Sahur swimming pool, near the West Bank ble alive with a gutsy victory hailed by her 1996 to have won the 200m and 400m in to pull away. “I didn’t even know where ishing second,” said Cunningham, who city of Bethlehem yesterday. Atrash will be competing in the 50 coach Bob Kersee as her best ever. Felix, the same Games. I was I just gave it everything I had,” said cleared 1.97 meters, behind Lowe who metres freestyle. But there are no Olympic size swimming pools who has been hampered by an ankle in- “I don’t even think I can put it into Felix, the reigning Olympic 200m cham- jumped 2.01. in the Palestinian Territories, which has forced her to train in a jury following a freak training accident words,” said Felix. “Two months ago I pion and 400m world champion. “I always want to win, but this is some- 25 metre pool. The delegation of six athletes is the largest in April, surged home down the stretch couldn’t even walk so to be here and still Asked to comment on Kersee’s com- thing that will hit me on the head and contingent Palestine has sent to the Games since its first to win in 49.68sec, the fastest time in the have everything come together I don’t ment that the win was her greatest per- make me work harder. I’ve got more mo- participation in the Olympics in Atlanta in 1996. (AFP) world this year. know it happened. I just know that I had formance, Felix smiled and commented: tivation for Rio,” Cunningham added.

ZIKA FEAR SPOTLIGHT Japan’s Matsuyama Blake completes Jamaican sprint double to skip Olympics Reuters “As you can see I’m very consist- ronica Campbell-Brown, 22.86. But the Kingston ent last night in the semi and today is fi nal was missing 100m winner Elaine AFP from the Zika virus,” Matsuyama the same time, so I’m good,” added the Thompson and Olympic 100m cham- Sydney said. Matsuyama, who posted second fastest man in the history of the pion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who his second career USPGA Tour lympic double silver med- half lap event with his time of 19.26. submitted medical exemptions for toe win earlier this year, shot a fi nal allist YOHAN BLAKE He said he defi nitely planned to run and hamstring niggles respectively. ideki Matsuyama has round 67 to fi nish tied for 42nd completed the sprint double the sprint double at the Rio Olympics Fraser-Pryce had submitted no med- added his name to the at the WGC-Bridgestone Invi- at the Jamaican Champion- next month. ical exemption, while her teammate growing list of golfers tational. “Although I am excited shipsO when he easily won the men’s 200 Behind Blake, Nickel Ashmeade and Elaine Thompson, who also withdrew pulling out of the Sum- that golf is returning to the Ol- metres on Sunday. Julian Forte fi nished in second and third from the 200m fi nal, had requested Hmer Olympics in Brazil because ympics and I realise that my po- In the absence of the injured Us- respectively, leaving Forte’s Olympic an exemption. Fraser-Pryce is still of fears over the Zika virus. The tential success would help grow ain Bolt, Blake covered the fi eld by the hopes hanging in the balance. troubled by a niggling toe injury while 24-year-old Japanese star is the the game in Japan, I have come 120-metre mark, before pulling away The Jamaica Athletics selection Thompson had a sore hamstring. sixth player ranked in the top 20 to the conclusion that I cannot to win in 20.29 seconds, his best time committee is set to meet on Thursday In the women’s 100m hurdles, world to withdraw. His decision comes put myself or my team member’s since fi nishing second to Bolt at the to pick the team and decide if defend- champion Danielle Williams crashed fi ve days after world number health at risk. I have been getting London 2012 Olympics in 19.44 sec- ing Olympic champion Bolt, who has out at hurdle six, after being in a close one Jason Day pulled out and information from all the con- onds. “I know I was working really a medical exemption, replaces Forte in race with eventual winner Megan Sim- almost two weeks after North- cerned parties as well as my doc- hard in training and I just needed to get the 200m. Bolt pulled out of the cham- mons, who clocked a career best 12.79. ern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy said tors about the situation in Rio.” the race out of the way early, so I just pionships on Friday, citing a minor Commonwealth Games champion he wouldn’t be going to the Rio Matsuyama added he often has relaxed and took it home, given that hamstring tear. Stephenie-Ann McPherson returned Games which begin August 5. strong reactions to insect bites. the wind was against me,” Blake, who In the women’s 200m fi nal on Sun- the sixth fastest time this year, 50.04 to “I cannot be 100% sure about The men’s Olympic golf tourna- claimed the 100m in 9.95 seconds on day, Simone Facey won in 22.65, ahead win the 400m, while Javon Francis won my safety, and my team’s safety, ment runs from August 11-14. Friday, told Reuters. of two-time Olympic champion Ve- the men’s 400m in 44.95secs. Gulf Times Tuesday, July 5, 2016 9 ROAD TO RIOSPORT

SWIMMING Phelps veteran presence on fresh-faced US Olympic team No world records were broken and just one American record was set by Josh Prenot in the 200m breaststroke

AFP Omaha, United States

ichael Phelps will bring down the curtain on his stellar Olympic career in Rio, heading a US swimming team packed with newcomers eager to Mstamp themselves the future of the sport. Phelps and his gang of ageing warriors that includes Ryan Lochte, Nathan Adrian and An- thony Ervin have one thing in common with the 30 fi rst timers: They all must swim faster than they did at the eight-day US trials if they want to dominate in the competition pool as they have in Games past. US men’s head coach Bob Bowman, who has guided Phelps throughout a career that spans four prior Olympics that yielded 22 medals, 18 of them gold, believes they can. “One of the things that we have always done well, better than anyone else, is improve from the trials to the Games,” Bowman said. “And I’m confi dent we’re going to do that again. And quite frankly we’re going to have to do that if we want to have the kind of Olympics that we are expected to have and want to have.” The United States topped the swimming medals table in London 31 total, 16 gold. While the trials that concluded on Sunday produced a

The 2016 US Olympic Swimming Team pose for a picture at the end of US Olympic Team Swimming Trials at CenturyLink Center in Omaha, Nebraska on Sunday. (AFP)

string of tight races and the compelling drama and the fourth newcomer Lilly King’s 1:05.20 in like Phelps. “If you think Michael wasn’t nerv- 4x100m Free Relay: Amanda Weir, Lia Neal, Allison that comes of knowing only the top two in each the 100m breaststroke. “On the women’s side, I ous for those races, he absolutely was,” Bowman Schmitt, Dana Vollmer event will book Olympic berths, the times were think there are some real strengths and I would said. “Everybody is.” 4x200m Free Relay: Leah Smith, Allison Schmitt, not especially fast. No world records were bro- say some signifi cant challenges, really, event- But Bowman said the quick turnaround be- Melanie Margalis, Cierra Runge ken and just one American record was set by by-event,” said David Marsh, head coach of a fore swimming competition starts in Rio on 10K Open Water: Haley Anderson Josh Prenot in the 200m breaststroke. women’s team that features a veteran presence August 6 is to the Americans’ advantage. “Once Katie Ledecky, the surprise 800m gold med- in defending 100m butterfl y gold medalist Dana they’re at a peak level, like they are now, it’s MEN’S TEAM allist in London, underscored her freestyle Vollmer and in Missy Franklin. much easier to make small adjustments to help 50m Freestyle: Nathan Adrian, Anthony Ervin dominance with victories in the 200m, 400m Franklin was far from the force she was in them improve or to try to correct some things 100m Freestyle: Nathan Adrian, Caeleb Dressel and 800m free while Maya DiRado won both 2012, when her seven-event London slate pro- that maybe didn’t go well here,” Bowman said. 200m Freestyle: Townley Haas, Conor Dwyer women’s medleys and the 200m backstroke to duced four gold medals, but she qualifi ed to de- 400m Freestyle: Connor Jaeger, Conor Dwyer book three individual swims in her fi rst Olympic fend her 200m backstroke gold and to swim the THE US SWIMMING TEAM 1,500m Freestyle: Connor Jaeger, Jordan Wili- Games. 200m free with runner-up fi nishes. FOR 2016 OLYMPICS movsky Phelps was the only other swimmer to win Both Bowman and Marsh were at a loss to WOMENS’ TEAM 100m Backstroke: Ryan Murphy, David Plummer three events at trials — the 100m and 200m but- explain why the times in 10 of 26 events were 50m Freestyle: Abbey Weitzeil, Simone Manuel 200m Backstroke: Ryan Murphy, Jacob Pebley terfl y and 200m individual medley. “I thought slower at these trials than in 2012. But Bow- 100m Freestyle: Abbey Weitzeil, Simone Manuel 100m Butterfly: Michael Phelps, Tom Shields his times this week were mediocre,” Bowman man said it might have something to do with the 200m Freestyle: Katie Ledecky, Missy Franklin 200m Butterfly: Michael Phelps, Tom Shields admitted, but added he was ‘crystal clear’ on growing spectacle of an event USA Swimming 400m Freestyle: Katie Ledecky, Leah Smith 100m Breaststroke: Kevin Cordes, Cody Miller what needed to be done in the weeks leading up offi cials like to call their Super Bowl. 800m Freestyle: Katie Ledecky, Leah Smith 200m Breaststroke: Josh Prenot, Kevin Cordes to Rio to rectify that. “People know what the event is like and how 100m Backstroke: Olivia Smoliga, Kathleen Baker 200m Individual Medley: Michael Phelps, Ryan Based on trials times US men lead the world big it is,” Bowman said of the meet that draws up 200m Backstroke: Maya DiRado, Missy Franklin Lochte this year in only two events — Prenot’s 2min to 14,000 spectators per session and features a 100m Butterfly: Kelsi Worrell, Dana Vollmer 400m Individual Medley: Chase Kalisz, Jay 07.17sec in the 200m breast and David Plum- light-show opening ceremony every night and 200m Butterfly: Cammile Adams, Hali Flickinger Litherland mer’s 52.12 in the semi-fi nals of the 100m back fi reworks at the medal ceremonies. “It’s not like 100m Breaststroke: Lilly King, Katie Meili 4x100m Free Relay: Ryan Held, Anthony Ervin, which he failed to replicate in a runner-up fi nish a swim meet,” Bowman said. “It’s more than 200m Breaststroke: Lilly King, Molly Hannis Blake Pieroni, Jimmy Feigen Michael Phelps (left) and Katie Ledecky pose in the fi nal. that.” 200m Individual Medley: Maya DiRado, Melanie 4x200m Free Relay: Jack Conger, Ryan Lochte, for photographs at the conclusion of the US US women top the world rankings in four The hoopla only adds to the pressure of the Margalis Gunnar Bentz, Clark Smith Olympic swimming trials. (USA TODAY Sports) events — three of them courtesy of Ledecky do-or-die meeting, even for proven performers 400m Individual Medley: DiRado, Elizabeth Beisel 10K Open Water: Jordan Wilimovsky, Sean Ryan

SPOTLIGHT KOC will implement Cate wants gold at Rio, not records: Coach CAS decision on

Reuters fi rst 50 in a 100-metre race. “She’s really Park quickly Melbourne learnt just to rely on ‘automaticity’ which is just created by race training sets,” he Seoul: The Korean Olympic the ban. Cho said they would added. “She just let it fl ow out there and Committee (KOC) will not drag move quickly to resolve the month out from the Olympics, it came together, so it was just fantastic.” its feet if the Court of Arbitra- issue when CAS hands down its Cate Campbell’s 100 metres Cusack said he felt Campbell could tion for Sport sides with swim- decision. “If the CAS decision is freestyle world record is a testa- raise her pace again. “I don’t think the mer Park Tae-hwan in his bid to in line with that of the domestic Ament to her class and determi- project’s ever fi nished,” he said. repeal a controversial doping court, we will promptly take nation but the Australian will not chase “She’s obviously probably somewhere ban, KOC Secretary-General the necessary steps regarding the time in pursuit of gold at Rio de Janei- towards the peak of her career but it de- Cho Young-ho said yesterday. Park,” said Cho. ro, according to her long-serving coach. pends on how long she’s willing to stay Park, the first Korean to win “If the Korea Swimming Fed- Campbell’s 52.06-second swim at the in it. Her starts and turns are consist- an Olympic swimming medal eration recommends Park as Brisbane Grand Prix on Saturday shaved ently improving and that’s been a gradual when he won the 400 freestyle a national team swimmer the just one one-hundredth of a second off process. So, I’d like to think that she can gold in Beijing, completed KOC will either hold a board of Britta Steff en’s seven-year-old mark but get faster.” an 18-month ban imposed by directors’ meeting or approve it landed a heavy psychological blow to her Campbell joins an illustrious club of world governing body FINA in in writing if it is urgent the KOC rivals, including her world champion sis- Australians to have held the world record March after testing positive for has no intention to delay the ter Bronte. in the blue riband event, including four- testosterone ahead of the 2014 process.” None have come close to German Stef- times Olympic champion Dawn Fraser Asian Games. Cho added that if the CAS fen’s time which was set in a now-banned and Jodie Henry, who won gold in Athens However, under KOC regula- decision went against Park synthetic suit in 2009. Bronte Campbell in 2004. tions, he was then subject to then the KOC would need to is a distant second in the world rankings, Queenslander Libby Trickett, another an additional three-year ban discuss the next steps, Yonhap her best time of the year more than half a four-times Olympic champion, held the from the national team the day reported. Despite the KOC ban, second slower than her older sister’s. record three times from 2004-09 before the FINA suspension expired, Park entered national swim- Simon Cusack, mentor to both Camp- Australian Cate Campbell’s broke the 100 metres freestyle world record at the Steff en took it in a synthetic suit and im- eff ectively ruling him out of the ming trials in April and won all bell sisters, was bursting with pride after Brisbane Grand Prix on Saturday. (AFP) proved her mark at the 2009 world cham- Rio Olympics. four of his races in times quick Cate tore up the Brisbane Aquatic Centre pionships in Rome. Park took his case to the CAS enough for Olympic qualifica- but was also quick to remind her that the ruses and bacteria. So that’s why winning At her second Olympics in London, she A number of records set during the and is expected to be notified tion. world record would mean little on the a gold at the Olympics is such a tough won gold in the 4x100m freestyle relay controversial super-suit era remain. “I of the result this week, with the At the 2008 Beijing Games, starting block at Rio. thing and very often they’re not won in but her individual campaign was wrecked was there in Rome on the day when Stef- Korean team set to decide on Park also picked up a silver in “Whilst it’s really nice to have the mark, world record time. So I’ve expressed that by a bout of pancreatitis. When fully fi t, fen set the record and I remember think- the swimming team on July 18. the 200, and was runner-up in it’s no guarantee of what’s going to hap- to Cate,” Cusack said. “She’s very, very the 2013 world champion has shown she ing back then, ‘this one is going to stand The 26-year-old’s chances both races in London in 2012. pen at the Games,” the Brisbane-based happy with having that world mark but it has no peer, however, as witnessed by her for a while’. And it did,” Cusack said. of forcing the KOC to repeal He attributed the failed test 39-year-old told Reuters. “Winning a doesn’t change anything from here on in.” breathtaking return to form this year. “For the super-suit era, the sooner it the ban were emboldened on to an injection he received at gold medal comes down to one moment The 24-year-old Campbell is unlikely The record has inevitably been viewed can be erased, the better. It was just a tu- Friday when a local court ruled a local clinic where he said he in time and not only do you need great to need further reminders of how luck can as a gauntlet thrown down, but Cusack multuous time in swimming history and that he was eligible for selec- was being treated for a skin preparation, you do sometimes need a change the game when she appears at her said it came by coincidence, not design. what it did at the time was it made a bit tion for the national team. Park complaint. little bit of luck on your side,” he added. third Olympics. She won bronzes in the “It was just an organic thing,” he said. “I of a joke out of world record standards. had lodged an injunction with CAS has previously struck “When you’re living in an Olympic vil- 50m freestyle and 4x100m relay on her never really give her a time to chase, it’s It really discriminated against the ones Seoul Eastern District Court last out double-barrelled punish- lage with people coming from all corners 2008 Games debut in Beijing before los- more of a process but sometimes (swim- who set the previous ones in the old lycra month against the KOC and Ko- ments for athletes banned for of the globe and eating out of the same ing years to illnesses including glandular mers) do get it in their head to chase a costumes,” he added. “So it’s a great thing rea Swimming Federation over doping-related off ences. food hall you get exposed to a lot of vi- fever and post-viral fatigue. time and they generally over-cook the that Cate’s been able to erase that mark.” Gulf Times 10 Tuesday, July 5, 2016 SPORT

CYCLING Hamilton urges Mercedes to reject Cavendish sets new team orders Spielberg, Austria: World to protect the team when they champion Lewis Hamilton has had a clear opportunity to urged Mercedes to reject team claim one-two finishes. orders and allow him and arch Sunday’s collision was their rival Nico Rosberg to continue third in five races and came mark with narrow racing each other in their fight only four races on from their for the drivers’ world title. crash in Spain where both men After clashing and colliding were forced into retirement on with the German leader of this the opening lap. “Team orders year’s championship on the last are on the table now, we have lap of his victory in Sunday’s to consider this,” said Wolff , Austrian Grand Prix, the de- after Sunday’s stunning contest Tour stage victory fending three-time champion in which Hamilton overcame said he hoped Mercedes boss unfavourable strategy deci- Toto Woff would reject the sions and Rosberg’s belliger- temptation of team orders. ence to win. Sagan finishes fourth on the stage to maintain his grip on the yellow jersey “I hope it doesn’t change “I want to race,” said and I hope we can continue to Hamilton. “I grew up want- race,” said Hamilton. “That is ing to race. I wanted to get to my honest opinion from a love F1, race the best and be the of this sport. Certain circum- best, by out-driving another stances have led us to where individual. They showed a we are today,” he added. replay of Michael (Schumacher) “We have a lot of races ahead and (Rubens) Barrichello many and we will continue to race. years ago (the team orders I am fighting for the world controversy from Austria 2002) championship so we will keep and I was disappointed as a fan fighting. Hopefully, through back then. these experiences there will be “It is not always going to no more and, hopefully, a lot be blue skies and perfect, but less than what we have had so that is motor racing. Every far this year. engineer and mechanic has “Hopefully, they are a blip in been through Formula Ford the mist and we will continue and Formula Renault and all the racing forward. You never want diff erent categories. They have to see team orders happening. seen the good and the bad and The great thing is Toto and Niki know these things can happen. (Lauda) have been great and al- We are driving at 200-plus low us to race and that is what mph. You expect us to drive racing is about.” around and never, never, never Hamilton won Sunday’s race have a problem? I doubt it.” after surviving a collision with Hamilton said he did all he Rosberg on the final lap when could to avoid a crash when he the German drove into him passed Rosberg on the outside. and forced him off the circuit “It is not something I go out at Turn Two. Rosberg was later to get involved in,” he said.”I called to a stewards’ inquiry don’t go out to get caught in and given a time penalty, but collisions. As you could see, he retained his fourth place I drove as wide as possible, finish in the race. within the white lines, so I left He was leading into the a lot of space. Three cars could last lap, but fell to fourth after have come on the inside of me crashing with Hamilton. Wolff there. As a team boss and team, showed his anger and frustra- the team want to finish 1-2. That tion after the race and said he is our goal and it is my goal - al- was considering the introduc- though I want to be at the front tion of team orders in future of the 1-2...”

OPINION Mercedes may have to Great Britain’s Mark Cavendish (second right) crosses the finish line ahead of Germany’s Andre Greipel (left), France’s Bryan Coquard (second left) and Slovakia’s Peter Sagan (right) at the end of the 223,5km third stage of the 103rd edition of the Tour de France cycling race between Granville and Angers, France, yesterday. (AFP) review line-up: Horner AFP which he took young daughter Delilah up home Brittany region on his own and in that it was up to Cavendish to put on an- Angers, France to the victory podium with him. the lead but even when he slowed right other show. AFP When you do have a dominant This time he took Delilah and her in- down, the peloton did so too. OVERALL STANDINGS Spielberg, Austria car, it’s great to have the guys go- fant brother Frey too. Until the stunning The sedate rhythm was at least to some 1. Peter Sagan (SVK/TIN) 14hrs 34mins 36sec ing head to head.” ark Cavendish moved up to fi nish, it had been a most pedestrian of people’s taste. FDJ team manager Marc 2. Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/ETI) at 0:08sec Horner had his own experi- joint second on the all-time stages, dragged out to six seconds under Madiot was feeling nostalgic as he even 3. Alejandro Valverde (ESP/MOV) 0:10. ercedes may have to ence of trying to manage two Tour de France stage win list six hours for the 223.5km trek from Gran- managed to stop in his home village of 4. Christopher Froome (GBR/SKY) 0:14. review their drivers’ strong and ambitious drivers with victory in yesterday’s ville to Angers. Renaze to have a drink. 5. Warren Barguil (FRA/GIA) 0:14. line-up and consider when he had four-time cham- Mthird stage by the tightest of margins. It Peter Sagan fi nished fourth on the “Today we can enjoy the Tour de France that it is impractical pion Sebastian Vettel and Mark 6. Nairo Quintana (COL/MOV) 0:14. was Cavendish’s 28th Tour stage victory, stage, just behind Frenchman Bryan Co- like in the old days: we ride slowly, we Mto have Lewis Hamilton and Nico Webber in his Red Bull outfi t. 7. Roman Kreuziger (CZE/TIN) 0:14. and second of this edition in three days, quard, to maintain his grip on the race stop to kiss friends and family. People are 8. Tony Gallopin (FRA/LOT) 0:14. Rosberg in the same team, Red “It’s enormously diffi cult, be- to equal the mark of French hero Bernard leader’s yellow jersey. But Cavendish’s happy,” he said. 9. Fabio Aru (ITA/AST) 0:14. Bull boss Christian Horner said. cause no matter how much those Hinault. victory was enough to wrest back the Finally with 83km left, popular French 10. Daniel Martin (IRL/ETI) 0:14. In the aftermath of Sunday’s guys say they are team players, Only Belgian legend Eddy Merckx re- sprinters’ green points jersey from Sagan. veteran Thomas Voeckler set off to close last lap collision between the two they are contractors and they are mains ahead of the Manx Missile now The Slovak still leads by eight seconds the then 5min 30sec gap to Fonseca, 3RD STAGE RESULTS Mercedes drivers, Horner said racing for themselves,” he said. with an astonishing 34 stage wins. But to Frenchman Julian Alaphilippe over- which he quickly did, and only then did 1. Mark Cavendish (GBR/DDT) 5hrs 59mins Mercedes have to consider if they “They are going for the biggest the 31-year-old Briton was a hair’s all with Spain’s Alejandro Valverde third the hulky cogs of the peloton start churn- 54sec (average: 37.3km/h) have become an untenable pair- prize in motorsport so, inevita- breadth away from losing out to German at 10sec. For the fi rst 150km the peloton ing into gear. But once the gap had tum- 2. André Greipel (GER/LOT) at 0:00. ing. “Longer term, how tenable is bly, they will do what is right for Andre Greipel, who had dominated the seemed to be on strike as French rider Ar- bled to 30sec, the peloton, like a preda- 3. Bryan Coquard (FRA/DEN) 0:00. it for that pairing to continue as a them at the end of the day. “I’m Manxman last year in winning four stages mindo Fonseca went on the attack from tor stalking its prey, kept the leading pair 4. Peter Sagan (SVK/TIN) 0:00. team?” said Horner. sure it won’t be the only one dur- to Cavendish’s one. the off . fi xed in its sites. 5. Edward Theuns (BEL/TRE) 0:00. “While they are in the situ- ing the rest of the year.” A metre from the line, Greipel looked The Fortuneo rider eased up to wait Fonseca and Voeckler’s day in the sun 6. Sondre Holst Enger (NOR/IAM) 0:00. ation that they are in, with the Mercedes chief Toto Wolff said sure to win, yet somehow Cavendish for some support but no-one took up lasted until 8km from the fi nish when 7. Marcel Kittel (GER/ETI) 0:00. competitiveness they have, these he will hold meetings to consider stretched out his bike to snatch victory. the off er and he quickly stretch out to an fi nally, after a resilientMOTOGP battle, they were 8. Christophe Laporte (FRA/COF) 0:00. issues are not going to be isolated the introduction of team orders. He had won far more comfortably on Sat- 11-minute lead over the bunch. It gave swamped by a peloton whose average 9. Daniel McLay (GBR/FVC) 0:00. to this race. But then that is an Horner said he believes that is urday’s opening stage in Normandy, after Fonseca the chance to ride through his speed had cranked up signifi cantly. After 10. Dylan Groenewegen (NED/LNL) 0:00. attractive element for the sport. unnecessary.

FORMULA ONE FOCUS ‘Rosberg Mercedes have some tough choices to make contract talks

Reuters long as Hamilton and Rosberg can battle wheel to unaff ected Spielberg, Austria wheel there are still thrills to be had. Hamilton has a contract to 2018, while Rosberg is currently ne- by crash’ gotiating a new deal which may put him in a more ercedes have a diffi cult decision to vulnerable position. But Rosberg is leading the Spielberg, Austria: Nico Ros- make after colliding teammates Lewis championship and Mercedes would love to have berg has been assured his ongo- Hamilton and Nico Rosberg gave For- champions in both cars. Retired world champion ing contract negotiations with mula One fans a day of drama in Aus- Jacques Villeneuve said team orders would rob the Formula One champions Mer- Mtria on Sunday. From an entertainment perspec- fans of excitement. “It would be terrible,” he told cedes will not be aff ected by tive, the response should be simple — continue to Reuters. “But it’s understandable because both Austrian Grand Prix collision allow the two to race unfettered from start to fi nish drivers go above what is permissible inside a team. with teammate Lewis Hamilton. and bask in the gratitude of a global audience. They would rather both crash than have the other “The contract is a long-term Their last lap coming together at the Red Bull one fi nish ahead of them.” decision and isn’t infl uenced by Ring put the sport on front and back pages, reviv- That said, Villeneuve doubted Mercedes would a race incident,” team boss Toto ing a narrative of battling team mates going back follow through with anything more than dire Wolff told reporters at the Red to the days of Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost in the threats and words of warning. “They both have Bull Ring. An exasperated Wolff , late 1980s and early 1990s. But Mercedes have contracts where they are allowed to fi ght for the who has a 30 percent stake in sponsors to satisfy and corporate objectives. championship so how do you impose team or- the team as well as being Mer- Collisions between drivers that deny the team ders?,” he asked.”It’s not Ferrari where you have a cedes motorsport director, had a one-two fi nish are not allowed. Team boss Toto clear number one.” earlier slammed the latest clash Wolff ’s response to what he called a ‘brainless’ Either way, Formula One’s commercial supremo between the two title rivals as accident was to threaten the imposition of team Mercedes teammates Nico Rosberg (left) and Lewis Hamilton. (Reuters) Bernie Ecclestone and Silverstone promoters will ‘brainless’. orders — a practice that was banned for some be loving the controversy ahead of Hamilton’s While Hamilton has a con- years and is now legal again. “We need to discuss decision is. Everything’s on the table.” At its most extreme, as was the case at Michael home British Grand Prix this weekend. “This is tract to 2018, Rosberg’s future is internally how we want to manage situations go- Wolff said one option would be to freeze the or- Schumacher’s Ferrari, one driver is given prior- great for racing, Bernie is super-happy,” declared in discussion. Austria’s Former ing forward when the two are close to each other. der at a certain stage, telling drivers not to try and ity. But Mercedes are in a diff erent position. They Villeneuve. “You have a week of discussion on who McLaren and Ferrari driver Ger- The core race team will sit at a table and discuss,” overtake each other and just bring the car home, have no number one, Rosberg and Hamilton fi ght- was wrong. hard Berger is negotiating with he told reporters. even if Mercedes’s instincts were to let them race. ing equally for the title, and the team are dominant You have a week of media, which you would Mercedes on his behalf. “We will make decision irrespective of what Such orders have happened often enough in the despite Ferrari and Red Bull raising their games. normally not get. So it’s great. And at the same He said no deal had been they say, it could go in either direction. We need to past, particularly when teams are in a close title Mercedes have won eight of nine races this sea- time it will be a week of talking about Mercedes. reached yet and whether Ros- avoid contact between the two cars whatever the battle and desperate for every point they can get. son, and started all but one on pole position but so So it’s not even bad publicity.” berg stayed was up to Mercedes. Gulf Times Tuesday, July 5, 2016 11 SPORT

TENNIS CRICKET Bangladesh Luckless Nishikori hopes England tour will go ahead

AFP Cricket Council’s annual confer- Dhaka ence in England. faces injury deja vu “We would have done the same... you would probably no- angladesh is hopeful the tice that sports did not stop even planned visit of England after the terror attack in Paris. later this year will go Sporting activities went ahead ahead despite the mass at their own pace. We have still killingB of foreigners at a restau- three months left before the at Wimbledon rant in Dhaka over the weekend, England series. according to Bangladesh Cricket “I don’t think the current Board president Nazmul Hassan. situation will persist that long Injury forces Japanese fifth seed to pull out for second consecutive year England are scheduled to ar- in Bangladesh. It’s tough to say rive in Bangladesh on September which place is safe. Even Eng- Reuters 30 to play two Tests and three land may not be a safe place after London one-day internationals. three months.” After the terror attack which Hassan said the authori- left 18 foreigners dead, a spokes- ties would “strengthen security ad luck seems to follow Kei man for the England Cricket measures” during the tour. Nishikori around at Wimbledon. Board told ESPNCricinfo that “If we can ensure the highest For the second consecutive they would act on government security, sports will not stop in year injury, and not an opponent, advice before making fi nal deci- any country,” he added. knockedB the Japanese fi fth seed out of the sion on the tour. Australia pulled out of a tour tennis tournament. Hassan said he hoped that the of Bangladesh last year based on Last year the 2014 US Open runner-up situation would improve before government security advice. had to bow out of the grasscourt champi- the scheduled start of the tour. The West Indies’ Under-19 onships before his second-round match “The reaction that England side also aborted a tour in 2013 against Santiago Giraldo because of a calf gave was very normal,” Has- following an explosion near strain he picked up in the Halle warm-up san said after his return over the their hotel in the southern city of tournament. weekend from the International Chittagong. It was a case of “oh no, not again” for Nishikori yesterday as, facing Croatia’s Marin Cilic for a place in the quarter- CHANGE fi nals, he was felled by a rib injury which had also forced him out of Halle. “It’s the same injury I had in Halle. It’s been not recovering well these two weeks,” said Nishikori, who quit before his second- ICC decision on round match at the German event. “After the third round here, it’s got worse. I was in too much pain on the LBW brings relief court. I couldn’t really compete today.” His exit will be a huge blow back in his homeland, where his every move is scrutinised by the country’s 120mn plus to bowlers population ever since he became the fi rst Asian man to contest a grand slam singles IANS centre of off and leg stumps, and fi nal at the US Open two years ago. Edinburgh the bottom of the bails),” the ICC Nishikori’s involvement in yesterday’s said in a statement. match was kept to a minimum during the The new law will come into opening exchanges with Cilic — the man n what comes as a major shot eff ect from October 1 or from who beat him to the Flushing Meadows in the arm for bowlers, the the start of any series using DRS title. International Cricket Council that commences just prior to this With four successive Cilic serves whis- (ICC) has approved amend- date, the ICC said. tling past his ears in the fi rst game, all Iments in the leg before wicket The ICC will also hold trials to Nishikori had to do was trudge from one (LBW) decisions of the umpires check if the TV umpire can use side of the baseline to the other between concerning the controversial de- replays to call no balls more ac- points. cision review system (DRS). curately, and within seconds of But it soon became apparent that The decision was taken after the ball being delivered. rather than this being super-human per- the global governing body’s an- Among other decisions, the formance by the Croatian ninth seed, all nual meeting concluded in Ed- global body decided to apply for was not well in the Nishikori camp. inburgh on Saturday under the inclusion of women’s cricket in He was 5-0 down within 11 minutes Japan’s Kei Nishikori walks off the court after retiring due to injury from his match against Croatia’s Marin Cilic yesterday. (Reuters) chairmanship of former Board the 2022 Commonwealth Games and by the time the set was over fi ve min- of Control for Cricket in India at Durban, and held back plans utes later, Cilic had unleashed 12 aces and urged him to call it quits. Nishikori was not ready to give up on his be heard saying “Don’t push it, it’s not (BCCI) chief Shashank Manohar. to introduce a two-tier system in dropped only two points on serve. Such was the nature of the injury, Wimbledon dreams. worth it.” Besides that, a few major deci- Test cricket for further study. To sum up how bad things were for Nishikori was hurting when he served. He He called for the trainer but the medics “Even before the match, I knew it’s not sions were also taken. It also said plans to reverse a Nishikori, the fi rst-set statistics said it was hurting when he attempted overheads who arrived on court could not heed his going to be easy for me to play hundred “The size of the zone inside 2014 decision giving India, Aus- all. Cilic had won 26 out of 33 points con- — with one eff ort drawing a collective gasp request to strap up his body, and instead percent,” said Nishikori, who hopes to which half the ball needs to hit for tralia and England a larger share tested. as he dumped the ball into the net. And he he had to make do with swallowing a pill. have fully recovered before returning to a Not Out decision to be reversed of the revenue and a bigger say When the 26-year-old’s fortunes failed was hurting as he kept on losing points. Unfortunately it wasn’t the magic pill action in Toronto on July 25. to Out will increase, changing to in administrative matters would to improve in the second set, with a dou- Trailing 4-1 in the second set, a con- he so desperately wanted. “Every point I played, the pain got a zone bordered by the outside of be taken up after the ICC board ble fault costing him his serves in the fi rst cerned Chang stood up in the players’ box One game later, trailing 6-1, 5-1, he worse. I didn’t want to, but I had to retire off and leg stumps, and the bot- receives the draft of a new con- and fi fth games, his coach Michael Chang and gestured with his hands to ‘cut it’ but fi nally listened to Chang, who could today.” tom of the bails (formerly the stitution at its October meetings.

FOCUS BOTTOMLINE Over-achiever PCB seeks lion’s share of profi t from Pouille setting India, Pakistan games at ICC events his sights higher IANS arrange home fi xture in other coun- Karachi tries. Since 2009, when a Sri Lankan Reuters team bus was attacked in Lahore, Pa- London akistan Cricket Board (PCB) kistan have hosted only one limited chairman Shaharyar Khan overs series against Zimbabwe. has suggested that the coun- They have had to play most of their o wonder Lucas try should get a higher per- home matches in the United Arab Pouille looked dumb- centageP of profi ts from games against Emirates (UAE) which has placed a founded at his 6-4, arch-rivals India at International huge burden on the board. This in 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, 10-8 Cricket Council (ICC) events. turn is aff ecting the development Nwin yesterday over fellow young Khan believes this is one of the ways of the game in the nation, the paper gun Bernard Tomic. He had never to raise funds after the terror-ravaged stated. before won a fi ve-set match at country was stripped off hosting in- “Pakistan is the only country that tour level and had never beaten ternational cricket and there are still plays its home matches in a third a seeded player at a Grand Slam. no signs of the deadlock being broken country,” the paper said. After coolly sealing the near with the Board of Control for Cricket “This has placed a huge fi nancial three-hour battle with the in India (BCCI) in terms of bilateral burden on Pakistan cricket. This in- 23-year-old Australian 19th seed series. cludes having to play host in one of by punching down two aces, “Pakistan continues to play India in the most expensive destinations in Pouille fell on his back and then ICC events. The interest and fi nances the world. Dubai, for example, was sat looking stunned on his chair, number one Novak Djokovic. that these generate are unparalleled. recently ranked as the most expensive soaking up the applause. “I had a big chance to make a Tickets for the World Cup matches in holiday destination.” The 22-year-old Frenchman semi at Wimbledon... But I have Adelaide and Calcutta sold out quick- “To host two teams — Pakistan had already bested his major to give credit to him, because he er than other major sporting events - and the opposition, scorers, umpires, performance by reaching the played the right tennis to win,” Wimbledon, the Olympics being two other offi cials — in the UAE is prohib- Wimbledon last 16 when down- said Tomic, who reached the examples,” Khan said in a paper to itively expensive. In addition, the hir- ing Argentine Juan Martin del Wimbledon quarter-fi nals in PCB’s directors, which was accessed ing of grounds is a further drain. Lit- Potro — as well as far surpassing 2011 as a qualifi er. by ESPNCricinfo. tle is recouped through gate receipts. his own expectations. Next up for Pouille, who “The fi nancial income in ICC Therefore, every time we play at home “Before the tournament, (it) reached his tour-level fi nal and championships benefi ts enormously it is a further drain on resources.” was to win one match on grass. broke into the top 50 this year, from India-Pakistan clashes. Cur- “Pakistan is also suff ering cricket- Yeah, now, of course, I’m very will be fellow 22-year-old Jiri rently, all members benefi t from the wise. Many of the national teams have happy, very emotional with the Vesely or Tomas Berdych, who windfall from these matches. (The) never played a match at home against win today,” the 32nd seed told reached the fi nal six year ago and Chairman proposed that Pakistan international teams. These cricket- reporters. has been a permanent fi xture of should be given a higher percentage of ers have been denied the opportu- He and Tomic were two of the the top 10 since July 2010. this income.” nity to benefi t from home crowds. At four players aged 23 and under “I think it will be one of my Khan presented the proposals at the same time the public is starved of in the fourth round — the most most important matches of my the ICC’s recent annual conference in cricket at home — when Zimbabwe at Wimbledon since 2010, when career so far. To reach the semi- Edinburgh. toured all fi ve matches (two T20 In- the youth wing included Britain’s fi nal of a grand slam, of course, He also urged the ICC asking them ternationals, three One-Day Interna- Andy Murray and now world it’s important,” Pouille said. to compensate the board for having to tionals) were sold out in minutes.”

Tuesday, July 5, 2016 GULF TIMES CRICKET

TOUR GAME, DAY TWO FOCUS England Pakistan’s Amir skipper Cook strikes on England expects rough ride for Amir

AFP “The media will ask questions return vs Somerset Taunton, United Kingdom about it but it will not aff ect us.” ‘ONE STRIKE’ Amir and Sohail Khan take three wickets each as visitors lead 371 runs after day two ngland captain Alastair Meanwhile Cook reiterated his Cook believes Pakistan’s call for future fi xers to be hit with AFP Mohamed Amir will face life-bans while saying he had no Taunton, United Kingdom a tough reception from qualms about playing against fansE should he return to Test Amir again. cricket at Lord’s later this month. “Whether I agreed or disa- akistan’s Mohamed Amir Left-arm fast bowler Amir’s greed with the punishment, he marked his return to fi rst-class exciting career came to a shud- got it, served his time and he is cricket in England with three dering halt at Lord’s in 2010 absolutely right to come back. wickets as Somerset collapsed at when, during a Test against “You’d have to speak to him. PTaunton yesterday. England, he and new-ball part- What he did wasn’t good, but he Amir took three for 36 in 11 overs, in- ner Mohamed Asif were caught served his punishment then. cluding the wicket of former England bowling no-balls to order on the “It hasn’t happened and opener Marcus Trescothick, as he served instructions of captain Salman the ICC (International Cricket notice he could be a threat in the upcom- Butt as part of a sting operation Council) haven’t made any big ing Test series against England. carried out by a tabloid newspa- statements, but if I was in charge Amir’s exciting career came to a shud- per. if you got caught once that would dering halt during a Lord’s Test in 2010 All three received fi ve-year be it — one strike and you’re out.” when he and new-ball partner Mohamed bans from cricket and, together England paceman Stuart Asif were caught bowling no-balls to or- with sports agent Mazhar Ma- Broad made his highest Test der on the instructions of captain Salman jeed, jail terms. score of 169 during the now infa- Butt as part of a tabloid newspaper sting Amir, who served three mous match at Lord’s, an innings operation. months in an English young of- that was quickly overshadowed All three received fi ve-year bans from fenders institute, has only fea- by the spot-fi xing furore. cricket and together with sports agent tured in the game’s shorter for- However, Broad told Britain’s Mazhar Majeed, jail terms. mats since his return to Pakistan Mail on Sunday newspaper: Amir, who served three months in an duty in January. “In Amir’s case I certainly have English young off enders institute, has But the 24-year-old’s career no hard feelings about playing only featured in the game’s shorter for- Amir had another wicket when a full- Only James Hildreth (47 not out), long when his legside fl ick off Davey sailed could come full circle when the against him again. mats since his return to Pakistan duty in length inswinger bowled fi rst-class deb- overlooked by England, off ered much re- over fi ne leg. fi rst of a four-Test series against “What he did was wrong but January. utant Adam Hose (10). sistance with the bat for Somerset. But the Scotland seamer had his re- England starts at Lord’s on July he was extremely young and But the 24-year-old is now back in Somerset were now 23 for two, with Not a single no-ball was bowled in venge when Hafeez was given out caught 14. maybe not aware of the conse- England and could make his Test return in Amir having taken two wickets for six Somerset’s innings. behind on 10. Pakistan captain Misbah-ul- quences. The reality is he’s back the fi rst of a four-match series at Lord’s runs in 11 balls. Pakistan resumed on their overnight Hafeez shrugged his shoulders in dis- Haq has backed Amir, currently in the game and has served his on July 14. And eight minutes after lunch, Amir score of 324 for fi ve, with Younis Khan 99 belief at umpire Tom Lungley’s decision, playing in the team’s opening time.” After Pakistan had declared yesterday bowled Peter Trego (23) with another fi ne not out. with square leg offi cial Billy Taylor en- tour match against Somerset Broad added: “I have a little bit morning, Amir took the new ball. inswinger that knocked over the bats- It took the 38-year-old Younis 12 balls couraging the opener to depart. in Taunton, to become the best of sympathy for Amir but once Despite suggestions from England man’s middle stump and left the other yesterday to complete his 53rd fi rst-class Misbah fell for 19 when he reverse- bowler in the world. you’ve received money to do captain Alastair Cook that spectators two standing. hundred but he got there with a two swept left-arm spinner Jack Leach and But Cook says he will likely something illegal that is always a might jeer Amir, there was nothing but Fellow quicks Sohail Khan (three for to fi ne leg off Dutch paceman Paul van Trescothick held a fi ne slip catch. have to deal with some taunts bad thing. polite applause as he came on to bowl. 26) and Rahat Ali (two for 38) also bowled Meekeren. But Ali pressed on and completed a from spectators fi rst. “We are very well-educated by Trescothick blocked his fi rst ball and well. Somerset slumped to 128 all out in Younis’s century came off 173 balls, in- 113-ball fi fty when he launched off -spin- “I’m sure there will be a reac- the ICC’s anti-corruption unit, took two fours off Amir’s opening over. reply to Pakistan’s fi rst innings 359 for cluding 14 fours. ner Dom Bess over mid-off for his sev- tion and that is right,” said Cook but at 18 years old you are poten- eight declared — a defi cit of 231 runs. There was an ironic moment when the enth four. at a sponsor’s event. tially more vulnerable and sus- SWING KING Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq opt- fi rst delivery Amir faced was a Josh Davey “That is part and parcel, that ceptible to your elders.” But Amir struck with his 14th ball back in ed against enforcing the follow-on and at no-ball. Next ball, Amir was caught be- BRIEF SCORES: Pakistan 359-8 dec when you do something like that Broad, however, agreed with fi rst-class cricket on English soil. stumps, on the second day of three, the hind off Davey for a duck. (Younis Khan 104, Asad Shafiq 80, Shan there are more consequences Cook that life bans were the best Left-hander Trescothick, on eight, tourists were 140 for four for in their sec- Masood 62; P van Meekeren 3-78) and than just the punishment — that deterrent to spot and match- could only edge a superb outswinger that ond innings — a huge lead of 371 runs. HAFEEZ DISSENT 140-4 (Azhar Ali 50 not out) lead Somer- is something for him to cope fi xing. moved late and wicket-keeper Sarfraz Azhar Ali was 50 not out and Asad Mohamed Hafeez struck a six off the set 128 (Sohail Khan 3-26, Mohamed Amir with, whatever comes his way.” “I am strongly of the view that Ahmed held an excellent diving catch. Shafi q 26 not out. fi rst ball of Pakistan’s second innings 3-36) by 371 runs Opening batsman Cook, who one of the only ways we will ever played in the controversial 2010 expel this awful disease from Lord’s Test, added: “It won’t aff ect our game is to hand out lifetime BOTTOMLINE us as a side, we will concentrate on bans for any kind of fi xing,” said what we can concentrate on. Broad. I will not curb Kohli’s aggression, says new coach Kumble

Reuters Bengaluru

ndia’s new head coach Anil Kumble admires Test captain Virat Kohli’s aggression and will not try to curb his natural instincts. IThe 27-year-old Kohli replaced Ma- hendra Singh Dhoni as India’s captain in the longest game’s format after the wick- etkeeper-batsman’s retirement from Test cricket during the tour of Australia in late 2014. The Delhi cricketer was initially per- Buttler to be considered purely as ceived as another brash personality from batsman for Tests, hints Bayliss the streets of a city long accused of en- couraging aggression in its youth, having often been involved in wars of words with Stumper Jos Buttler has done enough with the bat in the one- opponents on the fi eld. day series against Sri Lanka to be considered purely as a bats- Former India captain Kumble’s ap- man for the Test series against Pakistan, England coach Trevor pointment as coach was welcomed by Bayliss has said. many who expect the former leg-spinner Jonny Bairstow has not impressed everyone with his keeping in to be a calming presence in a team led by the Test series against Sri Lanka but Bayliss felt Buttler, who kept an expressive captain. wickets in the ODIs against the islanders, was good enough to “I love his aggression,” Kumble told make the Test side as a specialist batsman. reporters sitting alongside Kohli. “I was “This (Sri Lanka) was probably Jos’s most consistent series,” no diff erent, I was also aggressive, very Bayliss said ahead of Thursday’s meeting to pick the side for the diff erent in terms of the way we probably first Test against Pakistan at Lord’s next week. came across on the fi eld. “The way he has struck the ball and carried himself with the bat, “But you don’t want to curb aggression. and his keeping wicket was pretty good, means he is in conten- I will be the last person to curb someone’s tion. natural instincts,” Kumble added. “I feel it would be better if he played in Test cricket like he does “But we all know how important it is to in the white-ball game, coming in at number six or seven. Leav- be ambassadors of India and to be a part of ing him out of the side, as we did in Sharjah last year, has not the Indian cricket team. That everybody done him any harm.” understands. We will ensure that there is a thin line and everybody knows that.” India will play four Tests against West Indies and after returning from the Car- ibbean the world’s second-ranked side are set for a busy season at home when they will play 13 Test matches, eight ODIs and three T20 internationals. “It will be one Test match at a time. It’s Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and head coach Anil Kumble (right) take part in a press conference in Bangalore yesterday. (AFP) a long season, we have the opportunity to plan well,” Kohli told reporters ahead of opportunity to challenge and assess 337 in 271 one-day internationals, has while trying to go for wins. the team’s departure for the West Indies. ourselves as a Test team. I feel these few just overseen a six-day training camp in “But we lost due to our mistakes. We England’s Jos “It will be an opportunity for the team months will determine how India play Bengaluru. have realised we reached that position Buttler (left) to gel together and execute our plans,” he Test cricket in the next few years.” “Our intention will always be to go playing 80 percent good cricket. Now we added. Kumble, India’s most successful bowl- for wins,” Kohli said. “There have been are focusing on rectifying the remaining 20 “It will be the perfect situation and er, capturing 619 wickets in 132 Tests and situations in the past where we have lost percent and continue to play positively.”