Wolfsburg earn key win over Roma in Women’s Champions League, Lyon net six past Galatasaray

Wolfsburg earn key win over Roma in Women’s Champions League, Lyon net six past Galatasaray
Wolfsburg’s Icelandic midfielder Sveindis Jonsdottir (C) scores the 4-1 lead during the UEFA Women’s Champions League preliminary round Group A match between VfL Wolfsburg and AS Roma in Wolfsburg, Germany on Dec. 11, 2024. (AFP)
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Updated 12 December 2024
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Wolfsburg earn key win over Roma in Women’s Champions League, Lyon net six past Galatasaray

Wolfsburg earn key win over Roma in Women’s Champions League, Lyon net six past Galatasaray
  • Four goals inside the final 25 minutes from Sveindis Jonsdottir secured Wolfsburg second spot in Group A as they moved three points ahead of Roma
  • In Group B, the already-qualified Chelsea and Real Madrid both won to set up a blockbuster final group game next week

PARIS: Wolfsburg romped to a 6-1 win over Roma in the Women’s Champions League on Wednesday to book their place in the quarterfinals, while eight-time victors Lyon hammered Galatasaray.

Four goals inside the final 25 minutes from Sveindis Jonsdottir secured Wolfsburg second spot in Group A as they moved three points ahead of Roma and boast a better head-to-head record against the Italians.

“I’m extremely happy and extremely proud that we’re through,” said Wolfsburg forward Alexandra Popp.

“We made life very difficult for ourselves with the result from the game in Rome. But to have a game like this... I’m just super proud.”

On matchday one, the Romans won 1-0 against Wolfsburg in Italy but the two-time champions now have a superior record thanks to their heavy win at home.

The Germans next face leaders Lyon in the final round of group-stage matches on Dec. 17, but with nothing at stake.

The French side have a perfect five wins from five after their 6-0 demolition of bottom side Galatasaray and sit six points clear in the group.

In Germany, Popp opened the scoring early for Wolfsburg, before Valentina Giacinti equalized shortly after halftime.

Lineth Beerensteyn put the Wolves back in front after the hour and Jonsdottir then bagged four to give the win a sheen.

The Iceland forward came off the substitutes’ bench on 66 minutes and netted her first just two minutes later.

She then scored three in the final five minutes to bring Wolfsburg up to nine points.

“I’m going to let all the girls write something on this (match) ball — I’m really happy! I’ll probably never forget about it,” said Jonsdottir.

In Istanbul, six different players were on the scoresheet for Lyon as they ran riot at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium.

Ada Hegerberg and Sara Daebritz scored inside the opening 30 minutes, before a Jazmin Jackmon own-goal made it 3-0 by the break.

Captain Wendie Renard, Danielle van de Donk and Eugenie Le Sommer completed the scoring in the second half.

Le Sommer’s 76th-minute strike brought up a significant milestone for the 35-year-old as it was her 50th goal in the Champions League.

“It would be too early to say that we are the favorites for the cups before the end of the season, but we are making good progress,” Lyon coach Joe Montemurro told UEFA’s website.

“We’ve had a good start to the season, but the important thing is to maintain this.”

In Group B, the already-qualified Chelsea and Real Madrid both won to set up a blockbuster final group game next week, where the winners of the pool will be decided.

The English champions will travel to Madrid in pole position on Dec. 17, holding a three-point advantage after defeating Real 3-2 at home on the first matchday.

Chelsea maintained their 100 percent record on Wednesday as they waltzed to a 6-1 win against Dutch club Twente.

Madrid moved to 12 points with a 3-0 win at Celtic thanks to a brace from Danish attacker Signe Bruun and a late Alba Redondo header.


Saudi Arabia, Jordan exit FIBA Asia Cup 2025

Saudi Arabia, Jordan exit FIBA Asia Cup 2025
Updated 12 August 2025
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Saudi Arabia, Jordan exit FIBA Asia Cup 2025

Saudi Arabia, Jordan exit FIBA Asia Cup 2025
  • Defeat to Philippines in overtime puts paid to Kingdom’s hopes of place in quarterfinals 

JEDDAH: The Saudi national basketball team have been eliminated from the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup after they lost 95-88 in overtime to the Philippines, who now go on to play Australia in the quarterfinals.

The Saudis faced their playoff game after finishing second in Group C with two wins and a defeat, producing strong performances against Jordan and India after their opening loss to China.

The game was tight through much of the match, but with just 90 seconds remaining the Philippines scored five successive points to cut the home team’s lead to only one point. Mohammed Alsuwailem then scored two points to make it 79-76 and there were a mere eight seconds left when the Philippines’ Ricardo Brownie scored a three-pointer to tie the game.

Overtime was all the Philippines, with Kevin Quiambao opening the scoring with a three-pointer before adding another minutes later. Dwight Ramos and Justin Brownlee extended the gap before AJ Edu’s dagger triple with under a minute to play sealed the win.

Saudi Arabia’s Muhammad-Ali Abdur-Rahkman scored 33 points, eight triples, five rebounds and four assists, but was neutralized in the overtime period. The loss ended the host nation’s bid for its first top-eight finish since 2005.

Ricard Casas, Saudi Arabia’s head coach, said after the game: “We really had a good game but we lost it in the last few seconds in overtime. 

“Our counterparts had a good shooting game and, eventually, they won the game. Anyhow, I am proud of my team and we will work it out for the next tournament.”

Tim Cone, his opposite number, said: “It was a special game (and) it was a special performance by both teams. The home team really came to play and they were phenomenal.”

Chinese Taipei booked their place in the last eight with a 78-64 win over Jordan. They will face unbeaten Iran in their quarterfinal clash.


‘Unique atmosphere’: Ronnie O’Sullivan happy to be back at Masters Snooker Championship in Jeddah

‘Unique atmosphere’: Ronnie O’Sullivan happy to be back at Masters Snooker Championship in Jeddah
Updated 12 August 2025
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‘Unique atmosphere’: Ronnie O’Sullivan happy to be back at Masters Snooker Championship in Jeddah

‘Unique atmosphere’: Ronnie O’Sullivan happy to be back at Masters Snooker Championship in Jeddah
  • Organizing committee of the tournament holds an expanded press conference with some of the world’s top players

JEDDAH: Ronnie O’Sullivan is excited to be back in the Kingdom for the Masters Snooker Championship in Jeddah.

“I love being here in Saudi Arabia at the Snooker Masters and enjoying its unique atmosphere,” he said on Monday of the contest which began on Aug. 8 and ends on Saturday.

“Saudi Arabia has set a wonderful example in hosting international tournaments. From the moment you arrive, you feel the grandeur of the tournament and the wonderful experience,” he added.

The organizing committee of the championship held a press conference on Monday attended by Saudi Billiard and Snooker Federation President Naif Al-Jaweini, World Snooker Tour Chairman Steve Dawson, and Saudi Arabia’s female referee Najla Al-Nuaimi.

Al-Jaweini lauded the Ministry of Sports’ role in the event, including the partnership with Matchroom and the WST.

“We are still at the beginning of the road, and in the coming years we will achieve many accomplishments to develop the level of players and referees, and we are pleased to welcome the world’s elite players to this prestigious tournament,” said Al-Jaweini.

The WST’s Dawson said: “The professional organization in Saudi Arabia is on par with the largest international tournaments.”

He added that Saudi Arabia’s decision to host the event for 10 years would  “contribute to the development of the game and building a base of talent, players, and referees capable of competing in the world rankings.”

Al-Naimi said: “I am proud to represent Saudi Arabia in the field of refereeing, and I hope to see more Saudi women in this field of this distinguished sport.

“The tournament has given me a wealth of experience by rubbing shoulders with the best referees in the world.”

Defending champion Judd Trump also had praise for the Kingdom’s organization.

“Since the first edition, the attendance and interest have been evident, leaving us with many beautiful memories. It would be great to play against a Saudi player in the future, and perhaps see one of them become a world champion.”


Paris Saint-Germain sign Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi

Paris Saint-Germain sign Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi
Updated 12 August 2025
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Paris Saint-Germain sign Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi

Paris Saint-Germain sign Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi
  • Illia Zabarnyi had an impressive 2024-2025 season in England with Premier League club Bournemouth
  • Bournemouth have now sold three of their first-choice defensive lineup from last season

PARIS: European champions Paris Saint-Germain announced on Tuesday they have signed Ukrainian center-back Illia Zabarnyi from Premier League club Bournemouth.

“Paris Saint-Germain are excited to welcome Illia Zabarnyi,” PSG said in a statement, adding that he would be the first Ukrainian ever to play for the club.

Zabarnyi, 22, had an impressive 2024-2025 season in England and his arrival in the French capital is expected to put pressure on PSG’s Brazilian stalwart Marquinhos in central defense.

Bournemouth have now sold three of their first-choice defensive lineup from last season after Milos Kerkez moved to Premier League champions Liverpool and Dean Huijsen was transferred to Real Madrid.


UAE jiu-jitsu athletes claim three medals at World Games Chengdu 2025

UAE jiu-jitsu athletes claim three medals at World Games Chengdu 2025
Updated 12 August 2025
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UAE jiu-jitsu athletes claim three medals at World Games Chengdu 2025

UAE jiu-jitsu athletes claim three medals at World Games Chengdu 2025
  • Competiton is a global showpiece for sports yet to be included in the Olympic Games

CHENGDU: Three UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team athletes have succeeded in winning medals on the second day of the World Games Chengdu 2025.

Saeed Al-Kubaisi claimed gold in the under-85kg division after a series of strong bouts against opponents from Portugal, South Korea and Saudi Arabia. Mehdi Al-Awlaki won silver in the under-77kg division, while Mohammed Al-Suwaidi earned silver in the under-69kg division.

Considered a global showpiece for sports yet to be included in the Olympic Games, the 12th World Games, which runs in the Chinese city from Aug. 7-17, features nearly 5,000 athletes from 118 countries competing across 34 sports, making it one of the most prominent international sporting events.

Mohamed Salem Al-Dhaheri, vice chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: “Jiu-jitsu in the UAE has proven its excellence and its ability to succeed at every opportunity, supported by the sport’s continued growth and the achievements of our national team on both continental and global stages. Our athletes have consistently made the nation proud in regional and international arenas, and today’s result is even more significant given the presence of top-ranked competitors from around the world. This success is the result of the federation’s ongoing efforts and initiatives to prepare our athletes to perform at the highest level.”

Gold medallist Al-Kubaisi said: “I entered the championship confident in my ability to win gold, as it’s the natural result of the hard work and intensive training we’ve put in over recent months. I want to thank the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation for the support they have given us, helping us reach this stage and make our mark at a global event of this scale.”

Meanwhile, Al-Awlaki said: “The final was tough, but I never gave up and kept pushing until the last second because my goal was gold. I’m happy to take silver in such an important championship, and I’m confident there is more to come.”

On Tuesday, Emirati athletes will compete in the open weight division, with Al-Awlaki, Al-Kubaisi and Al-Suwaidi in the men’s category, and Asma Alhosani, Shamsa Al-Amri and Shamma Al-Kalbani in the women’s category.


Saudi esports teams rising to the occasion at Esports World Cup in Riyadh

Saudi esports teams rising to the occasion at Esports World Cup in Riyadh
Updated 12 August 2025
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Saudi esports teams rising to the occasion at Esports World Cup in Riyadh

Saudi esports teams rising to the occasion at Esports World Cup in Riyadh
  • Strong performances from Team Falcons and Twisted Minds in front of home crowd highlight Saudi Arabia’s emergence on world stage

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s top esports teams have continued to make their mark on the global stage at the Esports World Cup 2025, with Team Falcons and Twisted Minds delivering standout victories in front of sold-out crowds at Boulevard Riyadh City.

Team Falcons recently stormed to victory in Overwatch 2, while Twisted Minds captured the Call of Duty: Warzone title in a dramatic grand final performance, adding crucial points to their Club Championship standings.

The Overwatch 2 competition showcased Saudi dominance, with all top-three places claimed by local teams.

Team Falcons defeated Al-Qadsiah Esports 4-0 in the final, their first title of the tournament. Twisted Minds claimed third place after a 3-1 victory over South Korea’s T1, highlighting the Kingdom’s depth of talent in the title.

Twisted Minds triumphed in the Call of Duty: Warzone tournament, lifting the trophy after an intense 10-game final. Along the way, they defeated top-seeded rivals, including last year’s champions and tournament favorites Team Falcons, who finished fifth overall.

Saudi teams have also earned podium finishes and top placements across a range of other competitions.

Team Falcons finished second in Dota 2 after a dominant path to the grand final, with victories over Team Liquid and Tundra Esports, before falling to Team Spirit.

In the inaugural Esports World Cup Chess tournament, Team Falcons’ Alireza Firouzja placed second behind Magnus Carlsen, while teammate Hikaru Nakamura took third.

ROC Esports delivered a historic result in Apex Legends, finishing second among 40 of the world’s best teams, and Twisted Minds reached the semifinals of Honor of Kings to claim fourth place.

In addition, Team Falcons secured sixth in Free Fire and 10th in PUBG Mobile, with fellow Saudi team POWR Esports finishing 12th in the latter.

With two weeks of competition remaining, the race for the Esports World Cup Club Championship is heating up.

Team Falcons sit in second place overall with 3,700 points behind leaders Team Liquid, while Twisted Minds have strengthened their standing with their Call of Duty victory, climbing to fifth place with 2,200 points.

The coming days will see Saudi teams compete in several more high-profile tournaments, with the potential to add to the Kingdom’s medal count and Club Championship points total.

Here are some of the events that will include Saudi teams before the end of the competition:

Rocket League: Saudi squads Team Falcons and Twisted Minds are targeting Esports World Cup glory, with Team Falcons looking to go one better after finishing as runners-up last year.

PUBG: Battlegrounds: Team Falcons and Twisted Minds are set to battle for success in the tournament.

Tekken 8: Team Falcons are entering with proven regional champions.

Teamfight Tactics: Falcons, POWR Esports, and Twisted Minds are all in action, with strong prospects for deep runs.

Counter-Strike 2: Team Falcons are aiming for redemption after previous close finishes.

Street Fighter 6: Team Falcons’ top fighters are expected to contend against the world’s best.

Crossfire: Team Falcons, Twisted Minds, and Al-Qadsiah will represent Saudi Arabia.