DOHA: Christian Eriksen’s Denmark came to the World Cup tipped as dark horses after reaching the semifinals of last year’s European Championship but have exited with barely a whimper after a 1-0 defeat to Australia.
Eriksen’s return to the World Cup had been highly anticipated after a good spell for both club and country following a dramatic comeback from a cardiac arrest.
The playmaker collapsed on the pitch against Finland in June 2021 during the delayed Euro 2020 tournament and had to be resuscitated in front of a stunned Copenhagen crowd and a television audience of millions.
On the way to hospital he told his wife Sabrina that he would probably never play football again but he fought his way back to fitness.
The 30-year-old had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator fitted, which meant he had to quit Inter Milan due to rules in Italy.
But he signed for Brentford in the Premier League and also resumed his international career, subsequently joining Manchester United.
Denmark were favorites to qualify from Group D alongside world champions France, whom they beat home and away in the Nations League.
Before their opening goalless draw with Tunisia, assistant coach Morten Wieghorst said Eriksen was “even better than he was before the accident.”
But he was underwhelming in a team that lacked the spark that carried them to the semifinals at last year’s Euros.
“Christian is a superhero but he performs with the team,” said Denmark captain Simon Kjaer.
“He is an amazing footballer but we have to look to each other and see that as a team we didn’t perform.
“We made one goal, got one point, couldn’t beat Australia at the end of the group and OK we go home.”
Eriksen was wearing the captain’s armband on Wednesday in place of the injured Kjaer but he failed to sparkle at Al Janoub Stadium, unable to inspire his strangely lacklustre teammates.
Demark were toothless after Mathew Leckie’s twisting run and low finish gave Australia a 60th-minute lead, which ultimately gave them the win they needed to qualify from the group, second behind France.
A strangely subdued display from Eriksen was summed up in stoppage time when he miscontrolled a pass even though he had a chance to shoot in the penalty area and then bounced off Australia defender Harry Souttar onto the grass.
Coach Kasper Hjulmand wondered aloud why his team had played with such a “lack of enthusiasm and coherence” in a match they had to win.
Kjaer pinned the blame on the squad as a whole rather than the man who was supposed to show why he is rated as one of Europe’s best playmakers.
“Every team has a player that they count on, and we count on Christian,” said Kjaer.
“This is not on Christian, this is on the team, because if we managed to put him in the right situations, Christian will make the difference. We win and lose as a team.”
Eriksen flops for dismal Denmark on major tournament return
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Eriksen flops for dismal Denmark on major tournament return
- Eriksen's return to the World Cup had been highly anticipated after a good spell for both club and country following a dramatic comeback from a cardiac arrest
- Demark were toothless after Mathew Leckie's twisting run and low finish gave Australia a 60th-minute lead
Golf Saudi brings free GoGolf coaching to South Korea at Aramco Korea Championship
- The initiative was run alongside the $2 million Aramco Korea Championship
SEOUL: Golf Saudi’s grassroots coaching initiative, GoGolf, made its international debut in South Korea this month, offering free golf lessons to more than 300 children and Saudi expats during the Aramco Korea Championship.
The initiative was run alongside the $2 million Aramco Korea Championship, part of the new-look PIF Global Series, held at New Korea Country Club from May 9 to 11.
At the tournament, Czech golfer Sara Kouskova led her team to victory, while home favourite Kim Hyo-joo clinched the individual title after three days of play.
Away from the competition, Golf Saudi delivered three days of onsite coaching clinics as part of its GoGolf program, aimed at introducing new players to the game. Sessions took place on the tournament driving range and were led by Golf Saudi coaches and brand ambassadors.
“At Golf Saudi we are passionate about bringing more and more people into the game we love, helping it continue to grow both in Saudi Arabia and around the world,” said Muath Al-Alsheikh, program manager at GoGolf.
“We know that means enabling access and breaking down barriers of entry wherever possible, so that’s why GoGolf offers all Saudis free lessons — and why we were thrilled to host complimentary GoGolf clinics in Seoul.
“It was great to see so many young golfers come and be part of the sessions, including some who were repeat participants — amongst them, several of the Saudi expats. This shows the effectiveness of clinics like these in driving a growing interest in golf,” Al-Alsheikh added.
The GoGolf scheme, launched in Saudi Arabia, offers newcomers three months of free lessons, followed by discounted rounds, coaching, and memberships.
According to Golf Saudi, the program has delivered more than 70,000 free lessons to date, contributing to a 300 percent increase in Saudi golf participation since 2022. About 3,000 Saudi women have taken up the sport since 2021.
In Seoul, participants included local children aged five to eight who were introduced to the game through a partnership with First Tee Korea, a non-profit focused on youth development through golf.
Sessions were also open to Saudi expats living in South Korea, some of whom had previously taken up the sport in the Kingdom.
“I really enjoyed GoGolf,” said Abrar Abdulwahab, one of the approximately 100 Saudis who took part.
“I tried golf last year in Saudi Arabia, and now, trying again here, I’ve definitely noticed an improvement in my skills. When I return to my home, I’ll continue learning more, it’s been a wonderful experience,” he said.
Fellow expat Fahad Al-Qahtani added: “I’m extremely grateful for this program and its organizers. Not only did I take part in the coaching session, but I also learned about the history of golf in Saudi Arabia, which was really interesting.”
Barcelona set August target for matchday return to Camp Nou stadium
- Barcelona have played in the city’s Olympic Stadium for two years
- The original target was a November 2024 return to a partially finished venue
BARCELONA: Barcelona aim to return belatedly to their Camp Nou stadium after two years of reconstruction work for a preseason friendly on Aug. 10.
Club president Joan Laporta set the date for the traditional season-opening Joan Gamper Trophy game when he spoke in a television interview late Monday.
Barcelona have played in the city’s Olympic Stadium for two years — and won La Liga this season — during the massive overhaul to create a 105,000-capacity home that would be the biggest soccer stadium in Europe.
The original target was a November 2024 return to a partially finished venue, then Barcelona said in February they hoped to play games in Camp Nou before the end of this season with 60,000 spectators.
The February update also detailed plans to complete the project by adding a roof at the end of the 2025-26 season.
The Camp Nou is a potential candidate to stage the 2030 World Cup final which Spain will co-host with Portugal and Morocco. The more likely options are Real Madrid’s renovated Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and a 115,000-seat venue planned in Casablanca, Morocco.
Western Conference Finals showdown spotlights changing face of the NBA
- Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Minnesota Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards competing for ‘Face of the League’ title
DUBAI: The second-round clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets was a thrilling showdown between two of the brightest stars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic, both frontrunners for the 2024–2025 NBA MVP.
But now, the NBA Western Conference Finals present an even more compelling narrative, a duel between Oklahoma’s Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, two rising stars competing for the title of the “Face of the League.”
Changing of the guard as next generation takes over
As the NBA legendary era of LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant approaches its twilight, the focus shifts to the next wave of superstars.
With established players like Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Trae Young, and the Spurs’ phenom Victor Wembanyama making their mark, this series offers a refreshing showcase of two young guards ready to take the league by storm.
It is a classic guard-vs-guard battle that basketball enthusiasts will relish.
Oklahoma City are battle tested
Oklahoma City enter the series as the Western Conference’s top seed, following a dominant 68-win regular season.
At the heart of their success is Gilgeous-Alexander, who is on track to win his first NBA MVP. Averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game, the Canadian superstar has become the face of the Thunder’s resurgence.
In the playoffs, OKC swept the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round, capitalizing on Ja Morant’s injury in Game 3, and outlasted the Denver Nuggets in a thrilling seven-game series.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35-point performance in Game 7 put him in elite company, joining Durant as the only Thunder player to score 35 or more points in a Game 7.
Timberwolves back to the Western Conference Finals
On the other hand, the No. 6 seed Timberwolves have taken a different path to the conference finals. After a commanding five-game victory over the No. 3 seed Los Angeles Lakers, they faced the Golden State Warriors in the second round.
The series took a decisive turn when Curry was injured in Game 2, allowing Minnesota to capitalize and close out the series in five games.
For the Timberwolves, this marks their second straight trip to the Western Conference Finals, following last year’s loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
2 teams chasing historic first championship
Both teams are now on the brink of history, each aiming to win their first NBA championship. The Thunder have not reached the NBA Finals since 2012, while the Timberwolves have never made it that far.
This is more than just a series; it is a clash of two young stars leading their teams to uncharted territory. The winner will advance to the NBA Finals to face either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks, who are battling in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The X factor, supporting casts and rising stars
Playoff success is often determined by superstar performances, but it also relies heavily on role players stepping up and making a difference. For the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander is the engine, but he is far from alone.
Rising star Jalen Williams has become a crucial piece, contributing with scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility. His ability to complement Gilgeous-Alexander will be a key factor in Oklahoma City’s success.
Additionally, Alex Caruso’s impact cannot be overstated. In Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets, Caruso’s tenacious defense on Jokic played a pivotal role in limiting the MVP to just 20 points.
As the Thunder prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves, Chet Holmgren’s presence as a rim protector will be vital. The Timberwolves’ aggressive approach to attacking the paint will test Holmgren’s defensive prowess.
His ability to deter easy paths to the rim could be a determining factor in the series outcome.
Minnesota’s secret weapons include Edwards and Randle
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves rely on Edwards, whose explosive scoring and fearless mentality have transformed Minnesota into a contender.
Alongside Edwards, Julius Randle has rediscovered his form, becoming a reliable scorer and rebounder, a far cry from his past playoff struggles. Randle has been a consistent contributor, averaging nearly 24 points per game in the playoffs.
Anchoring the defense is Rudy Gobert, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. Gobert’s rim protection and rebounding have been pivotal. He also can score when the team needs him as he recorded playoff career highs with 27 points and 24 rebounds against the Lakers in the first round.
The Timberwolves’ depth is a significant asset. Naz Reid, the former Sixth Man of the Year Award winner, has become a reliable scorer off the bench. Jaden McDaniels adds defensive versatility and scoring, while veteran Mike Conley offers leadership and playmaking, guiding the team’s younger players.
Battle beyond the finals
As the series tips off, the spotlight will shine on Gilgeous-Alexander and Edwards, but the supporting cast and defensive battles may well decide the outcome.
The Thunder and Timberwolves are not just battling for a place in the NBA Finals but for one in the league’s future.
The NBA Western Conference Finals Game 1 between the Timberwolves and Thunder is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20.
Marseille president rules out move to sign Man City great De Bruyne
- Club president Pablo Longoria has ruled out a move for the 33-year-old playmaker
- Signing a player of such stature might prove disruptive
MARSEILLE: Kevin De Bruyne will be hot property when he leaves Manchester City and many clubs would love to sign him next season.
Marseille are not one of them.
Club president Pablo Longoria has ruled out a move for the 33-year-old playmaker because he thinks signing a player of such stature might prove disruptive.
“If we take a player with a much higher salary than the players we have in the squad today, who qualified us for the Champions League, it destroys all the balance, all the good things, the good dynamic the players built,” Longoria said. “It would be, on the part of a club, a total lack of respect for the players who helped us qualify for the Champions League.”
Marseille finished second in Ligue 1 behind champion Paris Saint-Germain and qualified directly for next season’s Champions League.
De Bruyne was set to make his final home appearance for City later Tuesday against Bournemouth after 10 trophy-laden years at the club. He is one of City’s greatest ever players and won 16 trophies with the club, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League.
De Bruyne shares the record for the highest number of assists in a single Premier League season with 20, and scored more than 100 goals for City.
Ben Sulayem leads FIA to major financial recovery with best results in almost a decade
- Global motorsport organization returns to profit in FY2024, reversing years of deficits
Dubai: The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile has reported its strongest financial performance in almost 10 years, marking a significant turnaround under the presidency of Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
According to figures released this week, the global governing body for motorsport and mobility organisations achieved an operating result of €4.7 million ($5.2 million) for the fiscal year 2024, a dramatic recovery from the €24 million loss recorded in 2021, the year before Ben Sulayem took office.
The turnaround is attributed to a wide-ranging strategic transformation led by the administration. Since taking office, Ben Sulayem has prioritized reforms in financial governance, transparency and operational efficiency across the organization.
“Upon my election as president of the FIA, I committed to ensuring a profitable operation,” said Ben Sulayem. “Today, I am incredibly proud to show that we have achieved this mission, delivering the strongest set of financial results in eight years.”
The FIA reported a total operating income of €182 million for 2024, a 17 percent year-on-year increase, with no outstanding financial debt and an equity ratio of 45 percent, signaling improved financial stability.
Key reforms introduced since 2021 include strengthened procurement controls, the introduction of quarterly internal reporting and a robust financial steering model. These changes have improved budget oversight and allowed the FIA to better allocate resources in line with its strategic objectives across both motorsport and mobility.
The federation also introduced a mid-year general assembly, ensuring more timely financial accountability, and will publish its second consecutive annual activity report ahead of the 2024 general assembly in June. The latest report will include a newly enhanced profit and loss presentation format aimed at increasing transparency.
The improved financial position enables the FIA to reinvest in its core programs, including support for 245 member clubs worldwide and the development of the seven world championships under its governance. It also strengthens the FIA’s ability to deliver on key objectives, including sustainability initiatives and grassroots motorsport development.
A nonprofit organization, the FIA is now well positioned to build on its financial recovery and continue delivering on its broader mandate to promote safe, accessible and sustainable motorsport on a global scale.
