分类： sports

In a thrilling encounter at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured a crucial 2-1 victory against Oman in the fourth round of Asian qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This win places the UAE in a favorable position to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1990, needing only a draw against host Qatar in their upcoming match on Tuesday. Oman, who had taken an early lead in the 12th minute through a deflected shot by Amjad Al Harthi, saw their hopes of automatic qualification dashed as the UAE staged a comeback. Marcus Meloni equalized in the 76th minute with a header from Ali Saleh’s cross, and Caio Lucas sealed the victory seven minutes later with a decisive goal that sent the 5,000 traveling UAE fans into jubilation. Despite the loss, Oman still has a chance to finish second in Group A and advance to the next qualifying round. In Group B, Iraq kept their World Cup dreams alive with a 1-0 victory over Indonesia, thanks to a 76th-minute goal by former Manchester United youth player Zidane Iqbal. Iraq must now defeat group leaders Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on Tuesday to secure their first World Cup appearance since 1986. Indonesia, on the other hand, has been eliminated from contention following two consecutive losses.

In a thrilling Women’s Cricket World Cup match held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, England’s captain Nat Sciver-Brunt delivered a masterclass performance, scoring a magnificent century to guide her team to a competitive total of 253-9 in 50 overs. Despite losing the toss and being sent in to bat by Sri Lanka, England showcased resilience and skill, largely due to Sciver-Brunt’s exceptional innings. Her 117 runs off 117 balls marked her 10th century in one-day internationals, solidifying her status as one of the game’s elite players. England’s innings began steadily, but early dismissals of Amy Jones (11) and Tammy Beaumont (32) put pressure on the middle order. However, Sciver-Brunt formed crucial partnerships, including a 60-run stand with Heather Knight and a 40-run collaboration with Sophia Dunkley. Despite a mid-innings collapse triggered by Sri Lanka’s Inoka Ranaweera, who took 3-33, Sciver-Brunt’s composure and aggressive strokeplay, including a six to reach her century, ensured England posted a defendable total. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, including Udeshika Prabodhani and Sugandika Kumari, claimed two wickets each but couldn’t contain the English captain’s dominance. With this victory, England strengthened its position in the tournament standings, holding four points from wins over South Africa and Bangladesh. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, languishes near the bottom after a loss to India and a rain-abandoned match against Australia.

YOKOHAMA, Japan — Max Greyserman and Xander Schauffele are tied at the top of the leaderboard after the third round of the Baycurrent Classic, setting the stage for an exciting final day of competition. Both golfers finished with a total score of 12-under 201 at the Yokohama Country Club, despite challenging rainy conditions. Greyserman carded an even-par 71, while Schauffele posted an impressive 67. Greyserman, who has consistently held or shared the lead since the tournament began, is vying for his first PGA Tour title, having finished as the runner-up in this event last year. Schauffele, a seasoned champion with two major titles, an Olympic gold medal, and numerous PGA Tour victories, is aiming to add another accolade to his illustrious career. The tournament holds special significance for Schauffele, whose mother grew up in Japan. ‘It would be an incredible feeling,’ he remarked, reflecting on the possibility of winning in front of his family. Five players, including defending champion Nico Echavarria, trail by three strokes heading into the final round. The Baycurrent Classic, the PGA Tour’s sole event in Japan, moved to Yokohama this year after previously being held east of Tokyo. The tournament, which debuted in 2019 with Tiger Woods as its inaugural winner, continues to draw top talent and captivate golf enthusiasts worldwide.

In a dramatic turn of events on the second day of the second cricket Test between India and West Indies, Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had scored a century on the opening day, was run out early in the morning session. Jaiswal, who had resumed his innings at 173 not out, was dismissed for 175 runs off 258 balls after a miscommunication with Shubman Gill. The young batsman had struck 22 fours in his impressive innings. Despite this setback, India continued to dominate, reaching 427-4 at lunch on Saturday. Gill remained unbeaten on 75 runs, with Dhruv Jurel (7 not out) providing support. Nitish Reddy also contributed with a quick 43 off 54 balls. India, leading the two-match series 1-0 after a comprehensive victory in the first Test in Ahmedabad, has maintained its dominance over West Indies, who have not won a Test against India since 2002. Jaiswal’s dismissal occurred on the eighth ball of the morning when he was sent back too late by Gill, and Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s accurate throw from mid-off caught him short of the crease. The pair had added 74 runs for the third wicket before the unfortunate run-out.

JAKARTA, Indonesia — The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) issued a restrained response on Friday to Indonesia’s decision to bar Israeli athletes from participating in the upcoming World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta. In a brief statement, the FIG acknowledged the Indonesian government’s refusal to grant visas to the Israeli delegation, citing the challenges faced by the host nation in organizing the event. Notably, the statement did not threaten to revoke Indonesia’s hosting rights, despite FIG regulations that permit such action in cases of visa denial. The FIG expressed hope for a future where athletes worldwide can compete in a safe and peaceful environment. Indonesia’s decision follows widespread opposition in the predominantly Muslim nation, which has historically supported the Palestinian cause. Israel, one of 86 registered countries, had planned to send a team led by 2020 Olympic gold medalist Artem Dolgopyat. The Israeli Gymnastics Federation had previously received assurances from Indonesian officials that their participation would be welcomed, contradicting Indonesia’s long-standing policy of excluding Israeli sports delegations. On Thursday, Indonesia’s senior law minister, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, confirmed the ban, even as Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire. The Indonesian Olympic Committee and Gymnastics Federation have both expressed respect for the government’s decision, with the latter claiming FIG support. This incident highlights the growing intersection of politics and sports, as global criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza spills into cultural and athletic arenas. Earlier this year, Indonesia lost hosting rights for the Under-20 FIFA World Cup due to similar political tensions, though it was later awarded a different youth tournament that Israel did not qualify for, reportedly due to close ties between Indonesian soccer officials and FIFA leadership.

As the UAE national football team prepares for crucial matches in the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers, telecommunications giant e& has announced a special initiative to support fans traveling to Qatar. The company is offering 2GB of free roaming data to Emirati supporters heading to Doha for the matches against Oman on October 11 and Qatar on October 14. This move aims to enhance the fan experience and bolster morale for the ‘Whites,’ who are on the brink of securing a historic World Cup qualification. The UAE last appeared in the World Cup in 1990, and after a 35-year hiatus, the team is now just two victories away from making it to the global tournament in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Football fever has swept the nation, with billboards proclaiming ‘the dream of a nation’ as fans rally behind their team. In addition to the free data, various entities have stepped up to support the cause. Earlier this month, the UAE Football Association (UAEFA) announced the provision of five private planes to transport fans to Doha, while Ajman’s Sheikh Rashid bin Hamid Al Nuaimi secured a private plane for the same purpose. Fans can register for these flights through UAEFA’s official platforms, provided they meet specific terms and conditions, including presenting their Emirates ID. This collective effort underscores the nation’s unwavering support for its football team as they chase a historic milestone.

In a commanding display of football prowess, Brazil thrashed South Korea 5-0 in a friendly match held at Seoul World Cup Stadium on Friday. The game, attended by 66,000 fans despite the inclement weather, served as an early preparation for next year’s World Cup. Brazil, the five-time world champions, showcased their superiority with two goals each from Estevao and Rodrygo, along with a late strike from Vinicius Junior. The victory marked Brazil’s third win in their last 12 away games.

YOKOHAMA, Japan — Max Greyserman is poised for redemption at the Baycurrent Classic, Japan’s sole PGA Tour event, after narrowly missing victory last year. On Friday, Greyserman delivered a stellar performance, carding an 8-under 63 to secure a four-shot lead with a two-round total of 12-under 130. Trailing him are Alex Smalley, Xander Schauffele, and Alex Noren, all tied at 8-under. The tournament, which debuted in 2019 with Tiger Woods as its inaugural champion, relocated this year from east of Tokyo to Yokohama. Greyserman, reflecting on his near-win last year, expressed confidence in his current form, stating, ‘I’ve been doing things well this week from the start, and I just need to keep doing what I’m doing.’ He also speculated that some fans might remember his close call in 2023, when he lost on the 72nd hole to Nico Echavarria. Schauffele, who struggled with gusting winds on Thursday, rebounded with a solid round, attributing his success to calmer conditions and well-rewarded shots. Meanwhile, Japan’s Kazuki Higa electrified the crowd with an 8-under 28 on his first nine holes, though he couldn’t maintain the momentum, finishing with a 64. Defending champion Echavarria remains in contention, five strokes behind Greyserman, alongside three others. Collin Morikawa, part of the losing U.S. Ryder Cup team, sits nine strokes back after a 3-under 68.

In a commanding display of batting prowess, Yashasvi Jaiswal led India to a strong position on the opening day of the second Test against West Indies in New Delhi. Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 173 runs, guiding India to 318-2 at stumps on Friday. The young opener notched his seventh Test century, facing 253 deliveries and showcasing remarkable resilience and skill throughout the day. Shubman Gill, captaining India for the first time in seven Tests, won the toss and elected to bat, contributing 20 not out by the close of play. India’s dominance continued after their emphatic victory in the first Test, where they won by an innings and 40 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. West Indies, who have not defeated India in their last 26 Tests since 2002, struggled to contain the hosts. Jaiswal reached his century off 145 balls, including 16 fours, during the second session. Earlier, India had gone to lunch at 94-1, with Lokesh Rahul dismissed for 38 off 54 balls. Sai Sudharsan, who scored a career-best 87, partnered with Jaiswal in a 193-run stand for the second wicket, propelling India to 220-1 at tea. Despite a dropped catch by West Indies’ Jomel Warrican, Sudharsan was eventually dismissed lbw in the final session. Jaiswal and Gill then steered India safely to the end of the day. Jaiswal’s innings marked the third-highest individual score by an Indian batter on the first day of a Test, trailing only Wasim Jaffer and Shikhar Dhawan. The 23-year-old left-handed opener, who has now crossed 150 five times in 48 Test innings, appears poised for further success on Saturday. India fielded an unchanged lineup, while West Indies made two changes, bringing in Anderson Phillip and Tevin Imlach.