Global Pulse

分类： sports

  • ABA League: Dubai Basketball maintain winning streak with a 90-79 victory over Borac Mozzart

    ABA League: Dubai Basketball maintain winning streak with a 90-79 victory over Borac Mozzart

    Dubai Basketball has fortified its commanding position in the ABA League, extending its flawless winning streak to 12 consecutive victories following a hard-fought 90-79 triumph over Borac Mozzart at the Coca-Cola Arena. The match not only demonstrated the team’s competitive resilience but also marked a watershed moment for basketball development in the United Arab Emirates.

    The game witnessed the historic professional debut of 17-year-old Tomislav Vuckovic, a graduate of the Dubai Basketball Academy. His inclusion in the starting lineup represents the first instance of an academy product transitioning directly to the senior professional team, actualizing the club’s long-term vision for cultivating homegrown talent.

    Despite an uncharacteristically sluggish start that saw Borac Mozzart capitalize on defensive lapses to secure a 23-19 first-quarter lead, Dubai Basketball gradually established control through the orchestration of former NBA players McKinley Wright and Dwayne Bacon. The team entered halftime with a narrow 41-37 advantage.

    Strategic depth ultimately proved decisive as the contest progressed. Newcomer Kenan Kamenjaš delivered an impressive performance alongside seasoned veterans Nemanja Dangubić and Klemen Prepelič, while Borac’s efforts remained predominantly reliant on individual performances from Marko Jošilo and Diante Baldwin.

    Head coach Jurica Golemac acknowledged the challenging circumstances, stating: ‘We extend congratulations to our players for securing this victory amidst a demanding schedule. After overcoming our initial performance issues, we established superior rhythm in the second half and managed the game effectively through shared minutes and injury-free execution.’

    The final quarter demonstrated Dubai’s composure under pressure as they maintained their advantage without significant threats to the margin. Bacon led scoring with 15 points while Kamenjaš contributed 13 points and 7 rebounds.

    The team now prepares for a pivotal EuroLeague Round 22 confrontation against Virtus Bologna, where they currently hold 12th position—just one rank above their upcoming opponents. This matchup represents a critical opportunity for Dubai Basketball to consolidate their standing before their home audience.

    Tickets for the highly anticipated encounter are available through the Coca-Cola Arena’s official platform.

  • DP World Tour and Dubai Creek join forces for eco clean-up ahead of Dubai Invitational

    DP World Tour and Dubai Creek join forces for eco clean-up ahead of Dubai Invitational

    In a powerful demonstration of environmental stewardship, the DP World Tour has partnered with Dubai Creek Resort to execute a significant ecological clean-up operation along the iconic waterway. This initiative, conducted as a quarterly sustainability effort, mobilized volunteers from both organizations to cleanse the shoreline between the Floating and Garhoud Bridges in Dubai.

    The environmental action strategically precedes the second edition of the Dubai Invitational tournament, where defending champion Tommy Fleetwood will compete alongside golf luminaries including Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, and Francesco Molinari. The clean-up effort ensures that the championship’s natural surroundings reflect the same excellence as the world-class competition.

    This ecological initiative represents a core component of the DP World Tour’s ‘Golf for Good’ program, which underscores the organization’s dedication to creating meaningful environmental and social benefits across all tournament locations. The program aims to generate lasting positive impacts on golf courses, local communities, and host nations throughout the Tour’s international circuit.

    The Dubai Invitational marks the inaugural event of the Race to Dubai’s International Swing, featuring a unique format with 60 professional golfers and 60 amateur participants. The tournament schedule includes a three-day Pro-Am team competition, culminating in a professionals-only final round on Sunday.

    Tournament organizers have announced complimentary general admission, while offering premium hospitality experiences through the Championship Chalet, Clubhouse Ticket+, and Creek View Terrace options. These elevated viewing packages provide exclusive amenities and superior vantage points for spectators.

    The ongoing collaboration between DP World Tour and Dubai Creek Resort exemplifies how major sporting events can successfully integrate environmental consciousness with athletic excellence, setting a new standard for sustainable tournament management in professional golf.

  • Rising Czech star Louis Klein back in Dubai to defend Junior Desert Classic Crown

    Rising Czech star Louis Klein back in Dubai to defend Junior Desert Classic Crown

    Dubai prepares to host the 2026 Junior Desert Classic from January 16-18 at the renowned Emirates Golf Club, where defending champion Louis Klein aims to retain his crown against elite international competition. The 16-year-old Czech sensation, who dominated last year’s tournament with an impressive eight-stroke victory, returns fully recovered from previous injuries and confident in his current form.

    Organized by Falcon Golf and the Emirates Golf Federation, this 54-hole championship serves as an official World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) qualifier for the second consecutive year. The event features 64 top-tier junior golfers under age 18, including notable participants such as Sri Lankan Ladies Amateur Champion Kaya Dalawatte and American standout Alexandra Phung (+5.3 handicap).

    Klein, who now regularly trains at The Els Club in Dubai during winter months, expressed enthusiasm about competing on both the Faldo and Majlis courses: “I want to test myself against both a strong field and the challenges of these championship courses. This tournament provides perfect preparation for my upcoming season in Europe and beyond.”

    The competition format includes: Round 1 on the Faldo Course under floodlights, Round 2 with afternoon tee times on the same course, and a final round on the prestigious Majlis Course. The field will be reduced to the top 30 gross scores after 36 holes, with yardages set at 6,500 for boys and 5,700 for girls.

    Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the HERO Dubai Desert Classic, emphasized the event’s significance: “This championship creates genuine opportunities for young golfers through WAGR points, world-class facilities, and increasingly international competition.”

    Successful competitors will earn invitations to prestigious events including the Faldo Series Grand Final, Shubhankar Sharma Series Grand Final, and Clutch Tour starts, establishing crucial pathways to professional golf careers.

  • Trump’s foreign policy and what it might mean for the World Cup

    Trump’s foreign policy and what it might mean for the World Cup

    A coalition of British parliamentarians has launched an unprecedented challenge to the United States’ status as host of major international sporting events, urging FIFA to consider expulsion from the 2026 World Cup until the nation demonstrates compliance with international law and respect for national sovereignty.

    The political motion, signed by 23 MPs across Labour, Liberal Democrats, Green Party and Plaid Cymru, follows recent US military operations in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, alongside explicit threats against several other nations including Mexico, Colombia, Iran, Cuba, and Greenland—the latter being territory of NATO ally Denmark.

    This diplomatic confrontation creates a complex dilemma for global sports organizations as the US prepares to host both the 2026 FIFA World Cup (jointly with Canada and Mexico) and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The parliamentarians argue that major sporting events “should not be used to legitimize or normalize violations of international law by powerful states,” specifically referencing what they term the “kidnapping” of Maduro and “repeated veiled and overt threats” by US officials.

    The White House has defended its actions as legitimate law-enforcement operations against leaders allegedly involved in drug trafficking and terrorism. President Trump stated the US would now control Venezuela and its oil industry, while Maduro maintains he is a prisoner of war. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern that “rules of international law have not been respected” during US operations.

    This situation creates particular awkwardness for FIFA, which awarded President Trump its inaugural Peace Prize in December 2025 for his purported role in establishing ceasefires between Israel and Palestine. The organization now faces calls to demonstrate consistency after banning Russia from international competitions following its invasion of Ukraine.

    Sports governance experts warn that FIFA and the International Olympic Committee face a looming “stress-test for sporting institutions that pride themselves on neutrality.” Additional complications include Trump’s immigration policies that could affect fans from four qualified World Cup nations facing travel restrictions, plus potential ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants at tournament venues.

    The European Democratic Party has raised safety concerns following recent immigration-related violence in Minneapolis, suggesting European federations might consider withdrawal if adequate guarantees aren’t provided. With the expanded 48-team tournament approaching, sports bodies must navigate an increasingly complex intersection of global sports diplomacy and international politics.

  • Hearts agree pre-contract with Uganda forward Mato

    Hearts agree pre-contract with Uganda forward Mato

    Scottish Premiership front-runners Heart of Midlothian have executed a significant transfer coup by securing Ugandan international striker Rogers Mato on a pre-contract agreement. The 22-year-old goalscorer will complete his move from North Macedonian league leaders FK Vardar to Edinburgh this summer upon the expiration of his current contract.

    Mato has emerged as one of Eastern Europe’s most lethal forwards this season, delivering an impressive 15 goals and 2 assists in just 17 appearances for Vardar. His clinical finishing has propelled his club to a narrow one-point advantage at the summit of the North Macedonian top flight after 16 matches.

    The promising forward has committed to a three-year contract with the Tynecastle side, marking another ambitious signing for the Scottish Premiership leaders. Mato brings international experience to Hearts, having earned 41 caps for Uganda since his debut in 2022. The striker has found the net eight times for his national team, including a consolation goal against Nigeria during last month’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

    Mato’s career trajectory demonstrates a steady ascent through European football. Beginning his professional journey with Ugandan clubs Proline and KCCA, he subsequently transferred to Turkish side Sanliurfaspor in 2023 before embarking on his North Macedonian career with AP Brera. His successful stint with Vardar has now paved the way for his transition to Scottish football’s top tier.

    This acquisition represents Hearts’ continued strategy of identifying emerging talent from diverse football markets, strengthening their squad for both domestic and potential European competitions next season.

  • Gabon’s government lifts sanctions on team and Aubameyang

    Gabon’s government lifts sanctions on team and Aubameyang

    The Gabonese government has officially rescinded sanctions previously imposed on its national football team and star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang following their disappointing performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). This reversal comes just weeks after the Panthers’ early exit from the tournament in Morocco.

    In early January, then-Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula had delivered scathing criticism of the team’s performance, labeling their group stage elimination as “disgraceful” after losing all three matches against Cameroon, Mozambique, and hosts Ivory Coast. The original sanctions included the immediate dismissal of coach Thierry Mouyouma and the permanent exclusion of both captain Bruno Ecuele Manga and former Arsenal and Chelsea forward Aubameyang from national team selection.

    The decisive intervention from newly appointed Sports Minister Paul Ulrich Kessany prevented potential disciplinary action from FIFA, which maintains strict policies against government interference in football federation operations. The reversal acknowledges upcoming critical deadlines, including qualification draws for the 2027 Afcon tournament.

    Gabon’s football federation (Fegafoot) released an official statement welcoming the resolution: “Fegafoot welcomes the positive outcome of the situation.” The federation has been invited to present practical details for selecting a new technical staff to lead the national team forward following Mouyouma’s departure.

  • UAE-based Palestinian athlete to run from Dubai to Doha in 2 weeks

    UAE-based Palestinian athlete to run from Dubai to Doha in 2 weeks

    In an extraordinary display of human endurance and meticulous planning, 24-year-old Palestinian-Canadian athlete Yousef Hussein is preparing to undertake a monumental two-week running journey from Dubai to Doha starting January 14th. The UAE-based long-distance runner aims to cover approximately 42 kilometers daily, with an anticipated arrival in Qatar’s capital on January 28th.

    Hussein’s approach transcends conventional athletic motivation, emphasizing instead the critical role of discipline and structured routine. “This run isn’t about motivation. Motivation comes and goes. Discipline is what stays,” he stated, highlighting his philosophy that sustained commitment outweighs temporary inspiration.

    The logistical framework for this 600-kilometer endeavor demonstrates remarkable precision. Hussein has divided the route into 14 designated checkpoints, planning to conclude each day’s run at a hotel before returning exactly to his stopping point the following morning. He has incorporated an additional buffer day to accommodate potential injuries or fatigue, applying lessons from his previous long-distance experience to Saudi Arabia in 2024 that resulted in a hairline fracture.

    Training intensively throughout the past month, Hussein has incorporated daily half-marathons and two full marathons into his regimen. He has specifically addressed previous weaknesses through barefoot running sessions to enhance foot strength. Practical support will come from his best friend during the initial week and his brother in the final segment, though they will provide logistical rather than running assistance.

    The athlete’s choice of destination aligns with Qatar’s Match for Hope charity football event, which he intends to attend as personal reward upon completion. While companies including Adnoc and New Balance have provided support, Hussein clarified these arrangements do not constitute formal sponsorships.

    Nutritionally, Hussein maintained a carb-loading diet during training but will adopt a flexible approach during the actual run, consuming whatever provisions are available along the route due to budget constraints. Beyond personal achievement, Hussein views his journey as embodying a universal message about perseverance through life’s inevitable challenges and the power of consistent discipline over fleeting motivation.

  • Salah-Mane rivalry renewed in Afcon semi-finals

    Salah-Mane rivalry renewed in Afcon semi-finals

    Tangier, Morocco – The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal presents a narrative far surpassing a mere football match, evolving into a deeply personal quest for legacy. Egyptian captain Mohamed Salah, 33, confronts not only the formidable Senegalese squad but also the specter of past disappointments on the continental stage. His opponent, and former Liverpool teammate, Sadio Mane, has been the architect of Salah’s most painful international defeats.

    Egypt, the record seven-time champions, last lifted the trophy in 2010. Salah’s journey has been marked by near-misses: finishing as runner-up in 2017 and 2021, a round-of-16 exit in 2019, and an injury-plagued 2023 tournament. ‘Nobody, even in Egypt, wants to win this trophy more than me,’ Salah declared after his decisive goal secured a quarter-final victory against Ivory Coast. ‘I have won almost every prize. This is the title I am waiting for.’

    The historical context adds immense weight to the clash. In the 2021 Afcon final, a tense stalemate led to a penalty shootout where Mane redeemed an earlier missed penalty by converting the winning spot-kick, securing Senegal’s first continental title while a distraught Salah watched, unused. Just months later, their World Cup qualifying playoff again went to penalties. Salah blazed his effort over the bar, and Mane once again scored the decisive penalty, sending Senegal to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    This semifinal arrives amid a tumultuous period for Salah. His participation followed public comments expressing frustration with his situation at Liverpool, revealing a strained relationship with manager Arne Slot and sparking intense transfer speculation. However, the tournament has offered a sanctuary. He has found prolific form, netting four times in four matches—equaling his Premier League goal tally for the season—and stands just one goal shy of Egypt’s all-time Afcon scoring record.

    Conversely, Mane has seamlessly transitioned into a leadership role for the Teranga Lions. While scoring once and providing three assists, his influence extends beyond statistics. ‘His role is an inspiration for his team-mates. Beyond his on-field skills, his leadership is vital,’ noted BBC Afrique journalist Babacar Faye. Senegal boasts a multifaceted attack, featuring talents like Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, reducing their reliance on any single player.

    With the Afcon transitioning to a quadrennial schedule after the 2027 edition, this tournament likely represents the final opportunity for both aging superstars to claim Africa’s ultimate prize. For Salah, it is a chance to cement his legacy, validate his individual accolades with team glory, and finally overcome his Senegalese nemesis. For Mane, it is a mission to defend his crown and reaffirm his continental supremacy.

  • Photos: Drivers compete in ‘world’s most dangerous race’ Dakar Rally in Saudi

    Photos: Drivers compete in ‘world’s most dangerous race’ Dakar Rally in Saudi

    The 2026 Dakar Rally, widely regarded as the planet’s most perilous motorsport competition, is currently underway across the formidable terrain of Saudi Arabia. This legendary event, which transitioned from its original African route to the Middle Eastern nation in 2020, continues to push competitors to their absolute limits.

    Drivers and riders from across the globe are navigating extreme desert conditions, including vast sand dunes, rocky mountain paths, and navigating by precise GPS coordinates rather than traditional tracks. The rally’s reputation for danger stems from its grueling combination of mechanical endurance, navigational complexity, and physical demands on participants who face extreme temperatures and sleep deprivation throughout the multi-stage event.

    The Saudi Arabian landscape provides a dramatic backdrop for this ultimate test of human and machine, with competitors covering thousands of kilometers in some of the most remote and inhospitable environments on Earth. The event features multiple vehicle categories, including motorcycles, cars, trucks, and all-terrain vehicles, each facing unique challenges specific to their class.

    Safety remains a paramount concern for organizers, who implement extensive medical and logistical support systems throughout the course. Despite these measures, the rally maintains its inherently risky character, with participants acknowledging the ever-present possibility of mechanical failure, accidents, or navigational errors that could end their competition prematurely.

    The event continues to draw both professional factory teams and ambitious amateur adventurers, all united by the challenge of conquering one of motorsport’s last great adventures where simply finishing represents a monumental achievement.

  • Eritrea included in Afcon 2027 preliminary qualifying

    Eritrea included in Afcon 2027 preliminary qualifying

    In a surprising development for African football, Eritrea has been included in the preliminary qualifying round draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) despite holding an unranked status with world governing body FIFA. The East African nation, which has participated in just two international matches since February 2020, will face Eswatini in the preliminary stage.

    This inclusion comes despite Eritrea’s recent history of tournament withdrawals, having pulled out of qualifiers for both the 2023 Afcon and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The latter withdrawal occurred just one week before their scheduled match against Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked team.

    The preliminary round draw, conducted in Rabat ahead of the 2025 Afcon semi-finals, paired several other nations: Djibouti with South Sudan, Chad with Burundi, Somalia with Mauritius, Seychelles with Lesotho, and Sao Tome e Principe with Ethiopia, the 1962 champions.

    These two-legged qualifying ties are scheduled for late March, with the six victorious teams advancing to join the continent’s 42 highest-ranked sides in the main group stage. The Confederation of African Football has yet to announce specific dates for both the 2027 Afcon qualifiers and the tournament itself, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

    Eritrea’s international football history remains marked by their last Afcon qualifying campaign ahead of the 2008 finals and a notable incident in October 2015 when ten players claimed asylum in Botswana following a World Cup qualifier.