 |
Friday,
May 31, 2002, Chandigarh, India  
|
France
unfazed by Zidane’s absence The Asian
challenge France on
threshold of immortality; Argentina, Italy among favourites Seoul, May 30 Diego Maradona’s virtuoso second goal scored against England at the 1986 World Cup has been voted the greatest World Cup strike of all time. |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The trophy The schedule Senegal
are not worried Third
opener on May 31
Jennifer Capriati of the
USA returns a backhand to compatriot Amy Frazier during their French Open tennis match at the Roland Garros
stadium on Thursday. Capriati won 6-4 6-3.
— Reuters photo
England bowler Matthew Hoggard (L) celebrates with team-mate Michael Vaughan after taking the wicket of Sri Lanka's Marvan Atapattu for 13 during the first day of the second test at Edgbaston in Birmingham
on Thursday. — Reuters photo Yohannan looks a good competitor Yohannan,
Mongia left lasting impression Australia
beat India Swimming championship
|
|
France unfazed by Zidane’s absence
Seoul, May 30 The French found out on Monday that their talisman will be out of the World Cup’s first game, at least, but have refused to let his absence dampen their spirits. “It won’t be the first time France have to miss Zidane. We have played without him in the past,” said coach Roger Lemerre. “It’s nothing new, even if losing your key player is always annoying, particularly before such an important match.” “Even without Zidane we remain a very competitive side and we have achieved great things when he has not been playing,” defender Bixente Lizarazu said. During the 1998 World Cup campaign, France, en route to their triumph, were without Zidane for two matches due to suspension. They beat Denmark in the first round and sneaked past Paraguay to face Italy in the quarter-final. “We must not be overconcerned by this injury and we must not let it beat our spirits down,” midfielder Youri Djorkaeff said. “We have enough top notch players to cope with the situation.” Zidane has pointed to the opening match as the most important of the whole championship. “It’s going to be a crucial game as it’s going to set the pace for the rest of the competition. And we will have to do everything to win,” the midfielder said after joining his team mates in the Japanese coastal city of Ibusuki last week. In 1998 and again in the 2000 European championships, the French made perfect starts, winning their first matches 3-0 against South Africa and Denmark, respectively. But history shows that World Cup opening games are always a struggle rather than a platform for entertaining football. Four years ago, champions Brazil had to battle against a solid Scotland team before snatching a 2-1 win in Paris. In 1994, an ageing Germany escaped from a tough match against Bolivia as they began the defence of their world crown with a 1-0 victory at Soldier Field in Chicago. Keen to learn from the past, holders France say they expect strong opposition from Senegal, even if the African side are playing their first ever match in the World Cup finals. “All their players are involved in the French first division championship. They have the capability to implement a strategy on the pitch more than a lot of other African teams can,” Djorkaeff said. With Zidane absent, Djorkaeff should share the playmaking with Emmanuel Petit while striker Christophe Dugarry should be slotted in a defensive position on the wing. “Youri has confirmed he is in a great shape physically and mentally,” Lemerre has said. “Having him from the start is an option I can take.” Senegal coach Bruno Metsu can rely on all his players, even if doubts hang over midfielder Khalilou Fadiga, who has been placed under investigation on suspicion of stealing an 18-carat gold necklace in Taegu. Metsu will probably select the same starting team that lost the African Nations Cup final against Cameroon in February. Probable teams: France: 16-Fabien Barthez; 15-Lilian Thuram, 8-Marcel Desailly (captain), 18-Frank Leboeuf, 3-Bixente Lizarazu; 4-Patrick Vieira, 17-Emmanuel Petit, 6-Youri Djorkaeff; 21-Christophe Dugarry, 20-David Trezeguet, 12-Thierry Henry. Senegal: 1-Tony Sylva; 2-Oumar Daf, 13-Lamine Diatta, 6-Aliou Cisse (captain), 17-Ferdinand Coly; 10-Khalilou Fadiga, 15-Salif Diao, 19-Pape Bouba Diop, 23-Makthar Ndiaye; 7-Henri Camara, 11-El Hadji Diouf.
Reuters  |
|
The Asian challenge The groups France, Senegal, Denmark, Uruguay. Spain, Slovenia, South Africa, Paraguay. Group C: Brazil, Turkey, China, Costa Rica. Group D: South Korea, Poland, USA, Portugal. Group E: Germany, Saudi Arabia, Cameroon, Ireland. Group F: Nigeria, Argentina, England, Sweden. Group G: Italy, Equador, Mexico, Croatia. The Asian challenge at the soccer World Cup will be led by co-hosts South Korea and Japan besides Saudi Arabia and debutants China. In 16 previous matches in the World Cup till today ever since their maiden appearance in 1954, South Korea have never won a game. Coach Guus Hiddink is relying on defender Song Chong-gug, whose exploits upfront are also as dangerous as his tackles. Among other new faces are Lee Chun-soo and Choi Tai-uk, who can pose a threat on either flank. Thirtythree-year-old striker Hwang Sun-hong may lead the charge but the most welcome piece of news for the Koreans is the return of defender Hong Myung-bo, the team’s most capped player and a veteran of three World Cups. The 1-1 draw against England in a friendly at Seogwipo on May 21 may indeed boost the morale of the Koreans as never before. Saudi Arabia will also be carrying the hopes of Asians as the team has been calling the shots in the Gulf. Saudi Arabia have made it to the World Cup for the third consecutive time, a feat unmatched by any Arab country. The Saudis made a mark in 1994 by reaching the second round. However, in France four years ago, Saudi Arabia made an early exit when they lost to Denmark and France. Placed in group E, the Saudis face Ireland, Cameroon and Germany. Japan under coach Philippe Troussier will endeavour to put up a better show as compared to their previous outing in France ‘98 where they lost all the three matches. Once again all eyes will be on midfielder Hidetoshi Nakata, the first Japanese player to establish himself in Europe’s top leagues. China, making their debut in the World Cup, owe it to Serbian coach Bora Milutinovic for guiding them to the finals. Milutinovic has now come to be known as the ‘miracle worker’ due to his superhuman dedication. Having come to China after guiding Mexico, Costa
Rica, the USA and Nigeria into the second round of previous World Cups, he ensured China’s qualification with 12 victories, one draw and one defeat in the Asian qualifiers. Captain Ma Mingyu ,along with other players, is ready to meet any eventuality ,and his optimism stems from the training received under Milutinovic. Veteran defender Fan Zhiyi, (32), whose stint with English first division side Crystal Palace will be the player to watch as China gear up to face Brazil, Turkey and Costa Rica in group ‘C’. |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
France on threshold of immortality; Argentina, Italy among favourites Referee Ali Mohamed Bujsaim’s whistle at 1700 hours (IST) in Seoul on Friday will ignite the biggest soccer extravaganza as defending champions France and Senegal kick off the 17th World Cup, the ultimate test in football superiority. Approximately 40 billion viewers are expected to tune in for 64 matches featuring 32 teams and over 3 million spectators are expected to throng various venues in Japan and South Korea to witness the sports spectacle. With three titles in a row over four years, France are on the threshold of immortality. Brazil, Italy, Argentina and England are also out to make history while Germany, with lowered expectations and Portugal riding the crest of confidence are perceived as the dark horses. Defending champions France, whose shocking victory over Brazil in the 1998 final is an unforgetable episode, are hoping that the Asian vintage is just as good. Having won three titles in a row, including the 1998 World Cup, Euro 2000 in 1999 and the Confederations Cup last year, the French, seen as overwhelming favourites, only see Argentina and Brazil as major threats. The only worry on the eve of the opener is the thigh injury sustained by key striker Zinedine Zidane. The hero of the 1998 World Cup has been ruled out for the opener against Senegal but if his absence gets prolonged, it will be a big blow for the French. Nevertheless, the current squad trained by Roger Lemerre who succeeded Aime Jacquet as coach, comprises many stars of the champion team besides some talented youngsters. Among them is Euro 2000 hero Sylvain Wiltord and Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieire while fringe players of the previous edition Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet will be keen to establish themselves as superstars. In goalkeeper Fabian Barthez, France have a world class goalie who, however, will have to miss the opening game, while Marcel Desailly and Lilian Thuram constitute pillars of defence. A lot depends on Zidane’s early return as he is the key figure in the strike force. Zidane plays for Real Madrid and his spectacular volley not only fetched his club the match winner but also the record ninth title against Bayer Leverkusen in the European Cup final at Glasgow on May 16. Brazil, runners-up in 1998, survived a rollercoaster qualifying campaign where they came perilously close to making a shocking exit. Having lost to Argentina 2-1, Brazil eventually stumbled through the remainder of the qualifying ties. Placed in group C, coach Luiz Felipe Scolari’s team is expected to sail past Turkey, China, and Costa Rica although the veteran Pele has expressed reservations over Scolari’s selections, especially the much-talked about exclusion of Romario. The former champions, who won the World Cup in 1958, 1962, 1970, and 1994 will once again be relying on Inter Milan star striker Ronaldo’s brilliance as also Barcelona’s Rivaldo, whose knack for goals is well known. In the defence Roberto Carlos is once again expected to major role along with Roma’s Cafu who will patrol the right flank. Another key player will be Paris Saint Germain striker Ronaldinho, who along with Rivaldo may come as an attacking midfielder. Emerson Ferreira will also be a key figure in the midfield. Argentina, despite being drawn in a tough pool, are also seen as favourites this time. The Argentinians swept through the South American qualifying competition with 13 wins in 18 games and are unbeaten in their last 14 outings. Coach Marcelo Bielsa has a midfield inspired by one of the most complete footballers, Sebastian Veron. The seasoned Diego Simeone provides the ammunition for a lethal attack led by Hernan Crespo, who accounted for nine of the 42 goals by Argentina in the qualifiers. Between Crespo and Gabriel Batistuta it will indeed be a difficult choice. Veteran striker Claudio Caniggia, who made an explosive debut in Italy 14 years
ago, will be playing his third World Cup. Argentina won the World Cup in 1978 and 1986. England, who won the World Cup in 1966, will be largely depending on David Beckham and the mercurial Michael Owen to survive the group of death that includes Argentina, Nigeria, and Sweden. The trio played a major role in England’s qualification. Though sidelined with a fracture in the foot, Beckham, a midfielder of Manchester United, is expected to be back in the squad when England meet Sweden at Saitama on June 2. In the final qualification game against Greece at Old Trafford, Beckham almost single-handedly resurrected England’s dream when three minutes into injury time his curling free kick from 25 yards levelled the score 2-2 enabling his team to gain automatic qualification. Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson is likely to include Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt in the midfield with 20-year-old Joe Cole playing a dominant role. Cole of West Ham has played for England only four times but he might turn out to be England’s secret weapon. With blessings from Queen Elizabeth II, Cole’s selection is already being likened to Paul Gascoigne’s debut when England reached the semis in 1990. Ten of the players are survivors of the 1998 campaign in France, including experienced goalkeeper David Seaman. It was 20 years ago that Italy were last crowned world champions and the fourth title for the ‘Azzuri’ appears to be a possibility this time. Giovanni Trapattoni’s side, unbeaten in the qualification, are also placed in a somewhat comfortable pool ‘G’ which includes Croatia, Equador and Mexico. From goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon of Juventus through AC Milan’s Paolo Maldini’s defence to the creative play by AS Roma’s Francesco Totti and the powerful finishing of strikers Christian Vieri and Alessandro Del Piero — the Italian squad has quality. Buffon and Totti are scheduled to make their first appearances but for Maldini and Vieri the coming World Cup offers a chance to wipe off bitter memories of France ‘98 when they had lost in the penalty shoot-out to the French in the quarterfinals. Italy have won the World Cup in 1934,1938 and 1982. The ‘Azzuri’ last reached the final in 1994 in the USA where they lost to Brazil on penalties. In 1990, they lost to Argentina in the semis on penalties. Former champions Germany, after a disastrous Euro 2000 outing followed by a poor qualifying campaign, will be going to the World Cup with lowered expectations. Despite being the most consistent European side at the World Cup from 1954 to 1990 when they won the title thrice, recent years have been rather lean. The worst nightmare for the Germans came during the qualifier against England in Munich last September when Rudi Voeller’s team received a 1-5 drubbing and forced them into a play-off. However, the 5-2 win over Ukraine in the play-off and the impressive form of the Bundesliga’s clubs in Europe perhaps suggests that the worst might be over for
Germany. But the 0-1 defeat at the hands of Wales in a friendly at Cardiff on May 14 is being portrayed as a bad omen. Injuries to key players, including midfielders Sebastian Deisler and Mehmet Scholl, and central defenders Christian Woerns and Jens Nowotny have added to Rudi Voeller’s worries. Deisler became the latest victim after he was stretchered off during Germany’s warm-up game against Austria on May 18. Ireland, placed in the same group, had been banking on passionate striker Roy Keane, 30-year-old skipper of Manchester United, who played a key role in Ireland’s qualification. In the 4-0 victory over Cyprus in the qualifiers, Keane scored two goals. However, following a tiff with coach Mick McCarthy, he was sensationally sacked from the squad on May 23 and sent home from Saipan island where the Irish had been training. He had figured prominently in McCarthy’s plans and the coach had already said he would prefer Keane over any other player in the world. However, although Keane’s loss is a major setback for the Irish, McCarthy will try to infuse fighting spirit amongst the players and may leave the rest to destiny. Cameroon, under the captaincy of Rigobert Song, will not only be struggling to emerge unscathed from the group of death but also have to overcome the undercurrent of discontentment over payment of bonus to players. Defender Song has been Cameroon’s inspirational captain in back-to-back Nations Cup triumphs in 2000 and 2002. German-born coach Winfried Schafer, who replaced Pierre Lechantre after the Frenchman’s sack last year, has succeeded in moulding Cameroon into the most consistent side in Africa. The 52-year-old was at the helm when the ‘Indomitable Lions’ won the African Nations Cup last year. Regular qualifiers for the World Cup, Cameroon reached the last eight in 1990. Midfielders Marc-Vivien Foe and Lauren Mayer and strikers Pareick Mboma and Samuel Eto’o may come up with some more sterling performances and join the nation’s elite group led by the legendary Roger Milla.
To be continued |
|
Maradona’s strike ‘goal of century’ Seoul, May 30 The Argentinian’s dribble from the halfway line at the Azteca Stadium beat off stiff competition from England’s Michael Owen and Brazilian legend Pele in an internet ballot held on FIFA’s official website. Maradona etched his way into World Cup legend 16 years ago with his solo effort, where he bamboozled the entire England defence before clipping the ball past Peter Shilton in a 2-1 quarter-final win. The same match also saw Maradona secure his place in football folklore’s hall of shame, with his famous ‘Hand of God’ goal. His second, however, has entered the history books for all the right reasons. In a recent interview Maradona said he would not have been able to score the goal if he had been playing against any other team. “Thanks to England,” Maradona said. “I scored the best goal of my life, in a World Cup, a dream goal, a beautiful, precious goal. “I don’t think I could have done it against any other team because they all used to knock you down,” Maradona said, praising the honesty of his English opponents. “They are probably the noblest in the world,” he said. The moment was immortalised by a statue of Maradona erected outside the stadium. The goal earned him 18,062 votes in FIFA’s poll, well clear of Owen on 10,631 votes and Pele. Owen’s nomination was for his spectacular goal against Argentina in the last 16 at the 1998 World Cup, while Pele’s choice was for his second in the 1958 final against Sweden. Other wonder goals to make it into FIFA’s top 10 included another Maradona effort from 1986 — his glorious slalom through Belgium’s defence in the semi-final. Romania’s Gheorge Hagi made it on to the list for his sensational cross-cum-shot against Colombia in 1994. Another lesser-known goal to rival Maradona’s was the one scored by Saudi Arabia’s Saeed Owairan against Belgium in 1994. The talented midfielder picked up the ball on the edge of his penalty area and ran the length of the pitch before blasting home. While goals scored through individual genius tended to dominate the poll results, there was room in the top 10 for Carlos Alberto’s fabulous fourth from Brazil’s 4-1 victory over Italy in the 1970 final, often referred to as the greatest team effort of all time.
AFP |
|
PELE
WRITES France against Senegal is the opening match of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Of course it assumes worldwide importance because it marks the kick-off of not merely another World Cup but the first to be staged in Asia and the first to be co-hosted. Yet so much fuss about this one particular game risks masking the fact that, in football terms, all 16 opening matches in the eight groups are of equal significance. Any nation with realistic ambitions must win their opening match. I cannot over emphasise the importance of that winning start. Obviously, a cohesive team performance is desirable. But World Cup winning teams do not necessarily play their best football in the first round. Even a 1-0 or 2-1 scoreline will be enough to earn the three points which are as essential for Brazil, England, Germany, Italy, Spain and Argentina as they will be for France amid all the formalities in Seoul. It may be a struggle. Victory may depend on a lucky bounce or an own goal or a controversial refereeing decision. That is not as important as the confidence, which springs from taking all three points. Firstly, winning gives the players extra self-confidence, especially the players who have scored the goals. Secondly, it reassures the coach that he is on the right track. Thirdly, it keeps the media and the fans happy. That allows them all to prepare calmly and confidently for the next game. Defeat provokes an utterly negative reaction. Morale is damaged, possibly fatally, while fans and the media question the judgment of a manager who was a national hero only a few months earlier when qualification was achieved. Both Saudi Arabia and South Korea effectively sacked their coaches midway through the first round groups in France four years ago. How did the directors then expect the players to pick up the pieces? The value of winning the first game is not merely a matter of my personal opinion. It is borne out by history. So far the World Cup has been staged on 16 occasions. On 14 occasions the team who finished by raising the Cup won their opening match. In Brazil’s case, for instance, we started out by beating Austria 3-0 in 1958, Mexico 2-0 in 1962, Czechoslovakia 4-1 in 1970 and 2-0 v Russia in 1994. Incidentally, the Cup-winners who did not make a winning start were England in 1966 (0-0 v Uruguay) and Italy in 1982 (0-0 v Poland). The way in which the draw was constructed is also important in assessing which countries will be celebrating later on. The World Cup is like a tennis tournament’s seeding system. But in Korea and Japan powerful nations such as France, Argentina, England and Brazil are all in the same ‘half’ of the draw. That makes it easier - if a World Cup can ever be described as easy - for countries in the ‘other half’ such as Spain, Portugal, Germany and Italy. This weaker side of the draw is made up of Groups B, D, E and G. Group B really should be won by Spain but I have been expecting a great World Cup from Spain for a long time. They have always let me down, especially last time when they went out in the first round. But it’s hard to believe they will make another blunder especially with the extra confidence earned by Real Madrid’s victory in the Champions League. Players like Fernando
Hierro, Ivan Helguera and Raul provide a superb backbone. Paraguay can go through with Spain. They finished runners-up to Argentina in the South American qualifying section and I think many people in Europe and elsewhere will underestimate them. Paraguay have a lot more to their game than just a goalkeeper - Jose Luis Chilavert - who scores goals. One of the surprise teams in the finals could be Portugal in Group D but I am not certain what to expect from Luis Figo who is the key to their goalscoring potential. He has been carrying an ankle injury, which is why he was far from his best at the end of the European season for Real Madrid. I doubt he will have the rest he needs before the World Cup starts. South Korea will have a lot of support as co-hosts and it is overdue time that, in their fifth successive World Cup, they go beyond the first round. They will never have a better chance. The USA, have many promising young players but maybe lack a little experience. Also Poland will find it hard to readjust after being absent from the big stages for 16 years. Group E is open. Germany will be favourites but they have slipped a long way back over the past four years and I do not see enough outstanding new young players coming through. That means they could be vulnerable because I know that Ireland, Cameroon and even Saudi Arabia will all be highly motivated and very competitive. I have been waiting for Cameroon to fulfill their potential ever since they reached the quarterfinals back in 1990. Perhaps this is their moment. After all, they are Olympic and African champions so they know all about coping with the big occasion. I do not need to look beyond Italy in Group G. They have won the World Cup three times which speaks for itself. I am also a great admirer of Francesco Totti and the addition of his attacking flair to their traditional discipline and organization presents an intimidating mixture. Croatia will probably go through with them. I worry that Mexico are too inconsistent and Ecuador may struggle in their first World Cup. So much for the ‘weaker’ half, now for the tougher groups. France should not only win Group A but possibly win the World Cup itself. They have much the same team as four years ago but with a much better attack now that Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet have ‘grown up’. Also, Zinedine Zidane is the world’s No 1 individual. His winning goal for Real Madrid in the Champions League Final was thrilling. The greatest players are the ones who can rise to the occasion and Zidane proved he can do just that. Second place depends on the outcome of the other opening match in the group between Denmark and Uruguay. I hold out little hope, I am afraid, for Senegal. Group C should not present any problems for Brazil, particularly bearing in mind that this will be a different Brazil from the one who struggled in qualifying. I also know that Ronaldo, now that he is fit again, is focused on making amends for the disappointments, both personal and national, in France. Turkey or China will follow them into the second round, I think. Turkey are one of the most improved of European nations over the past decade while China have a clever coach in Bora Milutinovic and will have a lot of support. Costa Rica, sorry to say, will probably go out in the first round. Group F has been called the ‘Group of Death,’ understandably. Argentina are one my favourites to win the Cup because they have so many dangerous goalscorers in players such as Hernan Crespo and Gabriel
Batistuta. England have lost their last two World Cup ties against Argentina so perhaps this year will be third time lucky. It is a concern, however, that England put so much faith in Michael Owen and David Beckham who have both had injury problems of one sort or another. But if Argentina and England are not at the top of their game then Sweden or Nigeria can take advantage. That is not polite diplomacy talking, either. Finally, co-hosts Japan should qualify from Group H along with Belgium or Russia. Belgium have been hit hard by injuries while Russia rarely play up to their potential at World Cups. But the fourth team in the group are Tunisia who have had managerial problems. Not the best way to prepare for a World Cup. I can see France and Brazil or Argentina coming through from the tougher half of the draw and Italy and Spain matching them step by step. After that, anything can happen. That is one of the beauties of the World Cup.
(Gameplan) (Pelé is a spokesperson for MasterCard, an official sponsor of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. For additional Pelé commentary, log on to mastercard.com) |
|
The trophy It was way back in 1928 that delegates of football’s governing body in Amsterdam decided to hold an international championship in the world’s most popular game. The task of designing an artistic masterpiece for the winners was entrusted to French sculptor Abel Lafleur. Lafleur’s creation — a 30 cm high gold statuette weighing 4 kg — became the proud possession of Uruguay, who beat Argentina 4-2 in the first World Cup final in 1930. The trophy was named after FIFA President-Jules Rimet, who remained at the helm till 1954. During World War II, FIFA’s Italian Vice-President Ottorino Barassi tucked the trophy in a shoe box under his bed to save it from occupying troops. In 1966, the cup disappeared while on display during the build-up for the World Cup in England. However, it was found abandoned under a tree by a dog named Pickles. In 1983, the football world was shocked to know that the Jules Rimet Cup carrying the names of the winners since 1930 was stolen in the Brazilian city of Rio. It was never found again as the thieves melted it down without realising its importance. The trophy had come to stay in Brazil in 1970 after Carlos Alberto’s team had won it for the third time. However, much before that in 1971 the organising commission of the world championship had already decided to institute the FIFA World Cup in place of the Jules Rimet Cup which had become the property of Brazil. As many as 30 designs were submitted but the work of Italian sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga was approved. The new trophy named the FIFA World Cup is 36 cm high and is made of solid gold. It weighs 4.97 kg. The base contains two layers of semi-precious malachite. According to 80-year-old Gazzaniga, “the lines spring out of the base, rising in spirals, stretching out to receive the world. From the remarkable dynamic tensions of the compact body of the sculpture rise the figures of two athletes at the stirring moment of victory.” The FIFA World Cup cannot be won outright. According to rules, it must remain permanently in possession of football’s international governing authority. The winners receive a replica, not made of solid gold but only gold-plated. The base can accommodate 17 mall plaques and the space is enough for engraving names of winners up to 2038 AD. |
|
The schedule THE following is the schedule of the 17th soccer World Cup being held in Japan and South Korea from May 31 to June 30, 2002 (all timings
IST): Germany v Saudi Arabia (E) 5 pm
Brazil v Turkey (C) 2.30 pm
June 5 Russia v Tunisia (H)
France v Uruguay (A) 5 pm
Poland v USA (D) Pre-Quarterfinals Quarterfinals Semifinals Third
place June 29 Taegu 4.30 pm. Final |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Senegal are not worried Daegu, May 30 “Many Senegalese are in France, many French are in Senegal. We use the same language. So there is no problem,” Senegal defender Aliou Cisse said. Striker El Hadji Diouf, who plays for French team Lens, said he had received a message from his club wishing him good luck and good health. “It was very touching. They have been very supportive and I appreciate it,” he said. Senegal play defending champions France in the opening match of the tournament on Friday in group A. The French start as strong favorites, but the Dakar Lions said they believed they had a chance. “Anything’s possible in a football game. We have confidence in our performance. The group that we belong to is not an impossible group. Senegal is able to do things,” Cisse said. The group also features Uruguay and Denmark. Cisse said he did not believe the team’s job was made easier by the absence of French star Zinedine Zidane, who has been ruled out for at least one match with a thigh injury. “There is no difference in France with Zidane or without Zidane. France is still a very good team. We are sorry for Zidane’s injury and we hope for his quick recovery,” Cisse said.
AP |
|
Third opener on May 31 Yokohama, May 30 The holders have been involved in the World Cup’s first match since 1974. From 1930 to 1954 the opening game was a random choice, while from 1958 to 1970 the hosts took part in it. The first match produced four successive 0-0 draws between 1966 and 1978.
Reuters |
|
Agassi, Capriati advance, misery for Henman
Paris, May 30 Agassi was leading Spain’s David Sanchez 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 when his opponent was forced to retire through injury while Capriati also moved on with a 6-4, 6-3 win against fellow American Amy Frazier. Agassi, one of only five men to have won all four Grand Slam events, will now meet either Tommy Robredo of Spain or Oleg Ogorodov of Uzbekistan in the next round. But while Agassi and Capriati were all smiles, it was a different story for Henman out on Suzanne Lenglen Court where he lost for the second time against Belgian Xavier Malisse to record his worst result here since 1998 when he lost in the first round. He went one round better this time, but the No. 6 seed still looked completely out of his depth on the slow, red clay as he went down to a 2-6, 6-3, 6-7 (4/7) 3-6 defeat after a three hours three minutes struggle. Henman (27), who had been confident of progressing into the second week here, must be sick of the sight of Malisse having lost to him at the US Open last year when the Belgian was being coached by Henman’s former mentor David Felgate. Malisse, the 21-year-old world No. 46, will now take on either Spain’s Albert Portas in the next round Meanwhile, top seed Capriati struggled with her serve but still kept her French Open dream alive by moving into the third round of Roland Garros. The world number one took 69 minutes to see off Frazier 6-4, 6-3, and keep her record of never having been beaten by her fellow American in their four meetings. Capriati had difficulty with her serve throughout the match, dropping serve six times with 46 unforced errors and seven double faults. But she looked unworried against 27-year-old Frazier, ranked 61 in the world. Defending champion Gustavo Kuerten kept his bid to lift a fourth French Open crown on track yesterday winning a five-set marathon with Italian Davide Sangiunetti to advance to the third round. Kuerten, the No. 7 seed, took about three hours to notch up his 16th consecutive win on the clay here and set up a meeting against Fernando Gonzalez of Chile, who beat Kuerten’s countryman Fernando Meligeni. But the Brazilian had looked to be on his way home when he went 0-2 and love-40 down in the final set. “That one point could have decided the match,” said Kuerten. Top men’s seed Lleyton Hewitt of Australia also had to dig deep against Russian Andrei Stoliarov before rallying from a set and 0-5 down to take the tie 4-6, 7-6, (7/5) 6-0, 7-5 in just over three hours. Also on track were fourth seed Andre Agassi and Marat Safin, seeded second, who showed little mercy for their hosts advancing to the second round at the expense of French players. Capriati, who defended her Australian Open title in January, next meets Evie Dominikovic after the 109-ranked Australian saw off the challenge of 101-ranked Indonesian Angelique Widjaja 7-6 (7/4), 6-4. In other matches Mary Pierce defeated Cristina Torrens 6-3, 6-1; Elena Lokhovtsena beat Martina Muller 7-5, 6-4 while Chanda Rubin beat Barbara Schett. In the men’s section Tommy Haas defeated Feliciano Lopez 6-3, 6-4, 6-4; David Nalbandian defeated Flavio Saretta 6-3, 6-4, 6-0 while Jiri Novak defeated Jens Knippschild 6-1, 6-2, 7-5. Former French Open champion Yevgeny Kafelnikov made an early farewell when he lost in four sets to Argentine Mariano Zabaleta in the second round on Wednesday. The 1996 winner and fifth seed bowed out 6-7, 6-2, 4-6, 6-7 for his fourth second-round exit in the Parisian Grand Slam tournament. The Russian’s defeat reflected his dreadful season on clay this season. Kafelnikov, who hinted he might retire should he win the Davis Cup for Russia at the end of the year, has only won one match in his five previous claycourt tournaments.
AFP
|
|
England gain upper hand against Lanka
Birmingham, May 30 Caddick captured three for 47 to lead the way as Sri Lanka were dismissed for 162 after being put in to bat on the rain-hit opening day. England survived seven overs against Muttiah Muralitharan, though not without some anxiety, as they reached the close on 24 without loss. Caddick found effective allies in Matthew Hoggard (2-55), Andrew Flintoff (2-27) and Alex Tudor (2-25), though Alec Stewart took a share of the individual honours by holding three catches to complete 200 test wicketkeeping dismissals. Stewart, who has now been behind the stumps in 66 of his 117 Tests, had a hand in the first three dismissals to remove openers Marvan Atapattu and Sanath Jayasuriya, then added the wicket of Kumar Sangakarra. Caddick, below his best in the first Test, got the ball to lift awkwardly at times, with two of his wickets coming in a telling phase just before tea when the touring team slumped from 96 for three to 108 for six. Sri Lanka 1st innings: Atapattu c Stewart b Hoggard 13 Jayasuriya c Stewart b Caddick 8 Sangakkara c Stewart b Flintoff 16 Jayawardene c Flintoff b Caddick 47 De Silva c Trescothickb Hoggard 10 Tillekeratne lbw Tudor 20 Arnold c Flintoff b Caddick 1 Vaas b Flintoff 23 Zoysa c Hoggard b Tudor 0 Fernando run out 13 Muralitharan not out 0 Extras (b-1 nb-10) 11 Total 162 FoW: 1-23, 2-23, 3-76, 4-96, 5-100, 6-108, 7-141, 8-141, 9-159 Bowling: Caddick 17-4-47-3, Hoggard 17-4-55-2, Giles 4-1-7-0, Tudor 9.5-3-25-2, Flintoff 5-0-27-2 England (1st innings) Trescothick not out 9 Vaughan not out 14 Extras (lb-1) 1 Total (for no wicket) 24 Bowling: Vaas 4-0-15-0, Zoysa 1-0-7-0,Muralitharan 2-1-1-0.
Reuters |
|
Yohannan looks a good competitor Bridgetown (Barbados), May 30 Having played five Tests together in two months you would think you know a thing or two about the opposition. But we were in for a big, big surprise. Dinesh Mongia, the Man of the Match, is an obvious reference point. He has been on tour for the last two months and we didn’t have a chance to look at him. But he must have used this period well and practiced on our wickets for long periods. He looked an extremely capable batsman. He could lift the ball, drive it on both sides of the wicket and also make delicate cuts when required. He is an asset to your one-day side. The same goes for Virender Sehwag who partnered Sourav Ganguly at the start of the Indian innings and the two together looked a good unit. It certainly looked a unit which would take some beating when on song. Both Sehwag and Ganguly can change gears at will. The fact the two can lift in the air is a big plus because you need such openers to take advantage of field restrictions in the first 15 overs. Tinu Yohannan was the first surprise Indian served to us. He had played in a side game at St. Lucia but I didn’t have chance to look at him. He did pick up three wickets but it was late in the day after Wavell Hinds had rammed into the Indians. But here he was a bowler rediscovered as he bowled a good line and length and that too at a decent pace. He looks a good competitor. We still have two more one-day games and we would see how he stands up to the pressure when we get on top. I would also not miss out on Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif. Yuvraj is a big plus he is not only a good fielder but he has got an accurate arm too. So we have got to be careful about him in future. He could be the Jonty Rhodes of the Indian team. Also, the way Kaif fielded, highlighted by that catch of Brian Lara, the fielding standards of Indians were lifted beyond compare. They all looked fit and spirited on the field. I think it makes a very healthy change to the Indian side. I wish I could say the same thing about us and the youngsters who got a game today. We are looking to build a nucleus as everyone else is in this season of the World Cup but we didn’t take much from the day’s game. I was rather disappointed with our show simply because I thought after the break we would come very, very strong at the Indians. I would have believed we would try to take on the Indians early. But we just caved in and gave the game to them. We were sort of walking around the park. It was interesting to see Sachin Tendulkar come at number four in the batting order today. I guess India has probably got it right for themselves. If you are going to bat first, it is better he opens because you want him to maximise the overs he faces. If you are going to chase, I suppose he can pace the innings better. He has the ability to get into extra high gear if need be so it is good to have somebody like him batting at number four because he can play a pivotal role. Whether this match was an aberration or whether India is going to stick to this routine in coming matches leading up to the World Cup, we would find out in the next two games in Trinidad. It brings me to Brian Lara. Yes, he failed again. He is our best batsman, one of the two best in the world.
PTI
|
|
Yohannan, Mongia left lasting impression Chandigarh, May 30 There was very little Dinesh Mongia could do as the Indian openers, as also the other batsmen, failed match after match. Skipper Saurav Ganguly, it seemed, did not have the confidence that this 25-year-old cricketer from Chandigarh would be able to deliver in the face of the West Indies bowlers, whose track record in Test cricket was as dismal as India in recent years, when the series commenced. And as far as Tinu was concerned there was talk that he might finally play in the fifth Test at Jamaica, which India lost, but he too did not get the approval of the tour selectors. But yesterday at Bridgetown both Dinesh Mongia and Tinu Yohannan left a lasting impression. Dinesh hammered a spirited 74 to guide India to a seven-wicket win in the third of the five-match one-day series after the first two matches were washed out due to rain at Kingston, Jamaica. Tinu also left his mark in the proceedings with a haul of three for 33 as the West Indies were bowled out for 186 in just 44.5 overs. The victory at Bridgetown was also all the more sweet because this was one venue in the Caribbeans where the Indians have never won a match, not even against Barbados what to talk of Test or one-day matches. The question which one is inclined to ask is: were the tour selectors justified in continuing with the likes of S.S. Das to open the Indian innings in spite of a string of failures. In hindsight it might be said that they could have tried to play Dinesh Mongia and who knows this Chandigarh lad might well have delivered as he did yesterday after Virender Sehwag fell with the score reading 41. While agreeing that one one-day innings is no indication of a batsman’s calibre, it is obvious that the likes of Dinesh did deserve a look-in during the Test series. Similarly, the tracks in the West Indies are best suited for bowlers of the likes of Tinu. That he did not get an opportunity to bowl on these green-top strips in any of the five Tests only show the lack of foresight on the part of those who compose the tour selection committee. Good performances from this Kerala bowler in the remaining two one-dayers will only prove that horses for courses should have been the axiom for those who run Indian cricket. |
Australia
beat India Adelaide, May 30 All four goals came in the second half, with Michael McCann and Craig Victory scoring within three minutes of each other shortly after the break to kick start the Australian onslaught. Jeremy Hiskins was the other scorer, posting his goal in the 61st minute. India controlled possession for the first 15 minutes but were rarely able to penetrate the Australian defence, content to pass the ball around in their own defensive half.
AFP |
|
Swimming championship
Patiala This was disclosed by Mr M.S. Sidhu, honorary secretary, Patiala District Swimming Association, here on Thursday. Swimmers desirous of taking part in the two- day meet may send their entries to Mr M.S. Sidhu at 15-A, Sarabha Nagar, Bhadson road, latest by May 31. Annual ceremony
The 39th annual graduation ceremony of the National Institute of Sports for students undergoing courses in Diploma in Sports Coaching will be held on Friday at 5 p.m. on the campus of the institute. The Chief Minister, Capt Amarinder Singh, will be the chief guest. |
 |
| Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir | Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs | Nation | Editorial | | Business | Sport | World | Mailbag | In Spotlight | Chandigarh Tribune | Ludhiana Tribune 50 years of Independence | Tercentenary Celebrations | | 122 Years of Trust | Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | Suggestion | E-mail | |
World champions France will start
the defence of their crown deprived of inspirational playmaker Zinedine
Zidane but are aiming at nothing less than victory in the opening match
against Senegal in Seoul tomorrow. The French found out on Monday that
their talisman will be out of the World Cup’s first game, at least,
but have refused to let his absence dampen their spirits.
PELE
WRITES
