MADRID: Kylian Mbappe joined Real Madrid in search of Champions League glory, hoping to be on the right side of exactly the kind of magical night they need against Arsenal on Wednesday if they are to progress to the semifinals.
The Gunners lead 3-0 after dismantling the holders in London last week in the quarter-final first leg, leaving Madrid craving the sort of dramatic comeback the 15-time winners are renowned for.
Returning from a three-goal defeat would be step further than anything Los Blancos have managed so far, but that is precisely why they tried to lure Mbappe to the club for years.
The French superstar’s explosive edge gives Madrid hope of achieving what appears to be borderline impossible.
“Of course we can,” said Mbappe on his way out of the Emirates last Tuesday, heading to the team bus after Arsenal’s stunning victory.
Declan Rice struck two sublime free-kicks and Mikel Merino’s third helped Mikel Arteta’s side put one foot in the final four.
Arsenal will be fully aware the job is not yet complete, having seen Mbappe’s devastating impact against Premier League champions Manchester City earlier this season.
Mbappe netted a hat-trick against Pep Guardiola’s side in February at the Santiago Bernabeu in the play-off round, helping Madrid eliminate City 6-3 on aggregate.
The striker was sent off for a wild challenge against Alaves in La Liga on Sunday, putting his team-mates under pressure, but can make it up to them with a special performance at the Santiago Bernabeu against Arsenal.
Madrid scraped a 1-0 win and Mbappe only played 38 minutes before his dismissal, so he should be fresh for Wednesday.
Mbappe has 33 goals in 49 games across all competitions this season, matching Madrid’s all-time top goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo’s tally in his first season at the club.
Mbappe failed to lift the Champions League trophy with Paris Saint-Germain during his seven seasons at the club and in 2022, was on the sharp end of a spectacular Real Madrid comeback.
PSG led 1-0 from the last 16 first leg, with Mbappe on target, and he netted his second goal of the tie to give the French side the lead at the Bernabeu.
It sparked Real Madrid into life and a remarkable 17-minute Karim Benzema hat-trick turned the tie around and powered Los Blancos into the quarter-finals, on the way to lifting the trophy.
Mbappe said his treble against Man City was exactly the kind of night he was craving.
“I’ve been dreaming of moments like this since I was a kid, to play for this club and to feel what it’s like on a big night at the Bernabeu,” said the Frenchman.
“A lot of people have told me about it, but now I’ve seen it with my own eyes, and I hope we’ll have many more.”
In 2022 Madrid made a stunning comeback to beat Man City despite trailing 5-3 on aggregate in the final minutes of the semifinal second leg, progressing 6-5 in the end.
Perhaps their most important comeback came in the 2014 final against rivals Atletico, trailing 1-0 until Sergio Ramos headed home in the 93rd minute to force extra-time, with Los Blancos winning 4-1 to claim ‘La Decima’, their 10th Champions League trophy.
They also overcame a 2-0 quarter-final first leg deficit against Wolfsburg in 2016, winning the second leg 3-0 with a Ronaldo hat-trick.
Mbappe would dearly love to emulate the Portuguese forward’s feat against Arsenal.
“At the Santiago Bernabeu, comebacks are always on everyone’s lips,” said Ronaldo.
Madrid and comebacks have been synonomous since the 1980s when winger Juanito was involved in several, including the UEFA Cup semifinals in 1985.
“90 minutes at the Bernabeu is a long time,” he warned Inter Milan after the hosts won the first leg 2-0 in Italy, with Madrid going on to triumph 3-0 on their way to glory.
Mbappe came to Madrid to add to their rich history and Arsenal’s visit presents the ideal opportunity.
“We have to believe, we have to have confidence,” said coach Carlo Ancelotti last week. “Because sometimes, quite often at the Bernabeu, it happens.”
Mbappe leading Real Madrid comeback charge against Arsenal
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Mbappe leading Real Madrid comeback charge against Arsenal
- The Gunners lead 3-0 after dismantling the holders in London last week in the quarter-final first leg, leaving Madrid craving the sort of dramatic comeback the 15-time winners are renowned for
Gill, Sudharsan help toppers Gujarat boss Kolkata in IPL
- Gujarat posted 198-3 after Sai Sudharsan, who hit 52, and Gill put on 114 runs for the first wicket
- Bowlers combined to restrict Kolkata to 159-8 with skipper Ajinkya Rahane playing a lone hand with 50
KOLKATA: Shubman Gill led from the front with his 55-ball 90 to help Gujarat Titans hammer holders Kolkata Knight Riders by 39 runs on Monday and consolidate their top spot in the IPL.
Gujarat posted 198-3 after Sai Sudharsan, who hit 52, and Gill put on 114 runs for the first wicket to lay the foundations of the total at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens.
The bowlers then combined to restrict Kolkata to 159-8 with skipper Ajinkya Rahane playing a lone hand with 50 to register Gujarat’s sixth win in eight matches.
Kolkata, who won their third title of the popular T20 tournament last year, slipped to their fifth defeat in eight matches.
The batters set up victory for Gujarat with England’s Jos Buttler hitting an unbeaten 41 off 23 balls as he steered the team after the opening stand between the Sudharsan and Gill.
“We never talk about that one of us has to stay until the end,” player-of-the-match Gill said on being asked about one of their top three staying through to the end in most of the matches.
“We just talk about how we can score runs in these conditions and how to take the game deep.”
Gill was watchful at the start but the left-handed Sudharsan hit a few boundaries to get Gujarat going after being invited to bat first.
Gill took on Moeen Ali with a six and two fours in the second spell for the former England spinner and soon reached his third half-century of the season.
The in-form Sudharsan raised his fifth 50-plus score in this edition as he went past 400 runs to nudge out Lucknow Super Giants batsman Nicholas Pooran (368) as the leading batsman.
Buttler is third with 356 runs in his eight innings.
Andre Russell handed Kolkata its first breakthrough as the pace bowler dismissed Sudharsan after his 36-ball knock but he came under attack from Buttler who hit him for three successive boundaries.
Buttler and Gill kept up the attack before fast bowler Vaibhav Arora denied the Gujarat captain his hundred.
Buttler lost another partner in Rahul Tewatia but Gujarat finished with a flourish in a 18-run 20th over from Arora.
In reply, Kolkata lost Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the first over of the chase when Mohammed Siraj got the Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batsman trapped lbw for one.
Sunil Narine, a left-hand opener, and Rahane hit back with regular boundaries in a brisk partnership of 41 until Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan broke the stand.
Rashid had Narine caught out for 17 before Rahane and Venkatesh Iyer put on another stand to keep Kolkata in the hunt.
Sai Kishore removed Iyer on 14 and fellow spinner Washington Sundar sent back Rahane stumped out after his fifty to derail the chase.
“When you are chasing 199, you expect a good opening start with the batters, that’s where we are struggling throughout this tournament,” said Rahane.
“I thought 199 chaseable on this wicket, we bowled really well, we faltered with our batting.”
Russell added some spark with a 15-ball 21 as he hit three fours and one six but Rashid picked up his second wicket to remove him thanks to a Buttler stumping.
Season’s leading bowler Prasidh Krishna then took two wickets in one over to take his count to 16.
The ESL Saudi Challenge returns in 2025 with two editions
- Events will highlight Saudi Arabia’s role in the e-sports world and its alignment with Vision 2030
- ESL Saudi Challenge is a platform for emerging local talent to shine on the world stage, linking Saudi players with international opportunities and audiences
RIYADH: ESL FACEIT Group, the world’s leading e-sports company, has announced the return of the ESL Saudi Challenge for 2025, with two editions confirmed for May and December.
The expansion is part of EFG’s long-term commitment to Saudi Arabia’s gaming ecosystem and supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and its National Gaming and Esports Strategy.
Kicking off the 2025 season, the first round of open qualifiers will take place on April 24-26, followed by a second round scheduled for May 1-3. The competition will then advance to the playoffs on May 7-8 and 14-15, culminating in a live grand final at VOV Gaming on May 30.
The ESL Saudi Challenge is a platform for emerging local talent to shine on the world stage, linking Saudi players with international opportunities and audiences.
“What’s happening in the Kingdom today sets the tone for the future of global e-sports.” said Franck Guignery, senior vice president for the MENA region at EFG. “We’re witnessing a generation of players with world-class potential. The ESL Saudi Challenge is more than a tournament, it’s a launchpad — a gateway that connects Saudi talent to the global esports arena. For the industry, this isn’t just an opportunity — it’s a turning point.”
Each 2025 edition of the tournament will spotlight Overwatch 2 as its flagship title, with a $20,000 prize pool and offering winners a direct path to global competitions. This year’s grand finals will culminate in a live showdown, bringing the region’s top talent to the big stage.
Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad in key Saudi Pro League clashes as title race heats up
- Al-Hilal hope to beat Al-Shabab to pressure leaders Ittihad
- Al-Ittihad host Al-Ettifaq and seek to extend 4-point lead
RIYADH: The Saudi Pro League title race intensifies on Monday as Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad both face crucial tests in round 29.
Al-Hilal take on Al-Shabab at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, aiming to keep the pressure on league leaders Al-Ittihad.
Jorge Jesus’ side come into the match full of confidence after a commanding 3-0 win over Al-Khaleej, while Al-Shabab were held to a goalless draw by Al-Okhdood in their last outing.
Hilal boast a strong record against Shabab, winning 19 of their 33 previous league meetings, with just five victories for Shabab and nine draws.
Hilal have scored 59 goals across those encounters, compared to Shabab’s 32, with their biggest win coming in the 2020–21 season — a 5-1 thrashing.
Jesus has a full squad at his disposal, including Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo.
Al-Shabab coach Fatih Terim is also boosted by the return of key players, including Ukrainian goalkeeper Heorhiy Bushchan, Belgian captain Yannick Carrasco, Moroccan striker Abderrazak Hamdallah, and Argentine midfielder Cristian Guanca.
Al-Hilal currently sit second in the table with 61 points, trailing Al-Ittihad by four points, while Al-Shabab are sixth with 50 points.
And later on Monday, attention shifts to Jeddah, where Al-Ittihad host Al-Ettifaq at Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium, with kickoff at 9 p.m.
After suffering a surprise 2-0 defeat to Al-Fateh in the last round, Laurent Blanc’s Al-Ittihad will be desperate to return to winning ways and protect their lead at the top of the table.
Al-Ettifaq, meanwhile, arrive on the back of a 1-0 victory over Al-Riyadh and will be hoping to cause an upset.
Al-Ittihad have enjoyed the upper hand historically, winning 15 of the 29 previous league meetings, compared to seven wins for Al-Ettifaq, with seven matches drawn.
Ittihad have scored 53 goals in those fixtures, while Ettifaq have 32. Their most emphatic result came in the 2013–14 season, a 5-2 triumph for Ittihad.
With just five rounds remaining, every point is crucial. Al-Ittihad currently lead the standings with 65 points, while Al-Ettifaq are seventh with 40.
As the season enters its final stretch, Monday’s results could have a major impact on the destination of the league trophy.
Pakistan Super League fails to ignite in early matches
- Excitement that once defined the PSL has been conspicuously absent in the first 10 games
DUBAI: As the 10th match was completed in the Pakistan Super League, a third of the way into the tournament, it feels as if it is stuck in first gear. The excitement that once defined the league — packed stadiums, electrifying contests, a sense of national celebration — has been conspicuously absent. This is especially the case in Karachi. In the 2019 final, the National Stadium, despite logistical challenges, hosted a rocking full house. Now, it has sparsely populated stands.
The explanations being put forward are poor experience for spectators, poor viewing and a difficult venue to access. This does not fully explain the decline. Perhaps the truth is more uncomfortable. After two years of underwhelming performances by the national team, the public’s passion for the game may be suffering from disillusionment. Even so, the pattern is not even, as attendances in Rawalpindi have been much better, suggesting that interest has not completely evaporated. Nevertheless, it is an ongoing concern.
A related concern is the quality of cricket. Only one of the 10 matches has been genuinely close. While there have been flashes of brilliance, 17-year-old Ali Raza’s four wickets for Peshawar Zalmi against Multan Sultanas, for instance. the overall standard has been patchy. The tournament desperately needs more competitive matches to reignite excitement.
Islamabad United have been a class apart amid the mediocrity, their star shining more brightly than the rest. United are unbeaten after four matches comfortably lead the table. IU have played like true defending champions. Their success is not accidental, being built on consistency, smart recruitment and a culture of professionalism from the top down.
The franchise’s owners, Ali and Amna Naqvi, have been model stakeholders from the beginning. They have created a professional cricketing environment and let their team’s performances speak for themselves. There are no mid-tournament podcasts, no unnecessary media grandstanding, just a quiet, determined focus on cricket.
It is no surprise that their squad always plays with freedom and smiles on their faces. Sahibzada Farhan has set the tone and leads the batting charts with 214 runs at an average of 53.5, transferring his domestic form into the PSL. New overseas signing, the experienced Jason Holder, tops the wicket-taking charts with 11 wickets at an average of 11. He has provided a boost for his captain, Shadab Khan, who came into the tournament with poor form but has captained impressively and performed well with both bat and ball. It looks as if IU are united and the team to beat, especially after comfortably defeating the Karachi Kings in the 10th match by six wickets.
In a mixed start by Karachi Kings, two wins and two defeats, there have been bright spots. James Vince, ever the elegant run machine, has carried his form seamlessly into the PSL, proving yet again why he is one of the most dependable overseas players in franchise cricket. Equally encouraging has been the resurgence of Hasan Ali, who looks in the best rhythm he has been in for years — bowling with fire, swing and his trademark aggression. Tim Seifert has had a good start to the tournament too, but the Kings need to find consistency in both batting and bowling, which means more players realizing their potential.
Peshawar Zalmi, usually one of the league’s most consistent sides, have looked oddly out of balance. The makeup of their bowling attack in the first two games was confusing. The continued exclusion of Mehran Mumtaz, a promising young spinner, has raised eyebrows, especially when their current combinations are not working.
An apparent reluctance to blood younger players feels like one of the significant failures of the PSL. It compares unfavorably with the Indian Premier League where a 14-year-old recently burst on to the scene. In the PSL, some of the best young players either warm the bench or are not even in the squads. An exception to this for Zalmi has been the young bowler, Ali Riaz. His wiry frame will need filling out to deal with the demands of fast bowling but he has consistently reached speeds of 140kph or above, combined with swing and skill. He has also shown character, especially with four wickets for 21 in the win against Multan Sultans.
Zalmi also has the big issue of Babar Azam to address. The former Pakistan captain’s form has been uncharacteristically subdued but, as everyone knows, class is permanent. Zalmi’s hopes hinge on Azam quickly rediscovering his touch. If he does, they will have the firepower to challenge. The team management will be delighted to see Saim Ayub slot back into the team after injury, while the attacking batting style and character of Mohammad Haris is the sort that the national team ought to be looking to build the future around. After losing the first two games, Zalmi appear poised for improved results.
At the bottom of the table, Multan Sultans remain winless after three matches. Owner Ali Khan Tareen has been omnipresent, attending training sessions, involving himself in team huddles and making himself a constant talking point. He speaks about raising professionalism and standards, but his approach may not be the optimum one. A step backwards may better serve the players, rather than give the impression that he is about to pull on the shirt and take the field himself.
Quetta Gladiators, after a brilliant first game, stumbled in the next two matches, exposing the batting frailties that many suspected existed in the squad. Meanwhile, Lahore Qalandars have been a pleasant surprise, holding second in the table on net run rate. The team has displayed fight and good skills. One player living up to my prediction is Rishad Hossain, the young Bangladeshi leg-spinner, who has been exciting in claiming six wickets.
The 11th match will be the last played in Karachi, as the tournament moves on to Multan, Lahore and Rawalpindi. It is to be hoped that closer matches ensue, along with a better standard of cricket to encourage the fans to come out in greater numbers. All of those outcomes are much needed to attract future investment and quality players in the increasingly crowded space for franchise tournaments in cricket’s calendar.
Saudi Arabia not ruling out a bid for 2035 Rugby World Cup
- The Times newspaper reported last month that Saudi Arabia could join with Qatar and the UAE in a joint bid for 2035 or 2039
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia, hosts of the 2034 football World Cup, could make a bid for the 2035 Rugby World Cup despite barely playing the game.
Sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal was not ruling it out when he met reporters on the sidelines of Sunday’s floodlit Formula One grand prix in Jeddah.
“We’re interested in rugby, we’re interested in developing the sport locally, so we created a federation to see what we can do to develop the sport,” he said.
“I don’t think we’re on the level of hosting yet but ‘35 is in 10 years so maybe it grows in that direction and we see a big interest in that, then why not?”
The Times newspaper reported last month that Saudi Arabia could join with Qatar, who hosted the 2022 football World Cup, and the United Arab Emirates in a joint bid for 2035 or 2039.
It quoted Asia Rugby President Qais Al-Dhalai, an Emirati, as saying it could happen.
“A multi-host could be a successful story and a new model for rugby. UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia. Why not? The stadiums are ready there. It will be the most successful event in the history of rugby,” he said.
The UAE are ranked 49th in the world, with Qatar 87th and Saudi Arabia not in the top 113.
Australia hosts the next men’s tournament in 2027 with the United States in 2031.
Al-Faisal said Saudi Arabia, which has also been awarded the 2029 Asian Winter Games, has 97 sports federations and could not host everything.
“But why do we have 97 federations? Because we want to promote sports, even the smallest sports that maybe a small number of people participate in in Saudi or there isn’t that big of an interest, so at least someone can play that sport in the kingdom.”
Al-Faisal said boxing was showing rapid growth, with more and more gyms opening as the country hosted world title fights, and golf was the same.
“We had a very small percentage of youth playing in golf but now after LIV Golf, and after the tournaments that we’ve hosted in the kingdom, we see a big number of participation,” he said.
Cricket was another sport with potential due to the large number of foreign workers from elsewhere in Asia.
“I think in the cricket league we have around 35,000 players already, 90 percent of them are not Saudi, but we want to accommodate that because they live here, we want to provide for them,” said the prince.
“So does it mean we’re going to host a big cricket tournament or match in the future? Maybe. But we’ll see how it goes toward that, and if it makes sense to host these events.”
