Beer behind England's new found success at World Cup

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 12:22 PM

London, Jun 24 (ANI): Coach Fabio Capello, who is often accused of being too strict, has eased his rules to allow players to relax with beer. This is said to have been behind England's success against Slovenia in the World Cup.

Capello invited Rooney, Gerrard and other players to join him for a beer the evening before they played against Slovenia.

The beer tactic paid off as England displayed a much-improved performance to reach the last 16 of the World Cup.

Capello laughed when asked why England were so much better than in their previous two games, The Sun reports.

"I did something different. Yesterday evening, they drank beer. You can ask them," he said.

Midfielder Frank Lampard said that most players were wary of Capello's treat. And he said: "You don't have ten beers - you just have one."

Capello made three key changes to England's starting XI. Defoe came in for Emile Heskey, James Milner replaced Aaron Lennon on the right flank and Matthew Upson took suspended Jamie Carragher's place at the back.

Emotional Capello said after the match: "We played together, fought together. This was the team I know. They can go forward - their mind is free." (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Australia beats Serbia 2-1 in Group D

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 12:08 PM

Tim Cahill and Brett Holman scored second-half goals Wednesday to help Australia beat Serbia 2-1 in Group D of the World Cup, though both teams were eliminated.

Cahill put the Australians ahead with a glancing header from Luke Wilkshire's cross in the 69th minute and Holman added the second from long range four minutes later.

"A lot of respect for the lads. We've been through some hard times here," said Cahill, who was sent off in the team's opening match. "I'm just buzzing to hit the back of the net because this time last week my World Cup was over."

Marko Pantelic pulled a goal back for Serbia in the 84th, and then had a chance for a late equalizer but couldn't control a bouncing ball. If Serbia had drawn, the team would have advanced ahead of Ghana.

"I'm just disappointed we don't go through. We have four points, I thought it might be enough," Australia coach Pim Verbeek said.

"In the end the goal difference against Germany killed us."

Australia's defense had been torn apart by Germany's wide players in its opening 4-0 loss and Serbia's early attacks were concentrated down the wings through Milos Krasic and Milan Jovanovic.

"We did our best, everything we could," Serbia coach Radomir Antic said. "This was a good game and I can't reproach my players as we had plenty of chances that we didn't take. In the end, we deserved more than what we got and now we have to go back home."

Serbia should have scored in the 12th minute when Milos Ninkovic broke through midfield from an Australia corner and put Krasic clear, but the winger was forced wide by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and shot off target.

Schwarzer also did well to block defender Branislav Ivanovic's effort from close range, while Nikola Zigic should have done better with a free header from Zdravko Kuzmanovic's cross in the first half.

Krasic was jeered until his substitution in the 62nd as the majority Australian support in the crowd thought he had dived looking for a penalty in the second minute.

When the Socceroos did finally get the ball into a better crossing position, Mark Bresciano's delivery was skewed wide by Cahill rising at the back post.

"You see guys who will play their hearts out and run all day and then others come on and do the same thing," Cahill said. "We have a team that works together and the team is fantastic."

Australia started the second half brightly and Bresciano, Cahill and Jason Culina all tried their luck from distance.

"We wanted to continue in the second half with the tempo of the first but we are human and the missed opportunities depleted our morale," Antic said. "When Cahill jumped and scored, that was a shock for us and we lost our balance."

Serbia looked beaten, but Pantelic's late goal made for a frantic finale. An equalizer would have put the Serbs through, but Australia's defense held.

"It was a great result and great performance," Verbeek said.

"But we are not in the final 16 and that was the plan when we came here to South Africa.

"We can't blame any of the players who did a great job and worked hard when everyone thought it was over.

Australia made the round of 16 four years ago but lost to eventual champion Italy.

"Four years ago four points was enough," Verbeek said. "This time it was not enough."

Source: Web Search

Now Sri Lanka look for a hat-trick

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 11:52 AM

Farveez Maharoof knew he had hit the right spot - just short of length - on this Rangiri Dambulla wicket, leaving the ball to do the rest. Luckily for him, Tuesday was one of those days when everything fell in place. Mahroof's hat-trick against India might have given a fresh lease of life to his international career, but the lanky all-rounder is not sure about his chances of playing in the final. But Maharoof or not in the XI, Sri Lanka will be attempting a hat-trick of sorts when they take on India in the Asia Cup final.

There's something about the islanders and the Asia Cup; it seems to bring out the best in them. After the 2004 and 2008 editions, they will be gunning their third title in a row - fifth overall - having made the final on all ten occasions.

Add to it their form and the backing of a partisan crowd, and Kumar Sangakkara and his boys should start favourites on Thursday afternoon. The spin of the coin should not be a significant factor, with a few good chases from either team, although the captain would be wary of the forecast of rain and the strong evening breeze.

The pitch is fresh and may assist the slower bowlers while forcing the batters to wait. So far, Team India's middle order has found it difficult to negotiate, showing impulsiveness and little patience to play with the straight bat (except for captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who has been holding the innings together).

Eyeing a Test spot

Rohit Sharma also stuck around in the previous game, probably with one eye on the larger picture - the team for Test matches and the subsequent tri-series is to be named in the coming days. For the likes of Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina, therefore, the final will also be an opportunity to stake their claim in the Test team.

At the top, Dinesh Karthik has looked good with Gautam Gambhir, though the new-ball pair they may face in the final is likely to be different and more potent. Overall, India are struggling to stitch together partnerhips while their bowling has also looked lacklustre. The return of Harbhajan Singh and Ashish Nehra should bolster the attack.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's top and middle-order has been in top form. Upul Tharanga and Tillakaratne Dilshan have been among runs, while Sangakkara-Mahela Jayawardene combine has forged match-winning partnerships in all three games. Sri Lanka bat deep and have a problem of plenty with the ball.

Lasith Malinga and Nuwan Kulasekera have formed a great new-ball pair while Angelo Mathews has been good as one change. Muttiah Muralitharan has been miserly and with the likes of Maharoof, Suraj Randiv, Rangana Herath and Chanaka Welegedara as options for Sangakkara, Team India might find it tough to score.

Sangakkara has insisted complacency will be out of the dressing room while India are showing intent in correcting their poor record in events featuring more than two teams. The Asia Cup is the first step towards 2011 and both teams would like to hit the ground running.

It rained on Wednesday night, and though there's a reserve day, India will be keen to settle the issue on Thursday itself, and return home to rest and prepare for the longer grind - again in Sri Lanka.

Source: Web Search

Lampard insists England team 'four games away from WC glory'

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 11:44 AM

Port Elizabeth, June 24(ANI): England midfielder Frank Lampard insists that his team is back amongst the favourites for World Cup glory with Wednesday's crucial 1-0 victory over Slovenia in Port Elizabeth.

Lampard said that England has finally proved what they are capable of, and believes that they can go all the way if they maintain that form for the rest of the tournament.

"The World Cup starts here. It doesn't matter how we've played in the group matches because that doesn't win you anything. You don't get any credit for playing well in the first round if you then get sent home in the next round," The Sun quoted Lampard, as saying.

"So, everything starts from here with pure knockout football, and it can only focus our minds to think that we are four games away from doing something very special," he added.

The 32-year-old further said that the England team would now concentrate on their next game.

"We've seen it many times that teams start the World Cup a bit cagey and then come good in the later rounds. We have to follow that model and keep on improving with every game,' Lampard said.

After dismal opening draws against the USA and Algeria, England had to make do with second place in Group C on goals scored as the USA clinched the top spot thanks to Landon Donovan's injury-time winner against Algeria.abio Capello's team now face Germany in Bloemfontein on Sunday. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Sachin proud to be associated with Indian Air Force

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 10:36 AM

New Delhi, Jun 24 (ANI): Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, who will be conferred the honorary rank of Group Captain of the Indian Air Force, is delighted to be part of the Armed Forces family.

Sachin said: "It is indeed a great honour that I have been considered for the honorary rank of Group Captain in the Indian Air Force. As an Indian, I am very proud to be associated with this dynamic force and I shall do my very best to be a brand ambassador for the IAF."

Expressing his eagerness to interact with the air warriors, he said, "I am looking forward to familiarizing myself with the Indian Air Force. I once again salute the Indian Air Force for this great honour bestowed on me."

"Under the provision of grant of honorary rank by the Armed Forces to eminent personalities acknowledging their contribution towards the nation, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil is pleased to confer Sachin with the honorary rank of Group Captain," said an IAF statement.

In recognition of Sachin's glorious achievements as a cricketer and sports icon par excellence, the Air Force had mooted a proposal to confer the rank of Group Captain.

Besides the recognition, his association with the IAF will motivate the younger generation to join the Air Force to serve the country.

Till date 21 persons have been granted the honorary ranks from Flight Lieutenant to Air Marshal.

The last person to be conferred the honorary rank of Air Commodore was Vijaypat Singhania on October 8, 1990. (ANI)

Source: Web Search

Germany beat Ghana 1-0 to qualify for knock-out phase

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 10:26 AM

M R Mishra Johannesburg, Jun 24 (PTI) Germany maintained their proud record of having never failed to qualify from the group stages at a World Cup with a narrow 1-0 win over Ghana and booked a round of 16 berth as Group D winners here. Werder Bremen midfielder Mesut Oezil scored the matchwinner in the 60th minute in a fast and furious match yesterday at Soccer City Stadium to give Germany their second win and six points to top the group. Despite the loss, Ghana also made it to the round of 16 on goal difference though they have the same points four -- with Australia who beat Serbia 2-1 in Nelspruit in another Group D match. Ghana have a goal difference of zero as against minus three of Australia. It was a sweet revival of fortunes for Joachim Loew''s side after their shock 0-1 defeat against Serbia in their last match which also saw the ejection of star striker Miroslav Klose on his second booking. Germany now play England Group C runners-up in the round of 16 in Bloemfontein on June 27 while Ghana take on United States of America the earlier day in Rustenburg. The match was also registered another first in World Cup history with two half-brothers facing each other for the first time. Kevin-Prince Boateng of Ghana faced his brother Jerome in the Germany side. Kevin was roundly booed by German fans as his tackle in the FA Cup final match between Portsmouth and Chelsea led to Germany captain Michael Ballack''s ruling out of the World Cup. The first 45 minutes was played at a frantic pace with both sides having shots galore at the goal though Germany had more ball possession and scoring chances. The first chance came in Ghana''s way in the 20th minute when Kwadwo Asamoah broke down the left of the German box and cut back to striker Asamoah Gyan whose misdirected shot was blocked by a defender. In the 25th minute, Andre Ayew found himself unmarked inside the German box but the young midfielder was one touch too many and it was cleared by a defender. Next minute, Germany got the first clear chance of the match as Mesut Oezil was onside down the right side off a fine pass from his captain Philip Lahm but he shot straight to the Ghana keeper Richard Kingson. Immediately, Asamoah Gyan''s header off a corner was cleared by Lahm at the goal-line. MORE PTI MRM PDS SHN

Source: Web Search

Australia beats Serbia 2-1 in Group D

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 10:16 AM

Tim Cahill and Brett Holman scored second-half goals Wednesday to help Australia beat Serbia 2-1 in Group D of the World Cup, though both teams were eliminated.

Cahill put the Australians ahead with a glancing header from Luke Wilkshire's cross in the 69th minute and Holman added the second from long range four minutes later.

"A lot of respect for the lads. We've been through some hard times here," said Cahill, who was sent off in the team's opening match. "I'm just buzzing to hit the back of the net because this time last week my World Cup was over."

Marko Pantelic pulled a goal back for Serbia in the 84th, and then had a chance for a late equalizer but couldn't control a bouncing ball. If Serbia had drawn, the team would have advanced ahead of Ghana.

"I'm just disappointed we don't go through. We have four points, I thought it might be enough," Australia coach Pim Verbeek said.

"In the end the goal difference against Germany killed us."

Australia's defense had been torn apart by Germany's wide players in its opening 4-0 loss and Serbia's early attacks were concentrated down the wings through Milos Krasic and Milan Jovanovic.

"We did our best, everything we could," Serbia coach Radomir Antic said. "This was a good game and I can't reproach my players as we had plenty of chances that we didn't take. In the end, we deserved more than what we got and now we have to go back home."

Serbia should have scored in the 12th minute when Milos Ninkovic broke through midfield from an Australia corner and put Krasic clear, but the winger was forced wide by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and shot off target.

Schwarzer also did well to block defender Branislav Ivanovic's effort from close range, while Nikola Zigic should have done better with a free header from Zdravko Kuzmanovic's cross in the first half.

Krasic was jeered until his substitution in the 62nd as the majority Australian support in the crowd thought he had dived looking for a penalty in the second minute.

When the Socceroos did finally get the ball into a better crossing position, Mark Bresciano's delivery was skewed wide by Cahill rising at the back post.

"You see guys who will play their hearts out and run all day and then others come on and do the same thing," Cahill said. "We have a team that works together and the team is fantastic."

Australia started the second half brightly and Bresciano, Cahill and Jason Culina all tried their luck from distance.

"We wanted to continue in the second half with the tempo of the first but we are human and the missed opportunities depleted our morale," Antic said. "When Cahill jumped and scored, that was a shock for us and we lost our balance."

Serbia looked beaten, but Pantelic's late goal made for a frantic finale. An equalizer would have put the Serbs through, but Australia's defense held.

"It was a great result and great performance," Verbeek said.

"But we are not in the final 16 and that was the plan when we came here to South Africa.

"We can't blame any of the players who did a great job and worked hard when everyone thought it was over.

Australia made the round of 16 four years ago but lost to eventual champion Italy.

"Four years ago four points was enough," Verbeek said. "This time it was not enough."

Source: Web Search

Germany beat Ghana 1-0 to qualify for knock-out phase

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 09:56 AM

M R Mishra Johannesburg, Jun 24 (PTI) Germany maintained their proud record of having never failed to qualify from the group stages at a World Cup with a narrow 1-0 win over Ghana and booked a round of 16 berth as Group D winners here today. Werder Bremen midfielder Mesut Oezil scored the matchwinner in the 60th minute in a fast and furious match at Soccer City Stadium to give Germany their second win and six points to top the group. Despite the loss, Ghana also made it to the round of 16 on goal difference though they have the same points four -- with Australia who beat Serbia 2-1 in Nelspruit in another Group D match. Ghana have a goal difference of zero as against minus three of Australia. It was a sweet revival of fortunes for Joachim Loew''s side after their shock 0-1 defeat against Serbia in their last match which also saw the ejection of star striker Miroslav Klose on his second booking. Germany now play England Group C runners-up in the round of 16 in Bloemfontein on June 27 while Ghana take on United States of America the earlier day in Rustenburg. The match was also registered another first in World Cup history with two half-brothers facing each other for the first time. Kevin-Prince Boateng of Ghana faced his brother Jerome in the Germany side. Kevin was roundly booed by German fans as his tackle in the FA Cup final match between Portsmouth and Chelsea led to Germany captain Michael Ballack''s ruling out of the World Cup. The first 45 minutes was played at a frantic pace with both sides having shots galore at the goal though Germany had more ball possession and scoring chances. The first chance came in Ghana''s way in the 20th minute when Kwadwo Asamoah broke down the left of the German box and cut back to striker Asamoah Gyan whose misdirected shot was blocked by a defender. In the 25th minute, Andre Ayew found himself unmarked inside the German box but the young midfielder was one touch too many and it was cleared by a defender. Next minute, Germany got the first clear chance of the match as Mesut Oezil was onside down the right side off a fine pass from his captain Philip Lahm but he shot straight to the Ghana keeper Richard Kingson. Immediately, Asamoah Gyan''s header off a corner was cleared by Lahm at the goal-line. MORE PTI MRM PDS SHN

Source: Web Search

Pride on the line as Brazil meet Portugal

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 08:56 AM

Pride not pragmatism will be the watchword when soccer powerhouses Brazil and Portugal meet in a mouthwatering World Cup clash on Friday (1400) to decide the winners of Group G.

Although whoever tops the group could meet Spain in the second round, any suggestion that either side might connive to avoid the European champions has received short shrift.

"In Brazilian national football our duty is to win every game," defender Lucio said on Wednesday. "We play for the honour of the Brazilian shirt and the Brazilian public. We don't pick our opponents."

Brazil coach Dunga does not like to meddle with his team but will have to replace playmaker Kaka, who is suspended after his red card in Sunday's 3-1 win over Ivory Coast.

Julio Baptista or Dani Alves are likely to step into midfield, where another change might be needed after Elano was on the wrong end of a dreadful tackle on Sunday.

Unlike the Brazilians, who have two wins, the Portuguese could still mathematically be overhauled by the Ivorians for a last 16 spot despite Monday's 7-0 drubbing of North Korea.

That is highly unlikely given the nine-goal swing that would be required for Ivory Coast to catch Portugal assuming they beat North Korea and the Portuguese lose to Brazil.

BAD MEMORY

Any thoughts of Portugal playing for the draw that would guarantee their progress will, however, be tempered by the memory of the 6-2 thrashing they got in their last meeting with the five-times world champions in a 2008 friendly.

"It was a big defeat for us and now have chance to beat them," Portugal playmaker Tiago said.

"It's not revenge, we are two great teams in a World Cup. Both teams want to go through and want to win the game. So it's not revenge, just a game to play."

Thrashing North Korea on Monday transformed Portugal's World Cup prospects after an opening draw with Ivory Coast and coach Carlos Queiroz is likely to start with the same lineup.

Deco, one of three Brazilian-born players in the Portuguese squad, might offer Queiroz an extra option if he has recovered from a hip injury but Tiago's fine form should secure his place after he scored twice against the North Koreans.

Another boost in Cape Town was Cristiano Ronaldo breaking a two-year goal drought in competitive internationals, admittedly with the rather fortunate sixth goal, which team mate Ricardo Carvalho thinks might be significant.

"He was a little bit disappointed because he wants to score in every game," said the defender. "It's important for him to score and for us as well because the more confidence he gets, the better for us."

Source: Web Search

FACTBOX - Portugal v Brazil

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 08:36 AM

Portugal play Brazil in their final Group G match of the World Cup on Friday.

Where: Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban.

Capacity: 69,000

When: Friday June 25, 1600 local (1400 GMT)

Referee: Benito Archundia (Mexico)

World ranking: Portugal 3, Brazil 1

Teams: Likely formation, shirt numbers, age, caps, goals:

* misses next match if booked

Portugal (4-3-3) Brazil (4-4-2)

1-Eduardo 27-17-0 1-Julio Cesar 30-50-0

13-Miguel 30-58-1 2-Maicon 28-56-5

2-Bruno Alves 28-33-5 3-Lucio 32-95-5

6-Ricardo Carvalho 32-65-3 4-Juan 30-78-6

23-Fabio Coentrao 22-6-0 6-Michel Bastos 26-7-1

*8-Pedro Mendes 31-10-0 5-Felipe Melo 26-20-2

16-Raul Meireles 27-36-8 8-Gilberto Silva 33-95-3

19-Tiago 29-52-3 13-Dani Alves 27-38-3

*7-Cristiano Ronaldo 25-74-23 19-Julio Baptista 28-44-8

11-Simao Sabrosa 30-83-22 11-Robinho 26-75-25

*18-Hugo Almeida 26-27-10 9-Luis Fabiano 29-40-27

Also available:

9-Liedson 32-12-4 12-Gomes 29-6-0

12-Beto 28-1-0 14-Luisao 29-40-3

22-Daniel Fernandes 26-2-0 15-Thiago Silva 25-7-0

3-Paulo Ferreira 31-62-0 16-Gilberto 34-34-1

4-Rolando 24-8-0 17-Josue 30-27-1

21-Ricardo Costa 29-8-0 *18-Ramires 23-14-2

5-Duda 29-17-1 21-Nilmar 25-14-8

14-Miguel Veloso 24-13-1 20-Kleberson 31-33-2

20-Deco 32-75-5 22-Doni 30-10-0

10-Danny 26-12-2 23-Grafite 31-3-1

15-Pepe 27-25-2

Trainer - Carlos Queiroz Dunga

Injured - 17-Ruben Amorim 25-1-0 7-Elano 29-46-9

Suspended - None 10-Kaka 28-78-26

Changes:

* Portugal are likely to name to same team that thrashed North Korea 7-0 as they look to win their group.

Nani's replacement Ruben Amorim is out injured and Deco, who missed the 7-0 match with a hip problem, is training seperately.

* Brazil have midfielders Elano (injured) and Kaka (suspended) out. Dani Alves and Julio Baptista are expected to replace them.

Key stats:

* Brazil have won 12 of their previous 18 meetings with Portugal but the Europeans won the duo's only match at a World Cup -- 3-1 in the Group stages of the 1966 tournament in England.

Previous meetings:

08.04.56 Lisbon Portugal 0 Brazil 1

11.06.57 Rio De Janeiro Brazil 2 Portugal 1

16.06.57 Sao Paulo Brazil 3 Portugal 0

06.05.62 Sao Paulo Brazil 2 Portugal 1

09.05.62 Rio De Janeiro Brazil 1 Portugal 0

21.04.63 Lisbon Portugal 1 Brazil 0

07.06.64 Rio De Janeiro Brazil 4 Portugal 1

24.06.65 Porto Portugal 0 Brazil 0

19.07.66 Liverpool Portugal 3 Brazil 1

30.06.68 Mozambique Portugal 0 Brazil 2

09.07.72 Rio De Janeiro Brazil 1 Portugal 0

05.05.82 Sao Luiz Brazil 3 Portugal 1

08.06.83 Coimbra Portugal 0 Brazil 4

08.06.89 Rio De Janeiro Brazil 4 Portugal 0

17.04.02 Lisbon Portugal 1 Brazil 1

29.03.03 Porto Portugal 2 Brazil 1

06.02.07 London Brazil 0 Portugal 2

19.11.08 Gama Brazil 6 Portugal 2

GROUP G STANDINGS:

P W D L F A PTS

Brazil* 2 2 0 0 5 2 6

Portugal 2 1 1 0 7 0 4

Ivory Coast 2 0 1 1 1 3 1

North Korea 2 0 0 2 1 9 0

* Qualified for the second round.

Fixture

June 25

North Korea v Ivory Coast, Nelspruit 1400 GMT

Group results

June 15

Ivory Coast 0 Portugal 0

Brazil 2 North Korea 1

June 20

Brazil 3 Ivory Coast 1

June 21

Portugal 7 North Korea 0

- - - -

Source: Web Search

Wimbledon men's singles results

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 07:56 AM

REUTERS - Wimbledon men's singles results from England on Wednesday (prefix denotes seeding, * new result).

Second round

* Denis Istomin (Uzbekistan) beat Rainer Schuettler (Germany) 6-3 7-6(5) 4-6 4-6 6-1

Daniel Brands (Germany) beat 7-Nikolay Davydenko (Russia) 1-6 7-6(5) 7-6(8) 6-1

Arnaud Clement (France) beat Peter Luczak (Australia) 6-7(4) 6-3 6-3 6-4

1-Roger Federer (Switzerland) beat Ilija Bozoljac (Serbia) 6-3 6-7(4) 6-4 7-6(5)

28-Albert Montanes (Spain) beat Brendan Evans (U.S.) 3-6 6-3 6-7(5) 6-1 6-4

31-Victor Hanescu (Romania) beat Marsel Ilhan (Turkey) 6-4 6-4 3-6 6-3

3-Novak Djokovic (Serbia) beat Taylor Dent (U.S.) 7-6(5) 6-1 6-4

12-Tomas Berdych (Czech Republic) beat Benjamin Becker (Germany) 7-5 6-3 6-4

29-Philipp Kohlschreiber (Germany) beat Teimuraz Gabashvili (Russia) 7-6(6) 5-7 2-6 7-6(5) 9-7

21-Gael Monfils (France) beat Karol Beck (Slovakia) 6-4 6-4 6-7(4) 6-4

22-Feliciano Lopez (Spain) beat Ricardas Berankis (Lithuania) 7-5 4-6 6-3 6-4

15-Lleyton Hewitt (Australia) beat Evgeny Korolev (Kazakhstan) 6-4 6-4 3-0 (Korolev retired)

5-Andy Roddick (U.S.) beat Michael Llodra (France) 4-6 6-4 6-1 7-6(2)

16-Juergen Melzer (Austria) beat Viktor Troicki (Serbia) 6-7(5) 4-6 6-3 7-6(6) 6-3

Florian Mayer (Germany) beat Mardy Fish (U.S.) 6-7(2) 6-3 6-4 6-4

Lu Yen-Hsun (Taiwan) beat Michal Przysiezny (Poland) 6-4 7-6(7) 6-3

First round

Thiemo de Bakker (Netherlands) beat Santiago Giraldo (Colombia) 6-7(4) 6-4 6-3 5-7 16-14

Source: Web Search

Old spirit of sacrifice sees Germany safe

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 06:16 AM

Pragmatic Germany had to revert to old-school tactics to see off an outstanding Ghana team 1-0 on Wednesday and reach the second round of the World Cup.

Fighting for their future in the tournament after a tame defeat against Serbia, Germany were dumbfounded in the first half against at Soccer City, as the Africans matched them all over the field.

With Michael Ballack, the team's inspiration on so many occasions, missing from this tournament through injury and striker Miroslav Klose suspended, it fell to the youngster Mesut Ozil to earn the win with a moment of pure brilliance, as he lashed a shot into the top corner from outside the box.

The 21-year-old Ozil took the Man of the Match award but it needed a display of pure sacrifice from every player on the German team to eke out the win that took them through as Group D winners and set up a second round match against England.

The result, coupled with Australia's surprise 2-1 win over Serbia, sent Ghana through along with Germany and on this evidence both sides will have options to make further progress.

Germany will have reminded a lot of people of their traditional virtues as the three-times world champions soaked up intense pressure in the second half.

The daredevil style that marked their 4-0 win over Australia was absent apart from a couple of early breaks down the right, though they did get Ozil clean through once more in the half.

Ghana, fired by the dangerous Kevin-Prince Boateng and Kwadwo Asamoah, caused so many problems that Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira spent most of their time fighting fires inside their own half.

CAPTAIN'S PERFORMANCE

It says much for Ghana's skill, spirit and workrate that even after Ozil's superb goal they continued to rattle Germany and it needed a captain's display from right-back Philipp Lahm to keep the defence in any sort of shape.

On and on the Ghana forwards attacked, probing Germany full-back Jerome Boateng -- brother and opponent of Kevin-Prince -- and keeping goalkeeper Manuel Neuer busy throughout.

That they could not find a goal may suggest Ghana will find themselves short of a great finisher when they go on to face the United States in their last 16 game.

Their consolation will be that few sides will show such teamwork and organisation in defence as this German team.

Joachim Loew's side have shown a scrappy side to their game quite in keeping with the World Cup winning teams of the past.

Loew would doubtless prefer to see them playing with the quick passing and adventure that marked the Australia game but every great team needs a back-up option and Germany can feel pretty good about having road-tested theirs.

Source: Web Search

Isner-Mahut epic leaves Wimbledon lost for words

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 05:56 AM

"Nothing like this will ever happen again - ever," panted John Isner after he and Nicolas Mahut rewrote every record in the book with a 10-hour epic at Wimbledon that left even Roger Federer agog with admiration.

In the most mind-boggling encounter ever witnessed on a tennis court, or maybe even in the sporting world, Isner and Mahut sent statisticians scrambling and caused the scoreboard to malfunction as they fought toe-to-toe for 10 hours in the longest ever tennis match.

Incredibly as the sun set over Court 18, they staggered out of the All England Club at 2110 local time with their first-round match still undecided and the fifth set locked at 59-all.

The battle started on Tuesday, lasted all day Wednesday, will hopefully conclude on Thursday and will live long in the memory of those lucky enough to witness the freak, surreal stalemate.

"Seriously... doesn't anyone have to pee? Umpires included?" Andy Roddick Tweeted as he watched the final set drag on for seven hours and six minutes.

The fifth set alone eclipsed the record for the longest ever completed match at six hours and 33 minutes.

It was meant to be a day when Federer, who had a narrow escape in the first round, was supposed to prove that he is still the undisputed king of Wimbledon, but again he failed to convince.

He huffed and puffed his way into the third round by beating a challenger who goes by the nickname of 'Bozo'.

Qualifier Ilija Bozoljac is more well known in Serbia for his exploits in reality show Big Brother than his tennis prowess but he once again raised question marks about Federer's chances of landing a record equalling seventh men's crown before slipping to a 6-3 6-7 6-4 7-6 defeat.

With England brought to a standstill as the nation beat Slovenia to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup in South Africa, Roddick playfully kicked a ball into the delighted Centre Court crowd after a 4-6 6-4 6-1 7-6 win over in-form Frenchman Michael Llodra.

Fellow American Venus Williams joined him round three after blasting Russia's Ekaterina Makarova into orbit 6-0 6-4.

Kim Clijsters, Justine Henin and third seed Novak Djokovic all stifled their opponents in double quick time and former champion Lleyton Hewitt chalked up a century of grasscourt wins after Evgeny Korolev retired with a shoulder injury.

Amid the clamour of the Court 18 epic, it went almost unnoticed that Russian seventh seed Nikolay Davydenko went out in four sets to German Daniel Brands.

Federer, Roddick, Williams, Henin, Clijsters, Hewitt and Djokovic own 36 singles grand slam trophies between them but their exploits on Day Three of the grasscourt championships were eclipsed by two gunslingers battling it out on a court that seats only 782 fans.

"I love this. I know they're maybe not loving this, but I guess this is unheard of in our game," said Federer, who had began his match when Isner and Mahut were tied at 11-all in the fifth set and still found the two at it when he walked off Court One almost three hours later.

"John is barely moving anymore but he's still able to produce good serves when he has to. It's so impressive to see. I was watching this. I don't know if I was crying or laughing. It was too much."

It certainly was no laughing matter for the two protagonists who simply could not find a way to send their opponent home. In fact, Isner could have flown home to Florida in the time it took them to contest the 118 games so far in the final set.

As a sea of fans, officials and fellow players crammed in and jostled for position on the terrace overlooking Court 18 -- even the courtside scoreboard could not keep up with Mahut and Isner's antics as it got stuck with the score at 47-47.

A printed piece of paper will show that Isner belted down a record 98 aces, and counting, as both players eclipsed the previous record of 78 by Ivo Karlovic.

But those numbers will do little to underline the sheer guts, steely determination and human spirit shown by both.

As darkness descended over southwest London, and the score stood at 58-all, Mahut's racket went flying out of his hand when he dived after an Isner volley and ended up getting up close and personal with the grass as he lay sprawled face down on the ground.

Even a weary Isner, who looked as if he could barely put one foot in front of the other in between points, mustered the energy to applaud Mahut's effort.

Seconds later Isner was gift-wrapped a fourth match point at 59-58 when Mahut double faulted. But for those who thought the end was in sight, it proved to be a false dawn as the Frenchman fired down his 95th ace.

Having ensured he had stretched the match into a third day -- it had been suspended at two sets apiece on Tuesday -- Mahut went up to the umpire and said enough was enough.

The fans were eager to see more but their chants of "We want more, we want more" were ignored as the supervisor stepped on court and signalled with his hands that it was over for the day.

After walking off court to a standing ovation, Mahut promised: "Someone has to win so we'll come back tomorrow and see who's going to win the match.

"Everyone wants to see the end but they'll just have to come back tomorrow."

Source: Web Search

All Africa is cheering Ghana tonight, says Muntari

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 05:36 AM

All of Africa was celebrating Ghana's achievement in reaching the World Cup second round, players and their coach said on Wednesday.

"Tonight the whole of Africa is cheering us on," Ghana's attacking midfielder Sulley Muntari told Reuters. "This is a great success for African football."

Ghana earlier lost 1-0 to Germany but still qualified for the knockout phase ahead of Australia on goal difference.

Ghana, who became the first African side to progress as the World Cup makes its debut on the continent, will feel support from millions of people including South Africa, Muntari added.

Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac added: "I hope the majority of South Africans will continue to support us... I hope we will benefit from massive support here in South Africa."

Despite having six teams in the group stage, Ghana are very likely to be the only African side in the last 16 with Algeria, Cameroon, Nigeria and the hosts already out.

Ivory Coast have only the faintest chance of advancing.

"This tournament did not start so well for Africa but let us hope it finishes better," Muntari said after Ghana came second behind three-times World Cup winners Germany in Group D.

"To be able to qualify is a very big issue for Africa," added midfielder Prince Tagoe. "It is a great joy for us. We played with confidence today and we want to keep that up."

Ghana next play Group C winners United States in Rustenburg on Saturday in their second round match.

Source: Web Search

Australia beat Serbia, both sides bow out

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 05:16 AM

Goals from Tim Cahill and Brett Holman gave Australia a 2-1 victory over Serbia as both teams bowed out of the World Cup but the Serbians were left claiming they had been robbed of a last 16 berth by the referee.

Serbia would have gone through to the knock-out stages of the tournament if they had grabbed a late equaliser. In the dying minutes of the game, Cahill appeared to handle the ball in the box, and the Serbians screamed for a penalty.

But Uruguayan referee Jorge Larrionda waved them away, and was surrounded by angry Serbian players after he blew the final whistle.

Serbian coach Radomir Antic was also upset his team had two goals disallowed, one of which he claimed was "definitely not offside."

"We did not get fair treatment, we deserved more than we got and we have to go home now," Antic said. "The ref had a black day when it came to Serbia. The referee and the fourth official did not want to see a foul that was quite obvious. We are angry when it came to this decision."

With Germany beating Ghana 1-0 in the evening's other match, Australia finished level on four points with the Africans. But their goal difference was worse than Ghana's and that condemned them to a third place finish.

Serbia finished bottom of the group with three points.

Despite needing to score goals, the Socceroos were strangely subdued in the first half and the Serbians were totally in control.

Milos Krasic squandered their first chance, rounding Mark Schwarzer in the Australian goal after 12 minutes before skewing his shot wide and high.

Schwarzer produced a fine reflex save to block a close range effort from Branislav Ivanovic midway through the half, and 10 minutes later the giant figure of Nikola Zigic should have scored when left unmarked inside the box, but glanced his header well wide of goal.

The pacy Krasic, who was a menace on the Serbian right flank all evening, slipped though the Aussie defence after 38 minutes and squeezed the ball under Schwarzer into the net, but his effort was correctly ruled out for offside.

Australians heads were down as they trooped into the dressing room at halftime, but they came out fighting after the break.

Mark Bresciano tested Serbian goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic with a long-range shot on the hour and in the 69th minute Cahill, back in the side after missing the last match through suspension, put his side ahead.

Mark Wilkshire swung in a cross from the Australian right and Cahill met it with a firm header that gave Stojkovic no chance.

Four minutes later the Australians doubled their lead - second half substitute Holman blasting home a shot from outside the box - and for a moment it seemed like Pim Verbeek's side might pull off one of the great escape acts of the World Cup.

With thousands of yellow-shirted fans roaring them on from the stands, the Australians poured forward in search of more goals.

But inevitably they left themselves exposed and in the 84th minute Serbia pulled one back, Marko Pantelic taking advantage of a rare Schwarzer fumble to stab the ball home from close range.

That changed the emphasis of the tie and suddenly it was the Serbs who had a chance of qualifying.

But when the referee turned down their penalty appeal, their final chance of a place in the last 16 disappeared from the grasp.

Australia's victory will have gone some way to restoring their battered pride after a difficult World Cup campaign marred by two red cards.

The Serbians will leave South Africa with a momentous win over Germany to show for their efforts, but very little else.

Source: Web Search

Saina survives first round scare

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 04:48 AM

Saina Nehwal started her title defence at the Indonesian Open Super Series with a win, fighting off the stubborn challenge mounted by upcoming Korean shuttler Ji Hyun Sung in the opening round 22-20 17-21 21-14 at Jakarta on Wednesday.

With her ranking expected to dent China's Top 5 monopoly on Thursday, Nehwal, currently World No 6, beat back the Korean's offensive for an hour before advancing to the second round. She runs into Petya Nedelcheva next, the Bulgarian never short on firepower or aggressive intent, though she's currently been struggling with injuries galore.

Against the Korean, though, it was the top-seeded Indian who struggled to close out her opponent within straight sets after claiming the opening game 22-20 relying on her experience. More than a third of her winners came from smashes, as she pulled away from 20-20 in the opener.

But she dropped the next set at 17. In the decider, Nehwal broke away after a 4-point run early on, and was unchallenged after 3-all, to stay ahead and march to a finish.

For the men, good news came in the form of RMV Guru Sai Dutt, who is fast shooting up in frame and performances alike, as he beat Yan Kit Chan of Hong Kong 21-18 21-13. It was 20-year old Guru's flurry of smashes which shut out his first-round opponent in 32 minutes, the Hyderabadi sending down 24 in contrast to the Hong Kong boy's 11.

P Kashyap, playing second seed Taufik Hidayat, started well, before the Indonesian wrested control and won the 65-minute encounter 12-21 21-19 21-16. India's leading challenger Chetan Anand, however, disappointed, going down to familiar foe Wing Ki Wong, tamely losing his first round match 21-15 21-9.

Source: Web Search

FACTBOX - John Isner v Nicolas Mahut - the records

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 04:36 AM

Records broken during the unfinished Wimbledon first-round match between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut on Wednesday.

Longest match (time elapsed): Mahut-Isner currently 10 hours

Previous record: 6 hours 33 minutes - Fabrice Santoro beat Arnaud Clement, French Open, first round, 2004

Longest match (games played): Mahut-Isner currently 163 games

Previous records:

Doubles: 122 - Stan Smith and Erik van Dillen (United States) v Patricio Cornejo and Jaime Fillol (Chile) - Davis Cup, 1973

Singles: 112 - Pancho Gonzales beat Charlie Pasarell 22-24 1-6 16-14 6-3 11-9 - Wimbledon, 1969

Longest fifth set and longest set at a grand slam: Mahut-Isner's 59-59 (7 hours and 6 minutes)

Previous records:

Longest fifth set at a grand slam: Andy Roddick beat Younes El Aynaoui 4-6 7-6 4-6 6-4 21-19 - Australian Open, 2003

Longest set: 25-23 John Newcombe beat Marty Reissen 4-6 6-3 6-4 25-23 - U.S. Open, 1969

Most aces by a player and match total: 98 Isner, 95 Mahut

Previous record: 78 - Ivo Karlovic (Croatia) - 2009 Davis Cup v Radek Stepanek (Czech Republic)

Source: Web Search

Record-breaking Mahut-Isner epic halted at 59-59 in fifth

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 03:56 AM

The longest match tennis has ever seen between American John Isner and France's Nicolas Mahut was halted at 59-59 in the fifth set after an astonishing ten hours when bad light halted play on Wednesday.

The previous record of six hours 33 minutes was set when Fabrice Santoro beat Arnaud Clement at the French Open in 2004.

Source: Web Search

Epic duo punch-drunk, and Groundhog Day still not over

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 03:36 AM

After slugging it out like punch-drunk boxers over two days, John Isner and Nicolas Mahut trudged off into the Wimbledon twilight after smashing every record in the tennis book.

As the setting sun halted their match for a second straight day at a jaw-dropping 59-59 in the fifth set, the crowd, crammed into every nook and cranny around the court, chanted: "We want more, We want more."

The scoreboard broke down, the umpire had to get down from his chair, stretch his legs and take a drink. His voice was almost hoarse. No-one had ever seen anything like it before.

The crowd's half-hearted Mexican wave could barely make it around Court 18 after an epic forever to be etched in the record books.

"Nothing like this will ever happen again. Ever," an exhausted Isner said.

It was a magnificent spectacle to watch -- two players who absolutely, totally, utterly refused to give in.

At 59-59 in the fifth and final set, Isner was staggering around like a dazed fighter, Mahut flung himself across the court with breathtaking commitment.

Former Wimbledon champion John McEnroe spoke for everyone privileged enough to watch the twilight marathon.

"This was the greatest advertisement we have ever had for our sport," he said.

It was Groundhog Day at Wimbledon. They finished all square on Tuesday night, they finished all square on Wednesday night.

And after all that, it was still only a first-round contest.

The longest match in the history of tennis left the spectators gasping in awe -- and it is still not over.

"Come on -- one of you," shouted one exasperated wag as they battled each other to a standstill.

Fans crowded round every inch of the court, peering forward up to five deep. People stood on Henman Hill overlooking the court, even if they could only see one side of it.

The players were locked in combat but you could see the respect they had for each other. They even walked off court together for a toilet break as dusk gathered.

Angered at times by dubious linecalls, they were too tired to argue. Isner bit his shirt in frustration, Mahut thudded his racket on the grass.

When the players reached 50-49, the crowd rose to give them a standing ovation. Hands on knees, back bowed, Isner could barely stand.

The tennis world waxed lyrical about the epic twilight final between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal two years ago.

The quality of tennis may not have reached such superb heights of artistry but, whatever the result on day three, the sheer guts and staggering stamina of Isner and Mahut will live long in the memory for everyone lucky enough to be there.

Source: Web Search

Germany set up England clash, Ghana salvage African pride

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 03:16 AM

Johannesburg, June 24 (DPA) Three-time world champions Germany advanced to the last 16 of the World Cup Wednesday by defeating Ghana 1-0 to set up a clash with old rivals England.

Despite the defeat Ghana also progressed to salvage some pride for Africa as probably the continent's only team left in the tournament, and will now come up against the United States.

Germany emerged victorious in Johannesburg thanks to a Mesut Oezil goal on the hour to top Group D.

In Nelspruit, Australia defeated Serbia 2-1 but both go out.

Germany finished on six points, while Australia pulled level on four points with Ghana, but goal difference settled it for the Black Stars.

Serbia, who defeated Germany 1-0 Friday, finished last on three but the group was open until the final whistle in both games.

Germany meet England in Bloemfontein Sunday for a place in the quarter-finals. Ghana go to Rustenburg against the US on Saturday.

Oezil's left-foot shot from outside the area in the Soccer City stadium made sure Germany avoided getting bounced from the first round of the World Cup for the first time in their history.

Ghana, who lost to Brazil in the Round of 16 at Germany 2006, became just the second African nation to advance out of the World Cup first phase twice following Nigeria in 1994 and 1998.

Milovan Rajevac's Ghanaians also became the first African nation to advance to the last 16 at the first African World Cup after hosts South Africa, Nigeria, Cameroon and Algeria all were eliminated.

German coach Joachim Loew brought in Jerome Boateng for Holger Badstuber at left back to bring together a meeting on the pitch with his half-brother Kevin Prince Boateng of Ghana. It was the first time in World Cup history that brothers lined up against each other.

Germany clinched the win thanks to Oezil's masterful left foot strike from outside the area just inside the far left post, making up for a wasted opportunity in the first half when he was through on goal but could not beat keeper Richard Kingson.

But Ghana came close to levelling, with Jerome Boateng's leg only between Prince Tagoe's header a minute later, and captain Philipp Lahm then got a leg on Andre Ayew's goal-bound effort.

Lahm said: 'We were under a lot of pressure but we withstood it. We've now reached the last 16 and the match against England is, of course, a classic.

'We can look ahead with confidence but we knew there are a few things we will have to improve.'

In Nelspruit, Australia shocked Serbia when Tim Cahill rose to head in and Brett Holman shot from distance for the second.

Marko Pantelic gave Serbia hope when Mark Schwarzer spilled a shot from Zoran Tosic and missed a golden opportunity to equalize in ther dying seconds when he shot over the bar from close range - missing a goal which would have put Serbia through and send Ghana out.

Australia coach Pim Verbeek was pleased his side ended its tournament with a victory after beginning with a 4-0 defeat by Germany.

'We played a great all-or-nothing game but unfortunately it wasn't good enough,' he said.

Source: Web Search

Germany, England through, Ghana survive

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 02:56 AM

England and Germany squeezed into the second round of the World Cup on Tuesday together with the United States but Australia went out despite a victory that paradoxically saved Africa's chances.

Ghana, the continent's last real hope, lost 1-0 to Germany after a thundering 60th minute strike by Mesut Ozil, but finished second in Group D thanks to the Socceroos convincing 2-1 victory over Serbia.

Two half brothers faced each other for the first time at a World Cup when Kevin-Prince Boateng played for Ghana and Jerome Boateng for Germany.

England finally found some of their form to beat a feisty Slovenia, who saw their chance of qualification from Group C agonisingly stolen at the last moment by a U.S. goal by Landon Donovan in injury time against Algeria.

The last gasp U.S. victory sparked scenes of joy in Pretoria among American fans and gave them first place in the group over England.

"I'm just shocked and so proud of our guys... unbelievable," midfielder Donovan said. He broke down in tears in the post-match press conference and former President Bill Clinton went to the changing room to congratulate the players, telling them they had shown the American spirit.

The result put Algeria out -- another disappointment in Africa's poor showing at the continent's first World Cup.

Donovan's late goal was also a tragedy for Slovenia, the tournament's smallest nation with a population of just over two million, who would otherwise have gone through.

As fellow European power France flew home after a shameful first-round exit, England finally played with determination against a feisty Slovenia after two dismal draws from their opening matches. The players expressed relief and said their World Cup ambition had been revived.

ENGLAND SMILE AT LAST

Striker Jermain Defoe, brought in as part of a team shakeup by manager Fabio Capello, connected with a James Milner cross in the 23rd minute to notch a goal and give some relief to the hordes of English supporters in Port Elizabeth.

But although England looked better, they never seemed as slick as the Latin American teams who have dominated the tournament, led by Brazil and Argentina.

Capello, whose habitual frown finally turned to a smile, said the result should lift the pressure on his players.

"The mind now is free, without fear," he said.

The first World Cup in Africa has so far been a struggle for Europe with former champions France heading home after a demoralising player revolt, over the expulsion of striker Nicolas Anelka, that has shocked their nation.

Hosts South Africa beat France on Tuesday night to leave them bottom of their group with just one point.

"In 11 days of competition, Raymond Domenech's gang has succeeded in becoming the laughing stock of the entire world, a mix of arrogance, incompetence, a lack of talent and professionalism," said France Soir newspaper.

President Nicolas Sarkozy called for a total shake-up of French soccer after a special government meeting on Wednesday and said no player should receive bonuses. He hinted that there should be resignations among French soccer officials.

South Africa were the first hosts to be eliminated in the first round but at least held their heads high, garnering four points, losing out only on goal difference, and ending with their best ever international victory.

VUVUZELA TRUMPETS

Bafana Bafana's elimination has quietened the vuvuzela trumpets a little but the nation remains proud of the achievements of its underdog team and even more of its success in organising a successful tournament, despite years of gloomy predictions from critics that it would be a disaster.

Argentina have led Latin American dominance of the World Cup so far, Diego Maradona's team brimming with confidence after a perfect first round record of three wins.

The artistry of Argentina, Brazil and even smaller Latin American teams too has been in sharp contrast to the pedestrian European performances.

Chile's players, who have won two games out of two, say a ripped and muddy flag rescued from the debris of February's massive earthquake has helped inspire them.

They have hung it on a flagpole by their training pitch.

"We're trying to bring a little happiness to all those people who suffered," said centre back Waldo Ponce.

Source: Web Search

Australia beat Serbia, both go out of World Cup

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 02:38 AM

Nelspruit (South Africa), June 24 (DPA) Australia beat Serbia 2-1 in Group D Wednesday at the Mbombela stadium in Nelspruit but both teams go home as Germany and Ghana progress.

Cahill rose to head past Stojkovic putting Australia 1-0 and Brett Holman shot from distance for the second. Marko Pantelic then gave Serbia hope when Schwarzer spilled a shot from Zoran Tosic and the Cologne player tapped in the rebound.

But it was not enough and it will be group winners Germany who play England in Bloemfontein Sunday and second placed Ghana who play the United States in Rustenburg Saturday.

Australia were on a run of five World Cup matches without a win but were hoping to repeat their 2006 performance when they made it to the last-16 before being knocked-out by eventual winners Italy.

Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek was able to recall Tim Cahill, who returned from a one-match suspension picked-up in the game Australia lost to Germany 4-0.

Verbeek also handed a World Cup debut to Michael Beauchamp because veteran Craig Moore was suspended.

Serbia manager Radomir Antic made two changes in defence, replacing left-back Aleksandar Kolarov with Ivan Obradovic while Aleksandar Lukovic came in for Neven Subotic at the heart of defence.

The Serbians made all the early running and Milos Krasic got the first shot on target that Mark Schwarzer turned around his face. Krasic was then sent clear by Milos Ninkovic, but after going around the keeper he put his shot wide.

Australian striker Cahill reacquainted himself with Premier League foe Nemanja Vidic when the Manchester United man caught the Everton player with a flailing arm when both went for a free-kick. Cahill went down holding his face but match officials had seen nothing.

The dominance continued when Branislav Ivanovic burst into the Australia area only to see his powerful drive brilliantly saved by the on-form Schwarzer.

Serbia could have wrapped things up inside the first half hour if not for poor finishing and they wasted another chance on 34 minutes when giant striker Nikola Zigic headed Ivanovic's cross wide from the edge of the six-yard box.

Krasic then had his third clear-cut chance but despite converting Milan Jovanovic's pass he did so from an off-side position and had the goal ruled-out.

Australia had the last chance of the first half when Joshua Kennedy headed Brett Emerton's cross tamely at Serbian keeper Vladimir Stojkovic, but Serbia had dominated the opening 45 minutes.

Serbia started the second half as the ended the first with Zigic shooting over from inside the area and then on 69 minutes they paid for all those missed chances when Cahill rose to head past Stojkovic putting Australia 1-0.

The Serbs were stunned and four minutes later they were two down when AZ Alkmaar striker Holman shot from distance and beat Stojkovic to leave the Socceroos two further goals from a dramatic qualification.

Marko Pantelic then gave Serbia hope when Schwarzer spilled a shot from Zoran Tosic and the Cologne player tapped in the rebound.

Pantelic then thought he had equalised only for the linesman's flag to correctly rule out the effort.

And with their last chance Pantelic was set-up by Tosic be he shot over from the edge of the six yard box. Australia had won the match despite all Serbia's first half chances and the World Cup was over for both teams.

Source: Web Search

U.S. gymnasts to get Sydney team medal in August

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 02:16 AM

A decade later, U.S. gymnasts will finally get the 2000 Olympic team bronze medal recently stripped from China after an athlete falsified her age, the U.S. Olympic Committee and USA Gymnastics said on Wednesday.

The medals will be presented during a special ceremony on Aug. 11 in Hartford, Connecticut, in conjunction with the U.S. gymnastics championships.

China, which originally won the women's gymnastics team bronze at the Sydney Olympics, was stripped of the medal in April by the International Olympic Committee after one of the athletes falsified her age.

Source: Web Search

Slovenia mourn after World Cup dreams crushed

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 01:56 AM

Slovenia's coach asked for his players to be given time to mourn after their dreams of qualifying for the second round of the World Cup were crushed by a late U.S. goal in a parallel group match.

Slovenia lost 1-0 to England in their final Group C match, but could have qualified with four points scored in the first two games.

But a last-gasp goal in added time by the United States in their match against Algeria instead placed the Americans on top of the group and England second and kicked out Slovenia.

"Our sportsmen should be left alone for a while because they are experiencing hard moments," coach Matjaz Kek said.

Journalists were waiting fruitlessly to speak with the Slovenians about their defeat following the match.

"I'm really proud of Slovenia and I hope the country will be able to respect our achievements," the coach said.

With a population of just over two million people, Slovenia's is the tournament's smallest nation.

"Our squad has put in a lot of effort and ... will gain from this defeat," Kek said.

Slovenia won their match against Algeria and drew with the United States -- not a small achievement for a team which bowed out of the group stage in Euro 2000 and the 2002 World Cup without winning a game.

Source: Web Search

Tearful Donovan ends four years of hurt

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 01:36 AM

A tearful Landon Donovan said his dramatic added time winner for the United States made him "believe in good in the world" again after coming through a painful divorce and heavy criticism in recent years.

Donovan's goal gave the U.S a 1-0 victory over Algeria which sent them into the last 16 instead of on the plane back home.

"I've been through a lot in the past four years," said Donovan, who split up from his former wife, actress Bianca Kajlich, in July.

"I'm so glad it culminated this way. It makes me believe in good in the world," he said, crying and speaking so quietly he could hardly be heard.

The 28-year-old, who competed in the 2002 and 2006 World Cups, is one of the most skilful and exciting players in the U.S. but has not always lived up to expectations in major tournaments.

However, he came into this tournament after a strong showing at Premier League club Everton and has scored two crucial goals in South Africa -- against Slovenia as the team fought back from two goals down and to qualify against Algeria.

LOWEST POINT

Donovan said his lowest professional point had come after the World Cup in 2006 when the U.S. failed to make it through to the second round and Donovan came in for much of the criticism following three below-par performances.

From a personal point, he said he had endured his hardest time in July of last year, without explaining further.

"Those experiences can harden you and can help you grow if you learn from them and if you look at it the right way," he said, as his coach Bob Bradley patted him on the shoulder.

"We will look back on it one day, a lot of us won't remember how it happened but the reality is we finished ahead of England in a World Cup group."

Bradley said Donovan had matured after accepting his role as a leader on the pitch.

"I think these kind of challenges came at a good time for him and he's never shied away from challenges," he said.

"There is a special feeling when you play on a team and you know people are really counting on you, when your character, your personality, is at the core of how that team does.

"Over these years, both on and off the field, he's grown and matured and accepted these kind of challenges and it's made a huge difference."

Asked what he saw when the ball came towards him in front of goal and with only two minutes left to run, Donovan said with a smile: "I saw a lot of things." Asked to elaborate he said "not yet".

Source: Web Search

Injured Elano, Deco may miss Brazil-Portugal match

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 12:56 AM

Johannesburg, June 24 (DPA) Midfielders Elano, of Brazil, and Deco, of Portugal, are likely to miss the clash between the two teams Friday in Durban.

Elano's absence comes in addition to that of star playmaker Kaka, who is suspended after a red card.

The Galatasaray midfielder was kicked in the right ankle during the match against Ivory Coast Sunday. Elano, who scored goals in Brazil's first two World Cup matches, returned to training Wednesday but had to practice separately after feeling pain in his leg.

Deco suffered a hip injury in training prior to Portugal's second World Cup match, against North Korea on Monday, and has reportedly not fully recovered.

Deco is one of three Brazilian-born players in the Portugal squad, alongside defender Pepe and striker Liedson.

Brazil have already qualified for the Round of 16 in Group G. Portugal could still be eliminated in the first round, although their 7-0 win against North Korea gives them a comfortable goal difference and makes elimination unlikely.

Should Portugal beat Brazil, they could still end top of the group.

Source: Web Search

Cacau starts as lone Germany striker

Published>Thu, Jun 24 10 12:36 AM

Cacau was picked to start as Germany's lone striker, replacing the suspended Miroslav Klose for their final Group D match with Ghana on Wednesday.

Germany coach Joachim Loew also brought in Jerome Boateng in place of left back Holger Badstuber after his erratic performance in their 1-0 defeat by Serbia.

Boateng will face his half-brother Kevin-Prince, who is in Ghana's starting lineup.

Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac made one change to the side that drew 1-1 with Australia, bringing in defender John Mensah, who recovered from injury, in place of Lee Addy.

Fellow defender Isaac Vorsah was again absent, having failed to recover in time.

Asamoah Gyan will start as Ghana's lone striker for the third time in this tournament.

Source: Web Search

Shyam Sundar, Kin Phung claim Asian Junior chess titles

Published Thu, Jun 24 10 12:18 AM

Chennai, Jun 23 (PTI) International Master M Shyam Sundar of India and WFM Vo Thi Kim Phung of Vietnam annexed the Asian Junior and Asian Junior Girls titles respectively here today. In the open category, while three players tied for the top place with seven points each, Shyam Sundar was adjudged the Champion on better tie-break. He also secured a Grandmaster norm in the process. In the final round, two overnight leaders Shyam Sundar and S Nitin drew their tie and had to wait anxiously for the other results. While IM Vidit Santosh Gujrathi defeated Mehar Chinna Reddy in a fine game to join the duo, yet another IM M R Lalith Babu drew his game with defending champion Aswin Jayaram. This result left three players with seven points each and Shyam Sundar had a better tiebreak than the other two to emerge champion. Santosh Gujrathi finished second while FM Nitin took the bronze medal and also the title of International Master, by virtue of tying for the first place. In the Girls section, Kim Phung shrugged off the challenge of untitled R Preethi of India while WFM Nakhbayeva Guliskhan of Kazakhstan overpowered WFM Tay Li Jin Jeslin of Singapore in the first table to net 7.5 points each. As Kim Phung had a better tiebreak score, she was adjudged the Champion and she automatically gained the title of Woman International Master, along with a Woman Grandmaster norm. Nakhbayeva Guliskhan had to be content with the silver medal. The defending champion and WIM Padmini Rout claimed the bronze medal with 6.5 points after she drew her game with P V Nandhidhaa of India. .

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Himmat, Muniyappa share lead in PGTI championship

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 11:36 PM

Pune, June 23 (IANS) Himmat Singh Rai of Delhi and Bangalore's C. Muniyappa shot scores of three under 68 to share the lead on day two of the Aircel PGTI Players Championship presented by Poona Club Ltd here Wednesday.

The joint leaders had an overall score of four under 138. Delhi's Shamim Khan was just one shot behind the leaders in third place.

The cut was declared at eight over 150 on a rain-marred day that witnessed higher scores as compared to round one. Fifty-six professionals and two amateurs made the cut.

Himmat Singh (70,68), a winner on the Aircel PGTI in 2009, had four birdies and a lone bogey in his second round.

'I was high on confidence going into this tournament as I struck some good form at the Asian Tour event last week, where I finished tied 18th. I played really well today and was quite satisfied with my effort.

'I'm now reaping the rewards of the changes I made in my game towards the end of 2009 relating to my swing, technique and psychology,' he said.

Muniyappa (70,68), the reigning Indian Open champion, had an eagle, two birdies and a double bogey as he played during the second half of the day, which witnessed heavy rain that even caused suspension of play for over an hour.

'My hitting was excellent today but putting was not up to the mark. The rain in the second half of the day made it extremely tough to judge the speed of the greens. The eagle on the par five 12th hole was the highlight of my round. I landed my second shot seven feet from the pin for the eagle on the 12th,' said Muniyappa.

'I think I will use my driver a lot more if the weather conditions stay the same over the next two days. I have a lot of confidence with the driver at the moment and I will use that to my advantage over the next two rounds,' he added.

Shamim Khan (69,70) was placed third at three under 139 while Gaganjeet Bhullar, round one leader Manav Jaini and Om Prakash Chouhan shared fourth place at two under 140.

Vijay Kumar, Vinod Kumar, Rahil Gangjee and Digvijay Singh were a further stroke back in tied seventh place.

Mukesh Kumar and Pune-based amateur Aditya Bhandarkar were in tied 20th at two over 144 while Pune golfers Gurki Shergill (six over 148) and Dinesh Raghuvanshi (seven over 149) were tied 39th and tied 45th respectively.

Anirban Lahiri's eight over 150 total placed him tied 52nd and defending champion Mohd Siddikur Rahman (77, 77) of Bangladesh missed the cut as he posted a two-round total of 12 over 154.

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In stadium, Slovenian joy turns to despair

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 11:22 PM

Port Elizabeth, June 23 (DPA) For a few brief moments after their loss to England, the Slovenian players and their supporters in the stadium could afford to rejoice.

True, they had lost 0-1 to one of the tournament favourites. But it looked like the tiny nation of 2 million was finally sending a team to the knockout stage of the World Cup by coming second in the tightly contested Group C.

But then in a moment of rare drama, an injury-time goal 1,100 kilometers away in Pretoria, where the US was playing Algeria, turned the thrill of victory into the agony of defeat. The Landon Donovan strike meant that the US topped the group, England was second, and Slovenia was going home.

It took a minute or two for the news to filter down to the players and the crowd. But in the press stand, where journalists were following the score on the FIFA channel, the moment was almost too much to bear.

One Slovenian writer slammed down his computer in anger, another pounded the desk in fury, while a third ripped up his notes in despair.

In the dugout, where a member of the Slovenian management team had been waving a Slovenian flag, he suddenly heard the news and whipped the flag against the seats. The smiles disappeared instantly from the faces of the players, and they trudged off the field as broken men.

But coach Matjaz Kek was more philosophical when he talked about his feelings moments after the bitter turnaround.

'It's really indescribable but this is sport and if you don't learn from defeat you don't deserve a victory,' he said moments later. 'Of course our squad is disappointed but I hope in time they will focus on respecting our achievements.'

But he acknowledged the bitter aftertaste, especially given how close Slovenia itself came to scoring an all important goal as the final whistle approached.

'England had played well but at the end we could have scored and gained a draw,' he said. 'I still hope it will be a positive experience for Slovenia.'

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England through, but dramatic US win sends them on top

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 11:16 PM

Port Elizabeth, June 23 (DPA) England finally found their form at the Port Elizabeth stadium Wednesday and reached the last-16 of the football World Cup with a 1-0 over Slovenia.

But they have to content themselves with second place after an injury-time goal from Landon Donovan gave the United States a 1-0 win over Algeria and top spot in Group C.

As the Fabio Capello counter-revolution gathered pace in Port Elizabeth, England could have won far more comfortably.

Here, at last, after two disappointing draws, the England of the qualifiers was in evidence, vindicating the manager.

'Their minds were free,' he said. 'They played without fear, without anything. So we go forward.

'I wanted to see this team, their spirit, see them fight together. I am very, very happy,' said Capello.

Having effectively stifled the dissent at which John Terry had hinted Sunday, Capello also ignored the Chelsea captain's pleas to select Joe Cole, and then saw two of the players he had brought into the side combine to set up the only goal after 23 minutes.

Gareth Barry released Milner, preferred to Aaron Lennon on the right, and the Aston Villa midfielder sent in a perfect cross for Defoe, in for Emile Heskey, to volley through Samir Handanovic's hands.

The change in England was remarkable, and suddenly their passing became crisper as the psychological shackles were released. Milner, in particular, prospered on the right, providing a quality of delivery England had been lacking.

Lampard fired over an open goal after Handanovic had punched out another Milner cross, and then Defoe and Steven Gerrard in quick succession drew smart saves from the Udinese goalkeeper.

The chances continued to rack up at the beginning of the second half. Defoe hooked a Barry header just wide, Handanovic reacted superbly to parry a Terry header, and then got fingertips to a Rooney shot to turn it against the post.

While the lead remained one, England remained nervous, and it took blocks from Terry and Glen Johnson to deny Mile Novakovic and Zlatko Dedic after the latter had flicked on a cross from Andraz Kirm.

For all their late twitchiness, though, England were never really threatened.

But in scenes of intense late drama in Pretoria, the US took leadership of the group, as Donovan pounced after Algeria goalkeeper Rais M'Bohli had palmed out Jozy Altidore's cross.

It was the simplest of finishes, but it meant the difference between going through as group leaders and being eliminated.

The US began nervously, slips from Jay DeMerit and then Steve Cherundolo giving Rafik Djebbour two chances in the opening 10 minutes.

The Algeria striker thumped the first against the bar, and dragged the second into the side-netting.

Neither side really settled in a bitty first half, but the US, mysteriously denied a winner in the final minute against Slovenia, again suffered a wrongly-disallowed goal.

After Donovan's shot had been blocked, he seemed to have recovered well to cross for Clint Dempsey to score, but the Fulham forward's strike was incorrectly ruled out for offside.

Dempsey then hit the post and contrived to slice the rebound well wide, but just as it seemed the US would be left to rail against the match officials, Donovan brought catharsis.

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Our dream is priceless: Lucio

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 11:06 PM

Johannesburg, June 23 (DPA) Brazil captain Lucio is refusing to disclose how much money players have been promised in case they win the World Cup.

'Our dream is priceless,' he said Wednesday.

'The prize is not the main goal for us. Our main goal is to fulfil our dream, which is priceless. No money can reward being world champions, that's something we'll have all our lives,' the veteran defender said in Johannesburg.

As captain, Lucio - a veteran of the victorious 2002 World Cup and the failed 2006 campaign with Brazil - represented players in negotiations with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on the prize money that the squad would get for winning the tournament a sixth time.

Both the players and the CBF have kept the amounts secret after reaching a deal in late May.

According to Brazilian daily O Estado de Sao Paulo, however, the trophy would bring the 23 players and coach Carlos Dunga around 550,000 dollars each.

The daily Folha de Sao Paulo, however, reported a far more modest figure of around 195,000 dollars each.

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Serve and volley switch digs Roddick out of hole

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 10:38 PM

Andy Roddick knew what to expect from Frenchman Michael Llodra, he just had to mimic him to keep his Wimbledon bid on track on Wednesday.

The American, back on Centre Court for the first time since losing an epic fifth set in last year's final to Roger Federer, was in a deep rut until he switched to a serve and volley game that Llodra was carrying out to perfection.

Frustrated at his inability to find a chink in the artistic left-hander's armour from the baseline, Roddick made the tactical change that quickly bore fruit as he prevailed 4-6 6-4 6-1 7-6 to reach the third round.

"That was as tough of a second round as there is I think in this tournament right now, considering the surface," a relieved Roddick told a news conference.

"He's well versed on how to play on this surface, and he's confident right now.

"It took some of my best stuff today to get through that. I thought I played really well. I think I had to."

Possessing a deft touch and the finesse that served compatriot Fabrice Santoro so well in his career, Llodra played a first set that was "flawless", according to Roddick.

The Frenchman, who has raised a few eyebrows by appointing 2006 Wimbledon women's champion Amelie Mauresmo as his grasscourt coach, unsettled the fifth seed with his frequent net sorties.

A break to love in the fifth game put the world number 37, winner of the Eastbourne warm-up tournament, on the way to taking the first set and prompted Roddick, unable to settle into a smooth rhythm on his own serve, into making his game adjustment.

"The game he broke me was one of the best return games someone played against me. He played good points. Off of my serve, I had to start coming in and serving and volleying behind it," he said.

"He was pretty comfortable chipping and kind of coming in at random spots. You know, he was dictating the way the points were going. So I think that was a key adjustment."

The turning point came when Roddick forced three set points at 5-4 in the second set and jogged to his chair with renewed momentum after Llodra's volley went wide.

A double-break saw Roddick coast through the third and despite Llodra regrouping to force a fourth set tiebreak, he could not force a decider.

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US, England qualify for last 16

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 10:26 PM

Port Elizabeth, June 23 (DPA) The United States and England qualified for the Round of 16 of the World Cup Wednesday, knocking out Algeria and Slovenia.

The US topped Group C by virtue of a last minute 1-0 win over Algeria in Pretoria.

England finished second after they beat Slovenia in Port Elizabeth, courtsey a Jermain Defoe goal in the 23rd minute.

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Roddick advances to Wimbledon third round

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 10:06 PM

London, June 23 (DPA) Andy Roddick kept his focus and reached the third round at Wimbledon Wednesday, while many spectators were also keen to follow England's simultaneous World Cup football match.

The day was somewhat disappointing for the football fans at the tennis tournament, where a strict football news blackout was imposed inside the tightly guarded grounds.

Three-time finalist Roddick, an American, completed his 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 7-6 (7-2) defeat of serve-and-volley Frenchman Michael Llodra shortly after England had taken a 1-0 first-half lead in a crucial match in South Africa against Slovenia.

Officials were so afraid of football intruding that they ordered blinds in a ground-level workroom lowered to prevent the public from peeking in at dozens of television screens - most of them showing football.

Roddick, defeated in the 2004, 2005 and 2009 finals by Roger Federer, was pleased to go through after dropping his first set against Llodra.

'You start over every two days here,' said the winner. 'You just survive and try to give yourself a chance.

'Centre court is an unbelievable place, it's so nice to get back out there. I was glad to play today, win and get it done.'

Austrian 16th-seed Jurgen Melzer beat Serb Viktor Troicki 6-7 (5-7), 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6), 6-3.

Two-time women's finalist Justine Henin called upon experience to get out of trouble as she beat German Kristina Barrois 6-3, 7-5.

The former number one, who quit the sport at the top two years ago and returned at the start of 2010, remains in the hunt for the title a week after winning a grass trophy in the Netherlands.

But the cautious Henin, 27, who played Wimbledon finals in 2001 and 2006, said she cannot be counted as a favourite.

'I just see myself as an outsider this year, a year with ups and downs. I don't know how I'm going to deal at the very high level. It's very hard to predict what could happen.

'I really don't see myself as one of the favorites. I hope Wimbledon will be a goal for me one day. It's a dream at the moment.'

Eighth-seeded compatriot Kim Clijsters, another comeback player who also reversed a retirement after having a child, eased past Croatian Karolina Sprem 6-3, 6-2.

'I'm playing probably my best on grass, compared to even a few years ago,' said Clijsters. 'My serve and my returns are going well. That's the key, I think, on grass. You have to be on target those first few shots.'

The two-time semi-finalist, who won the US Open last year only weeks after making her comeback, was joined as a winner by 11th-seed Marion Bartoli.

The Frenchwoman advanced when Petra Martic retired with an abdominal injury before their match.

German Angelique Kerber scored a minor upset as she put out Israeli 13th-seed Shahar Peer 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

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Vijender bats for AC practice halls

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 09:52 PM

New Delhi, June 23 (IANS) Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh Wednesday said air-conditioned practice facilities will help pugilists prepare better for the Commonwealth Games in October.

'There is no air-conditioned boxing hall in India where we can practice. A thought can be given on the matter. It is important to have a facility where the boxers can practice comfortably,' Vijender said at a function here.

The boxer said any such facility will help the players perform well in international competitions.

He said the Oct 3-14 Games will help promote sports other than cricket in the country.

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Srinivasan's intentions in calling SGM questioned

Published>Wed, Jun 23 10 09:36 PM

Mumbai, June 23 (IANS) As Narayanaswamy Srinivasan, secretary of the Indian cricket Board, cleared the decks for the expulsion of Lalit Modi, the lawyer of the suspended Indian Premier League chairman Wednesday termed the move to convene a Special General Meeting (SGM) July 3 illegal, dubbing the country's apex cricket body a 'khap panchayat' (caste council).

Modi's lawyer Mehmood Abdi questioned the convening of the board's SGM by Srinivasan, saying the 'ratification of his (Srinivasan) decision of referring the charges against Modi contained in the three showcause notices to the Discplinary Committee of the BCCI for further proceedings is only a cover up for inherent illegality committed by the secretary.'

In a statement here, Abdi accused the Board of overlooking Modi's charges against Srinivasan and sweeping them under the carpet.

'Now it is not a Lalit Modi and Srinivasan fight but evidence of the manner in which the country's premier sports body is being administered. Complaints making serious charges against the secretary have been made yet these are being swept under the carpet.'

'Whereas, President BCCI has recused himself from the matter, Secretary BCCI, despite being in an utterly questionable position, is calling the shots. Best of luck to the khap panchayat of BCCI,' Abdi said in his statement.

Abdi said the SGM was just an illegal exercise by Srinivasan as under the Board rules, the secretary can issue a show cause or initiate further action on the reply only after consulting the president.

'When the BCCI president, an eminent lawyer, had the grace to recuse himself from the matter, how could the secretary decide to refer the matter to the disciplinary committee on his own and seek post facto approval of his decision by getting the General Body to ratify? It is like putting the cart before the horse.

'The subjective dissatisfaction of the secretary with the replies of Modi to the three show cause notices surpasses every yardstick of fair play and blatantly violates the principles of natural justice. Lalit Modi raised a serious issue and expressed pronounced apprehension about the secretary's fairness and bias against him. Therefore, Srinivasan had no business to take a decision on whether sufficient cause existed to refer the matter to the disciplinary committee.'

'He has entered the fray and taken a conscious decision to refer the matter to the disciplinary committee. In doing so, Srinivasan has exhibited extreme impropriety and violated natural justice. The decision of Srinivasan to refer the matter to the disciplinary committee is, therefore, bad in law and amenable to judicial review,' Abdi said.

'Asking the general body of the BCCI to ratify an illegal decision is very different from asking the general body of the BCCI to take a lawful decision. Srinivasan, in the circumstances, could (and in fact ought to) have convened a meeting of the general body and left it to decide whether there was anything which survived to be referred to the disciplinary committee. This would have been lawful, correct and proper. Taking an illegal decision and then convening a meeting of the general body for ratifying it is not only unfair, but it is also neither appropriate nor desirable. By his involvement Mr. Srinivasan has infected the decision-making process,' Abdi maintained.

Abdi said Modi's demand for recusal of both BCCI president Shashank Manohar and Srinivasan was based on the premise of whether there exists sufficient material to refer the matter to the disciplinary committee or to let the general body decide whether such material exists.

'The non-recusal and circumvention of rules and set procedure by Mr.Srinivan vindicates the apprehensions of Lalit Modi,' Abdi added.

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