Croatia's Mislav Orsic (2R) celebrates with teammates after scoring the second goal in the 2-1 World Cup third place win against Morocco at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha on December 17, 2022. EPA
Croatia's Mislav Orsic (2R) celebrates with teammates after scoring the second goal in the 2-1 World Cup third place win against Morocco at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha on December 17, 2022. EPA
Croatia players celebrate after the 2-1 win. Getty
Croatia players celebrate after the 2-1 win. Getty
Luka Modric (L) and Nikola Vlasic of Croatia celebrate after the 2-1 win. Getty
Luka Modric (L) and Nikola Vlasic of Croatia celebrate after the 2-1 win. Getty
Morocco players argue with referee Abdulrahman Al Jassim and match officials after the defeat. Getty
Morocco players argue with referee Abdulrahman Al Jassim and match officials after the defeat. Getty
Mislav Orsic (c) celebrates with teammates after scoring Croatia's second goal. AP
Mislav Orsic (c) celebrates with teammates after scoring Croatia's second goal. AP
Mislav Orsic celebrates after scoring. AP
Mislav Orsic celebrates after scoring. AP
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou is beaten by Mislav Orsic's shot. AP
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou is beaten by Mislav Orsic's shot. AP
Morocco's Achraf Dari celebrates after levelling at 1-1. AFP
Morocco's Achraf Dari celebrates after levelling at 1-1. AFP
Morocco's Achraf Dari scores with a header. AP
Morocco's Achraf Dari scores with a header. AP
Achraf Dari, on the ground, celebrates after scoring. AP
Achraf Dari, on the ground, celebrates after scoring. AP
Achraf Dari (2R) celebrates with teammates. AFP
Achraf Dari (2R) celebrates with teammates. AFP
Croatia's Josko Gvardiol celebrates after opening the scoring. AP
Croatia's Josko Gvardiol celebrates after opening the scoring. AP
Josko Gvardiol celebrates with his teammates. AP
Josko Gvardiol celebrates with his teammates. AP
Croatia defender Josko Gvardiol heads the first goal against Morocco. AFP
Croatia defender Josko Gvardiol heads the first goal against Morocco. AFP

World Cup

Morocco manager calls for repeat of World Cup heroics after 4th place finish

Walid Regragui hails team despite 2-1 defeat to Croatia in third-place play-off match

John McAuley
John McAuley

December 17, 2022

  • English
  • Arabic

Morocco manager Walid Regragui has challenged his side to at least repeat their incredible performance at this World Cup at future tournaments after they finished fourth in Qatar.

The North Africans were beaten 2-1 by Croatia in the third-place play-off at Khalifa International Stadium on Saturday night.

However, the second straight defeat – Morocco were unbeaten in their opening five matches at the tournament – should not take away from what has been a remarkable achievement overall.

Morocco became the first Arab nation to reach the World Cup quarter-finals, and sit as the only African side in history to reach the last four.

Speaking directly following the Croatia loss, Regragui said: “We had 0.01 per cent of winning this World Cup at the outset. We managed to get through to the last four. We played against some of the footballing powerhouses of the world.

“We're now one of the top four teams in the world and if you had told me that before the World Cup and that Morocco would be No 4 in the world, I would have accepted that straight away.”

Against Croatia, Morocco were without a number of key players, including captain Romain Saiss, defensive partner Nayef Aguerd, and Bayern Munich left-back Noussair Mazraoui. Meanwhile, impressive midfielder Azzedine Ounahi began on the bench.

The quartet was instrumental in Morocco finishing top of a group that contained Croatia and Belgium, before then defeating Spain, the 2010 champions, in the last 16 – the country’s first World Cup knockout match in 36 years.

Walid Regragui led Morocco to their finest ever World Cup result by finishing fourth in Qatar. AP
Walid Regragui led Morocco to their finest ever World Cup result by finishing fourth in Qatar. AP

"Sure, I am a little disappointed by this second consecutive defeat, but we did everything that we could," Regragui said. "Physically it was difficult; our players got tired. It was very intense.

“We wanted to make the fans more proud than they already were, that's it. We wanted to bring joy to them, but we're still happy: we're among the four best teams in the world.

"We provided everyone with a good show. We never gave up. Congratulations to Croatia, they deserve their third place. We are a young team that is still learning.

“Of course, we're disappointed, but when we wake up tomorrow we will realise how much we have achieved… some of my players weren’t 100 per cent fit but they gave everything to the end. I am very proud.”

Croatia v Morocco player ratings

CROATIA RATINGS: Dominik Livakovic – 7. Arguably the keeper of the tournament, the Croatian made a key save in the second half to deny Morocco a second goal. AP
CROATIA RATINGS: Dominik Livakovic – 7. Arguably the keeper of the tournament, the Croatian made a key save in the second half to deny Morocco a second goal. AP
Josip Stanisic – 7. The Bayern Munich defender displayed his attacking quality as well as his defensive ability, with several charges forward. AP
Josip Stanisic – 7. The Bayern Munich defender displayed his attacking quality as well as his defensive ability, with several charges forward. AP
Bosko Sutalo – 6. The 22-year-old centre-back made a number of interceptions, including a block to deny a low cross in the box reaching its target. AFP
Bosko Sutalo – 6. The 22-year-old centre-back made a number of interceptions, including a block to deny a low cross in the box reaching its target. AFP
Joško Gvardiol – 8. One of Croatia’s stand-out players this tournament, the defender opened the scoring after seven minutes before a strong display largely kept Morocco’s attackers at bay. AP
Joško Gvardiol – 8. One of Croatia’s stand-out players this tournament, the defender opened the scoring after seven minutes before a strong display largely kept Morocco’s attackers at bay. AP
Ivan Perisic – 7. The veteran winger did well to set-up the first goal with a headed assist. He also drove his team forward several times before denying En-Nesyri at the other end. AP
Ivan Perisic – 7. The veteran winger did well to set-up the first goal with a headed assist. He also drove his team forward several times before denying En-Nesyri at the other end. AP
Lovro Majer – 7. Midfielder capitalised on several mistakes to help create chances. A good performance in the middle. AP
Lovro Majer – 7. Midfielder capitalised on several mistakes to help create chances. A good performance in the middle. AP
Mateo Kovacic – 6. Chelsea’s midfield man missed a great chance from close range in the final minutes which would have killed the game. PA
Mateo Kovacic – 6. Chelsea’s midfield man missed a great chance from close range in the final minutes which would have killed the game. PA
Luka Modric – 7. The Croatia captain dictated the play from his anchor role, putting in a great free-kick for his side’s first goal. He did allow Morocco’s equaliser to stand after he flicked the ball on to Dari, but he never looked tired and fought until the end. AFP
Luka Modric – 7. The Croatia captain dictated the play from his anchor role, putting in a great free-kick for his side’s first goal. He did allow Morocco’s equaliser to stand after he flicked the ball on to Dari, but he never looked tired and fought until the end. AFP
Mislav Orsic – 8. The winger had a fabulous game as he bagged the winner with a stunning strike into the far top corner. He made great runs and created several chances for his side. EOA
Mislav Orsic – 8. The winger had a fabulous game as he bagged the winner with a stunning strike into the far top corner. He made great runs and created several chances for his side. EOA
Andrej Kramaric - 6. Croatia’s target man wasn't at his peak and his best chance was a strong header which was caught well by Bounou. He was later forced off by injury in the second half. Reuters
Andrej Kramaric - 6. Croatia’s target man wasn't at his peak and his best chance was a strong header which was caught well by Bounou. He was later forced off by injury in the second half. Reuters
Marko Livaja – 5. The forward didn’t manage to create many chances and was taken off for Petkovic. AP
Marko Livaja – 5. The forward didn’t manage to create many chances and was taken off for Petkovic. AP
SUBS: Nikola Vlasic (Kramaric 61')– 6. The attacker did well, but his biggest chance was fired over the bar after Amrabat gave the ball away. Reuters
SUBS: Nikola Vlasic (Kramaric 61')– 6. The attacker did well, but his biggest chance was fired over the bar after Amrabat gave the ball away. Reuters
Mario Pasalic (Livaja 66') – 6. The former Chelsea man moved the ball well in the middle. Getty
Mario Pasalic (Livaja 66') – 6. The former Chelsea man moved the ball well in the middle. Getty
Bruno Petkovic (Majer 66') – 6. The tall striker held up the ball well in transition for Croatia, and became the target of several fouls. He made a good move late on, but his shot was blocked. AP
Bruno Petkovic (Majer 66') – 6. The tall striker held up the ball well in transition for Croatia, and became the target of several fouls. He made a good move late on, but his shot was blocked. AP
Kristijan Jakic (Orsic 90') - N/A. Coming on with a minute to go, there was little involvement for the Frankfurt player. EPA
Kristijan Jakic (Orsic 90') - N/A. Coming on with a minute to go, there was little involvement for the Frankfurt player. EPA
MOROCCO RATINGS: Yassine Bounou – 6. One of the breakthrough names in this tournament, Morocco’s No 1 was unfortunate with the two goals he conceded. AFP
MOROCCO RATINGS: Yassine Bounou – 6. One of the breakthrough names in this tournament, Morocco’s No 1 was unfortunate with the two goals he conceded. AFP
Achraf Hakimi -7. The PSG star was an attacking source from wing-back. He created a number of chances, including nearly getting an assist in the first half. His defensive and passing play were very good. EPA
Achraf Hakimi -7. The PSG star was an attacking source from wing-back. He created a number of chances, including nearly getting an assist in the first half. His defensive and passing play were very good. EPA
Achraf Dari -7. Pulled his team level with a headed finish from a set-piece. However, he went down injured at the end of the first half and was replaced in the 64th minute. AFP
Achraf Dari -7. Pulled his team level with a headed finish from a set-piece. However, he went down injured at the end of the first half and was replaced in the 64th minute. AFP
Jawad El Yamiq - 6. The centre-back put in a good block to stop Kramaric getting the ball in the box. He was taken off late on due to an injury. AFP
Jawad El Yamiq - 6. The centre-back put in a good block to stop Kramaric getting the ball in the box. He was taken off late on due to an injury. AFP
Yahia Attiat Allah – 6. Making his 10th appearance for his nation, the left-back displayed a good first touch on the wing. However, he occasionally got caught by the press and gave the ball away. Getty
Yahia Attiat Allah – 6. Making his 10th appearance for his nation, the left-back displayed a good first touch on the wing. However, he occasionally got caught by the press and gave the ball away. Getty
Sofyan Amrabat – 6. The Moroccan often dropped deep to get the ball before spreading it wide. He put in some strong tackles, but was guilty of giving the ball away with weak passes. Getty
Sofyan Amrabat – 6. The Moroccan often dropped deep to get the ball before spreading it wide. He put in some strong tackles, but was guilty of giving the ball away with weak passes. Getty
Abdelhamid Sabiri – 6. The Sampdoria midfielder showcased his good footwork in tight situations, keeping the ball close before laying it off to his attackers well. However, he was guilty of trying too hard at times, and subsequently losing the ball. EPA
Abdelhamid Sabiri – 6. The Sampdoria midfielder showcased his good footwork in tight situations, keeping the ball close before laying it off to his attackers well. However, he was guilty of trying too hard at times, and subsequently losing the ball. EPA
Bilal El Khannouss – 7. The 18-year-old midfielder made his international debut and showed his quality with some good drives forward, quick passing and skilful moves. It was a good outing for the youngster. AFP
Bilal El Khannouss – 7. The 18-year-old midfielder made his international debut and showed his quality with some good drives forward, quick passing and skilful moves. It was a good outing for the youngster. AFP
Hakim Ziyech – 7. The Chelsea star reminded everyone of his qualities with some slick passing along the right with Hakimi, as well as some brilliant switches across the park. His free-kick delivery led to his side’s goal. Getty
Hakim Ziyech – 7. The Chelsea star reminded everyone of his qualities with some slick passing along the right with Hakimi, as well as some brilliant switches across the park. His free-kick delivery led to his side’s goal. Getty
Sofiane Boufal – 6. The former Southampton winger managed to find space along the wing as he created several chances, but his delivery was not always up to scratch. AFP
Sofiane Boufal – 6. The former Southampton winger managed to find space along the wing as he created several chances, but his delivery was not always up to scratch. AFP
Youssef En-Nesyri – 6. The 25-year-old had a number of chances, including a flashing header just wide from a tight angle. He even made sure to do his defensive duties on set-pieces. Getty
Youssef En-Nesyri – 6. The 25-year-old had a number of chances, including a flashing header just wide from a tight angle. He even made sure to do his defensive duties on set-pieces. Getty
SUBS: Ilias Chair (Sabiri 45') – 6. Replacing Sabiri at half time, the attacking midfielder made quite an impact, contributing some good tackles. Getty
SUBS: Ilias Chair (Sabiri 45') – 6. Replacing Sabiri at half time, the attacking midfielder made quite an impact, contributing some good tackles. Getty
Azzedine Ounahi (Khannouss 56') – 5. After coming on in midfield, the Angers player played some good passes across the park and chased after everything, before being booked for talking back to the referee. Getty
Azzedine Ounahi (Khannouss 56') – 5. After coming on in midfield, the Angers player played some good passes across the park and chased after everything, before being booked for talking back to the referee. Getty
Badr Benoun (Dari 64') – 6. The 29-year-old won a number of tackles to stop Croatia on the attack. Getty
Badr Benoun (Dari 64') – 6. The 29-year-old won a number of tackles to stop Croatia on the attack. Getty
Anass Zaroury (Boufal 64') – 6. Burnley’s 22-year-old attacker came on half way through the second half and kept the pressure on Croatia, with one press helping to dispossess the opposition in their defensive third. Reuters
Anass Zaroury (Boufal 64') – 6. Burnley’s 22-year-old attacker came on half way through the second half and kept the pressure on Croatia, with one press helping to dispossess the opposition in their defensive third. Reuters
Selim Amallah (El Yamiq 67') – 5. The attacking midfielder played a more defensive role and picked up a yellow in the process. AP
Selim Amallah (El Yamiq 67') – 5. The attacking midfielder played a more defensive role and picked up a yellow in the process. AP

Despite the defeat, Morocco are viewed as a major success story, and enjoyed the support of the African and Arab world throughout their run in Qatar.

"I think we showed our strength, we showed that African football is prepared to face the top teams in the world with efficiency and playing at the highest level," Regragui said.

"We probably will only realise what we accomplished in Qatar after four years, in the next World Cup. The pressure will also be greater, there will be expectation around us. It's natural.

"We made a great achievement, but we want to do it again. It will not be easy but that's the objective."

Morocco create history by reaching semi-finals

Morocco's Jawad El Yamiq celebrates after the 1-0 World Cup quarter-final win against Portugal at Al Thumama Stadium on December 10, 2022. Getty
Morocco's Jawad El Yamiq celebrates after the 1-0 World Cup quarter-final win against Portugal at Al Thumama Stadium on December 10, 2022. Getty
Yassine Bounou, Bilal El Khannouss, Reda Tagnaouti and Achraf Hakimi of Morocco celebrate the team's victory. Getty
Yassine Bounou, Bilal El Khannouss, Reda Tagnaouti and Achraf Hakimi of Morocco celebrate the team's victory. Getty
Walid Regragui, coach of Morocco, celebrates with the team. Getty
Walid Regragui, coach of Morocco, celebrates with the team. Getty
Yahya Attiat-Allah of Morocco celebrates. Getty
Yahya Attiat-Allah of Morocco celebrates. Getty
Morocco's Youssef En-Nesyri celebrates after scoring the only goal. Reuters
Morocco's Youssef En-Nesyri celebrates after scoring the only goal. Reuters
Morocco's Youssef En-Nesyri heads home in the first half. AP
Morocco's Youssef En-Nesyri heads home in the first half. AP
Portugal's Otavio, Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Neves argue with referee Facundo Tello. Reuters
Portugal's Otavio, Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Neves argue with referee Facundo Tello. Reuters
Morocco manager Walid Regragui. EPA
Morocco manager Walid Regragui. EPA
Portugal's Ruben Dias with Diogo Dalot. Getty
Portugal's Ruben Dias with Diogo Dalot. Getty
Moussef En-Nesyri scores for Morocco. Reuters
Moussef En-Nesyri scores for Morocco. Reuters
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo runs with the ball after coming on in the second half. AP
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo runs with the ball after coming on in the second half. AP
Portugal's Bruno Fernandes goes down in the box but no penalty was given. Getty
Portugal's Bruno Fernandes goes down in the box but no penalty was given. Getty
Portugal's Goncalo Ramos is helped up by Ruben Dias and Otavio. Reuters
Portugal's Goncalo Ramos is helped up by Ruben Dias and Otavio. Reuters
Morocco's Achraf Hakimi goes head-to-head with Otavio of Portugal. EPA
Morocco's Achraf Hakimi goes head-to-head with Otavio of Portugal. EPA
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo talks with the referee Facundo Tello. AP
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo talks with the referee Facundo Tello. AP
Morocco's Romain Saiss is carried off in the second half. Getty
Morocco's Romain Saiss is carried off in the second half. Getty
Goncalo Ramos of Portugal reacts after missing a chance. Getty
Goncalo Ramos of Portugal reacts after missing a chance. Getty
Phtographers surround Portugal subsitute Cristiano Ronaldo before the match. AP
Phtographers surround Portugal subsitute Cristiano Ronaldo before the match. AP

Regragui, who was appointed only in August, said he hopes his side would leave a lasting legacy for African football.

"Through experience you get stronger and I hope we learn and grow and build in our children in Africa a football DNA that lasts," the former Morocco international said.

"We have now allowed children to dream, dream of being footballers and going to the World Cup. That is priceless. As for the impact in our country, we have set the bar high.

"I'm sure that in 15 years an African team will win the World Cup."

Milestones on the road to union

1970

October 26: Bahrain withdraws from a proposal to create a federation of nine with the seven Trucial States and Qatar. 

December: Ahmed Al Suwaidi visits New York to discuss potential UN membership.

1971

March 1:  Alex Douglas Hume, Conservative foreign secretary confirms that Britain will leave the Gulf and “strongly supports” the creation of a Union of Arab Emirates.

July 12: Historic meeting at which Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid make a binding agreement to create what will become the UAE.

July 18: It is announced that the UAE will be formed from six emirates, with a proposed constitution signed. RAK is not yet part of the agreement.

August 6:  The fifth anniversary of Sheikh Zayed becoming Ruler of Abu Dhabi, with official celebrations deferred until later in the year.

August 15: Bahrain becomes independent.

September 3: Qatar becomes independent.

November 23-25: Meeting with Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid and senior British officials to fix December 2 as date of creation of the UAE.

November 29:  At 5.30pm Iranian forces seize the Greater and Lesser Tunbs by force.

November 30: Despite  a power sharing agreement, Tehran takes full control of Abu Musa. 

November 31: UK officials visit all six participating Emirates to formally end the Trucial States treaties

December 2: 11am, Dubai. New Supreme Council formally elects Sheikh Zayed as President. Treaty of Friendship signed with the UK. 11.30am. Flag raising ceremony at Union House and Al Manhal Palace in Abu Dhabi witnessed by Sheikh Khalifa, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

December 6: Arab League formally admits the UAE. The first British Ambassador presents his credentials to Sheikh Zayed.

December 9: UAE joins the United Nations.

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The National's picks

4.35pm: Tilal Al Khalediah
5.10pm: Continous
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6.20pm: West Acre
7pm: Flood Zone
7.40pm: Straight No Chaser
8.15pm: Romantic Warrior
8.50pm: Calandogan
9.30pm: Forever Young

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Terror attacks in Paris, November 13, 2015

- At 9.16pm, three suicide attackers killed one person outside the Atade de France during a foootball match between France and Germany- At 9.25pm, three attackers opened fire on restaurants and cafes over 20 minutes, killing 39 people- Shortly after 9.40pm, three other attackers launched a three-hour raid on the Bataclan, in which 1,500 people had gathered to watch a rock concert. In total, 90 people were killed- Salah Abdeslam, the only survivor of the terrorists, did not directly participate in the attacks, thought to be due to a technical glitch in his suicide vest- He fled to Belgium and was involved in attacks on Brussels in March 2016. He is serving a life sentence in France

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Price, base / as tested: Dhxxx
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European arms

Known EU weapons transfers to Ukraine since the war began: Germany 1,000 anti-tank weapons and 500 Stinger surface-to-air missiles. Luxembourg 100 NLAW anti-tank weapons, jeeps and 15 military tents as well as air transport capacity. Belgium 2,000 machine guns, 3,800 tons of fuel. Netherlands 200 Stinger missiles. Poland 100 mortars, 8 drones, Javelin anti-tank weapons, Grot assault rifles, munitions. Slovakia 12,000 pieces of artillery ammunition, 10 million litres of fuel, 2.4 million litres of aviation fuel and 2 Bozena de-mining systems. Estonia Javelin anti-tank weapons.  Latvia Stinger surface to air missiles. Czech Republic machine guns, assault rifles, other light weapons and ammunition worth $8.57 million.

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While you're here
The%20Afghan%20connection
%3Cp%3EThe%20influx%20of%20talented%20young%20Afghan%20players%20to%20UAE%20cricket%20could%20have%20a%20big%20impact%20on%20the%20fortunes%20of%20both%20countries.%20Here%20are%20three%20Emirates-based%20players%20to%20watch%20out%20for.%0D%3Cbr%3E%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EHassan%20Khan%20Eisakhil%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EMohammed%20Nabi%20is%20still%20proving%20his%20worth%20at%20the%20top%20level%20but%20there%20is%20another%20reason%20he%20is%20raging%20against%20the%20idea%20of%20retirement.%20If%20the%20allrounder%20hangs%20on%20a%20little%20bit%20longer%2C%20he%20might%20be%20able%20to%20play%20in%20the%20same%20team%20as%20his%20son%2C%20Hassan%20Khan.%20The%20family%20live%20in%20Ajman%20and%20train%20in%20Sharjah.%0D%3Cbr%3E%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EMasood%20Gurbaz%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EThe%20opening%20batter%2C%20who%20trains%20at%20Sharjah%20Cricket%20Academy%2C%20is%20another%20player%20who%20is%20a%20part%20of%20a%20famous%20family.%20His%20brother%2C%20Rahmanullah%2C%20was%20an%20IPL%20winner%20with%20Kolkata%20Knight%20Riders%2C%20and%20opens%20the%20batting%20with%20distinction%20for%20Afghanistan.%0D%3Cbr%3E%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOmid%20Rahman%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EThe%20fast%20bowler%20became%20a%20pioneer%20earlier%20this%20year%20when%20he%20became%20the%20first%20Afghan%20to%20represent%20the%20UAE.%20He%20showed%20great%20promise%20in%20doing%20so%2C%20too%2C%20playing%20a%20key%20role%20in%20the%20senior%20team%E2%80%99s%20qualification%20for%20the%20Asia%20Cup%20in%20Muscat%20recently.%0D%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Killing of Qassem Suleimani
More from Neighbourhood Watch
UAE%20Warriors%2045%20Results
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3E%0DMain%20Event%0D%3A%20Lightweight%20Title%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EAmru%20Magomedov%20def%20Jakhongir%20Jumaev%20-%20Round%201%20(submission)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECo-Main%20Event%0D%3A%20Bantamweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3ERany%20Saadeh%20def%20Genil%20Franciso%20-%20Round%202%20(submission)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECatchweight%20150%20lbs%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EWalter%20Cogliandro%20def%20Ali%20Al%20Qaisi%20-%20Round%201%20(TKO)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBantamweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3ERenat%20Khavalov%20def%20Hikaru%20Yoshino%20-%20Round%202%20(TKO)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFlyweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EVictor%20Nunes%20def%20Nawras%20Abzakh%20-%20Round%201%20(TKO)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFlyweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EYamato%20Fujita%20def%20Sanzhar%20Adilov%20-%20Round%201%20(submission)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ELightweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EAbdullo%20Khodzhaev%20def%20Petru%20Buzdugen%20-%20Round%201%20(TKO)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECatchweight%20139%20lbs%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3ERazhabali%20Shaydullaev%20def%20Magomed%20Al-Abdullah%20-%20Round%202%20(submission)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFlyweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3ECong%20Wang%20def%20Amena%20Hadaya%20-%20Points%20(unanimous%20decision)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EMiddleweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EKhabib%20Nabiev%20def%20Adis%20Taalaybek%20Uulu%20-%20Round%202%20(submission)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ELight%20Heavyweight%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EBartosz%20Szewczyk%20def%20Artem%20Zemlyakov%20-%20Round%202%20(TKO)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
KILLING OF QASSEM SULEIMANI

Awar Qalb

Director: Jamal Salem

Starring: Abdulla Zaid, Joma Ali, Neven Madi and Khadija Sleiman

Two stars

 


 

TERMINAL HIGH ALTITUDE AREA DEFENCE (THAAD)

What is THAAD?

It is considered to be the US's most superior missile defence system.

Production:

It was created in 2008.

Speed:

THAAD missiles can travel at over Mach 8, so fast that it is hypersonic.

Abilities:

THAAD is designed to take out  ballistic missiles as they are on their downward trajectory towards their target, otherwise known as the "terminal phase".

Purpose:

To protect high-value strategic sites, such as airfields or population centres.

Range:

THAAD can target projectiles inside and outside the Earth's atmosphere, at an altitude of 150 kilometres above the Earth's surface.

Creators:

Lockheed Martin was originally granted the contract to develop the system in 1992. Defence company Raytheon sub-contracts to develop other major parts of the system, such as ground-based radar.

UAE and THAAD:

In 2011, the UAE became the first country outside of the US to buy two THAAD missile defence systems. It then stationed them in 2016, becoming the first Gulf country to do so.

RESULTS
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3E5pm%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Al%20Shamkha%20%E2%80%93%20Maiden%20(PA)%20Dh80%2C000%20(Turf)%201%2C400m%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EWinner%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Ruwani%2C%20Moatasem%20Al%20Balushi%20(jockey)%2C%20Abdallah%20Al%20Hammadi%20(trainer)%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3E5.30pm%3C%2Fstrong%3E%3A%20Khalifa%20City%20%E2%80%93%20Handicap%20(PA)%20Dh80%2C000%20(T)%201%2C400m%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EWinner%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EAF%20Heraqle%2C%20Bernardo%20Pinheiro%2C%20Qaiss%20Aboud%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3E6pm%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Masdar%20City%20%E2%80%93%20Handicap%20(PA)%20Dh80%2C000%20(T)%201%2C600m%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EWinner%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20AF%20Yatwy%2C%20Patrick%20Cosgrave%2C%20Nisren%20Mahgoub%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3E6.30pm%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Wathba%20Stallions%20Cup%20%E2%80%93%20Handicap%20(PA)%20Dh70%2C000%20(T)%202%2C200m%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EWinner%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20AF%20Alzahi%2C%20Tadhg%20O%E2%80%99Shea%2C%20Ernst%20Oertel%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3E7pm%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Emirates%20Championship%20%E2%80%93%20Group%201%20(PA)%20Dh1%2C000%2C000%20(T)%202%2C200m%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EWinner%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Ajrad%20Athbah%2C%20Bernardo%20Pinheiro%2C%20Majed%20Al%20Jahouri%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3E7.30pm%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Shakbout%20City%20%E2%80%93%20Handicap%20(TB)%20Dh80%2C000%20(T)%202%2C400m%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EWinner%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Webinar%2C%20Tadhg%20O%E2%80%99Shea%2C%20Bhupat%20Seemar%3C%2Fp%3E%0A

Director: Laxman Utekar

Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Vineet Kumar Singh, Rashmika Mandanna

Rating: 1/5

COMPANY%20PROFILE
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECompany%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Eco%20Way%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStarted%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20December%202023%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFounder%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Ivan%20Kroshnyi%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBased%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Dubai%2C%20UAE%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EIndustry%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Electric%20vehicles%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestors%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Bootstrapped%20with%20undisclosed%20funding.%20Looking%20to%20raise%20funds%20from%20outside%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The specs

Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
Power: 620hp from 5,750-7,500rpm
Torque: 760Nm from 3,000-5,750rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed dual-clutch auto
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh1.05 million ($286,000)

WHAT IS GRAPHENE?

It was discovered in 2004, when Russian-born Manchester scientists Andrei Geim and Kostya Novoselov were experimenting with sticky tape and graphite, the material used as lead in pencils.

Placing the tape on the graphite and peeling it, they managed to rip off thin flakes of carbon. In the beginning they got flakes consisting of many layers of graphene. But when they repeated the process many times, the flakes got thinner.

By separating the graphite fragments repeatedly, they managed to create flakes that were just one atom thick. Their experiment led to graphene being isolated for the very first time.

In 2010, Geim and Novoselov were awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics. 

While you're here
Profile of Tarabut Gateway

Founder: Abdulla Almoayed

Based: UAE

Founded: 2017

Number of employees: 35

Sector: FinTech

Raised: $13 million

Backers: Berlin-based venture capital company Target Global, Kingsway, CE Ventures, Entrée Capital, Zamil Investment Group, Global Ventures, Almoayed Technologies and Mad’a Investment.

Wicked: For Good

Director: Jon M Chu

Starring: Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater

Rating: 4/5

THREE POSSIBLE REPLACEMENTS

Khalfan Mubarak
The Al Jazira playmaker has for some time been tipped for stardom within UAE football, with Quique Sanchez Flores, his former manager at Al Ahli, once labelling him a “genius”. He was only 17. Now 23, Mubarak has developed into a crafty supplier of chances, evidenced by his seven assists in six league matches this season. Still to display his class at international level, though.

Rayan Yaslam
The Al Ain attacking midfielder has become a regular starter for his club in the past 15 months. Yaslam, 23, is a tidy and intelligent player, technically proficient with an eye for opening up defences. Developed while alongside Abdulrahman in the Al Ain first-team and has progressed well since manager Zoran Mamic’s arrival. However, made his UAE debut only last December.

Ismail Matar
The Al Wahda forward is revered by teammates and a key contributor to the squad. At 35, his best days are behind him, but Matar is incredibly experienced and an example to his colleagues. His ability to cope with tournament football is a concern, though, despite Matar beginning the season well. Not a like-for-like replacement, although the system could be adjusted to suit.

Citizenship-by-investment programmes

United Kingdom

The UK offers three programmes for residency. The UK Overseas Business Representative Visa lets you open an overseas branch office of your existing company in the country at no extra investment. For the UK Tier 1 Innovator Visa, you are required to invest £50,000 (Dh238,000) into a business. You can also get a UK Tier 1 Investor Visa if you invest £2 million, £5m or £10m (the higher the investment, the sooner you obtain your permanent residency).

All UK residency visas get approved in 90 to 120 days and are valid for 3 years. After 3 years, the applicant can apply for extension of another 2 years. Once they have lived in the UK for a minimum of 6 months every year, they are eligible to apply for permanent residency (called Indefinite Leave to Remain). After one year of ILR, the applicant can apply for UK passport.

The Caribbean

Depending on the country, the investment amount starts from $100,000 (Dh367,250) and can go up to $400,000 in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take between four to five months to receive a passport. 

Portugal

The investment amount ranges from €350,000 to €500,000 (Dh1.5m to Dh2.16m) in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take a maximum of six months to receive a Golden Visa. Applicants can apply for permanent residency after five years and Portuguese citizenship after six years.

“Among European countries with residency programmes, Portugal has been the most popular because it offers the most cost-effective programme to eventually acquire citizenship of the European Union without ever residing in Portugal,” states Veronica Cotdemiey of Citizenship Invest.

Greece

The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Greece is €250,000, making it the cheapest real estate residency visa scheme in Europe. You can apply for residency in four months and citizenship after seven years.

Spain

The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Spain is €500,000. You can apply for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after 10 years. It is not necessary to live in Spain to retain and renew the residency visa permit.

Cyprus

Cyprus offers the quickest route to citizenship of a European country in only six months. An investment of €2m in real estate is required, making it the highest priced programme in Europe.

Malta

The Malta citizenship by investment programme is lengthy and investors are required to contribute sums as donations to the Maltese government. The applicant must either contribute at least €650,000 to the National Development & Social Fund. Spouses and children are required to contribute €25,000; unmarried children between 18 and 25 and dependent parents must contribute €50,000 each.

The second step is to make an investment in property of at least €350,000 or enter a property rental contract for at least €16,000 per annum for five years. The third step is to invest at least €150,000 in bonds or shares approved by the Maltese government to be kept for at least five years.

Candidates must commit to a minimum physical presence in Malta before citizenship is granted. While you get residency in two months, you can apply for citizenship after a year.

Egypt 

A one-year residency permit can be bought if you purchase property in Egypt worth $100,000. A three-year residency is available for those who invest $200,000 in property, and five years for those who purchase property worth $400,000.

Source: Citizenship Invest and Aqua Properties

The biog

Name: Abeer Al Bah

Born: 1972

Husband: Emirati lawyer Salem Bin Sahoo, since 1992

Children: Soud, born 1993, lawyer; Obaid, born 1994, deceased; four other boys and one girl, three months old

Education: BA in Elementary Education, worked for five years in a Dubai school

 

%3Cp%3E%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thenationalnews.com%2Fbusiness%2Feconomy%2Fislamic-economy-consumer-spending-to-increase-45-to-3-2tn-by-2024-1.936583%22%20target%3D%22_self%22%3EGlobal%20Islamic%20economy%20to%20grow%203.1%25%20to%20touch%20%242.4%20trillion%20by%202024%3C%2Fa%3E%26nbsp%3B%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thenationalnews.com%2Fbusiness%2Feconomy%2Fuk-economy-plunges-into-worst-ever-recession-after-record-20-4-contraction-1.1062560%22%20target%3D%22_self%22%3EUK%20economy%20plunges%20into%20worst-ever%20recession%20after%20record%2020.4%25%20contraction%3C%2Fa%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thenationalnews.com%2Fbusiness%2Feconomy%2Fislamic-economy-consumer-spending-to-increase-45-to-3-2tn-by-2024-1.936583%22%20target%3D%22_self%22%3EIslamic%20economy%20consumer%20spending%20to%20increase%2045%25%20to%20%243.2tn%20by%202024%3C%2Fa%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Kill%20
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDirector%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Nikhil%20Nagesh%20Bhat%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStarring%3C%2Fstrong%3E%3A%20Lakshya%2C%20Tanya%20Maniktala%2C%20Ashish%20Vidyarthi%2C%20Harsh%20Chhaya%2C%20Raghav%20Juyal%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204.5%2F5%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The specs

Engine: Turbocharged four-cylinder 2.7-litre

Power: 325hp

Torque: 500Nm

Transmission: 10-speed automatic

Price: From Dh189,700

On sale: now

How much do leading UAE’s UK curriculum schools charge for Year 6?
  1. Nord Anglia International School (Dubai) – Dh85,032
  2. Kings School Al Barsha (Dubai) – Dh71,905
  3. Brighton College Abu Dhabi - Dh68,560
  4. Jumeirah English Speaking School (Dubai) – Dh59,728
  5. Gems Wellington International School – Dubai Branch – Dh58,488
  6. The British School Al Khubairat (Abu Dhabi) - Dh54,170
  7. Dubai English Speaking School – Dh51,269

*Annual tuition fees covering the 2024/2025 academic year

The struggle is on for active managers

David Einhorn closed out 2018 with his biggest annual loss ever for the 22-year-old Greenlight Capital.

The firm’s main hedge fund fell 9 per cent in December, extending this year’s decline to 34 percent, according to an investor update viewed by Bloomberg.

Greenlight posted some of the industry’s best returns in its early years, but has stumbled since losing more than 20 per cent in 2015.

Other value-investing managers have also struggled, as a decade of historically low interest rates and the rise of passive investing and quant trading pushed growth stocks past their inexpensive brethren. Three Bays Capital and SPO Partners & Co., which sought to make wagers on undervalued stocks, closed in 2018. Mr Einhorn has repeatedly expressed his frustration with the poor performance this year, while remaining steadfast in his commitment to value investing.

Greenlight, which posted gains only in May and October, underperformed both the broader market and its peers in 2018. The S&P 500 Index dropped 4.4 per cent, including dividends, while the HFRX Global Hedge Fund Index, an early indicator of industry performance, fell 7 per cent through December. 28.

At the start of the year, Greenlight managed $6.3 billion in assets, according to a regulatory filing. By May, the firm was down to $5.5bn. 

Lexus LX700h specs

Engine: 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 plus supplementary electric motor

Power: 464hp at 5,200rpm

Torque: 790Nm from 2,000-3,600rpm

Transmission: 10-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 11.7L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh590,000

The specs

Price, base / as tested Dh1,470,000 (est)
Engine 6.9-litre twin-turbo W12
Gearbox eight-speed automatic
Power 626bhp @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 900Nm @ 1,350rpm
Fuel economy, combined 14.0L / 100km

MATCH INFO

Al Jazira 3 (O Abdulrahman 43', Kenno 82', Mabkhout 90 4')

Al Ain 1 (Laba 39')

Red cards: Bandar Al Ahbabi (Al Ain)

While you're here
The details

Heard It in a Past Life

Maggie Rogers

(Capital Records)

3/5

Brief scores:

Toss: Nepal, chose to field

UAE 153-6: Shaiman (59), Usman (30); Regmi 2-23

Nepal 132-7: Jora 53 not out; Zahoor 2-17

Result: UAE won by 21 runs

Series: UAE lead 1-0

What can victims do?

Always use only regulated platforms

Stop all transactions and communication on suspicion

Save all evidence (screenshots, chat logs, transaction IDs)

Report to local authorities

Warn others to prevent further harm

Courtesy: Crystal Intelligence

Updated: December 18, 2022, 4:52 AM
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