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Maguire has a decision to make, says Man Utd coach Ten Hag

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LONDON, May 30 (Xinhua) — Manchester United’s coach, Erik ten Hag, says Harry Maguire faces a significant decision about his future with the club.

Though Maguire has a contract with Manchester United that runs until 2025 and continues to be a key part of the England squad, national team coach Gareth Southgate recently suggested that his international place could be at risk due to only playing 16 times in the Premier League.

Despite also featuring seven times in the Europa League, Maguire’s lack of sharpness led to errors in his team’s quarterfinal defeat to Sevilla, underlining the need for the towering defender to see more action.

However, with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane ranking higher in the Old Trafford pecking order, Ten Hag concedes that it won’t be straightforward for the imposing defender.

“No one would be content with this situation,” the coach mentioned in an interview with The Times.

The former Ajax boss acknowledged that Maguire was also dissatisfied with not playing every week but maintained that “he consistently trains at peak levels, putting in 100% effort. He manages that situation well and his captaincy makes him important to the squad.”

“He’s up against stiff competition from Raphael Varane, who’s fantastic. Let’s say I’m pleased he’s here and when we needed him, he performed. But it’s also a decision he has to make,” the coach commented.

Ten Hag was also queried about the future of David de Gea after the goalkeeper made some errors this campaign. He assured that the 32-year-old would be at Manchester United for the 2023-24 season but refrained from making any further guarantees.

“I won’t say he will always be my number one, because in a club like United there should be competition for all positions,” he explained.

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Technology, culture make Hangzhou Asian Games “one like no other”

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* In the lead-up to the event, 37,600 volunteers were enlisted by the organizers, who went to great lengths to ensure that visitors’ dining, transportation, and viewing experiences were thoughtfully planned and customized according to the customs and cultural traditions of different countries and regions.

* China has committed to presenting a green and intelligent Asian Games to the world. Through such a sporting extravaganza, China has not only fulfilled its commitment but also showcased its achievements in green development and technological progress on the international stage.

* The Asian Games are an important platform for promoting unity among countries in Asia and strengthening cultural exchanges and mutual learning, Samir al-Musawi, head of the Iraqi delegation to Hangzhou, told Xinhua.

HANGZHOU, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) — As the long-awaited Hangzhou Asian Games enter its fourth day on Wednesday, athletes from various countries have shattered multiple world records at the meticulously organized sporting extravaganza, exemplifying the essence of sportsmanship in their pursuit of excellence.

While the captivating and exhilarating sports competitions engross spectators, the event arrangements infused with technological innovations and cultural significance enable everyone to witness China’s tremendous development and the unwavering passion of its people.

Media and experts are showering praises upon the Hangzhou Asian Games, heralding it as a spectacle that is “promised to be one like no other.”

FONDEST MEMORIES

“I am glad to be in China, a country I love dearly that always brings back my fondest memories,” said 48-year-old Uzbek gymnast Oksana Chusovitina after participating in the women’s gymnastics qualification.

Having previously participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Chusovitina is impressed by the meticulous arrangements and the enthusiasm of the spectators every time she visits China.

Her sentiments are shared by the more than 12,500 athletes from 45 countries and regions at the largest-ever Asian Games.

In the lead-up to the event, 37,600 volunteers were enlisted by the organizers, who went to great lengths to ensure that visitors’ dining, transportation, and viewing experiences were thoughtfully planned and customized according to the customs and cultural traditions of different countries and regions.

“The food is good because in the village they have halal food and I can choose that,” said Kazakhstan’s judoka Abylaikhan Zhubanazar, who won a bronze in men’s 81 kg category.

“We found the surroundings of the venue to be exceptional, providing us with a very comfortable atmosphere,” Japanese cyclist Yoshitaku Nagasako, who secured the gold medal in the Men’s Team Sprint of Track Cycling, told the media.

Echoing Nagasako’s words, Kazakhstan’s cyclist Sergey Ponomaryov said: “I have participated in both the Olympics and Asian Games, and everything here is perfect, with high standards and all our needs met.”

TECHNOLOGICAL SPECTACLE

China has committed to presenting a green and intelligent Asian Games to the world. Through such a sporting extravaganza, China has not only fulfilled its commitment but also showcased its achievements in green development and technological progress on the international stage.

During the opening ceremony, the 70,000 spectators were left in awe by the grand and dazzling fireworks display. However, this stunning spectacle did not cause any pollution. It was brought to life through cutting-edge technologies like 3D animation and AR techniques.

Self-driving shuttle services are available at competition venues, and 5G technology enhances the game-watching experience for spectators.

The extensive application of digital technology is another highlight of this year’s Asian Games. On the opening night, a digital torchbearer symbolically crossed the iconic Qiantang River and arrived at the main venue to ignite the wave-shaped cauldron, a momentous occasion that signifies the first digital ignition ceremony in the history of the Asian Games.

The Hangzhou Asian Games also achieved two significant breakthroughs in the realm of green energy: the first-ever complete supply of renewable electricity to all venues, and the inaugural use of carbon-zero methanol for the primary cauldron at the opening ceremony.

“This is my second time in China. This place is very beautiful, full of new technology, which is very good for young people to learn,” said Dilnaz Murzataeva, a fencing athlete from Uzbekistan.

“From the beginning … we were enchanted by the charm and beauty of the presentation. There was a wonderful visual display that took us on an artistic journey through the history and culture of China,” exclaimed Dana Thaer Khaled Kharaz, a young reporter from Palestine.

“We have experienced the capacity, imagination and competence of the Chinese people and technicians to put together a ceremony,” said International Olympic Committee (IOC) Vice President Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr.

Technology, culture make Hangzhou Asian Games “one like no other”
Source: XinhuaEditor: huaxia2023-09-27 22:34:32

* In the lead-up to the event, 37,600 volunteers were enlisted by the organizers, who went to great lengths to ensure that visitors’ dining, transportation, and viewing experiences were thoughtfully planned and customized according to the customs and cultural traditions of different countries and regions.

* China has committed to presenting a green and intelligent Asian Games to the world. Through such a sporting extravaganza, China has not only fulfilled its commitment but also showcased its achievements in green development and technological progress on the international stage.

* The Asian Games are an important platform for promoting unity among countries in Asia and strengthening cultural exchanges and mutual learning, Samir al-Musawi, head of the Iraqi delegation to Hangzhou, told Xinhua.

HANGZHOU, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) — As the long-awaited Hangzhou Asian Games enter its fourth day on Wednesday, athletes from various countries have shattered multiple world records at the meticulously organized sporting extravaganza, exemplifying the essence of sportsmanship in their pursuit of excellence.

While the captivating and exhilarating sports competitions engross spectators, the event arrangements infused with technological innovations and cultural significance enable everyone to witness China’s tremendous development and the unwavering passion of its people.

Media and experts are showering praises upon the Hangzhou Asian Games, heralding it as a spectacle that is “promised to be one like no other.”

This photo shows a view of the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium during the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 23, 2023. (Xinhua/Cheng Tingting)

FONDEST MEMORIES

“I am glad to be in China, a country I love dearly that always brings back my fondest memories,” said 48-year-old Uzbek gymnast Oksana Chusovitina after participating in the women’s gymnastics qualification.

Having previously participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Chusovitina is impressed by the meticulous arrangements and the enthusiasm of the spectators every time she visits China.

Her sentiments are shared by the more than 12,500 athletes from 45 countries and regions at the largest-ever Asian Games.

In the lead-up to the event, 37,600 volunteers were enlisted by the organizers, who went to great lengths to ensure that visitors’ dining, transportation, and viewing experiences were thoughtfully planned and customized according to the customs and cultural traditions of different countries and regions.

“The food is good because in the village they have halal food and I can choose that,” said Kazakhstan’s judoka Abylaikhan Zhubanazar, who won a bronze in men’s 81 kg category.

“We found the surroundings of the venue to be exceptional, providing us with a very comfortable atmosphere,” Japanese cyclist Yoshitaku Nagasako, who secured the gold medal in the Men’s Team Sprint of Track Cycling, told the media.

Echoing Nagasako’s words, Kazakhstan’s cyclist Sergey Ponomaryov said: “I have participated in both the Olympics and Asian Games, and everything here is perfect, with high standards and all our needs met.”

Volunteer representatives wave flags during the Hangzhou Asian Games and Hangzhou Asian Para Games Volunteers Commencement Ceremony in Hangzhou, capital of east China’s Zhejiang Province, Aug. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

TECHNOLOGICAL SPECTACLE

China has committed to presenting a green and intelligent Asian Games to the world. Through such a sporting extravaganza, China has not only fulfilled its commitment but also showcased its achievements in green development and technological progress on the international stage.

During the opening ceremony, the 70,000 spectators were left in awe by the grand and dazzling fireworks display. However, this stunning spectacle did not cause any pollution. It was brought to life through cutting-edge technologies like 3D animation and AR techniques.

Self-driving shuttle services are available at competition venues, and 5G technology enhances the game-watching experience for spectators.

The extensive application of digital technology is another highlight of this year’s Asian Games. On the opening night, a digital torchbearer symbolically crossed the iconic Qiantang River and arrived at the main venue to ignite the wave-shaped cauldron, a momentous occasion that signifies the first digital ignition ceremony in the history of the Asian Games.

The Hangzhou Asian Games also achieved two significant breakthroughs in the realm of green energy: the first-ever complete supply of renewable electricity to all venues, and the inaugural use of carbon-zero methanol for the primary cauldron at the opening ceremony.

“This is my second time in China. This place is very beautiful, full of new technology, which is very good for young people to learn,” said Dilnaz Murzataeva, a fencing athlete from Uzbekistan.

“From the beginning … we were enchanted by the charm and beauty of the presentation. There was a wonderful visual display that took us on an artistic journey through the history and culture of China,” exclaimed Dana Thaer Khaled Kharaz, a young reporter from Palestine.

“We have experienced the capacity, imagination and competence of the Chinese people and technicians to put together a ceremony,” said International Olympic Committee (IOC) Vice President Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr.

Oksana Chusovitina of Uzbekistan acknowledges the spectators after competing in the Vault of Artistic Gymnastics Women’s Qualifications and Team Finals at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Cheng Min)

SYMBOL OF ASIAN UNITY

The Hangzhou Asian Games served as not just a platform for Asian athletes to compete in sports, but also a crucial stage to showcase the cultural diversity of Asian nations and foster unity across the continent.

“The Hangzhou Asian Games provided a unique opportunity for people from 45 countries and regions to come together, where diverse traditions and cultures converged,” Yasuhiro Inomata, deputy secretary-general of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organizing Committee.

“This holds significant importance in promoting intercultural exchanges and mutual learning in Asia, as well as fostering regional and global peace,” Inomata added.

The massive scale of this year’s Asian Games not only reflects the development achievements in sports throughout Asia, but also symbolizes the unity of Asian people, Raja Randhir Singh, acting President of the Olympic Council of Asia, said, noting that the Hangzhou Asian Games presents to the world a positive image of the mutual love and friendship shared by Asian people.

“As spectators, we felt that the message of unity and love was not just words but a feeling that reminded us that, despite our differences, we are all interconnected and harmonious like one big family,” Kharaz, the reporter from Palestine, said.

The Asian Games are an important platform for promoting unity among countries in Asia and strengthening cultural exchanges and mutual learning, Samir al-Musawi, head of the Iraqi delegation to Hangzhou, told Xinhua.

The games create a positive atmosphere for enriching cultural exchanges among different countries and regions, greatly contributing to global cultural exchanges and mutual learning, he added.

Source(s): Xinhua

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Arsenal and Spurs draw, Liverpool win and Newcastle run riot in Premier League

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LONDON, Sept. 24 (Xinhua) — Arsenal and Tottenham played to a thrilling 2-2 draw in the north London derby on Sunday afternoon, with standouts Bukayo Saka and Son Heung-Min.

The result is a minor setback for Arsenal but underscores Tottenham’s progress this season after the appointment of Ange Postecoglou. Arsenal went ahead in the 26th minute when a left-footed shot by Bukayo Saka deflected off Cristian Romero and found the net. However, Son equalized for the visitors just before the break.

Saka again put Arsenal in the lead in the 54th minute, converting a penalty after Romero was deemed to have handled the ball. But within a minute, Son’s second goal of the match drew the teams level, following a turnover by Jorginho under pressure from James Maddison.

Ollie Watkins secured a 1-0 away win for Aston Villa against Chelsea, further highlighting the latter’s underwhelming start under Mauricio Pochettino. Watkins scored from a tight angle in the 73rd minute. Earlier, Chelsea had been reduced to 10 men in the 58th minute after Malo Gusto received a red card for a rough challenge on Lucas Digne. Despite opportunities, Chelsea couldn’t find the net.

Liverpool maintained their unbeaten start to the season, defeating a determined West Ham United 3-1 at home. Mohamed Salah opened the scoring for Liverpool from the penalty spot in the 16th minute, but Jarrod Bowen equalized for West Ham in the 40th minute. Darwin Nunez added another for Liverpool on the hour mark, and the match remained closely contested until Diogo Jota sealed the win with a goal five minutes from time.

Brighton bounced back from their Europa League loss on Thursday, defeating Bournemouth 3-1 at home. Although Dominic Solanke gave Bournemouth an early lead, an own goal by Milos Kerkez in first-half stoppage time leveled the match. Kaoru Mitoma, introduced as a substitute at the start of the second half, made an immediate impact, scoring just 16 seconds in and adding another goal with 13 minutes remaining.

Newcastle delivered an 8-0 drubbing to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, marking Newcastle’s most significant away victory and Sheffield’s heaviest home defeat. The outcome was apparent by halftime, with goals from Sean Longstaff, Dan Burn, and Sven Botman. The onslaught continued in the second half, with Callum Wilson, Anthony Gordon, Miguel Almiron, Bruno Guimaraes, and Alexander Isak adding to Sheffield’s misery.

Manchester City remains at the top of the table with six wins in as many matches, following a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Saturday, courtesy of early goals from Phil Foden and Erling Haaland. Rodri was shown a red card early in the second half for a foul on Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White, but City adjusted their formation and comfortably saw out the match.

Bruno Fernandes’s volley just before the break ensured a 1-0 win for Manchester United against Burnley. Jonny Evans provided the assist, having earlier seen a goal disallowed for offside.

James Tarkowski played a pivotal role in Everton’s 3-1 win over Brentford, their first victory of the season. The defender assisted Abdoulaye Doucoure’s early goal and later scored a header. After Mathias Jensen equalized for Brentford, Dominic Calvert-Lewin secured the win for Everton in the 71st minute.

Luton Town is still in search of their first win after a 1-1 draw against Wolves, who played with 10 men for over 50 minutes following Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s red card. Wolves went ahead with a solo effort from Pedro Neto early in the second half, but Carlton Morris equalized from the penalty spot after a controversial handball decision against Joao Gomes.

Crystal Palace and Fulham played to a goalless draw, with Palace’s goalkeeper Sam Johnstone making several key saves to ensure a point for his side.

Source(s): Xinhua

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Manchester City win again despite Rodri red in Premier League as Everton break duck

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LONDON, Sept. 24 (Xinhua) — Manchester City made it six wins from six games to start the Premier League season with a 2-0 win at home to Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Phil Foden and Erling Haaland scored the goals in the seventh and 14th minutes of the game, but any hopes Pep Guardiola’s side had of extending their lead after the break were spoiled when Rodri was sent off in the 46th minute for an unnecessary push on Forest forward Morgan Gibbs-White.

Despite playing the second half with one man less, City held on relatively comfortably after Guardiola switched to a 5-3-1 formation following Rodri’s dismissal.

Everton claimed their first win of the season with a 3-1 triumph away to Brentford, with defender James Tarkowski’s standout performance.

Tarkowski set up Abdoulaye Doucoure to smash Everton ahead in the sixth minute, and although Mathias Jensen leveled for Brentford in the 28th minute, Tarkowski headed Everton back in front in the 67th minute and Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed the win four minutes later.

Bruno Fernandes scored the only goal of the game as Manchester United held on for a 1-0 win away to Burnley.

Fernandes scored on the stroke of halftime following a pass from Jonny Evans, who earlier had a goal ruled out for a positional offside from Rasmus Hojlund, and his side were able to hold on for a vital win despite pressure from Burnley in the second half.

Luton took their first point of the season, but are still looking for their first win after being held to a 1-1 draw at home to 10-man Wolves.

The visitors were reduced to 10 men after Jean-Ricner Bellegarde was sent off in the 39th minute, but they took the lead thanks to Pedro Neto’s solo effort five minutes into the second half.

Luton equalized from the penalty spot, with Carlton Morris scoring in the 65th minute after Joao Gomes was penalized for handball, despite the ball rebounding onto his arm from his leg.

Crystal Palace and Fulham drew 0-0, with Palace keeper Sam Johnstone making several good saves to give his side a point.

Source(s): Xinhua

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