General Authority of Sports, NBA, Saudi Sports For All, Mubadala, Spinneys at 2023 Sport Industry Forum

Senior sport business execs from the Middle East and beyond are set to connect at the 2023 Sport Industry Forum.
Established in 2014, this high-level sport business forum brings decision makers together to advance the sports sector in the region.
The forum is an opportunity for sport business professionals to listen to inspirational speakers – international and regional. It provides an invaluable opportunity to do business.
The Forum is held alongside the NBA Abu Dhabi Games and is officially supported by Department of Community Development Abu Dhabi and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.
Held at The WB Abu Dhabi by Hilton on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on October 4-5, more than 200 senior-level attendees are expected from government, brands, federations, clubs, rights holders, event organisers and venues owners/operators.
A highlight this year is H.E. Sheikh Suhail Bin Butti Suhail Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Sports Development Sector at the General Authority of Sports, who will present the UAE’s national sports strategy at the Sport Industry Forum 2023.
Speeches and interviews take place throughout the two days from the likes of Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall, Minnesota Timberwolves CEO Ethan Casson, Saudi Sports For All Federation CEO Shaima Al Husseini and Executive Director Community Health Sector – Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre H.E Dr. Omniyat Mohammed Al Hajeri, among many others.
Registration is still open at https://sportindustryseries.com/register/. Attendance is free for government, federations, clubs and brands, with separate packages on offer to rights holders/agencies and vendors/suppliers.
Sport360 spoke to Sally Corander – Founder of INTERACT, organisers of Sport Industry Forum – about next month’s edition.

Q: What is the Sport Industry Forum and why was it launched?
Corander: “The Sport Industry Forum was established in the UAE. We launched it in 2014 with the support of Dubai Sports Council and Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
“There weren’t many conferences in the region at that time and so we saw the opportunity to launch a forum that was relevant to the challenges in sports in the region. Our aim was, and still is, to advance the sports sector in the UAE and across the region. It’s wonderful to see such incredible growth in sports in the last 9 years and very exciting times ahead.”
Q: What is the mission for Sport Industry Forum?
Corander: “The mission is to drive positive change. We pride ourselves on our content being hugely relevant to the region.
“We are based in the region and understand the industry challenges which may be unique to other countries.
“The Forums encourage open-and-honest debate and attendees are very much encouraged to get involved in the discussions. We summarise the main points from the 2 days of discussion and we feedback to government after the event.”
Q: Please tell us about the line-up for 2023’s edition
Corander: “We’ve got an amazing line-up of speakers for 2023’s edition.
“We are absolutely delighted to have an exclusive presentation and interview with HE Sheikh Suhail Al Maktoum from the General Authority of Sports who will present the UAE sports strategy.
“Following HE Sheikh Suhail’s session, we have senior Government representatives from education and health; H.E. Mohammed Al Hashimi, Executive Director – Student Wellbeing Sector, Emirates Schools Establishment and H.E. Dr. Omniyat Mohammed Al Hajri, Executive Director – Community Health Sector, Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, Vice Chairwoman, Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Academy
“The forum is alongside the NBA Abu Dhabi Games and both CEOs from the franchises are speaking. They will take part in unfiltered interviews telling their remarkable stories – from how their early life shaped their careers, overcoming adversity, the importance of workplace culture, to growing women’s sport and the biggest lessons they learned in business.
“A delegation of NBA executives and sponsors will be joining us.

“We have speakers from Saudi; Saudi Sports For All Federation’s CEO, Shaima Al Husseini and Saudi Triathlon, Chairman, Eng. Ali Samih Magboul. Regional brands are represented including Mubadala, Etihad and Spinneys – they will talk about why they invest in sport and what their strategy is for the future.
“And we have a featured interview with former Man Utd footballer, Dwight Yorke, aka the smiling assassin. Winner of the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, Intercontinental Cup and League Cup.
“Chris Brown, Founder and CEO of the Mina Cup UAE, Gareth Mordey, General Manager EnrichME at Cognita Schools and Mags Byrne, former CEO of Sunderland FC and MD of EStars will get the conversation going on how to best engage the next generation in sport and physical activity on their panel.
“There is a lot of content and lots of passionate sports business professionals attending. I am looking forward to seeing everyone and having some great discussions!
“Business development is hard work and securing meetings with potential clients is not easy.  The Forum makes this enjoyable!
“It’s a meeting place for the sports industry, for participants to be inspired but to also meet the right people and do business.”
To register, visit https://sportindustryseries.com/register/.
Sport Industry Forum 2023 partners include: DCT Abu Dhabi, DCD Abu Dhabi, Ethara, Musco Lighting, Qantara Sports, CSM Live, Cruyff Institute, Flair Event Services, Sport360

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/regional-article/348659/general-authority-of-sports-nba-saudi-sports-for-all-mubadala-spinneys-at-2023-sport-industry-forum

ONE Friday Fights 34: Five reasons to watch Akram Hamidi vs Prajanchai

ONE Friday Fights 34 might be delivering the most anticipated main event in Rodtang v Superlek, but Akram Hamidi and Prajanchai might just steal the show – here are five reasons not to sleep on this one.
1. Supporting a MENA superstar
24-year-old Akram Hamidi will be flying the flag for his home nation of Algeria when he takes to the ring on Friday evening. He is one of the biggest prospects the MENA region has when it comes to combat sports – and this is going to be the biggest test of his career to date.
2. A opponent of real pedigree, but a chance to chase gold
This might be only the second fight for Hamidi in ONE, but in Prajanchai, he is going up against one of the best in the business. The current interim strawweight Muay Thai world champion, and former undisputed title holder Prajanchai may only be 28-years-old but has a wealth of experience with over 400 fights to his name – and is eyeing a shot at Joseph Lasiri to get his title back.
3. Fireworks guaranteed
A devastating left hand gave Prajanchai a KO win in his last outing, but when you look at Hamidi’s record, his last four bouts read TKO, KO, KO, KO. He goes out to finish fights, and this Friday will be no exception.
4. A master of the body blow
There’s nothing quite like a stoppage caused by a shot to the body. A blow delivered with such brutal intent it renders a fully conscious opponent unable to continue through debilitating pain. Hamidi has turned this into an artform – whether with his hands or knees. His accuracy when attacking the body is a sight to behold – and with thee body attack stoppages in his last four fights he has the results to back it up.
5. A North African showdown in the future?
Current king of the strawweight Muay Thai division is Joseph Lasiri. The man who KO’d Prajanchai to take the title, but was unable to double up the gold when taking on flyweight king Rodtang in his last outing. So what next for the Italian with roots in Morocco? A win for Hamidi and the prospect of a title fight with so much North African interest would command the attention of millions. 
ONE Friday Fights 34 comes live from the famous Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok on Friday September 22. Fight fans in the MENA region can watch the first half of the card on BeINSPORTS from 3.30pm MECCA. The other half of the card is broadcast on ONE Championship’s official YouTube channel and on watch.onefc.com 
 

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/boxing-mma/one-championship-mma/348670/one-friday-fights-34-five-reasons-to-watch-akram-hamidi-vs-prajanchai

McIlroy reveals return to Dubai in search of his third DP World Tour Championship

Rory McIlroy will return to Dubai in search of a third DP World Tour Championship title and fifth Harry Vardon Trophy at the final Rolex Series event of the 2023 DP World Tour season.
The reigning European Number One currently leads the Race to Dubai Rankings in partnership with Rolex, thanks to his two Rolex Series victories earlier this season at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and Genesis Scottish Open.
The World Number Two has been at the top of the rankings since the WGC – Dell Technologies Match Play in March and is excited to tee it up at Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 16-19, 2023.
The famous Earth Course has proved to be a happy hunting ground for the Northern Irishman, who has won the DP World Tour Championship twice and finished top of the season-long standings in 2012, 2014, 2015 and most recently in 2022, etching his name alongside England’s Peter Oosterhuis as a four-time winner of the prestigious title.
The 34-year-old currently leads Ryder Cup teammate and defending champion Jon Rahm by 2,155 points. The Spaniard announced his return earlier this season to celebrate 15 years of the event, which has evolved into a world-class sporting and social event showcasing ‘The Greatest Players on Earth’ as the top 50 golfers available on the DP World Tour tee it up in Dubai.
McIlroy said: “Playing at the DP World Tour Championship is always an amazing experience. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to enjoy a lot of success in Dubai and at this event in particular.
“The fans have been great, it’s amazing to have that support out there for us. When you have the top 50 golfers from the DP World Tour, you know it is going to be a fantastic competition. I’ve won here on a couple of occasions and I would love to be right there come Sunday with both trophies to my name.”
Fans can once again witness the drama unfold as the Race to Dubai Presented by Rolex reaches a dramatic conclusion in the United Arab Emirates and Europe’s Number One is crowned.
The reigning Race to Dubai champion is back!Looking forward to welcoming our two-time champion @McIlroyRory to the Earth course in November 👊Want to see Rory in action? Secure your tickets here: https://t.co/Eycz50zBdU pic.twitter.com/YeSmYoxOdp— DP World Tour Championship (@dpwtc) September 20, 2023
Following record weekend crowds last year, free general admission tickets are now available at dpwtc.com, with a range of early bird hospitality options to suit every golf fan at the Earth Lounge and Championship Chalet selling fast.
The DP World Tour Championship offers a fantastic day out for all, combining world-class golf with an array of exciting activities and experiences. The vibrant village ensures an incredible atmosphere, featuring dedicated activations for children, free golf lessons for all ages, Ladies Day celebrations, trick-shot shows, large screens for enhanced viewing, and engaging sports activations.
Fans seeking an elevated experience can choose from a range of premium hospitality options. The Championship Chalet, situated on the 18th green, offers an exclusive vantage point to observe the thrilling conclusion of each round. The Earth Lounge, overlooking the 16th green, provides a chic and comfortable setting to relax and enjoy the action. Additionally, the bar on the 17th creates the perfect ambiance with refreshing beverages to take in the action up close.
To secure free tickets for the 2023 DP World Tour Championship, Dubai and explore the various ticket options, including premium experiences, please visit dpwtc.com. After sellout crowds in 2022, don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/golf/348667/mcilroy-reveals-return-to-dubai-in-search-of-his-third-dp-world-tour-championship

ONE Friday Fights 34: Five Reasons to Watch Rodtang vs Superlek

It is a fight we have been anticipating for so long, two modern greats will collide as Rodtand and Suplek meet at ONE Friday Fights 34 – here are five reasons you need to be watching.
1. A Muay Thai matchup for the ages
The term ‘must-watch’ is a highly overused one, but in this instance it probably underplays things – this fight is much bigger than that. Two modern-day warriors will finally collide in a bout to settle once and for all who is the better man. 
2. Champion vs Champion
ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang will defend his belt against current ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion and #1-ranked flyweight Muay Thai contender Superlek – with 26lbs of gold on the line – do we need to say more?
3. Can Superlek end the streak?

Superlek is a once-in-a-generation fighter
Rodtang is not only a long-reigning champion, but he has gone 14-0 in his ONE Muay Thai and kickboxing career. You can trace that record right back to 2018, and the list of those who have tried and failed is like a who’s who of the sport. The likes of Jonathan Heggerty and Joesph Lasiri are current world champions who didn’t manage to get past ‘The Iron Man’ – and now there is a new challenger ready. Superlek has only lost once  – and since then has been perfect in the last seven outings – including three huge stoppage finishes in his last three.
4. A clash of styles
We all know that styles make fights and this one adds perfectly to the overall narrative. Rodtang isn’t called The Iron Man for nothing – physical, aggressive, and explosive – he is the epitome of a modern-day warrior. Opposite him will be the technical mastery of Superlek. When you have been practicing Muay Thai from the age of eight – especially with the teachers he has had, then there is a chance you could be a bit special, and Superlek is absolutely that. 
5. Watch a little bit of history
Superlek, is 135-29 overall, while Rodtang boasts a record of 271-42-10. These are generational athletes and we are lucky to be witnessing two such exceptional practitioners of the sport at the same time. Combine this with the fact we have serious gold on the line, and it all takes place in the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, and we have the recipe for a very special night. Don’t miss out. 
ONE Friday Fights 34 comes live from the famous Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok on Friday September 22. Fight fans in the MENA region can watch the first half of the card on BeINSPORTS from 3.30pm MECCA. The other half of the card is broadcast on ONE Championship’s official YouTube channel and on watch.onefc.com 
 

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/boxing-mma/one-championship-mma/348661/one-friday-fights-34-five-reasons-to-watch-rodtang-vs-superlek

Three MENA Fighters to look forward to watching at ONE Friday Fights 34

ONE Friday Fights 34 comes our way this weekend with a spectacular card in store, headlined by the mouth-watering prospect of Roteng and Superlek headlining.
However fans in MENA will have plenty to cheer with no fewer than three fighters competing at the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, here’s our guide on who to look out for.
Amir Naseri – Catchweight (140lbs) Muay Thai
Iran-born Amir Naseri returns to the ONE ring for the first time in almost a year this week. Raised in Tehran, he moved with his family to Malaysia at the age of eight and it would be here that he would transition from kicking football to bags as his love of Muay Thai developed. 
To further his career he later moved to train in Thailand just over a decade ago, ending up a student at the world-renowned Tiger Muay Thai.
His pedigree is excellent, a five-time Muay Thai world champion, he was also only the second non-Thai to emerge champion from the famous Omnoi Stadium in Thailand.
After two defeats in ONE he’s now looking to kick start his career – and a win this week over 
Seksan Or Kwanmuang who carries a 5-0 ONE record into the fight – would do just that.

Akram Hamidi – Strawweight Kickboxing
Algerian 24-year-old Akram Hamidi is looking to build on the blistering start to his ONE career. 
He picked up a second-round TKO on debut against Jomhod Auto MuayThai – a devastating left hook to the body doing the damage. 
With a 29-1-4 overall record as a professional kickboxer, he now gets to take on arguably his toughest task to date.
On Friday night he will stand across the ring from the current interim strawweight Muay Thai champion in Prajanchai PK Saenchai. One of the most highly rated fighters in the world today, Prajanchai’s style is a real crowd pleaser – and alongside Hamidi, this could be one for the ages.  
Saman Ashouri – Catchweight (140lbs) Muay Thai
Iran’s Saman Ashouri will take to the ONE ring for the second time in his career, when he takes on Thailand’s Suakim Sor Jor Thongprajin. 
28-year-old Ashroui will be looking to claim his first win with the organisation following a debut defeat back in March. He was knocked out in the second round that night by Yodlekpet “The Destroyer” Or Atchariya and will be looking to bounce back in style this week with a statement win.
ONE Friday Fights 33 comes live from the famous Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok on Friday September 15. Fight fans in the MENA region can watch the first half of the card on BeINSPORTS from 3.30pm MECCA. The other half of the card is broadcast on ONE Championship’s official YouTube channel and on watch.onefc.com 

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/boxing-mma/one-championship-mma/348657/three-mena-fighters-to-look-forward-to-watching-at-one-friday-fights-34

Why the iconic Le Classique derby between PSG and Marseille is a must-watch

There is a French phrase attributed to a quality which can’t accurately be described in words – je ne sais quoi.
And French football proudly features a fixture that regularly calls on that phrase to explain it’s unique allure.
Le Classique is when the fierce rivalry between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Olympique de Marseille (OM) takes to the pitch to produce one of the most-iconic matchups in world football. This captivating clash transcends the sport and can even be considered a cultural phenomenon which defines French football.
There is a rich historical significance to this fixture as the rivalry dates back to PSG’s founding in 1971. It has since evolved into an intense derby which sees the capital’s club and the pride of Marseille pitted against each other.
The battle between these two influential cities is not fought for mere victories on the football pitch, but for regional supremacy and cultural pride.
The contrasting identities of the two clubs has always provided a spark to their encounters. PSG have traditionally been associated with the glitz and glamour that is synonymous with the city of Paris and their financial prowess in recent years, which has facilitated a star-studded roster, has only served to further that image.
Meanwhile, Marseille boasts a legacy of French football’s working-class and thus takes immense pride in its rich history of success. This dichotomy in club identity creates a compelling narrative for every clash.
Le Classique matches are also renowned for the spectacle they provide. Whether held at Parc des Princes or the Stade Velodrome, the atmosphere for this clash is invariably electric.
The passion of both fan bases not only manifest into flares, banners, and chants which can send shivers down the spine of all inside the stadium, but it spills over into the streets as well and engulfs the host city.
The iconic derby is one of the most-watched on the planet. Its intensity, contrasting identities, passionate fan bases, and global appeal make it a fixture that captures the hearts and minds of fans around the world.
FACT FILE
All-Time Record:
PSG wins – 48
Marseille wins – 34
Draws – 23
Player Records:
Most Appearances – Steve Mandanda [Marseille]
Top Scorer – Zlatan Ibrahimovic [PSG]
Team Records:
Biggest Win: PSG 5-1 Marseille [8 January 1978]
Longest Winning Run: PSG [31 October 2012 – 21 May 2016]
ALL-TIME COMBINED XI
[3-4-1-2]
GK: Steve Mandanda (Marseille)
CB: Marcel Desailly (Marseille)
CB: Thiago Silva (PSG)
CB: William Gallas (Marseille)
RM: Lionel Messi (PSG)
CM: Ronaldinho (PSG)
CM: Didier Deschamps (Marseille)
LM: Kylian Mbappe (PSG)
CAM: Neymar (PSG)
ST: Jean-Pierre Papin (Marseille)
ST: Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/football/ligue-1/348650/why-the-iconic-le-classique-derby-between-psg-and-marseille-is-a-must-watch

Nice striker Terem Moffi latest in long line of Ligue 1’s superb Nigerian imports

Terem Moffi’s match-winning exploits for Nice at champions Paris Saint-Germain underlined his status as Ligue 1’s latest supreme Nigerian import.
The ex-Lorient hitman notched a brace in Friday’s 3-2 triumph, celebrating exuberantly by lifting his shirt to the stunned Parc des Princes-crowd.
Such influential displays have been notched by a number of his countrymen throughout the years in France’s top flight.
Below are some of the outstanding performers:

Vincent Enyeama – Lille (2011-18)

Enyeama attained iconic status with Les Dogues, helping establish himself as one of Africa’s greats despite his small stature for a goalkeeper. He arrived from Israel’s Hapoel Tel Aviv in 2011, but it would be 2013/14 before being cemented as Lille’s No1. In that season, Enyeama would go within 114 minutes of equalling Gaetan Huard’s Ligue 1 goalkeeping record, set in 1993, of playing 1,176 minutes without conceding a goal.

Terem Moffi – Lorient (2020-23); Nice (2023-present day)

WHAT A MENACE, TEREM MOFFI 🔥🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/Bnse6yPJwl— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) September 17, 2023

Ligue 1’s next big-money export could be plying his trade with Nice. The tall Nigeria international has excelled since being snapped up from Belgium’s Kortrijk by Lorient in October 2020, netting 43 times and notching 12 assists in 108 Ligue 1 run-outs. Friday’s pair at PSG – upon his first appearance of 2023/24 – added to this burgeoning reputation.

Jay-Jay Okocha – Paris Saint-Germain (1998-2002)

One of football’s great entertainers lit up Parc des Princes, either side of the millennium. The Nigeria wizard danced through Ligue 1’s defences with impunity after a then-African-record £14 million arrival from Germany’s Eintracht Frankfurt on the back of an exceptional FIFA World Cup 1998, on French soil. A magical debut goal versus Bordeaux set the scene for a mesmerising stint fondly remembered for his mentorship of Ronaldinho.

Victor Osimhen – Lille (2019/20)

Osimhen’s stay in Ligue 1 was brief, but unforgettable. The rangy striker followed in the footsteps of compatriots Enyeama and Peter Odemwingie on arrival from Belgium’s Charleroi in August 2019. Hints about a phenomenal talent followed, across 13 goals in 28 Ligue 1 matches – including a pair on debut versus Nantes and delicate lob at Marseille. He’d depart for Napoli the next summer for a club-record fee of up to €80 million.

Taye Taiwo – Marseille (2005-11)

Taiwo's left foot was something else 😳 pic.twitter.com/QNzDzPyQEB— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) April 16, 2023

Taiwo’s reputation at Marseille was built upon an ability to strike the ball with ferocity. This ability will be forever linked to a remarkable strike versus Sochaux in September 2010, lashing home on the angle from 35 yards. Taiwo had been recruited in 2005 from Lobi Stars in his homeland as a prospective replacement for lionised World Cup-winning left-back Bixente Lizarazu. He’d go on to lift five major trophies with OM, including 2009/10’s Ligue 1 crown and successive Coupe de la Ligue’s from 2009-11.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/football/ligue-1/348655/nice-striker-terem-moffi-latest-in-long-line-of-ligue-1s-superb-nigerian-imports

Ligue 1 Summer Transfers XI: Randal Kolo Muani, Teddy Teuma and Renan Lodi feature

Ligue 1 saw some eye-catching business over the summer transfer window.

The international break presented the perfect opportunity to take stock and make some early assessments of the league’s new arrivals.

Here, we pick one new transfer from every team in the league and to accommodate all 18 clubs acquisitions, we’ve assembled them into a starting XI followed by seven substitutes for the purpose of this exercise.

GK: Philipp Kohn – €8m – RB Salzburg to Monaco

Having kept 30 clean sheets in his last 60 Austrian Bundesliga games for Salzburg, the 25-year-old had the potential to be a real bargain. Kohn has hit the ground running in Monaco, picking up two clean sheets in his first four games.

RB: Tiago Santos – €6.5m – Estoril Praia to Lille

Known for his attacking style of play, Santos is a Sporting CP academy product and has played every minute in Ligue 1 since his arrival this summer. The 20-year-old is an exciting prospect and under coach Paulo Fonseca, Lille have begun a trend of developing young Portuguese talents.

CB: Abakar Sylla – €20m – Club Brugge to Strasbourg

The young centre-back arrived with a hefty transfer fee, considering he only has one full season under his belt in Belgium, but is already proving his worth for Patrick Vieira’s side. Sylla is only 20-years old, strong, quick, and has been pivotal to Strasbourg’s encouraging start to the season.

CB: Andy Pelmard – €1.9m – FC Basel to Clermont Foot

After starting out with Nice, Pelmard returns to Ligue following two seasons at FC Basel. The centre-back is composed in possession and still has plenty of untapped potential at 23. He has slotted into the heart of Clermont Foot’s defence.

LB: Renan Lodi – €13m – Atletico Madrid to Marseille

One of the more high-profile Ligue 1 arrivals this summer, Lodi has shone early into his career with Marseille. His quality and experience provides a different dimension to the team in attack as well as defence. The left-back’s performances have even earned him a recall to the Brazil national team.

RW: Mousa Al Tamari – Free – OH Leuven to Montpellier

Al Tamari may not be a fan of the nickname ‘The Jordanian Messi’, but given his superb start with Montpellier, scoring three goals already, one can see where it comes from. The electric winger ranks second in the league for dribbles (28) and having arrived for free, could be one of the coups of the transfer window.

CM: Teddy Teuma – €4.6m – Union SG to Stade Reims

With three goals and two assists, Teuma has begun like a house on fire. The 29-year-old has a wand of a left foot, making him lethal from free-kicks and shots from distance. Whilst being a creative force in midfield, the Malta international retains a combative style of play.

CM: Daler Kuzyaev – Free – Zenit St Petersburg to Le Havre

Le Havre’s promotion to the top flight called for a swift injection of quality into the side and Kuzyaev’s acquisition has provided just that. The five-time Russian Premier League winner’s experience is invaluable, while his versatile box-to-box play brings balance to the team.

LW: Jeremie Boga – €18m – Atalanta to Nice

Nice manager Francesco Farioli worked with Boga at Sassuolo and rates the winger very highly. His time at Atalanta over the last two seasons were underwhelming, but the 26-year-old remains an exceptionally good dribbler and will hope to get back on track in Ligue 1.

ST: Randal Kolo Muani – €95m – Frankfurt to PSG

As one of the most sought-after young strikers in world football, it took an eye-watering fee for the Parisians to pry him away from Frankfurt. However, with Lionel Messi and Neymar gone, Kolo Muani brings a sensible blend of stardust, energy and youthful exuberance. He should have just the right profile to compliment main man Kylian Mbappe, without stealing the limelight.

ST: Elye Wahi – €30m – Montpellier to Lens

With 29 goals and 7 assists for Montpellier over the last two seasons in Ligue 1, Wahi attracted plenty of interest over the summer with the likes of Chelsea and PSG involved as well. Still only 20, Lens’ new signing is an all-round striker with good finishing, speed and strength.

SUBS

GK: Alex Dominguez – Undisclosed – Las Palmas to Toulouse
AM: Ludovic Blas – €15m – Nantes to Stade Rennais
LB: Bradley Locko – €0.5m – Stade Reims to Stade Brestois
CB: Formose Mendy – €7.5m – Amiens to Lorient
RW: Joel Asoro – €1.2m – Djurgarden to Metz
CM: Ainsley Maitland-Niles – Free – Arsenal to Lyon
ST: Mostafa Mohamed – €5.7m – Galatasaray to Nantes

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/football/ligue-1/348629/ligue-1-summer-transfers-xi-randal-kolo-muani-teddy-teuma-and-renan-lodi-feature

Abdallah Ondash secures second ONE Championship win

Lebanon’s Abdallah Ondash picked up his second win in ONE Championship with a hard fought split decision win at ONE Friday Fights 33.
Having won his first outing in stunning fashion, he stopped his opponent with one second left on the clock, this Muay Thai encounter with Palangboon Wor Santai was equally close.
After three rounds of back and forth action it was 22-year-old Ondash, a product of the famous Tiger Muay Thai gym in Bangkok, who got the nod from two of the three judges.
Palangboon impressed on his debut, particularly with his leg kicks, which were finding a home with regularity – chopping Ondash and clearly causing damage.
However, the Beirut native was able to use his reach advantage well throughout, picking his shots and regularly keeping his opponent at bay. 
The win moves Ondash to 2-0 in his ONE career, and 18-1 overall in professional Muay Thai.
There was not such good news at the Lumpinee Stadium for fellow MENA standout Ayad Albadr.
The Iraqi slipped to a unanimous decision loss to Teeyai PK Saenchai in what was a ferocious contest with neither man giving an inch.
In the night’s main event, Russia’s Alexey Balyko defeated PK Saenchai via unanimous decision – the highlight being a picture-perfect left hook which dropped the Thai fighter to the canvas, while Watcharaphon Singha Mawynn picked up a unanimous decision win over Apiwat Sor Somnuk.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/boxing-mma/one-championship-mma/348646/abdallah-ondash-secures-second-one-championship-win

Unmissable deals and all the games make Bridgewater Tavern the perfect sport-watching spot

Calling all rugby fans! Head over to JW Marriott Marquis Dubai and catch all the live action at the hotel’s popular, award-winning sports bar, Bridgewater Tavern, overlooking the iconic Dubai Canal.
Enjoy a viewing experience with giant screens, the venue will offer a host of special deals, fun activations, and lots of prizes to be won.
Starting September 8th to October 28th, fans can watch every tackle, free kick and try on the huge, state-of-the-art screens stationed around Bridgewatern Tavern, amid an electric atmosphere complete with special drink offers you won’t want to miss.
Take advantage of unbeatable happy hour deals on beverages, including draught hops starting as low as Dh30; 3L towers of hops for Dh210 and a bucket of 5 hops for Dh150.
In addition to the lively atmosphere, Bridgewater Tavern’s menu features delicious, classic pub grub for you to tuck into while catching up with friends and family. Treat yourself to juicy Crafted Burgers, Quesadillas & Sandwiches, Fresh Salads, Sharing Platters, and Nostalgic Desserts.
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For those only wishing to nibble, the bar bites menu includes a range of smaller classics such as Chicken Tenders, Dynamite Shrimp, Buffalo Chicken Wings and Fully Loaded Nachos.
Visit the website of http://www.jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com/ and follow us on Social Media @JWMarriottMarquisDubai @bridgewatertavern to keep up-to-date on events and promotions.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/rugby/348621/unmissable-deals-and-all-the-games-make-bridgewater-tavern-the-perfect-sport-watching-spot