• 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

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


John McAuley
  • 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."

Founders: Ines Mena, Claudia Ribas, Simona Agolini, Nourhan Hassan and Therese Hundt

Date started: January 2017, app launched November 2017

Based: Dubai, UAE

Sector: Private/Retail/Leisure

Number of Employees: 18 employees, including full-time and flexible workers

Funding stage and size: Seed round completed Q4 2019 - $1m raised

Funders: Oman Technology Fund, 500 Startups, Vision Ventures, Seedstars, Mindshift Capital, Delta Partners Ventures, with support from the OQAL Angel Investor Network and UAE Business Angels

Company info

Company name: Entrupy 

Co-founders: Vidyuth Srinivasan, co-founder/chief executive, Ashlesh Sharma, co-founder/chief technology officer, Lakshmi Subramanian, co-founder/chief scientist

Based: New York, New York

Sector/About: Entrupy is a hardware-enabled SaaS company whose mission is to protect businesses, borders and consumers from transactions involving counterfeit goods.  

Initial investment/Investors: Entrupy secured a $2.6m Series A funding round in 2017. The round was led by Tokyo-based Digital Garage and Daiwa Securities Group's jointly established venture arm, DG Lab Fund I Investment Limited Partnership, along with Zach Coelius. 

Total customers: Entrupy’s customers include hundreds of secondary resellers, marketplaces and other retail organisations around the world. They are also testing with shipping companies as well as customs agencies to stop fake items from reaching the market in the first place. 

Notable cricketers and political careers
  • India: Kirti Azad, Navjot Sidhu and Gautam Gambhir (rumoured)
  • Pakistan: Imran Khan and Shahid Afridi (rumoured)
  • Sri Lanka: Arjuna Ranatunga, Sanath Jayasuriya, Tillakaratne Dilshan (rumoured)
  • Bangladesh (Mashrafe Mortaza)
%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
SPEC%20SHEET%3A%20SAMSUNG%20GALAXY%20S23%20ULTRA
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDisplay%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%206.8%22%20edge%20quad-HD%2B%20dynamic%20Amoled%202X%2C%20Infinity-O%2C%203088%20x%201440%2C%20500ppi%2C%20HDR10%2B%2C%20120Hz%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EProcessor%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204nm%20Qualcomm%20Snapdragon%208%20Gen%202%2C%2064-bit%20octa-core%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EMemory%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%208%2F12GB%20RAM%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStorage%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20128%2F256%2F512GB%2F1TB%20(only%20128GB%20has%20an%208GB%20RAM%20option)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EPlatform%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Android%2013%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EMain%20camera%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20quad%2012MP%20ultra-wide%20f%2F2.2%20%2B%20200MP%20wide%20f%2F1.7%20%2B%2010MP%20telephoto%20f%2F4.9%20%2B%2010MP%20telephoto%202.4%3B%203x%2F10x%20optical%20zoom%2C%20Space%20Zoom%20up%20to%20100x%3B%20auto%20HDR%2C%20expert%20RAW%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EVideo%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%208K%4024%2F30fps%2C%204K%4060fps%2C%20full-HD%4060fps%2C%20HD%4030fps%2C%20full-HD%20super%20slo-mo%40960fps%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EFront%20camera%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%2012MP%20f%2F2.2%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EBattery%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%205000mAh%2C%20fast%20wireless%20charging%202.0%2C%20Wireless%20PowerShare%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EConnectivity%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%205G%2C%20Wi-Fi%2C%20Bluetooth%205.2%2C%20NFC%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EI%2FO%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20USB-C%3B%20built-in%20Galaxy%20S%20Pen%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ESIM%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20single%20nano%20%2F%20nano%20%2B%20eSIM%20%2F%20nano%20%2B%20nano%20%2B%20eSIM%20%2F%20nano%20%2B%20nano%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EColours%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20cream%2C%20green%2C%20lavender%2C%20phantom%20black%3B%20online%20exclusives%3A%20graphite%2C%20lime%2C%20red%2C%20sky%20blue%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Dh4%2C949%20for%20256GB%2C%20Dh5%2C449%20for%20512GB%2C%20Dh6%2C449%20for%201TB%3B%20128GB%20unavailable%20in%20the%20UAE%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The specs

Engine 60kwh FWD

Battery Rimac 120kwh Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (LiNiMnCoO2) chemistry

Power 204hp Torque 360Nm

Price, base / as tested Dh174,500 

Living in...

This article is part of a guide on where to live in the UAE. Our reporters will profile some of the country’s most desirable districts, provide an estimate of rental prices and introduce you to some of the residents who call each area home.

MATCH INFO

Manchester United 2
(Martial 30', McTominay 90 6')

Manchester City 0

Famous left-handers

- Marie Curie

- Jimi Hendrix

- Leonardo Di Vinci

- David Bowie

- Paul McCartney

- Albert Einstein

- Jack the Ripper

- Barack Obama

- Helen Keller

- Joan of Arc

Mercer, the investment consulting arm of US services company Marsh & McLennan, expects its wealth division to at least double its assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East as wealth in the region continues to grow despite economic headwinds, a company official said.

Mercer Wealth, which globally has $160 billion in AUM, plans to boost its AUM in the region to $2-$3bn in the next 2-3 years from the present $1bn, said Yasir AbuShaban, a Dubai-based principal with Mercer Wealth.

Within the next two to three years, we are looking at reaching $2 to $3 billion as a conservative estimate and we do see an opportunity to do so,” said Mr AbuShaban.

Mercer does not directly make investments, but allocates clients’ money they have discretion to, to professional asset managers. They also provide advice to clients.

“We have buying power. We can negotiate on their (client’s) behalf with asset managers to provide them lower fees than they otherwise would have to get on their own,” he added.

Mercer Wealth’s clients include sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and insurance companies among others.

From its office in Dubai, Mercer also looks after Africa, India and Turkey, where they also see opportunity for growth.

Wealth creation in Middle East and Africa (MEA) grew 8.5 per cent to $8.1 trillion last year from $7.5tn in 2015, higher than last year’s global average of 6 per cent and the second-highest growth in a region after Asia-Pacific which grew 9.9 per cent, according to consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG). In the region, where wealth grew just 1.9 per cent in 2015 compared with 2014, a pickup in oil prices has helped in wealth generation.

BCG is forecasting MEA wealth will rise to $12tn by 2021, growing at an annual average of 8 per cent.

Drivers of wealth generation in the region will be split evenly between new wealth creation and growth of performance of existing assets, according to BCG.

Another general trend in the region is clients’ looking for a comprehensive approach to investing, according to Mr AbuShaban.

“Institutional investors or some of the families are seeing a slowdown in the available capital they have to invest and in that sense they are looking at optimizing the way they manage their portfolios and making sure they are not investing haphazardly and different parts of their investment are working together,” said Mr AbuShaban.

Some clients also have a higher appetite for risk, given the low interest-rate environment that does not provide enough yield for some institutional investors. These clients are keen to invest in illiquid assets, such as private equity and infrastructure.

“What we have seen is a desire for higher returns in what has been a low-return environment specifically in various fixed income or bonds,” he said.

“In this environment, we have seen a de facto increase in the risk that clients are taking in things like illiquid investments, private equity investments, infrastructure and private debt, those kind of investments were higher illiquidity results in incrementally higher returns.”

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds, said in its 2016 report that has gradually increased its exposure in direct private equity and private credit transactions, mainly in Asian markets and especially in China and India. The authority’s private equity department focused on structured equities owing to “their defensive characteristics.”

The biog

Favourite books: 'Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life' by Jane D. Mathews and ‘The Moment of Lift’ by Melinda Gates

Favourite travel destination: Greece, a blend of ancient history and captivating nature. It always has given me a sense of joy, endless possibilities, positive energy and wonderful people that make you feel at home.

Favourite pastime: travelling and experiencing different cultures across the globe.

Favourite quote: “In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders” - Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook.

Favourite Movie: Mona Lisa Smile 

Favourite Author: Kahlil Gibran

Favourite Artist: Meryl Streep

UAE tour of the Netherlands

UAE squad: Rohan Mustafa (captain), Shaiman Anwar, Ghulam Shabber, Mohammed Qasim, Rameez Shahzad, Mohammed Usman, Adnan Mufti, Chirag Suri, Ahmed Raza, Imran Haider, Mohammed Naveed, Amjad Javed, Zahoor Khan, Qadeer Ahmed
Fixtures:
Monday, 1st 50-over match
Wednesday, 2nd 50-over match
Thursday, 3rd 50-over match

ACC%20T20%20Women%E2%80%99s%20Championship
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EUAE%20fixtures%3C%2Fstrong%3E%3Cbr%3EFriday%2C%20June%2017%20v%20Oman%3Cbr%3ESaturday%2C%20June%2018%20v%20Singapore%3Cbr%3EMonday%2C%20June%2020%20v%20Malaysia%3Cbr%3EWednesday%2C%20June%2022%20v%20Qatar%3Cbr%3EFriday%2C%20June%2024%2C%20semi-final%3Cbr%3ESaturday%2C%20June%2025%2C%20final%3Cbr%3E%20%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EUAE%20squad%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Chaya%20Mughal%20(captain)%2C%20Esha%20Oza%2C%20Indhuja%20Nandakumar%2C%20Kavisha%20Kumari%2C%20Khushi%20Sharma%2C%20Lavanya%20Keny%2C%20Priyanjali%20Jain%2C%20Rithika%20Rajith%2C%20Samaira%20Dharnidharka%2C%20Sanchin%20Singh%2C%20Siya%20Gokhale%2C%20Suraksha%20Kotte%2C%20Theertha%20Satish%2C%20Vaishnave%20Mahesh%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
ULTRA PROCESSED FOODS

- Carbonated drinks, sweet or savoury packaged snacks, confectionery, mass-produced packaged breads and buns 

- Margarines and spreads; cookies, biscuits, pastries, cakes, and cake mixes, breakfast cereals, cereal and energy bars

- Energy drinks, milk drinks, fruit yoghurts and fruit drinks, cocoa drinks, meat and chicken extracts and instant sauces

- Infant formulas and follow-on milks, health and slimming products such as powdered or fortified meal and dish substitutes

- Many ready-to-heat products including pre-prepared pies and pasta and pizza dishes, poultry and fish nuggets and sticks, sausages, burgers, hot dogs, and other reconstituted meat products, powdered and packaged instant soups, noodles and desserts

INFO
Three ways to limit your social media use

Clinical psychologist, Dr Saliha Afridi at The Lighthouse Arabia suggests three easy things you can do every day to cut back on the time you spend online.

1. Put the social media app in a folder on the second or third screen of your phone so it has to remain a conscious decision to open, rather than something your fingers gravitate towards without consideration.

2. Schedule a time to use social media instead of consistently throughout the day. I recommend setting aside certain times of the day or week when you upload pictures or share information. 

3. Take a mental snapshot rather than a photo on your phone. Instead of sharing it with your social world, try to absorb the moment, connect with your feeling, experience the moment with all five of your senses. You will have a memory of that moment more vividly and for far longer than if you take a picture of it.

Qosty Byogaani

Starring: Hani Razmzi, Maya Nasir and Hassan Hosny

Four stars

SPEC%20SHEET%3A%20SAMSUNG%20GALAXY%20Z%20FOLD5
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EMain%20display%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%207.6%22%20QXGA%2B%20Dynamic%20Amoled%202X%2C%20Infinity%20Flex%2C%202176%20x%201812%2C%2021.6%3A18%2C%20374ppi%2C%20HDR10%2B%2C%20up%20to%20120Hz%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECover%20display%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%206.2%22%20HD%2B%20Dynamic%20Amoled%202X%2C%202316%20x%20904%2C%2023.1%3A9%2C%20402ppi%2C%20up%20to%20120Hz%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EProcessor%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Qualcomm%20Snapdragon%208%20Gen%202%2C%204nm%2C%20octa-core%3B%20Adreno%20740%20GPU%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EMemory%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%2012GB%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECapacity%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20256%2F512GB%20%2F%201TB%20(online%20exclusive)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EPlatform%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Android%2013%2C%20One%20UI%205.1.1%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EMain%20camera%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Triple%2012MP%20ultra-wide%20(f%2F2.2)%20%2B%2050MP%20wide%20(f%2F1.8)%20%2B%2010MP%20telephoto%20(f%2F2.4)%2C%20dual%20OIS%2C%203x%20optical%20zoom%2C%2030x%20Space%20Zoom%2C%20portrait%2C%20super%20slo-mo%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EVideo%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%208K%4024fps%2C%204K%4060fps%2C%20full-HD%4060%2F240fps%2C%20HD%40960fps%3B%20slo-mo%4060%2F240%2F960fps%3B%20HDR10%2B%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECover%20camera%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%2010MP%20(f%2F2.2)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EInner%20front%20camera%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Under-display%204MP%20(f%2F1.8)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EBattery%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204400mAh%2C%2025W%20fast%20charging%2C%2015W%20wireless%2C%204.5W%20reverse%20wireless%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EConnectivity%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%205G%3B%20Wi-Fi%2C%20Bluetooth%205.3%2C%20NFC%20(Samsung%20Pay)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EI%2FO%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20USB-C%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ECards%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Nano-SIM%20%2B%20eSIM%3B%20dual%20nano-SIMs%20%2B%20eSIM%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EColours%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Cream%2C%20icy%20blue%2C%20phantom%20black%3B%20online%20exclusives%20%E2%80%93%20blue%2C%20grey%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EIn%20the%20box%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Fold5%2C%20USB-C-to-USB-C%20cable%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Dh6%2C799%20%2F%20Dh7%2C249%20%2F%20Dh8%2C149%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Bullet%20Train
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDirector%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20David%20Leitch%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStars%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Brad%20Pitt%2C%20Aaron%20Taylor-Johnson%2C%20Brian%20Tyree%20Henry%2C%20Sandra%20Bullock%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%203%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
The specs

Engine: 4 liquid-cooled permanent magnet synchronous electric motors placed at each wheel

Battery: Rimac 120kWh Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (LiNiMnCoO2) chemistry

Power: 1877bhp

Torque: 2300Nm

Price: Dh7,500,00

On sale: Now

 

57%20Seconds
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDirector%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Rusty%20Cundieff%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStars%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EJosh%20Hutcherson%2C%20Morgan%20Freeman%2C%20Greg%20Germann%2C%20Lovie%20Simone%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E2%2F5%0D%3Cbr%3E%0D%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
'Worse than a prison sentence'

Marie Byrne, a counsellor who volunteers at the UAE government's mental health crisis helpline, said the ordeal the crew had been through would take time to overcome.

“It was worse than a prison sentence, where at least someone can deal with a set amount of time incarcerated," she said.

“They were living in perpetual mystery as to how their futures would pan out, and what that would be.

“Because of coronavirus, the world is very different now to the one they left, that will also have an impact.

“It will not fully register until they are on dry land. Some have not seen their young children grow up while others will have to rebuild relationships.

“It will be a challenge mentally, and to find other work to support their families as they have been out of circulation for so long. Hopefully they will get the care they need when they get home.”

Know your cyber adversaries

Cryptojacking: Compromises a device or network to mine cryptocurrencies without an organisation's knowledge.

Distributed denial-of-service: Floods systems, servers or networks with information, effectively blocking them.

Man-in-the-middle attack: Intercepts two-way communication to obtain information, spy on participants or alter the outcome.

Malware: Installs itself in a network when a user clicks on a compromised link or email attachment.

Phishing: Aims to secure personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.

Ransomware: Encrypts user data, denying access and demands a payment to decrypt it.

Spyware: Collects information without the user's knowledge, which is then passed on to bad actors.

Trojans: Create a backdoor into systems, which becomes a point of entry for an attack.

Viruses: Infect applications in a system and replicate themselves as they go, just like their biological counterparts.

Worms: Send copies of themselves to other users or contacts. They don't attack the system, but they overload it.

Zero-day exploit: Exploits a vulnerability in software before a fix is found.

Ireland (15-1):

Ireland (15-1): Rob Kearney; Keith Earls, Chris Farrell, Bundee Aki, Jacob Stockdale; Jonathan Sexton, Conor Murray; Jack Conan, Sean O'Brien, Peter O'Mahony; James Ryan, Quinn Roux; Tadhg Furlong, Rory Best (capt), Cian Healy

Replacements: Sean Cronin, Dave Kilcoyne, Andrew Porter, Ultan Dillane, Josh van der Flier, John Cooney, Joey Carbery, Jordan Larmour

Coach: Joe Schmidt (NZL)

Super heroes

Iron Man
Reduced risk of dementia
Alcohol consumption could be an issue

Hulk
Cardiac disease, stroke and dementia from high heart rate

Spider-Man
Agility reduces risk of falls
Increased risk of obesity and mental health issues

Black Panther
Vegetarian diet reduces obesity
Unknown risks of potion drinking

Black Widow
Childhood traumas increase risk of mental illnesses

Thor
He's a god

How%20champions%20are%20made
%3Cp%3E%0D%3Cstrong%3EDiet%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20%0D%3Cbr%3E7am%20-%20Protein%20shake%20with%20oats%20and%20fruits%0D%3Cbr%3E10am%20-%205-6%20egg%20whites%0D%3Cbr%3E1pm%20-%20White%20rice%20or%20chapati%20(Indian%20bread)%20with%20chicken%0D%3Cbr%3E4pm%20-%20Dry%20fruits%20%0D%3Cbr%3E7.30pm%20-%20Pre%20workout%20meal%20%E2%80%93%20grilled%20fish%20or%20chicken%20with%20veggies%20and%20fruits%0D%3Cbr%3E8.30pm%20to%20midnight%20workout%0D%3Cbr%3E12.30am%20%E2%80%93%20Protein%20shake%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETotal%20intake%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204000-4500%20calories%20%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESaidu%E2%80%99s%20weight%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20110%20kg%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStats%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Biceps%2019%20inches.%20Forearms%2018%20inches%3C%2Fp%3E%0A

The Book of Collateral Damage

Sinan Antoon

(Yale University Press)

UAE v Gibraltar

What: International friendly

When: 7pm kick off

Where: Rugby Park, Dubai Sports City

Admission: Free

Online: The match will be broadcast live on Dubai Exiles’ Facebook page

UAE squad: Lucas Waddington (Dubai Exiles), Gio Fourie (Exiles), Craig Nutt (Abu Dhabi Harlequins), Phil Brady (Harlequins), Daniel Perry (Dubai Hurricanes), Esekaia Dranibota (Harlequins), Matt Mills (Exiles), Jaen Botes (Exiles), Kristian Stinson (Exiles), Murray Reason (Abu Dhabi Saracens), Dave Knight (Hurricanes), Ross Samson (Jebel Ali Dragons), DuRandt Gerber (Exiles), Saki Naisau (Dragons), Andrew Powell (Hurricanes), Emosi Vacanau (Harlequins), Niko Volavola (Dragons), Matt Richards (Dragons), Luke Stevenson (Harlequins), Josh Ives (Dubai Sports City Eagles), Sean Stevens (Saracens), Thinus Steyn (Exiles)

The bio

Academics: Phd in strategic management in University of Wales

Number one caps: His best-seller caps are in shades of grey, blue, black and yellow

Reading: Is immersed in books on colours to understand more about the usage of different shades

Sport: Started playing polo two years ago. Helps him relax, plus he enjoys the speed and focus

Cars: Loves exotic cars and currently drives a Bentley Bentayga

Holiday: Favourite travel destinations are London and St Tropez

Scorebox

Dubai Sports City Eagles 7 Bahrain 88

Eagles

Try: Penalty

Bahrain

Tries: Gibson 2, Morete 2, Bishop 2, Bell 2, Behan, Fameitau, Sanson, Roberts, Bennett, Radley

Cons: Radley 4, Whittingham 5

Profile of Whizkey

Date founded: 04 November 2017

Founders: Abdulaziz AlBlooshi and Harsh Hirani

Based: Dubai, UAE

Number of employees: 10

Sector: AI, software

Cashflow: Dh2.5 Million  

Funding stage: Series A

Avatar: Fire and Ash

Director: James Cameron

Starring: Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, Zoe Saldana

Rating: 4.5/5

Updated: December 18, 2022, 4:52 AM