Brazil make goalless start

Brazil’s search for a first Olympic football gold medal got off to a goalless start as they were held to a frustrating draw against 10-man South Africa. Brazil fielded their strongest possible line-up featuring Gabriel Barbosa, recent Manchester City signee Gabriel Jesus and spearheaded by their talismanic captain Neymar on Thursday. However, despite dominating possession and having 21 shots on goal, Brazil were unable to convert their opportunities. 

Moroccan boxer held for sexual assault

A Moroccan Olympic boxer was arrested on charges he sexually assaulted two women in the Olympic Village, Rio de Janeiro police said on Friday. Hassan Saada, a 22-year-old competing in the 81 kilogram category, was arrested on Friday morning on allegations that he assaulted two maids who worked at the Village. The alleged incident took place on Wednesday, authorities said. Police did not provide further details.

Player slams golfers for skipping Rio 

South African golfing legend Gary Player has criticised golfers who are skipping the Olympic tournament. The world’s four top players -- Australia’s Jason Day, Americans Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth, and Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy -- all declined to compete at the Olympics. Player, winner of 165 titles, on Thursday said he did not understand how so many star golfers could refuse to compete at Rio 2016 due to fear of the Zika virus. “They don’t want to promote golf, they don’t realise how lucky they are, they don’t realise what the Olympic Games mean to the sport,” Player said.

Brazil athletes not dope tested: Report

Brazil’s athletes were not subjected to dope tests for almost a month before the Rio Olympics, the country’s sports ministry has said while refuting allegations it was a political decision to ensure the Games were not plunged further into crisis. Brazil’s sports ministry confirmed no tests were carried out between July 1 and July 24 due to a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) suspension on a drug testing laboratory in Rio de Janeiro. WADA said it was “concerned” and has sent a letter to Brazil’s sports minister asking why the tests had been stopped. 

IOA to give cash awards to medallists

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced a cash prize of Rs 50 lakh for every gold medal winner at the Rio Games. The silver and bronze medal winners will get Rs 30 lakh and Rs 20 lakh, respectively. The coach of the medal-winning athlete will be given half the amount. This award will be over and above the awards given by the central or state government.