Paraguay coach says team 'fought like lions' in World Cup loss to France

Philadelphia: Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro said his side had "fought like lions" in their 1-0 World Cup defeat at the hands of France on Saturday.

"France couldn't find the answers, and it took a bit of individual skill and a penalty given by VAR to make the difference which their football had not been able to do," Alfaro said after the game at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. hiddenlangkawi.club

Kylian Mbappe's 70th-minute spot-kick finally broke the deadlock in the last-16 tie and took France through to a quarter-final against Morocco, as Paraguay go home.

The South American nation were appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 2010 and had been hoping to match their run to the quarter-finals at that tournament, which remains best ever showing.

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The tactics they employed to try to unsettle their opponents irritated France forward Kylian Mbappe, while coach Didier Deschamps accused Paraguay of issuing verbal insults.

But Alfaro insisted his men had "fought like lions out on the pitch".

He added: "It took us 16 years to get back to a World Cup, while Mbappe won the World Cup the first time he played in it, got to the final in his second and now is fighting to be the top scorer."

It remains the case that Paraguay's only victories in the knockout stages of the World Cup have come in penalty shoot-outs -- including against Germany in Boston in the last 32.

"We worked so hard to get a different result but I will leave here with the knowledge that we came to compete and we did compete," added Alfaro, who added that his team were in tears of disappointment in the dressing room after the match.

"I have no doubt that this World Cup has made us all better, although I am sad to go out because I hoped we might go further."

Doha, July 6, 2026: Mo Farah, one of the most successful British track athletes in Olympic history, has revealed that a visit to Qatar during the 2022 FIFA World Cup convinced him it was the ideal place to settle with his family after retirement.

Speaking about his decision, the four-time Olympic champion said he had long hoped to live in a Muslim country where his children could grow up connected to their faith.

"I’ve always said that when I do retire, I want to spend, you know, live in a Muslim country, enjoy myself, let my kids grow up knowing about the Deen, teach about the Deen, all that stuff," he said during a recent podcast.

Farah said his perspective changed after being invited to Qatar by Nasser Al-Khelaïfi during the World Cup, describing the experience as a sturning point for his family.

"For me, the biggest thing was, as I said, the biggest change was, you know, I came here during the World Cup, I got invited by Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, the PSG chairman, and he really looked after me when I came out for the World Cup, because I came out for the England against USA. My two girls went back out, I brought my son for the semi-final and the final… bro, we loved it," the 2012 and 2016 Olympic gold medallist in both the 5,000m and 10,000m added.

The 42-year-old, who relocated from the UK to Doha last year, added that returning to Qatar for holidays during the school break reinforced the family's decision to make the country their home.

"And then I said to my kids, kids, listen to December times, schools close, England's busy, come, could just come out here for holiday, we come out here holiday, and my kids absolutely love this country just because what it gives them, and they can be their self."

أعلن الاتحاد الدولي لكرة القدم «فيفا» تعيين الحكم البرتغالي جواو بينهيرو لإدارة مواجهة الأرجنتين وسويسرا، المقرر إقامتها فجر الأحد، ضمن منافسات الدور ربع النهائي من بطولة كأس العالم 2026.
ويعاون بينهيرو في إدارة اللقاء مواطناه برونو جيسوس ولوتشيانو مايا كمساعدين، فيما سيكون الكندي درو فيشر حكمًا رابعًا، والكندي مايكل باروي حكمًا احتياطيًا.
وأثار قرار «فيفا» إسناد المباراة إلى طاقم تحكيم برتغالي تساؤلات واسعة، خاصة أن المنتخب السويسري ينتمي إلى الاتحاد الأوروبي لكرة القدم، وهو ما اعتاد الاتحاد الدولي تجنبه في العديد من مباريات الأدوار الإقصائية التي تجمع منتخبات من قارتين مختلفتين، عبر تعيين حكام من اتحاد قاري محايد.
ورغم أن لوائح «فيفا» لا تمنع تعيين حكم من القارة نفسها التي ينتمي إليها أحد المنتخبين، فإن القرار أعاد الجدل حول آلية اختيار الحكام.

Miami: Erling Haaland said facing England, the land of his birth, in the World Cup quarter-finals was extra special as he aims to extend Norway's historic run into the last four.

In his first major international tournament the Manchester City striker has propelled his country to the last eight by scoring seven times in four appearances, including a memorable double to beat Brazil in the last 16.

Haaland was born in England as his father Alfe Inge Haaland was playing for Leeds at the time and he has spent the last four seasons at City where he has become the poster boy of the Premier League.

"It's a special game, yeah, definitely. I think for me it's super special, because I play in England and I was born in England, and you also play against team-mates and everything," Haaland told reporters in Miami. "It's a funny game and it's gonna be nice."

In their first World Cup for 28 years, Norway have surpassed all expectations thanks to Haaland's killer instinct in front of goal.

"I didn't expect it, to be honest, to be in the quarter-finals with Norway in the World Cup is quite surprising even for me," he added.

"Playing against Brazil was kind of crazy for us Norwegians and to win against Brazil and then go and play England in the quarter-finals in the World Cup in the USA is quite special.

"I think if you watch the scenes back in Norway, this is not normal for Norway to be, so it's super special."

England, by contrast, are in the quarter-finals for a third consecutive World Cup, but have not won a major tournament for 60 years.

Haaland was keen to put the pressure on the Three Lions, who were considered among the pre-tournament favourites.

All of the top four seeds are still on course to reach the last four as England could face defending champions Argentina, while France and Spain could face off in the other semi-final.

"I think there's some clear favourites out there, England's one of them," said Haaland. "I think all of you should put every single pressure on the English lads."

Haaland's exploits have also made him a star Stateside over the past few weeks.

On top of his goalscoring prowess, the 25-year-old's jovial personality has gained fans.

Just hours after scoring the winner in the last 32 against Ivory Coast, Haaland went to be kitted out like a cowboy in Dallas posting a video in a cowboy hat and boots that went viral.

"It's a good thing because I like the Americans, I think they are kind of hilarious as well. They are funny, so I like the way they are," he said on his newfound fame in the USA.

"I think it's just good. Honestly on every single thing with the World Cup so far here it has been amazing: from the games to the stadiums, everything has been amazing.

"The training ground where we train has been amazing, so I'm super happy and it's been impressive."

Walk into any modern Pilates studio and one piece of equipment almost always takes center stage: the reformer. It looks part exercise machine, part medieval contraption, with springs, straps, and a sliding carriage. Yet it’s one of the most versatile tools in fitness today.

If you’re opening a studio, upgrading your equipment, or simply curious what all the fuss is about, this Pilates Reformer Machine Guide breaks down exactly how reformers work, why they matter, and how to choose the right one for your space in Qatar.

What Is a Pilates Reformer?

What is a Pilates reformer, exactly? At its core, it’s a bed-like frame with a flat carriage that rolls back and forth on wheels within the frame. Springs attached beneath the carriage create adjustable resistance, while straps, a footbar, and shoulder blocks let users perform a wide range of controlled movements.

Originally developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, the reformer has evolved into precision-engineered studio equipment used by physiotherapists, professional dancers, and everyday fitness clients alike.

How Does a Pilates Reformer Work?

Understanding how does a Pilates reformer work helps explain why it’s so effective for building strength without heavy impact on the joints.

• The user lies, sits, or stands on the sliding carriage
• Springs beneath the carriage provide resistance that can be increased or decreased
• Pushing or pulling the carriage using the footbar, straps, or handles engages the core, legs, arms, or back depending on the exercise
• Because the carriage moves smoothly along a fixed track, movements stay controlled and low-impact throughout the full range of motion

This spring-based resistance system is what separates reformer Pilates from mat-based Pilates or traditional weight training.

Pilates Reformer vs Mat Pilates: What’s the Difference?

A common question from new studio owners and clients alike is Pilates reformer vs mat Pilates — which is better?

Mat Pilates uses body weight alone, performed on a padded mat with minimal equipment. It’s accessible, requires little space, and works well for beginners building foundational core strength.

Reformer Pilates adds adjustable spring resistance, sliding movement, and support from straps and the footbar. This allows for:

• Greater resistance variety, from gentle rehabilitation work to advanced strength training
• Improved alignment support for clients recovering from injury
• A broader range of exercises targeting multiple muscle groups in one session

Most studios offer both, but the reformer is typically the equipment that drives membership growth and higher-value class pricing.

Types of Pilates Reformers

Not all reformers are built the same. Knowing the types of Pilates reformers available helps studio owners and instructors choose equipment suited to their space and clientele.

Classic Reformers

Traditional wood or metal frame reformers with a straightforward spring and pulley system. Popular in boutique studios that favor a classic aesthetic and simple mechanics.

Studio Reformers

Heavier-duty frames built for continuous commercial use, often with reinforced components designed to withstand multiple daily classes.

Tower or Combo Reformers

These integrate a vertical tower attachment, allowing instructors to add standing, kneeling, or suspended exercises without needing separate equipment.

Home Reformers

Compact, foldable designs intended for personal use rather than commercial rotation, generally lighter-duty than commercial Pilates reformer machines.

Sports Village Qatar’s Pilates equipment range includes several of these configurations, sourced through established fitness equipment brands.

Pilates Reformer Benefits

The Pilates reformer benefits driving its popularity across Doha’s fitness and wellness scene include:

• Low-impact resistance training suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels
• Improved core strength, posture, and flexibility
• Support for physiotherapy and post-injury rehabilitation programs
• Full-body conditioning in a single session, targeting arms, legs, glutes, and back
• Scalable resistance, making it appropriate for both beginners and advanced practitioners

Many physiotherapy clinics and wellness centers in Qatar now include reformer sessions specifically because of this rehabilitation value.

Pilates Reformer for Beginners: What to Expect

If you’re introducing reformer classes for the first time, understanding the Pilates reformer for beginners experience matters for client retention.

New users should expect:

1. A brief orientation on how the springs, straps, and footbar function
2. Lighter spring resistance during the first few sessions
3. Guided instruction on breathing and controlled movement, since the reformer relies on precision rather than speed
4. Gradual progression to more advanced exercises as core stability improves

Studios that invest in proper beginner onboarding tend to see stronger client retention than those that rush new members into advanced classes.

Reformer Pilates Classes Explained

Reformer Pilates classes explained simply: sessions are typically capped at small group sizes, often six to ten participants, so instructors can adjust spring tension and monitor form individually. Classes generally run 45 to 55 minutes and combine flowing sequences with isolated strength work.

This small-class format is part of why reformer studios can command premium pricing compared to general group fitness classes.

Pilates Studio Equipment List: What You Actually Need

Beyond the reformer itself, a complete Pilates studio equipment list typically includes:

• Reformers (the centerpiece of most class formats)
• Stability balls and props for supplementary exercises
• Studio-grade flooring designed to handle repeated equipment movement
• Storage solutions for straps, blocks, and accessories
• Mirrors for form correction, where space allows

Sports Village Qatar supplies both the Pilates accessories and props studios need alongside reformers, as well as rubber gym flooring suited to studio environments.

How to Choose a Pilates Reformer for Your Studio

Knowing how to choose a Pilates reformer comes down to matching the equipment to your studio’s actual usage pattern.

Consider:

• Class volume — commercial studios running back-to-back classes need heavier-duty frames than boutique or home setups
• Space constraints — some reformers fold or stack for studios with limited storage
• Client demographics — rehabilitation-focused studios may prioritize smoother spring adjustment and added stability features
• Brand reliability — established manufacturers typically offer better warranty support and spare parts availability
• Maintenance support — ongoing servicing matters more for high-traffic commercial equipment than home units

Sports Village Qatar is an authorized distributor for Merrithew, a globally recognized name in Pilates and reformer equipment, giving Qatar-based studios access to genuine, warrantied machines.

Buying a Pilates Reformer Machine in Qatar

When buying a Pilates reformer machine, studio owners in Qatar should look beyond price alone. Genuine manufacturer warranties, local after-sales support, and proper installation all affect the equipment’s long-term value.

Before purchasing, it helps to:

• Confirm whether the supplier is an authorized distributor for the brand
• Ask about delivery and installation timelines
• Clarify what maintenance and servicing support is included
• Compare commercial-grade versus home-grade models if you’re unsure of your class volume

Best Pilates Reformer for Studios: Commercial vs Home-Grade

The best Pilates reformer for studios is rarely the same model recommended for home users. Commercial environments need frames built for constant use across multiple daily classes, reinforced joints, and components that can be serviced quickly if worn.

Sports Village Qatar’s commercial Pilates category is built specifically around this distinction, separating studio-grade equipment from the lighter models designed for personal home use.

Pilates Reformer Maintenance Tips

Protecting your investment starts with basic upkeep. Useful Pilates reformer maintenance tips include:

• Inspecting springs and straps regularly for wear or fraying
• Keeping carriage tracks clean and free of dust or debris
• Scheduling professional servicing at manufacturer-recommended intervals
• Training staff on correct setup and breakdown between classes to avoid unnecessary strain on components

Commercial studios running high class volumes should treat maintenance as a scheduled part of operations, not an afterthought.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a Pilates reformer good for beginners?
Yes. With proper instruction, reformers are well suited to beginners, since spring resistance can be adjusted to a comfortable starting level and gradually increased as strength improves.

2. How much does a commercial Pilates reformer cost?
Costs vary significantly based on brand, build quality, and features like tower attachments. Commercial-grade machines generally cost more than home models due to reinforced construction for continuous use.

3. Can reformer Pilates help with injury recovery?
Many physiotherapists incorporate reformer exercises into rehabilitation programs because the controlled, low-impact resistance supports safe movement patterns during recovery.

4. How is a Pilates reformer different from a regular gym machine?
Unlike fixed-resistance gym machines, a reformer uses a sliding carriage and adjustable springs, allowing for a much wider range of motion and exercise variety in a single unit.

5. What should studio owners look for when buying reformers in Qatar?
Look for authorized distributors offering genuine equipment, manufacturer warranties, local installation, and after-sales maintenance support, rather than sourcing unverified imports.

Ready to Equip Your Pilates Studio?

Choosing the right reformer is one of the most important equipment decisions a studio owner will make. Whether you’re outfitting a new space or upgrading existing machines, working with an authorized supplier ensures genuine equipment, proper installation, and long-term support.

Visit Sports Village Qatar to explore commercial and home Pilates reformer options, or request a free consultation to plan your studio’s complete equipment setup.

Written by the Sports Village Qatar content team, in consultation with our Pilates and fitness equipment specialists.