The FIFA Club World Cup is almost upon us, and to the delight of América fans, the Mexico City side will make its debut in Osaka on December 13 against the soon-to-be-named winners of the Asian Champions League.
While this is undoubtedly an exciting (and winnable) match for América, the team’s potential semi-final draw is infinitely more glamorous: a December 17 matchup in Yokohama vs. the champions of Europe, FC Barcelona.
Last year, Real Madrid – fresh off la décima – beat San Lorenzo 2-0 to take the Mundial de Clubes title. It’s only natural that Barça is favored to take home this year’s crown, but América fans will be poised and eager to cheer their team to victory against the odds.
Carne de cañón or future FIFA Club World Cup champions? Only time will tell.
On the other side of the bracket, River Plate will begin its hunt for the title in the semis against one of three potential opponents: Oceanic Champions League winners Auckland City, CAF Champions League champs, or J-League victors.