Santos will lock horns with Japan’s Kashiwa Reysol in the first semi-final match of the competition. The match is due to take place at 5:30am EST (10:30am GMT) on Wednesday.
The Japanese contenders had a hard time against Monterrey last Sunday. Extra-time and penalties were needed to see Kashiwa Reysol through.
That game tested the mentality of the Sun Kings who, once again, explained why Asian football should not be overlooked by the majority of world football’s avid followers. But how would 120 minutes of action affect Kashiwa Reysol’s fitness status against Santos?
Chances are that the public will be exposed to a rather dull match since both teams would be thinking about the prospect of reaching the final without any damage—in terms of bookings and injuries. However, Santos appear to be particularly carried away by the possibility of a Barcelona showdown as Neymar revealed in an interview with Globoesporte:
“Look, [playing against Barcelona] is going to be like that film, Mission Impossible. It is very difficult, almost impossible. But you know, at the end, the guy is always going to do something great and finish his mission. That is what we have to do.”
“If Neymar comes inspired, Santos can win this title,” said Borges according to Globoesporte. But defeating Barcelona is much easier said than done. Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid proved this point one more time on December 10 through their unlucky defeat in El Clasico.
Under Pep Guardiola, Barcelona have proved so many times that no obstacle is too big to overcome. Congested agendas don’t even get in the way of their physical and mental fitness.
Unfortunately for Al-Sadd, qualifying for the final of the competition at the expense of Barcelona looks quite superficial. With the Catalans, even a selection composed of several fringe players can achieve wonders.
Besides, the likes of Club World Cup debutants Cesc Fabregas, Thiago Alcantara and Isaac Cuenca would want to make history with the team. Watch out for those players to create danger.
The Catalans are in top form and their recent victory over Real Madrid has raised their self-belief to a new height. Ahead of Thursday’s semi-final fixture against Al-Sadd, Pep Guardiola is in possession of a full 23-man squad.
Anyone would confidently bet on Barca to secure tickets on Thursday for this weekend’s 2011 FIFA World Cup. Who would dare predicting an upset?
These matches are not to be missed. Get live streaming and schedule info about the fixtures:
Wednesday December 14
5:30AM ET - Kashiwa Reysol (JPN) vs. Santos (BRA)
Thursday December 15
5:30AM ET - Al-Sadd (QAT) vs Barcelona (ESP)
