Bayern won the Intercontinental Cup, the predecessor to the FIFA Club World Cup, back in 1976 and 2001. Now they aim to be the first German team to win the tournament since its relaunch in 2005. “The Club World Cup is a title you can't win every year,” captain Philipp Lahm said, noting the significance of the contest even though the trophy is much more highly valued in South America than in Europe. “I know that in some places, it is a very important competition.”
The Bundesliga leaders are up against Chinese powerhouses Guangzhou Evergrande, who beat African champions Al-Ahly 2-0 in the quarter final on Saturday to qualify for the semi-finals. “They are a very good team, with two or three incredibly strong individuals. We’ll be prepared, and we’re not expecting it to be an easy match,” said Sammer, keen for FCB not to underestimate the Chinese champions.
