Lippi confident with Guangzhou's opener
0 Comment(s)
Print
E-mail Xinhua, December 14, 2013
Marcello Lippi said enthusiasm and expectation for the Club World Cup would help his side Guangzhou Evergrande show true level as the Chinese club will start campaign against Al Ahly on Saturday.
|
|
|
Marcello Lippi (C), coach of China's Guangzhou Evergrande, takes part in a training session in Agadir Stadium, Agadir December 13, 2013. Guangzhou Evergrande will play their first Club World Cup soccer match against Egypt's Al Ahly on December 14. [Photo/China Daily] |
Guangzhou, the first-ever Chinese side having won the Asian Champions League, will meet the tough test from the African champion in the quarter-final at Agadir Stadium.
Lippi admitted the Egyptian's fifth-participation experience in the world club's biggest tournament will be the opponent's advantage.
But the Italian believed the first-time entry to the FIFA's year-ending event will be a boost and stimulation for his side to repeat their top level.
"We are going to a tough match. The opponents have won the African Champions League eight times," said Lippi, who led Italy to win the World Cup in 2006.
"They are strong and experienced. But it will not be a problem for us. Players' enthusiasm and expectation for their first-ever world's tournament will also help the team lessen the tiredness."
Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)