On the ball: Barcelona's arrival has brought the magic

The superstars of FC Barcelona have arrived at the Fifa Club World Cup.

Tonight they will grace the turf of Zayed Sports City with their dazzling skills.

Sure enough, the arrival of Barcelona has had a magical effect on the city. The fans are already brimming with excitement and expectation.

It is truly one of those times when you feel the thrill of competition crackling in the air.

Catalan giants

But mind you, it is not only fans of the Catalan giants heading towards Zayed Sports City, but also supporters of Real Madrid who will be hoping their bitter rivals fall.

It would not be the first time. Barca lost three years ago when they were beaten by Brazilian club Internacional, who were led by Abel Braga, coach of Al Jazira.

One Real Madrid fan, who was not happy with Barcelona's last league victory over Espanyol on Saturday, told me they were lucky.

"They beat Espanyol with a controversial penalty.

"It is unfair that they win even when they do not deserve the points."

Another Madrid fan suggested Fifa should appoint referee Coffi Codjia to officiate the tie after being impressed with his ability during the Atlante, Auckland clash.

Sharp eye

"He proved to have a sharp eye for players who try to use their hands to control the ball. Barcelona's players, past and present, are famous for this act."

Codjia did in fact show two Mexican players yellow cards for apparent handballs.

And it wouldn't be the first time a Barca player has been accused of trying to employ this tactic. The recent controversy surrounding striker Thierry Henry during France's World Cup play-off qualifier against the Irish springs to mind.

But can we blame players for trying to use this tactic.

After all, it is a legacy handed down to them by the great Diego Maradona, whose infamous handball in the World Cup in 1986 broke English hearts.

Others have just followed suit.