Steelers confident of upsetting Mazembe

Abu Dhabi: Asian champions Pohang Steelers are confident of upsetting African champions TP Mazembe to advance to the last four of the Club World Cup.

Mazembe, who tasted success as African champions following a 40-year gap, were rewarded $1.5 million (Dh5.5m) for booking their quarterfinal tie against the Korean side.

The Africans will start off as favourites to book a semifinal clash against Argentina's Estudiantes de La Plata, but the Koreans are keen to spoil that party.

Competitive club

Brazilian Sergio Farias, who has steered the Steelers to some important wins in the past, said on the club's website: "In football, a competitive club has high expectations to win, but there is no absolute power.

"Barcelona is favoured to triumph this year, but it fell to Internacional of Brazil in the 2006 final. Unpredictable results can happen.''

"I guarantee that Pohang will advance to the semifinal and at that level, we need to show something to reach the title match.

"We are mentally well prepared and if we keep focused, we will be able to pull off a good result," the 42-year-old coach said.

"Pohang is not studded with star players but is a team that is capable of winning games,'' he added

With a large band of supporters expected to cheer the Steelers, the Congo club will also be looking for backing from the large number of expatriates from Africa who live and work in the UAE.

Playing Friday:

• Quarterfinals: Mazembe vs Pohang Steelers
• Venue: Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium
• Kick-off: 8pm UAE