Club America's Miguel Samudio (right) tries to Daniel Carvajal of Real Madrid during their FIFA Club World Cup semifinal on December 15, 2016, in Yokohama, Japan. (Photo: FIFA via Getty Images)
YOKOHAMA, Japan – A brave effort against Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals fell just short for Club America, which suffered a 2-0 defeat to the UEFA Champions League holder on Thursday at the International Stadium Yokohama.
The Spanish giant scored a goal at the end of each half to clinch the win and a meeting with Japan’s Kashima Antlers in Sunday’s final.
Despite the defeat, Club America – which will face Atletico Nacional of Colombia in the third-place match, also on Sunday – was proud of its performance.
“It’s sad because we had a lot of hope,” said forward Silvio Romero. “Sadly, we are left with our hands empty. But, no problem, now it’s time to think about what comes next. We knew that we would try to play in a way that we like. It was going to be difficult because of the opponent’s quality. The goal that came in the 47th minute of the first half rocked us a little bit.
“I think it was an acceptable match against one of the world’s best.”
Midfielder Rubens Sambueza, the 2015/16 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League’s Golden Ball winner, praised his teammates for their effort against Real Madrid, noting that the Aguilas had their opportunities to get on the scoreboard.
“I think that the team delivered in how these types of matches should be played against the tournament favorite,” the 32-year-old remarked. “We set up well for the match and we had our chances in the first half against them. As team captain, I leave with the sensation that we gave it our all and we competed against a great opponent that will score goals on you if you fall asleep on any play.”
With a win over Atletico Nacional, Club America will secure its highest-ever placement in three Club World Cup appearances, bettering a fourth-place finish in 2006.
