Palmeiras, one of a record nine Brazilian clubs to have graced the tournament, should pose the main threat to Chelsea after defending their Copa Libertadores crown in November.ĬONCACAF Champions League winners Monterrey are taking part for the fifth time.

'It is a big opportunity to win an extraordinary trophy which is far from daily business and that is why we will do anything to take the chance to make it happen,' said Tuchel. They will play Asian Champions League winners Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia, local side Al Jazira or Tahiti's AS Pirae in the semi-finals here on February 9. The Blues then edged Villarreal on penalties to claim the UEFA Super Cup in August.Ĭhelsea return to the Club World Cup for a second time having finished as runners-up to Corinthians in 2012 in Japan - the last time a team from outside Europe won the trophy. Tuchel guided Chelsea to a 1-0 victory over Manchester City in last season's Champions League final. 'But once you are in it and you start planning it and you see it coming on the horizon is it quite exciting.'

It seems like this in Europe, or only for me. 'Once you are not in it, it is a competition that has not the highest focus and highest value.

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