Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is calling for his team to stay calm when they face Boca Juniors in their upcoming FIFA Club World Cup match. The German side is aware that their opponents from Buenos Aires will be a tougher test than Auckland City, whom they thrashed 10-0 in their opening game.
The experienced goalkeeper is mindful of the intense atmosphere that Boca Juniors can create, referencing their recent match against Benfica. “We all saw what happened in that game,” Neuer said. “We need to keep our cool and focus on our strengths.” Neuer added that the brief glimpse of the Boca Juniors-Benfica match was enough to understand the challenging environment they will face.
Neuer also warned against underestimating South American teams, saying they should not be taken lightly. “We’ll see how teams adapt to the conditions, and the knockout stage will be a different story,” he added, hinting that European teams usually dominate but acknowledging the competitive spirit of South American clubs.
Former Bayern striker Giovane Élber emphasized the prestige and excitement this tournament brings to South American clubs. “This tournament gives them a chance to play against top European clubs like Bayern and Real Madrid,” he said, highlighting the significance of the competition for the six South American teams participating.
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany also sees the match as a highlight, saying he would have attended even if he weren’t the team’s coach. “These are clubs with rich histories in Europe and South America,” Kompany noted.
While Kompany is unlikely to make significant changes to the lineup, Jamal Musiala could start after impressing with a hat-trick off the bench against Auckland City, following his return from injury.