South American champions Internacional eye maintaining Brazilian clubs' unbeaten run in the Club World Cup as they kick-off their campaign against Egyptian and African champions Ahli. Playing ten games since the tournament started, Vasco da Gama, Corinthians and Sao Paulo were never defeated and now it is Internacional's turn to keep the Brazilian flag flying high. Internacional players believe they can follow into their predecessors' footsteps. "We're on form at the moment and in excellent physical shape. That's exactly what you need when you're aiming to win the trophy," goalkeeper Clemer was quoted as saying by FIFA.com. His side's results in the Copa Libertadores strongly support the claim. The Brazilian side won eight times, were drawn five and defeated only once. They also finished their 38-game Brazilian league campaign in second place, receiving only nine defeats. Internacional, who were named after the Italian giants Internazionale, have several talented players such as Alexandre Pato, Alex, Luiz Adriano and captain Fernandao, who carries the fans' hopes on his shoulders. The 28-year-old striker found the net five times in the Copa Libertadores, including a decisive goal against Sao Paulo in the final.
He has also good European experience as he played for French sides Marseille and Toulouse. Guiding Fernandao and his team mates is one of the brightest names in Brazilian domestic football, Abel Braga. The 54-year-old manager victory in the Libertadores in 2006 redeemed an old dream as he was ousted from the tournament's semis back in 1989. According to a FIFA report, Braga is well-known of his strong relationships with players off the pitch and on it. His tactical abilities are not questioned back home as he reached the final of the domestic cup twice with Flamengo and Fluminense. Internacional was established in April 1909 in Porto Alegre and unleashed a number of Brazil's greatest players. World Cup winners Claudio Taffarel, Falcao and current coach of the Brazilian national team Dunga are at the top of the list.
