As Barcelona take their first step in the Club World Cup in Japan, manager Frank Rijkaard is on the brink of winning a unique European recognition. If the Dutchman guided Barcelona to the 2006 title, he would be the first European and the third man ever to win the trophy as player and coach. Rijkaard won the tournament in its old edition -- known as the Intercontinental Cup -- with Milan in 1989 when he helped his side edging Nacional de Medellin of Colombia 1-0. One year later, Rijkaard had even more impact, scoring twice as Milan retained the title with a stylish 3-0 victory over Paraguayan side Olimpia Asuncion. But Rijkaard, well-known of being a team player and a modest coach, played down the importance of the personal glory and said he is concerned about the bigger picture. "I do not focus about such things," Rijkaard was quoted as saying by Spanish media. "What I am really thinking about is the club, my players and the fans because these are the things that really matters to me." Even with Barcelona retaining their domestic league title and winning the UEFA Champions League, the Catalan fans still feel the bitterness of losing the Intercontinental Cup 14 years ago. Redemption Time Under another great Dutch manager, Johan Cruyff, Barcelona lost to Brazilian champions Sao Paulo 2-1 and failed to grab their first international title in 1992.
Ronaldinho It was a shock especially because Barcelona's dream team at this time included names such as Andoni Zubizarreta, Ronald Koeman, Josep Guardiola, Amor and Hristo Stoitchkov. However, their current squad isn't less prolific with the likes of Ronaldinho, Deco, Carles Puyol and Javier Saviola on board. Barcelona will open their campaign against a familiar opponent as they take on Mexico's Club America in the semis. America have put on an outstanding display in a pre-season friendly against Barca, letting a three-goal lead slip away to end tying them 4-4 in a thrilling game. Should they get past Club America, Barcelona will have the chance to take their revenge from the Brazilians as they will take on Brazilian side Internacional. The Copa Libertadores title holders reached the final after ousting African and Egyptian champions Ahli through a 2-1 victory. Ironically, Internacional are the city-rivals of Ronaldinho's former club Gremio and the Barca co-captain, who believes he would be taunted by their fans, wants to add the tournament to his club's impressive record. "We always said we are at Barca to make history and this is the unique one," said Ronaldinho upon arrival in Japan. "Another reason, for sure, is that to win in Japan would mean to close a wonderful season: the Champions League and this."
