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Auckland City FC have been making international headlines as the ultimate underdog story at the FIFA Club World Cup.
In just a few days, the amateur players will face the game of their lives against German champions Bayern Munich.
So, will it be possible to shut out the noise surrounding their upcoming David v Goliath clashes?
“I guess we’re going to find out pretty soon, eh?” club captain Mario Ilich said.
Speaking to Breakfast from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Ilich realised the enormity of the task.
“We’ve had a lot of experience going to these Club World Cups before, but at the end of the day, it’s 11 against 11, it’s another football match that we prepare for as best we can.”
Auckland City FC's Gerard Garriga and Bayern Munich's Harry Kane. (Source: Photosport/Associated Press.)
The skipper worked in sales for Coca-Cola, with his teammates balancing their day jobs with their football careers.
“We’ve got real estate agents, barbers, teachers, guys who are studying,” he explained.
“It’s just about taking the opportunity and enjoying the occasion.”
Interim coach Ivan Vicelich won the bronze ball at the 2014 edition of the tournament.
“It was a special moment in sporting history for our club.
“To come third was something very special, to win the bronze ball on behalf of the guys was out of this world.
“Incredible times, bringing those experiences and stories to the squad, now it helps to get the motivation there."
Ivan Vicelich (right), with Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Sergio Ramos (middle) at the FIFA Club World Cup in 2014. (Source: Getty)
Matches against Bayern, Boca Juniors and Benfica now await.
The Auckland side, which features teachers, real estate agents and construction workers,, went down 3-0 to the well-funded Saudi club.
Football
December 13, 2023
Auckland City will play Bayern Munich, Boca Juniors and Benfica at the 2025 Club World Cup.
Football
December 6, 2024
2:16
Manchester United fan Ilich is most looking forward to crossing swords with Harry Kane, just one of the galaxy of stars Auckland City have the task of containing.
Auckland City kick off against Bayern Munich at 4am NZT on Monday morning
