Corinthians beat Chelsea to become first South American Club World Cup winners since 2006

Afrik Update

SPORTS

Corinthians beat Chelsea 1-0 to win the Club World Cup, becoming only the second club to win the tournament twice (Barcelona being the other) and the first non-European winner since 2006.

Though the match was in Japan, it was like a home game for the Brazilians with their large traveling support filling most of the stadium. And it was with that vocal support that they outplayed and outmaneuvered Chelsea on the way to a deserved win.      

The fans of Brazilian side Corinthians, one of the most devoted sets of supporters in world football, raised funds any way they could to ensure they made it to Japan to witness history as the Sao Paulo side defeated Chelsea in Yokohama.

With an estimated 30,000 Corinithians fans packed into the stadium, Paulo Guerrero set off the Samba celebrations by netting a 69th minute winner.

That strike unleashed a carnival atmosphere around the streets of Yokohama as Corinthians became the first team from South America to win the competition since 2006.

"We played a high quality match," a delighted Corinthians coach Tite told reporters.

"Everything went well. Each player performed their own role and were able to do well in their position. I'm very happy."

The South American side, who won the Copa Libertadores in July, rode their luck at times with goalkeeper Cassio making several important stops.

The crucial moment came with 21 minutes of the contest remaining when Guerrero headed in from close range after Danilo's shot was blocked.

Chelsea, which recently became the first ever defending holder to exit the Champions League at the Group Stage, had its chances to equalize but failed to hit the target.

Spain international Fernando Torres missed three golden opportunities to score, while Juan Mata hit a post late on.

Gary Cahill was also sent off after an alleged off the ball incident with Emerson as Chelsea's dream of world domination died.