As the rain lashed down over Charlotte and play in the round of 16 match between Benfica and Chelsea had to be suspended, FC Bayern also looked to the skies with concern. A storm over Orlando meant that the onward flight to Miami was delayed - and on the eve of the clash with Flamengo in the round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup, of all things.
"Of course it would have been nicer if the journey had gone smoothly," said Jonathan Tah after arriving at the Miami Dolphins stadium more than two hours late. But the Germany international took it in his stride: "We've just got here a bit later. That's all it is." Konrad Laimer also remained relaxed: "It was a thunderstorm, you just have to accept that. We'll just eat later and go to bed."
Preparation for the knockout tie with the Brazilian club with a long tradition had long since begun anyway. "The defeat against Benfica has been discussed and put behind us," stressed Tah. Whether the opponents are Flamengo or Chelsea is of secondary importance anyway: "In a tournament, you have to take your opponents as they come," said Josip Stanišić. “I don't think either we or Flamengo are favourites - we're evenly matched."
Looking forward to the special atmosphere
Tah is looking forward to the special clash: "It's not often you come up against a club like this in such a special atmosphere." The stadium in Miami is likely to be packed to the rafters - especially with fans of the South Americans. Tah is taking a sporting view: "I think it's positive - the fans create a good atmosphere. Even if they'll probably be against us like they were against Boca: It's fun when a lot of fans are there."
Flamengo come with plenty of experience and many players who have played in Europe. "A good team who can play football," said Laimer. "We'll need everyone playing at the highest level." Tah added: "They have quality in their side, they'll be bold. But what's also clear is that we want to be dominant in every phase - and not allow them to get into the game."
Team growing even closer together
The fact that FC Bayern are prepared to fight for this is shown not only by their sporting attitude, but also by the team spirit. "When you're together 24/7, one or two people can get on your nerves," chuckles Laimer. "But of course you also grow together." According to the defender, the good atmosphere is crucial - especially now, ahead of Flamengo. Because: "The business end of the tournament starts now. And we want to make it a success."
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