Barcelona players react after winning the final Club World Cup soccer match against Estudiantes in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009. Barcelona defeated Estudiantes 2-1. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)
It was heartbreak for South America and joy for many in Spain / Catalonia as Barcelona rallied to top Estudiantes 2:1 after extra time in Dubai on Saturday to claim the 2009 FIFA Club World Cup trophy. Barca was near death until an 89th minute header by Pedro drew them level 1:1.
In extra time the usual suspect came to the forefront as Lionel Messi scored the winner in the 110th minute.
FIFA has hoped this decade that the Club World Cup would eventually be viewed as highly as the World Cup (of nations), but it has yet to even come close to the meaning of that event. Instead, the Club Cup tournament has often gone relatively unnoticed outside of the clubs playing in it. This year the tournament was moved from Japan to Dubai.
The current format has been running since 2000.
Most around the world likely already thought Barcelona were the best professional side, now the Catalans have a shiny trophy to hoist in front of the few who might disagree.
Seattle Sounders FC hosted the World Club Cup champions last August at Qwest Field.
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