We’re desperate to conquer the world

NARITA GREETER ... Frank Lampard signs autographs after arriving at Narita in Japan

“The South American teams have always taken this competition seriously, but the European teams have won the last five times and this is a trend we hope to continue.”

South American champions Corinthians were cheered off by 20,000 fans at the airport last week Given the unpopularity of interim boss Rafa Benitez, many Chelsea fans may hope he has a one-way ticket.

The Blues play on Thursday — having been given a bye into the semi-final — and will face Mexicans Monterrey, who saw off Koreans Ulsan Hyundai 3-1 yesterday.

Oscar, signed for £25million in the summer, played in the 2010 final with former club Internacional only to lose to Congolese side TP Mazembe.

Corinthians play either Egyptians Al-Ahly or Japanese side Sanfrecce Hiroshima in their semi-final.

Oscar added: “Corinthians are very strong and their biggest characteristic is that they play as a team.”

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