River Plate Coach Marcelo Gallardo revealed his side felt the pressure of a massed travelling support in their Club World Cup semi-final.
The Argentines beat local side Sanfrecce Horishima to confirm their place in Sunday’s final, where they will meet either Barcelona or Guangzhou Evergrande, who meet on Thursday.
“We rescued the victory, because we had to win, because we had to qualify for the final,” Gallardo said, AS reports, after the 1-0 triumph.
“It was a dangerous match against a very well organised opponent.
“The passion of the people showed us an obligation. It was a big pressure and we couldn’t let them down.
“I’m satisfied at having achieved the dream of the final. The team wasn’t nervous, though the result wasn’t like that. I’m proud of these players. Rather than wanting to play against Barca, we have to wait a day longer.”
