Rafael Silva insists Urawa Red Diamonds paid the pride for being “over confident”, but denied underestimating Al Jazira, as the champions of Asia were dumped out of the FIFA Club World Cup the UAE champions.
The brilliant Brazilian shone as the Japanese giants lifted the AFC Champions League crown two weeks ago, scoring both goals as Urawa beat Saudi Arabia superpower Al Hilal 2-1 over two legs.
But he was put in the shade by compatriot Romarinho at Zayed Sports City Stadium on Saturday night as Jazira claimed a 1-0 win to advance to a fairytale semi-final showdown with Real Madrid.
After a muted display following nine goals in 11 appearances on his side’s road to Champions League glory, Silva denied Urawa took Jazira lightly.
“Of course we did not underestimate the opponent. But I think maybe we were over confident,” said the 25-year-old, who is in his first season with the Reds having moved from J1 League opponents Albirex Niigata.
“In this tournament, all the teams are champions. We knew it was going to be difficult. We were expecting this and I think it was just a lack of concentration why we lost the game.
“I think it’s the final part. We had chances and good opportunities but unfortunately we couldn’t score. We were sure of our potential and we trusted ourselves, but this happens.”
Urawa created precious little either side of Ali Mabkhout’s 52nd minute goal, a subdued Silva coming close to equalising at the death, clipping the outside of Ali Khaseif’s post.
“It was a type of game where the ball didn’t want to go in the goal,” he added.
“Against Hilal (in the Champions League final) we finished the opportunities we created, but today it wasn’t our day.”
Despite the loss, Urawa remain in the Emirates and will play African champions Wydad Casablanca for fifth place in Al Ain tomorrow.
And Silva says he and his team-mates must pick themselves up even if they don’t want to.
He added: “We still have one game. Also we will learn from this type of game and we have to look forward, even if the remaining game doesn’t matter. We have to keep going.”
