Flamengo’s Bruno Henrique celebrates a goal against Chelsea.
Flamengo manager Filipe Luis suggests a South American team could win the FIFA Club World Cup, following strong showings from Brazilian and Argentinian clubs.
Botafogo’s 1-0 upset victory over Champions League winners Paris St-Germain was followed by Flamengo’s 3-1 comeback win against UEFA Conference League winners Chelsea.
Six South American teams participate in the expanded 32-team tournament: Palmeiras, Botafogo, Flamengo, and Fluminense (Brazil), and Boca Juniors and River Plate (Argentina).
All six remain undefeated after nine matches, with Palmeiras, Botafogo, Flamengo, and River Plate leading their respective groups.
No Brazilian team has won the Club World Cup since Corinthians’ 2012 victory over Chelsea. European teams have claimed all subsequent titles.
Similarly, no Argentinian team has ever won the tournament since its inception in 2000.
“I’m surprised by the South American teams’ unbeaten run, knowing the quality of European football,” commented Luis after Flamengo’s win over his former club, Chelsea.
“Anyone can win; that’s football. A South American victory wouldn’t surprise me.”
The South American teams’ success might be partly attributed to their current mid-season form, contrasting with European teams’ post-long-season fatigue.
Palmeiras leads Group A with four points, Botafogo has won both Group B matches, Boca Juniors drew 2-2 with Benfica in Group C, Flamengo tops Group D with six points, River Plate won 2-0 against Urawa Red Diamonds, and Fluminense drew 0-0 with Borussia Dortmund.
“These results are surprising,” Luis added. “Sometimes the weather, or unfamiliar conditions are factors, but South American clubs are highly competitive. The Copa Libertadores winner isn’t always the best. We’re used to adapting to different pitches, altitudes, and conditions.”
Danilo and Bruno Henrique celebrate Flamengo’s second goal against Chelsea.
Flamengo’s comeback victory included second-half goals from Bruno Henrique, Danilo, and Wallace Yan. Nicolas Jackson’s red card further aided Flamengo’s triumph.
Thousands of traveling Flamengo fans celebrated wildly at Lincoln Financial Field.
“The players want to prove they can compete with European players,” former Flamengo midfielder Kleberson told DAZN.
Flamengo’s squad included former Chelsea midfielder Jorginho, who stated to DAZN, “We were confident, knowing that in big games, small details matter. We were excellent in the first half and maintained that momentum. We exploited their weaknesses.”
Bruno Henrique reacts after the final whistle against Chelsea.
Botafogo’s 1-0 victory over Paris St-Germain marked the tournament’s biggest upset. Goalscorer Igor Jesus, who chose Botafogo over a move to Nottingham Forest, reflected, “I think staying with Botafogo was the right choice.”
Igor Jesus celebrates his winning goal against PSG.
Botafogo’s strong defense stifled PSG’s attack. Botafogo manager Renato Paiva commented, “This PSG team is a lesson in football. We demonstrated the quality of Brazilian players and coaches. Brazil will always be a force in world football.”
Botafogo players celebrate their victory over Paris St-Germain.
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