Zico's tough verdict after Flamengo's costly collapse | OneFootball

According to Lance, Flamengo legend Zico offered a candid assessment following the club’s 4-2 loss to Bayern Munich, which saw them exit the FIFA Club World Cup in the round of 16. Zico praised his former side’s competitive spirit but was unequivocal about what went wrong: “Control? There’s no control at all. Flamengo did very well. They competed the way Filipe Luís wants them to play, but in matches like these—knockout phases—mistakes are fatal. You can’t make errors against Bayern Munich. It cost Flamengo dearly.”

Bayern capitalized on Flamengo’s shaky start, striking early following multiple defensive giveaways. An own goal from Pulgar after a succession of Bayern corners opened the scoring, and Harry Kane quickly doubled the advantage, punishing another error in Flamengo’s buildup. Despite these setbacks, the Rio side regrouped with more attacking intent, and Gerson’s powerful finish gave fans reason for hope. However, Flamengo’s decision to drop deeper invited further Bayern pressure; Goretzka restored the two-goal margin just before halftime.

Possession and shots on target were nearly balanced heading into the break—Flamengo had a slight edge in possession at 51%—but Bayern made their chances count. Pulgar was forced off with a suspected fracture, compounding the Brazilian side’s problems.

After the restart, Flamengo’s pressure produced a penalty, converted with authority by Jorginho to bring the deficit back to one. For a spell, Filipe Luís’ team looked capable of a comeback. Yet Bayern’s press forced another turnover high up the pitch, and Kane sealed his brace, effectively putting the tie out of reach.

Bayern’s game management from then on allowed little room for drama. Flamengo threatened from set pieces but could not break through again before the final whistle.

Zico's critique centered on the unforgiving nature of such top-level encounters. Against elite sides, he noted, lapses in concentration are swiftly punished. Pulgar’s injury, resulting from a challenge with Kane, added to Flamengo’s woes and may force further adjustments from Filipe Luís in upcoming domestic fixtures.

While the defeat was a setback, fans at the stadium maintained their support, suggesting optimism remains around this evolving Flamengo side. For Zico, however, the lesson is clear: playing well must be combined with ruthlessness and composure under pressure, especially on the global stage.

(Source: Lance)

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