Brazil’s new power shift stuns Club World Cup | OneFootball

Brazilian clubs are making their mark on this year’s revamped Club World Cup in the United States, and Flamengo stand out among a group of domestic sides who have surprised many with their performances and discipline on the global stage. After two rounds, Flamengo, Palmeiras, Botafogo, and Fluminense all remain unbeaten, leading their respective groups and earning recognition both from international media and rivals accustomed to European dominance.

Flamengo’s campaign is of particular note. Under Filipe Luís, they have shown control and tactical maturity, securing top spot in their group with victories over Espérance and Chelsea. That success allows the Rio de Janeiro side the luxury of rotating their squad for the final group clash against LAFC, with knockout football already assured.

Recognition of Flamengo’s quality has come from major voices in the European game. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois described Flamengo and their fellow Brazilian qualifiers as “great teams” and stressed the risk they pose in any future knockout round. “It's always different to compete against clubs from other countries and continents. If you’re a good team, you can put any opponent in danger,” he said, specifically mentioning Filipe Luís’ side alongside Palmeiras and Botafogo.

Juventus defender Lloyd Kelly echoed that sentiment, calling it “exciting to see a different side of football” as Brazilian clubs have imposed their style and intensity. He also pointed to the tournament’s lively atmosphere stateside—a sign of how the event is resonating beyond South America.

International journalists are now taking note. Fabiana Della Valle of Italy’s Gazzetta dello Sport praised the physical preparation and mental strength Flamengo showed in overturning Chelsea. Tomás Moreira of Portugal’s A Bola remarked on how Brazilian teams have exceeded expectations, playing European giants on even terms. Other analysts pointed to the club’s signings of players like Jorginho and Alex Sandro as evidence of a blend between domestic talent and European know-how, giving the likes of Flamengo a competitive edge that narrows the gap with old world powerhouses.

The increased determination and adaptability of these Brazilian sides has not gone unnoticed, with observers highlighting their seriousness and resilience in a competition sometimes deprioritized in Europe. Meanwhile, the broader structure of the competition—with some of Europe’s continental champions absent—has also drawn comment, suggesting that Brazil’s clubs are navigating both opportunity and pressure.

In short, Flamengo’s stint at the Club World Cup is strengthening not just their own international reputation, but that of Brazilian football more broadly. Their assertive group-stage displays and recognition from major figures and media outlets point to a shifting narrative, with Brazilian clubs aiming for more than mere participation—they have arrived looking to contend.

Source: Lance, UOL