Flamengo left searching for answers after Bayern defeat | OneFootball

Flamengo's early exit from the FIFA Club World Cup has provoked frank reactions from fans and club icons alike, with much of the focus settling on the performance against Bayern Munich and subsequent fallout, according to Lance.

A 4-2 defeat to the German champions ended Flamengo’s campaign in the round of 16, a result marked by individual errors and defensive lapses that proved fatal at this stage. Pulgar’s own goal set a nervous tone before Harry Kane capitalized on a turnover to double Bayern's advantage. Despite Gerson clawing one back with a well-struck effort, Flamengo's inability to avoid mistakes led to another concession before the break, and further goals from Goretzka and Kane underlined Bayern's superiority.

The aftermath has seen direct criticism of coach Filipe Luis. Zinho, former Flamengo and Brazil midfielder, made his frustrations clear in an interview with Placar TV. "I was nervous. I was very sad. Everyone's praising the team for going out with their heads held high. I'd rather win with my head down," Zinho admitted, drawing a sharp comparison with rivals Fluminense and their more pragmatic approach. “Fluminense taught a lesson to Filipe Luis, who said he wouldn't change his style. Now he is on the plane back home.”

Flamengo idol Zico echoed similar concerns, praising the team's effort but underlining the lack of control in such high-stakes matches. “Control? There’s no control at all. Flamengo did very well. They competed the way Filipe Luis 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,” Zico told Lance.

Things were compounded by Pulgar’s withdrawal due to a fracture, further thinning an already stretched midfield. The club is now expected to rely even more on recent midfield signings, having lost Gerson to Zenit earlier in the window.

While much of the conversation centered on on-field decisions, a separate incident involving Dušan Vlahović—Juventus striker and a reported Flamengo target—sparked indignation among fans. After Juventus were eliminated by Real Madrid, Vlahović drew criticism for liking a social media post by Jude Bellingham celebrating Real’s victory. The Serbian was recently cited by Flamengo executive José Boto as an ideal transfer target, but many supporters were unimpressed by the gesture, questioning his commitment to a possible Flamengo future.

For Flamengo’s fanbase, accustomed to demanding both aesthetic play and results, these developments have intensified calls for reflection on tactical choices and club management. With domestic competitions looming, attention turns to how Filipe Luis—and club leadership—respond to the lessons handed out in Miami.

(Sources: Lance)

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