Guerrero warns Bayern: Flamengo could surprise the giants | OneFootball

According to reporting from Lance, anticipation is building for Flamengo’s clash against Bayern Munich in the Club World Cup round of 16, taking place on Sunday at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. With both teams enjoying strong spells, this fixture has sparked predictions of a fiercely contested encounter—and intriguing cross-continental dynamics.

Former Flamengo and Bayern striker Paolo Guerrero, speaking to FIFA, expects the European powerhouse to be tested by Flamengo's distinctive style and tactical edge. “For the way Bayern plays, they aren’t used to facing South American teams. They may struggle with that kind of savvy play. Both teams are in good shape, so I think it’s going to be a great match,” said Guerrero. He emphasized Flamengo’s need for “wisdom” and highlighted that every player must leave the pitch having given everything to secure a result. “To win, either team will have to leave the field dead tired. May the best side win.”

Guerrero also reflected on his own connections, recalling his years at Bayern’s academy and professional squad—where he scored 13 goals in 45 senior appearances before heading to Hamburg—as well as his successful stint with Flamengo, for whom he notched 43 goals in 113 games. Interestingly, Guerrero shares a longstanding friendship with Bayern’s manager Vincent Kompany, developed during their time as teammates at Hamburg between 2006 and 2008. “I have a strong friendship with Vincent, we’ve always kept in touch. He was a natural leader, motivating the team and supporting everyone, even when things went wrong,” Guerrero remarked.

Off the pitch, Bayern’s captain Manuel Neuer provided a lighthearted moment in the build-up by greeting Brazilian journalists in Portuguese as both squads trained at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando ahead of their trip to Miami. Neuer has previously engaged with Brazilian fans, having spoken Portuguese in club media and sent celebratory messages to compatriots like Corinthians goalkeeper Cássio. Both teams undertook their Saturday morning sessions in the same facility, though on separated pitches, as they finalised preparations before traveling.

The winner of this high-profile tie will progress to face either Paris Saint-Germain or Inter Miami in the next round. The match captures the ongoing fascination—and challenge—of South American teams squaring off against European giants: for Flamengo, it serves as another opportunity to showcase the tactical discipline and competitive fire that Brazilian clubs are renowned for on the world stage.

Sources: Lance

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