After delivering one of the most impressive performances of the tournament so far by comfortably defeating Chelsea, Flamengo might have anticipated a more favorable path in the knockout rounds of the Club World Cup. Unfortunately for them, Benfica had other plans. An early goal from Andreas Schjelderup secured Benfica the top spot in Group C, consequently pushing Bayern Munich into the other side of the bracket and setting up a challenging encounter against Group D winners Flamengo.
It would be unwise to underestimate the Brazilian side, especially considering how many games in this competition have highlighted the greater significance the Club World Cup holds for South American clubs compared to European ones. Flamengo players like Jorginho, Wallace Yan, and Giorgian de Arrascaeta have shone in this tournament and believe they possess the quality to compete with the German champions.
On the other side, Vincent Kompany strategically rested several key Bayern stars for the match against Benfica, prioritizing the freshness of players like Michael Olise and Harry Kane for the knockout stages. Such is the immense depth of the Bundesliga club`s squad that they could potentially change their entire lineup and still be considered favorites. This situation places significant pressure squarely on Bayern, while Flamengo enters the match with nothing to lose.
Last Meeting
This upcoming match will mark the first competitive meeting between these two clubs.
Predicted Lineups
Flamengo: Agustin Rossi; Wesley, Danilo, Leo Pereira, Ayrton Lucas; Erick Pulgar, Jorginho; Gerson, Giorgian de Arrascaeta, Luiz Araujo; Gonzalo Plata
Bayern Munich: Manuel Neuer; Sacha Boey, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Raphael Guerreiro; Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka; Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, Kingsley Coman; Harry Kane
Player to Watch
Wesley, Flamengo: Considered one of the bright young defensive talents in Brazilian football, Wesley is certain to face a stern test from whichever player operates on Bayern`s left flank, particularly with the gifted Raphael Guerreiro providing support from various attacking angles. Wesley performed well against Pedro Neto during the win over Chelsea, but this encounter represents a significant step up in difficulty for the 21-year-old defender.
Storyline to Watch
Will the Europeans elevate their game? A recurring theme from the group stages was the perception that the elite European teams were doing just enough to get by, perhaps treating the tournament somewhat lightly to avoid compromising their domestic seasons that typically start in August. Now that the stakes are higher in the knockout rounds, will their competitive instincts fully ignite?
Prediction
This match has the potential to extend into extra time. In that scenario, Bayern`s impressive squad depth might prove decisive and tip the tie in their favor. However, it`s unlikely to be an easy or comfortable victory for the Bavarian giants.
PICK: Flamengo 1, Bayern Munich 2 (after extra time)
