After a dominant performance against Chelsea, Flamengo might have expected a smoother path in the Club World Cup knockout rounds. However, Benfica had other plans. An early goal from Andreas Schjelderup secured Benfica the top spot in Group C, unexpectedly shifting Bayern Munich into a direct confrontation with Group D winners, Flamengo.
It would be shortsighted to dismiss the Brazilian team, especially considering how the Club World Cup typically generates more intense interest in South America than in Europe. Players like Jorginho, Wallace Yan, and Giorgian de Arrascaeta have shone in the tournament and feel ready to challenge the German champions.
Conversely, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany opted to rest several key players for the Benfica match, prioritizing freshness for stars such as Michael Olise and Harry Kane in the knockout stages. The Bundesliga squad`s depth is so considerable that they could field an entirely different starting eleven and still be considered favorites. This places significant pressure on them, while Flamengo has the advantage of playing with nothing to lose.
Last Meeting
This upcoming match will mark the first competitive encounter 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 a top young defensive talent in Brazil, Wesley will face a stern test against Bayern`s left flank, especially with the versatile Raphael Guerreiro providing support. While Wesley performed well against Pedro Neto in the win over Chelsea, this match represents a significant increase in difficulty for the 21-year-old.
Storyline to Watch
Will the European teams elevate their game? A recurring theme in the group stages was the impression that the European elite were doing just enough to get by, perhaps conserving energy before their domestic seasons resume in August. Now that the stakes are higher in the knockout phase, will their competitive intensity truly ignite?
Prediction
This tie could potentially extend into extra time, where Bayern`s superior squad depth might prove decisive. However, don`t anticipate an easy victory for the German side.
PICK: Flamengo 1, Bayern Munich 2 (a.e.t.)
Dominic Ashworth