Flamengo, fresh off one of the most impressive performances of the Club World Cup after dominating Chelsea, might have reasonably hoped for an easier path through the knockout rounds. However, Benfica had different ideas. Andreas Schjelderup`s early goal secured Benfica a victory, claiming the top spot in Group C and consequently sending Bayern Munich into a clash with Flamengo, the winners of Group D, on the opposite side of the bracket.
It would be unwise to discount the Brazilian side, particularly given the higher significance the Club World Cup holds for South American clubs compared to their European counterparts. Players such as Jorginho, Wallace Yan, and Giorgian de Arrascaeta have performed exceptionally well in this tournament and believe they are capable of challenging the German champions.
Similarly, Vincent Kompany rested several key Bayern stars for the loss against Benfica, prioritizing their freshness for the knockout stages. The depth of the Bundesliga side is such that they could make numerous changes and still be considered favorites, yet this places significant pressure squarely on them. Flamengo, conversely, enters the match with nothing to lose.
Viewing Information
Date: Sunday, June 29
Time: 4 p.m. ET
Location: Hard Rock Stadium — Miami, FL
Odds: Flamengo +360; Draw +290; Bayern Munich -150
Last Meeting
This will be the first competitive encounter between these two teams.
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 Brazil`s most promising young defensive talents, Wesley is certain to face a severe test against whoever lines up on Bayern`s left flank, especially with the talented Raphael Guerreiro providing support from various angles. Wesley performed well against Pedro Neto in the win over Chelsea, but this match represents a significant step up in difficulty for the 21-year-old.
Storyline to Watch
Will the European teams elevate their performance? A recurring theme in the group stages was the sense that Europe`s elite were doing just enough, perhaps even prioritizing their domestic seasons starting in August. Now that the stakes are higher, will their competitive instincts fully ignite?
Prediction
This match could potentially extend into extra time, at which point Bayern`s superior squad depth might tip the tie in their favor. However, do not expect a comfortable victory for the Bavarians.
PICK: Flamengo 1, Bayern Munich 2 (after extra time)
