Felipe Melo hails Flamengo, says how to win Club World Cup again | OneFootball

Flamengo came close to becoming two-time world champions in 2025

The 2025 Club World Cup final still brings back bad memories for Flamengo fans. That’s because, after drawing 1-1 with PSG (FRA), Filipe Luís’ team lost on penalties and finished as runners-up. Former Palmeiras and Fluminense player Felipe Melo praised Fla’s approach in the match.

— Flamengo, a South American team, has the power to sign top players. They played a fantastic match, for example, against Paris Saint-Germain. They lost on penalties. But they need to play like that, the best match of their lives, to try to win-, said the former player during an appearance at the Olé Summit 2026.

What was the 2025 Club World Cup like?

Flamengo reached the Club World Cup final after defeating Cruz Azul (MEX) and Pyramids (EGY). Then, in the final, Mengão faced PSG, who were considered overwhelming favorites. However, Rubro-Negro made things difficult and took the decision to penalties after a highly dramatic match.

Over the 120 minutes, including extra time, Flamengo and PSG drew 1-1. Kvaratskhelia opened the scoring for the French side in the first half, while Jorginho leveled things in the second half.

With the draw, the world title was decided on penalties. Then, after four missed spot kicks by Flamengo, PSG won the Club World Cup for the first time. Rubro-Negro, meanwhile, once again came very close to lifting the trophy.

Has Flamengo ever won the Club World Cup?

Yes! Flamengo won the Club World Cup title in 1981. On that occasion, after being crowned Libertadores champions, Rubro-Negro faced Liverpool (ENG) in the final in Tokyo. Nunes (twice) and Adílio scored the goals in the beloved club’s 3-0 victory.

Flamengo could play in the Club World Cup in 2026

It is worth noting that Flamengo could play in another Club World Cup final in 2026. That is because Leonardo Jardim’s team is in the Libertadores semifinals and will face Estudiantes (ARG). If they win the title, Mengão will secure a place in the intercontinental tournament.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.