Why Flamengo believe Bayern can be beaten | OneFootball

According to several reports from Lance, anticipation is building around Flamengo’s upcoming Club World Cup round-of-16 clash against Bayern Munich, with the Brazilian side earning both confidence from recent results and respect for the scale of the challenge ahead.

Flamengo arrive in Orlando riding high after advancing from a group that included victories over Chelsea and Espérance, and a draw that secured first place. However, their reward is a daunting test: Bayern Munich, reigning German champions once more and historical four-time world club kings. The match will be played Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium, with Flamengo sporting their traditional red-and-black shirts—paired with black shorts instead of their usual white—and their goalkeepers in yellow, as specified in FIFA’s official documentation.

The Brazilian camp, under Filipe Luís, has focused on tactical flexibility and psychological readiness. According to legendary former international Rivaldo, interviewed by Lance, Flamengo’s confidence stems in part from the strength of their collective: “Flamengo can get this long-awaited victory. They’ll have to go into the match with more than 100% energy to challenge a team of Bayern’s stature.” He added that eliminating a team with multiple Champions League titles could galvanize Flamengo’s push for a historic campaign.

From a tactical perspective, Flamengo’s speed in transition could be critical. Analyst insight from Lance notes that Bayern’s defense—anchored by Tah and Upamecano—offers physicality but lacks outright pace. This could open space for attackers Gonzalo Plata and Bruno Henrique, who are adept at exploiting gaps behind the backline. At the same time, the German side’s ability to break a high press, particularly through Kimmich and the fullbacks, requires Flamengo to press wisely and maintain structure.

Bayern’s own supporters, as quoted in Lance, appear to be split on their level of concern. While some are openly confident and looking past Flamengo, others referenced vulnerabilities on their own side and conceded that victory is far from guaranteed. Reactions ranged from “there’s no excuse for not beating Flamengo” to more cautious takes, with some eyeing potential future meetings with PSG in the next round.

For Flamengo, the pathway to the biggest stages is fraught—progression would likely set up consecutive encounters with Europe’s marquee clubs, akin to a mini-Champions League run. But for now, attention is fixed firmly on Bayern, with the club’s strategy revolving around high-intensity pressing and direct running from wide positions.

As preparation intensifies, with Friday’s schedule featuring training and a press conference from Danilo, Flamengo’s players and staff know the margins will be slim. Momentum from the group phase has buoyed belief, but Sunday’s test will demand precision and peak focus from the Rubro-Negro.

Sources: Lance

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