Neuer’s dig, Pulgar’s blow: Flamengo’s night to forget | OneFootball

According to Globo, Flamengo’s Club World Cup journey ended in bitter fashion on Sunday as Bayern Munich secured a 4-2 win in Miami, eliminating the Brazilian side at the round of 16 stage. The match reflected both the quality and vulnerabilities in Filipe’s Flamengo squad, with defensive errors and the loss of key midfielder Erick Pulgar compounding their disappointment.

Bayern wasted no time gaining control, going ahead by two inside the first eight minutes. Erick Pulgar deflected a Joshua Kimmich corner into his own net before Harry Kane pounced on another Flamengo mistake to double the lead. Although Gerson briefly pulled a goal back with a well-taken volley, Leon Goretzka soon restored Bayern’s two-goal cushion before halftime.

Pulgar’s evening ended early after he suffered a right foot injury following a collision with Kane. Tests later confirmed a fracture of the fifth metatarsal—the same injury that sidelined him for two months in 2023. While his initial recovery last year did not require surgery, Flamengo medical staff are considering an operation this time, given the recurrence. Pulgar is set to return to Brazil for further evaluation, and his status for upcoming domestic and continental fixtures is uncertain.

With Pulgar forced off, Flamengo’s midfield was reconfigured, but they continued to push in the second half. Jorginho’s penalty after a Bayern handball cut the deficit to 3-2, raising hope for a comeback. However, another error at the back allowed Kane to finish his brace, ending Flamengo’s hopes.

Post-match, Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer described the victory as “easy,” telling reporters in a mix of Spanish and English, “No, it was not complicated. Easy.” Neuer’s comments, captured on video by Peruvian journalists, have drawn attention among Flamengo fans, underlining just how comfortable Bayern felt despite flashes of resistance from the Brazilian side.

The stats painted a picture of a competitive contest, with Flamengo edging possession but failing to convert that control into a result. Defensive lapses—particularly in the opening quarter of an hour—undermined their efforts despite positive performances in attack and spells of pressure.

Flamengo, who return to Brazil on Tuesday, must now regroup and refocus on the Brasileirão, Copa do Brasil, and Libertadores. The injury to Pulgar is a particular concern, with decisions on his treatment to be finalized upon the squad’s arrival in Rio de Janeiro. Flamengo’s next test comes against São Paulo in the national league, where they currently lead the standings.

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images