Flamengo break record, but Bayern end dream | OneFootball

According to UOL and Lance, Flamengo’s run at the 2025 Club World Cup came to an end in Miami after a 4-2 defeat to Bayern Munich, concluding a campaign that saw the Brazilian side break a tournament scoring record but fall short in a high-pressure knockout clash.

From the outset, defensive lapses left Flamengo chasing the game. Bayern capitalized early, with Joshua Kimmich’s corner deflecting in off Erick Pulgar for an own goal, before Harry Kane doubled the advantage just three minutes later after Dayot Upamecano pressed high to force a turnover. Gerson’s volley near the half-hour mark briefly reignited hope for Flamengo, but Leon Goretzka’s strike from distance reestablished Bayern’s two-goal cushion.

A suspected right foot fracture forced Pulgar off before halftime, further thinning Flamengo’s midfield options. The Brazilian team responded in the second half, and a handball by Michael Olise resulted in a penalty converted by Jorginho to bring the match to 3-2. However, another Flamengo error in possession led to Kane’s second goal, sealing Bayern’s win.

Flamengo players were quick to reflect on the significance of small margins at this level. “We started the match making mistakes we usually don't make. Against a team of this quality, every detail is decisive,” said defender Léo Pereira. “We learned a lot from this game—high intensity, high pressing. We have to bring this rhythm back to Brazil.” Midfielder Jorginho echoed the sentiment, accepting that “a bit of naivety” and minor errors proved costly, but stressed that the experience would serve as motivation for the rest of the season.

Statistics showed a competitive contest: Flamengo edged possession numbers and outshot Bayern, but the German side demonstrated clinical efficiency, finishing four of their eight shots on target. Manuel Neuer’s experience in goal included only one significant save, yet he and Flamengo’s Agustín Rossi captured attention with a post-match display of camaraderie in the stadium corridors—an image widely shared among supporters.

Despite the result, Flamengo’s attack reached a milestone. Goals from Gerson and Jorginho brought Flamengo’s all-time tally in the Club World Cup to 20, surpassing Santos to set a new mark for South American teams. Gerson’s opener also carried added meaning, as he is set to leave Flamengo for Zenit St. Petersburg, with this potentially his final appearance for the club after the completion of his transfer.

Flamengo’s elimination puts an end to their hopes of a lucrative run deeper in the tournament and means their focus now returns to domestic competition, with their next Brasileirão fixture scheduled against Santos. The extent of Pulgar’s injury remains uncertain as the squad regroups in Brazil and reflects on a campaign marked by both progress and visible lessons for the future.

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