Flamengo warned: MLS upstarts bring World Cup surprise package | OneFootball

Flamengo now have clarity on the final hurdle of their Club World Cup group stage, with Los Angeles FC joining Group D after a dramatic 2-1 win over Club América. The match, played in Los Angeles, saw LAFC seize their shot at a ticket to the tournament after edging out their Mexican rivals in extra time.

The United States side had initially reached this play-off by finishing as runners-up in the 2023 Concacaf Champions League, after losing to León, who secured direct qualification. In León's absence, LAFC earned a second chance and capitalized on it, overcoming América with goals from Igor Jesus—himself a product of Flamengo's academy—and Denis Bouanga. Bouanga’s decisive late strike, aided by a deflection, ensured their place in the group.

Flamengo will face LAFC in the last group stage clash, set for June 24 in Orlando—an encounter that promises to be closely watched. Group D also features Chelsea and Esperánce, making progression anything but routine for the Rio club.

LAFC are relative newcomers on the international stage, having been founded in 2014. They have quickly built a reputation in Major League Soccer and are backed by high-profile talents. Their squad includes two members of France’s 2018 World Cup-winning side: goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and forward Olivier Giroud, who both joined the American club in 2024. Denis Bouanga, whose pace and directness have unsettled MLS defenses, is another name for Flamengo’s back line to monitor closely. Bouanga has scored 11 times in 21 appearances this season.

Notably, Igor Jesus, scorer of the crucial play-off equalizer, is a familiar face for Flamengo fans. The Brazilian forward was developed at Flamengo before moving to the United States, and his impact off the bench against América reinforces LAFC’s attacking depth.

Expectations are already being managed by local media and observers. Commentary during the play-off’s broadcast suggested that Flamengo should not underestimate LAFC, describing their style as tricky, with Bouanga singled out as a particular threat.

LAFC begin their World Cup campaign against Chelsea on June 16, before meeting Esperánce. For Flamengo, the LAFC clash will be the final group match—a potentially pivotal fixture if qualification hangs in the balance.

In Major League Soccer, LAFC sit sixth in the Western Conference, with six wins, five draws, and four defeats from 15 matches, showing steady, if not dominant, form.

For Flamengo, every detail will matter as they prepare for LAFC’s mix of fresh ambition and seasoned quality, looking to ensure there are no surprises when the group stage concludes.

Source: Lance