Revisiting Corinthians' 2000 FIFA Club World Cup campaign | OneFootball

In 2000, Brazil hosted FIFA's first official Club World Cup, staged in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Corinthians, representing the host nation as reigning Brazilian champions, seized the chance to make history. They lifted the trophy after a goalless final against Vasco da Gama, settled on penalties at the Maracanã, becoming the first FIFA-recognised world champions.

According to Meu Timao, Oswaldo de Oliveira led a side featuring Dida, Vampeta, Freddy Rincón, Marcelinho Carioca and Luizão. Packed crowds in the Maracanã and Morumbi embraced the tournament's new format.

Drawn in Group A with Real Madrid, Al Nassr and Raja Casablanca, Corinthians opened with a 2-0 win over Raja at the Morumbi. A 2-2 draw with Real Madrid underlined their credentials. They then beat Al Nassr 2-0 to top the group on seven points, ahead on goal difference.

The final pitted them against Vasco, winners of Group B ahead of Manchester United, Necaxa and South Melbourne. After a tense 0-0 across 90 minutes and extra time, penalties decided it. Rincón, Fernando Baiano, Luizão and Edu scored, Marcelinho missed, Dida saved from Gilberto and Edmundo missed the final Vasco kick.

Dida's authority defined the campaign, especially in the shootout. Rincón led the midfield with steel, Vampeta added energy, and Marcelinho influenced key moments despite his miss. Edílson struck twice against Real Madrid, while a seasoned back line and Oswaldo de Oliveira's balance-first approach underpinned the run.

Source: Meu Timao