Daijiworld Media Network – Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro, Jul 1: In a turn of events that could redefine global club football dynamics, Brazilian clubs Fluminense and Palmeiras have emerged as powerhouses in the ongoing 32-team Club World Cup, shocking European giants Inter Milan and Manchester City with spirited performances that have validated South America’s resurgence on the world stage.
Fluminense, a 123-year-old club from Rio de Janeiro, stunned Inter Milan 2-0 in the round of 16 with early and late goals from German Cano and Hercules. Once flirting with relegation in Brazil, the team has made an emphatic leap under coach Renato Gaucho, who praised his players' belief and grit: “They have more money, but on the pitch it’s 11 against 11.”
In another seismic result, Saudi club Al-Hilal, coached by Simone Inzaghi, eliminated treble winners Manchester City 4-3. Inzaghi likened the feat to “climbing Mt Everest without oxygen.” The twin upsets sent ripples through European football and have brought unprecedented attention to the revamped Club World Cup being held in the USA.
Fluminense’s lineup boasts veterans like 40-year-old Thiago Silva and 44-year-old goalkeeper Fabio, who have anchored a squad built for resilience and tactical aggression. Their campaign included gritty draws against Borussia Dortmund and Mamelodi Sundowns, and a 4-2 victory over Ulsan Hyundai.
Meanwhile, Palmeiras, another Brazilian titan, reached the quarterfinals after beating domestic champions Botafogo. They now face Chelsea in a high-stakes encounter, further underlining Brazil’s intent to reclaim continental and global dominance.
The commitment of Brazilian clubs to this tournament is evident. The national league was paused for a month, allowing full preparation. “Teams are playing every game like it is the final,” said Flamengo coach Filipe Luis.
Historically, Brazilian clubs had defined intercontinental success—from Pelé’s Santos beating Benfica and Milan in the '60s to Flamengo’s rout of Liverpool in 1981. However, since Corinthians’ 2012 Club World Cup victory over Chelsea, no Brazilian team had overcome a European side until now.
The revival is being powered by robust investment. Clubs like Botafogo and Bahia now have backing from global football groups such as Crystal Palace’s John Textor and the City Football Group, respectively. Flamengo, Fluminense, and Palmeiras have retained top-tier South American talent like Jhon Arias, Flaco Lopez, and Giorgian de Arrascaeta—players yet to move to Europe but already stars on the world stage.
Brazilian clubs have also leaned on tactical innovation under foreign coaches, especially Portuguese tacticians like Abel Ferreira at Palmeiras, who have injected fresh energy and modern strategies.
As Fluminense prepare to face Al-Hilal and Palmeiras eye Chelsea, the momentum remains with Brazil. Legendary footballer Tostao recently asked whether fans could imagine a Brazilian club lifting the trophy. With current form and tactical discipline, that dream no longer feels far-fetched.