Brazilian club Flamengo delivered a masterclass in resilience, overturning a first-half deficit to defeat Chelsea 3-1 in a pulsating FIFA Club World Cup group stage match on Friday. The victory extends South American teams' strong record in the tournament and electrified the 54,019 fans in attendance, many clad in Flamengo's iconic red and black.
Chelsea struck first through Pedro Neto's early goal, but Flamengo's relentless pressure—spearheaded by substitute Bruno Henrique—turned the tide. Henrique equalized in the 61st minute before assisting Danilo's go-ahead goal just six minutes later. Chelsea's hopes dimmed further when Nicolas Jackson received a straight red card in the 68th minute, with Wallace Yan sealing Flamengo's victory in stoppage time.
"This win belongs to our supporters who turned this into a home game," said Flamengo coach Filipe Luis, a former Chelsea defender. His team now leads Group D after two wins, while Chelsea must defeat Tunisia's Esperance in their final match to advance.
Despite the setback, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca acknowledged Flamengo's dominance: "They capitalized on crucial moments—the quick goals and red card changed everything. We'll regroup for our decisive match."
The result highlights South America's growing challenge to European football supremacy, with Flamengo joining fellow Brazilian clubs Palmeiras and Corinthians as recent Club World Cup contenders.
