Flamengo Stun Chelsea to Continue South American Dominance at Club World Cup

Flamengo pulled off a dramatic comeback against Chelsea, winning 3-1 in Philadelphia to build on South America’s strong showing at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Chelsea took an early lead through Pedro Neto, who scored in the first half to put the Premier League side in control. However, Flamengo turned the game around after the break, with Bruno Henrique leveling in the 62nd minute before Danilo put the Brazilian giants ahead just three minutes later. Chelsea’s troubles deepened as Nicolas Jackson was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge soon after. Flamengo’s Wallace Yan sealed the win with a third goal in the 83rd minute, sending the large group of traveling fans into celebration and securing the club’s second victory in Group D.

Flamengo now lead Group D with six points from two matches, while Chelsea remain on three points. Flamengo’s win also marks a rare and significant result, being the first time since Vasco da Gama’s 3-1 victory over Manchester United in 2000 that a South American side has beaten a European team by more than one goal in a FIFA international club competition.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

This latest Club World Cup result underlines the resurgence of South American club football. With former Chelsea defender Filipe Luís at the helm and veteran Jorginho, another ex-Chelsea player, anchoring the midfield, Flamengo’s mix of experience and flair proved too much for a Chelsea side reduced to ten men in the second half.

Flamengo’s performances so far in the tournament have put them on the brink of qualification to the knockout rounds. Chelsea, meanwhile, will now face added pressure in their last group match after missing chances to extend their first-half lead.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Flamengo’s final Group D game will depend on the result between Esperance de Tunis and LAFC. Should either side fail to win, Flamengo’s place in the knockout round is guaranteed. For Chelsea, their last group match against Esperance de Tunis on Tuesday becomes critical. A loss could see them risk an early exit from the tournament. In the Premier League, Chelsea will be looking to bounce back, currently sitting mid-table and trying to close the gap to European qualification spots. Flamengo will also aim to carry this momentum into domestic competitions in Brazil, where they are fighting at the top end of the league.