Flamengo started their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign on a high note, securing a comfortable 2-0 victory against Esperance Sportive de Tunis at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The match, part of Group D, saw the Brazilian side dominate proceedings with goals from Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Luiz Araujo.
From the kickoff, Flamengo showcased their intent to control the game. Their early pressure paid off in the 17th minute when Giorgian de Arrascaeta clinically finished a precise pass from Luiz Araujo, putting Flamengo ahead. Flamengo continued to press, with captain Gerson testing Esperance's goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said with a fierce strike. Despite Flamengo's dominance, Esperance struggled to create any significant chances in the first half, with their goalkeeper, Agustin Rossi, remaining untested.
The second half saw a more spirited Esperance side emerge. Ben Said was called into action again in the 53rd minute, denying Pedro from doubling Flamengo's lead after some brilliant build-up play. The Tunisian champions began to find their footing and created their first real opportunity in the 67th minute. Youcef Belaili, Esperance's most influential player, forced a crucial save from Rossi, who stuck out a leg to deny the equalizer.
However, Flamengo quickly extinguished any hopes of an Esperance comeback. In the 70th minute, Luiz Araujo capped off his impressive performance with a stunning goal, assisted by Jorginho. Araujo's left-footed shot from the right side of the box found the bottom left corner, sealing the victory for Flamengo.
The match took place in front of 25,797 fans at Lincoln Financial Stadium, although the stadium's full capacity is 67,594.
With this win, Flamengo has positioned themselves strongly in Group D and will be looking to continue their form against Chelsea. For Esperance, this defeat means they will need to win against LAFC and hope for a draw between Chelsea and Flamengo to keep their hopes of advancing in the tournament alive.
The victory marks a positive start for Flamengo in their quest for their first FIFA Club World Cup title, after their near miss in 2019 where they were defeated by Liverpool in extra time.
