Flamengo counted on goals from Arrascaeta and Luiz Araújo to make a winning debut in the FIFA Club World Cup
Flamengo made a great debut in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. This Monday (16/6), at Lincoln Financial Field, in Philadelphia, the red-and-black team controlled Espérance Tunis and won 2-0, with goals from midfielder Arrascaeta and forward Luiz Araújo.
With the victory, the team led by Filipe Luís took first place in Group D, with the same three points as second-placed Chelsea, but with an advantage in the tiebreaker criteria. With zero points, Espérance and Los Angeles FC complete the group. The red-and-black team returns to the field against the English team, this Friday (20/6), starting at 3 pm (Brasília time). On the same day, but at 8:00 p.m. (Brasília time), the Tunisian team will face Los Angeles FC.
Flamengo opened the scoring in the 16th minute of the first half, when right-back Varela found Luiz Araújo in the box. The number 7 passed to Arrascaeta, who finished first to put the Brazilians ahead: 1-0.
Shortly after, in the 18th minute, midfielder Gerson had the chance to extend the lead when he took advantage of a rebound inside the box, but he was unsuccessful in his shot. The red-and-black team’s intensity diminished after 30 minutes, but goalkeeper Rossi didn’t even have to get his uniform dirty, as Espérance failed to create any offensive chances. In the second half, Pedro came close to scoring.
The center forward had two opportunities, one of which he was alone in the penalty area and only had to push into the back of the net, but he failed on both occasions. As the minutes went by, Espérance launched more attacks, but their shots did not pose any threat to the Rio goal.
And, when the Tunisians were enjoying their best moment in the match, the bucket of cold water came. At 24′, midfielder Jorginho found Luiz Araújo inside the area. The forward adjusted and crossed the ball with his left foot, leaving goalkeeper Bem Said with no chance: 2-0. With a two-goal lead, Flamengo had only to continue controlling Espérance’s attempts, which were unable to break through the Brazilian defense. The match, then, ended without any further changes on the scoreboard.
