‘People are supporting Manchester City, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain… wow, what about Brazil? Let’s support the Brazilian clubs, guys’, he said
Vanderlei Luxemburgo once again expressed confidence in the potential of Brazilian clubs in the FIFA Club World Cup. In a video posted on his social media, the coach argued that Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense 和 Botafogo have real conditions to reach the final of the competition, contradicting the skepticism of part of the national fans.
“Palmeiras is one of the candidates to qualify. It will qualify. I think Palmeiras, Flamengo, Botafogo and Fluminense are big clubs in Brazil. They are in the middle of the season, and the others are just starting their season. There is a good chance that we will have a Brazilian team in the final of the competition”, declared Luxemburgo, highlighting the physical advantage of Brazilian clubs over European ones, which face the wear and tear of the end of the season combined with the heat.
Luxemburgo criticized the attitude of fans who, according to him, underestimate the representatives of Brazil. “We are very skeptical about Brazilian football, everything is very bad. They are rooting for Manchester City, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain… damn, what about Brazil? Let’s root for the Brazilian clubs, guys”, reinforced the former coach, asking for more support for the strength of national football.
In addition to the sporting prestige, Brazilian clubs also have strong financial motivations in the tournament. According to data released by FIFA, each participating Brazilian team will receive a share of US$ 15.21 million (approximately R$ 86 million) just for being in the competition. The total value in prizes can reach up to US$ 125 million (approximately R$ 713 million), considering the quotas per phase and extra prizes.
The tournament champion will pocket US$ 40 million, while the runner-up will receive US$ 30 million. The previous stages will also guarantee prizes: US$7.5 million in the round of 16, US$13.125 million in the quarterfinals and US$21 million in the semifinals. In fact, victories in the group stage will yield US$2 million, and draws, US$1 million.
Therefore, in addition to the sporting possibility highlighted by Luxemburgo, the World Cup represents a significant economic opportunity for Brazilian clubs, which have four representatives in the 2025 edition. The high level of prize money and the structure of the competition reinforce the impact that the tournament can have both on and off the field.
