That draw extended Flamengo’s unbeaten run to 11 matches, including eight wins. Though they may have preferred to face Benfica or Boca Juniors at this stage, the Brazilian outfit remains full of belief — especially after a convincing 3-1 win over Chelsea.
While their style of play might not be the most eye-catching, Flamengo have been remarkably efficient.
Coach Filipe Luis — a former left-back — has successfully instilled his philosophy, with the team conceding just two goals in the group stage and allowing only one shot with an expected goals (xG) value over 0.2.
Flamengo have also enjoyed tremendous fan support throughout the tournament. A crowd of 54,000 watched them defeat Chelsea, and a similarly electric atmosphere is expected at Hard Rock Stadium as the Brazilians look to spring another surprise.
The only player unavailable for Flamengo is Nicolas de la Cruz, but several key players are expected to return after being rested against LAFC.
Gerson, Erick Pulgar, and Jorginho should resume their roles in midfield, while Ayrton Lucas and Leo Pereira are set to return to the backline. Gonzalo Plata is also expected to start up front.
However, the spotlight will be firmly on Giorgian De Arrascaeta. The Brazilian league’s top scorer — with nine goals in nine games this season — has continued his red-hot form in this tournament, scoring on matchday one just days after netting a crucial goal for Uruguay in World Cup qualifying.
As for Bayern, Kompany is expected to make several changes following heavy rotation in their final group match.
Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Kingsley Coman are likely to return as the front three, with Jonathan Tah slotting into central defense. Jamal Musiala is also expected to make his first start of the tournament.
However, Bayern will still be without key defenders Kim Min-jae, Alphonso Davies, and Hiroki Ito due to injuries. Eric Dier has also been left out of the Club World Cup squad.
Predicted Lineups:
Flamengo:
Rossi; Wesley Franca, Danilo, Leo Pereira, Ayrton Lucas; Pulgar, Jorginho, Gerson; De Arrascaeta, Plata, Luiz Araujo
Bayern Munich:
Neuer; Laimer, Tah, Upamecano, Guerreiro; Goretzka, Kimmich; Olise, Musiala, Coman; Kane
