A goal in each half saw Flamengo kick off their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) campaign with a solid three points after defeating Esperance Sportive de Tunis at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Flamengo’s closest shot at clinching the FIFA CWC title came in 2019, where they fell to Liverpool in extra time. That match in Qatar remains a bitter memory for the Brazilian side. Yet, intent on adding to their trophy collection, the Flamengo squad started the game with determination.
Leo Ortiz nearly opened the scoring with a header that sailed just over the crossbar just before the 15-minute mark.
Flamengo quickly made their pressure count. Having netted nine goals in just as many matches in the Brasileiro Serie A, Giorgian de Arrascaeta continued his rich vein of form by striking home a precise pass from Luiz Araujo in the 17th minute.
Captain Gerson then tested ES Tunis goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said with a powerful shot as Flamengo maintained their grip on the game. The first half progressed with the same intensity, leaving Agustin Rossi, Flamengo’s keeper, untroubled up to the half-time break.
Despite a brief foray into Flamengo’s half, ES Tunis relied on Ben Said once again, denying Pedro the opportunity to extend the lead in the 53rd minute.
The Brazilian forward was left stunned when Ben Said managed to get a hand to a shot, denying what appeared to be a certain goal following excellent play from Arrascaeta down the flank.
The Tunisian champions showed signs of improvement as the game went on and finally produced a meaningful effort on target in the 67th minute, but Rossi was up to the task, using his leg to thwart Youcef Belaili.
However, man-of-the-match Luiz Araujo delivered the decisive blow just three minutes later. After being set up by debutant Jorginho, Araujo showcased his skills by curling a stunning shot into the far corner of the net.
This impressive opener sets Flamengo in a strong position ahead of their upcoming clash with the 2024/25 UEFA Conference League winners, Chelsea, who secured a 2-0 victory over Los Angeles on Monday.
Meanwhile, ES Tunis will face Chelsea later this week, aware that a loss would likely seal their exit from the tournament.
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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