Flamengo head coach Filipe Luis has acknowledged that Europe still dominates world football following his team’s 4-2 loss to Bayern Munich in the last-16 round of the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday.
The Brazilian side fell behind early, conceding twice within the first 10 minutes. Although they managed to pull two goals back, Bayern maintained control throughout the match and advanced to face Paris Saint-Germain in the quarterfinals.
“The pressure they apply is relentless. They attack with eight to ten players at once,” said Luis, a former Atlético Madrid defender. “Our strategy was effective in parts that we created chances and pressed well but they were the better team. We’re up against the football elite here.”
Reflecting on the talent gap, Luis pointed to former Flamengo star Vinícius Júnior, now with Real Madrid. “If Vinícius had stayed, we’d have the best player in the world right now,” he said.
While Brazilian teams made strong showings in the group stage of the expanded tournament, European clubs were widely expected to dominate. Bayern’s win was seen as a reassertion of European superiority ahead of Inter Milan’s upcoming clash with Brazil’s Fluminense. On Saturday, Palmeiras advanced by defeating fellow Brazilian side Botafogo.
Speaking candidly, Luis admitted, “Even if we had won today or the tournament, it wouldn’t change the reality. European clubs have better players, it’s simply a fact. Many Brazilians play in Europe, but the best ones are over there.”
However, Bayern coach Vincent Kompany offered a more nuanced view. While he acknowledged the quality of European squads, he praised South American teams for their passion and tactical strength.
“Yes, quality matters but belief does too,” Kompany said. “South America produces some of the finest finishers and tacticians. Look at Marcelo Bielsa, look at Filipe Luis. Football runs deep in their culture.”
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