Flamengo vs ES Tunis

p>In a thrilling Club World Cup opener in Philadelphia, South American powerhouse Flamengo faces off against African giants Esperance Tunis, both aiming to kick off their campaigns with a victory.

Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most prominent clubs, are among the favorites to go deep in the tournament, while Esperance Tunis enters as underdogs, especially with Chelsea also competing for a top-two spot in Group D.

Boasting two Copa Libertadores titles in the last six years, Flamengo’s financial strength allows them to compete across multiple competitions each season. Their latest continental triumph in 2022 secured their spot in FIFA’s revamped Club World Cup.

Although they haven’t won the Brazilian Serie A since 2020, Flamengo are currently leading the league with an impressive 24 goals in 11 matches—their best start since 2008. Under head coach Filipe Luis, a former Flamengo and Atletico Madrid defender, the team’s bold, high-pressing approach has paid dividends.

Flamengo are no strangers to global competitions, having reached the Club World Cup final in 2019, where they fell to Liverpool, and famously defeating the same opponents 3-0 in the 1985 Intercontinental Cup. With ambitions to claim the title this time, a misstep in their opening match could jeopardize their chances.

Meanwhile, Esperance Tunis earned their place in the tournament as Africa’s highest-ranked eligible club over a four-year period. The Tunisian side has struggled in past Club World Cup appearances, winning just one of six matches, against Al Sadd in 2019.

However, they dominate domestically, securing more Tunisian league titles than any other club, including eight of the last nine. Despite losing to Al Ahly in last year’s CAF Champions League final, Esperance have four continental titles to their name, proving their credentials.

Under coach Maher Kanzari, who led them to a league-and-cup double last season—their first in 14 years—Esperance have been in top form, winning nine of their last 10 matches across all competitions while keeping eight clean sheets.

Yet, to advance from a tough Group D featuring Chelsea, LAFC, and Flamengo, they’ll need to elevate their game significantly for a shot at one of their greatest-ever achievements.