Can a South American Team Win the Club World Cup?

Can a South American Team Win the Club World Cup?

South American clubs have made a thunderous impact at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, raising hopes of a long-awaited triumph over European giants.

With six teams from Brazil and Argentina participating in the revamped 32-team format, Flamengo boss Filipe Luis says “anybody can win” after his side stunned Chelsea with a 3-1 victory.

South America Off to a Flying Start

Until Boca Juniors’ narrow 2-1 defeat to Bayern Munich, South American teams were unbeaten after nine matches in the group stage. Here’s how the continent’s representatives have fared so far:

• Flamengo: 2 wins (vs ES Tunis and Chelsea) – Top of Group D

• Botafogo: 2 wins, including a shock 1-0 victory over PSG – Top of Group B

• Palmeiras: 4 points from 2 matches – Top of Group A

• River Plate: 3-1 win over Urawa Red Diamonds – Group E leaders

• Fluminense: Held Borussia Dortmund to a 0-0 draw

• Boca Juniors: 1 win, 1 loss – Still in contention but need a big win

The last South American winners were Corinthians in 2012, and since then, European clubs have dominated. But this year’s tournament tells a different story.

“South American clubs are used to adapting – different altitudes, weather, pitches,” said Luis, who masterminded Flamengo’s win over his former club Chelsea.

Mid-Season Advantage?

One theory behind the strong South American start is timing: while European clubs arrive at the tournament after gruelling domestic and continental campaigns, South American sides are in mid-season rhythm.

Former Brazil international Kleberson echoed the sentiment, telling DAZN:

“Players want to prove they can compete with Europe. The hunger is visible.”

Players and Coaches Making Statements

Brazilian talent has taken centre stage, with Igor Jesus scoring Botafogo’s winner against PSG.

“I could have gone to Nottingham Forest, but staying with Botafogo was the right choice,” he said.

Renato Paiva, Botafogo’s manager, praised the collective strength of Brazilian football:

“This is a victory for all the coaches working in Brazil. We showed we belong on the world stage.”

European Pressure Mounts

As Flamengo, Botafogo, Palmeiras and River Plate top their groups, European giants are under pressure. Chelsea’s defeat and PSG’s shock loss to Botafogo highlight how competitive this tournament has become.

Michael Olise’s late goal against Auckland City and Bayern Munich’s narrow escape against Boca Juniors are reminders that European dominance is no longer guaranteed.

Can History Be Rewritten?

With knockout rounds looming, South America appears primed for a breakthrough.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if a South American team wins it,” Luis confidently said.

The performances so far suggest that dream is very much alive.