Group D action at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off with a high-stakes clash between Flamengo and Tunisia's Esperance at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The Brazilian powerhouse booked their ticket to the tournament after lifting the 2022 Copa Libertadores and now has set their sights on global glory once again.
Flamengo, runners-up to Liverpool in the 2019 edition and champions of South America three times, haven't held the Club World Cup title since their lone triumph 44 years ago. With Chelsea looming as the group favourites, this opener is crucial for the Brazilians.
Led by coach Filipe Luis, the Flamengo squad boasts experienced names like Alex Sandro, Arrascaeta, and Pedro. They arrive in top form, unbeaten in their last eight outings and through to the Copa Libertadores Round of 16.
On the other side, Esperance de Tunis, one of Africa's most storied clubs, will be aiming to cause an upset or two. Fresh off a narrow defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Champions League final, the Tunisian champions are unbeaten in 10 matches and will be desperate to start strong. With upcoming fixtures against LAFC and Chelsea, a win here could turn Group D on its head.
As per Paddy Power odds, Flamengo are overwhelming favourites at 1/3, while a surprise Esperance win would return a massive 17/2. A draw is priced at 7/2, making this one a fascinating battle of continents with everything on the line.
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The Sporting News presents predictions and predictions to bet and make the match more exciting.
Flamengo vs. Esperance prediction, tips, bet builder and odds for Club World Cup clash
Both Teams To Score: 29/20 (Paddy Power)
With Flamengo and Esperance set to square off in a cross-continental showdown, the stage is set for goals at both ends. The Brazilian side has been in red-hot scoring form, netting 12 times in their last four outings and breaking the deadlock in seven of their past eight games.
On the flip side, Esperance brings their own firepower to the table, led by Brazilian forward Yan Sasse (anytime goal scorer at 20/1), the Tunisian giants have struck first in nine of their last 10 matches and found the back of the net in each of their last three. All signs point to a wide-open contest with scoring chances for both sides.
Giorgian de Arrascaeta to score at anytime: 5/1 (Paddy Power)
Flamengo might have plenty of attacking flair up front with names like Bruno Henrique, Gonzalo Plata, and Pedro, but it's midfield maestro Giorgian de Arrascaeta who's been doing the damage in the Brasileirao. Surprisingly clinical for a playmaker, the Uruguayan leads the league with nine goals in as many games, edging out top strikers like Vegetti (Vasco) and Kaio Jorge (Cruzeiro), both sitting on eight. He's also among the top five assist providers with four to his name. With those numbers, backing De Arrascaeta to hit the net against Espérance looks like solid value.
Flamengo vs. Esperance predicted score and most likely results
Here's some of the most likely results for this Club World Cup match-up, according to Spreadex. Odds are correct at the time of publish, but are subject to change.
| Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| Flamengo 1-0 | 24/5 |
| Flamengo 2-0 | 19/4 |
| Flamengo 3-0 | 7/1 |
| Flamengo 2-1 | 8/1 |
| Draw 1-1 | 8/1 |
| Draw 0-0 | 8/1 |
| Esperance 1-0 | 18/1 |
How to watch Flamengo vs. Esperance in Club World Cup action
- Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
- Venue: Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Time: 2:00 a.m. BST
- TV/Streaming: DAZN