Flamengo -Manager Filipe Luis promised on Thursday that his team will remain faithful to their “fierce, ruthless style” while preparing for Chelsea in a long -awaited Club World Cup meeting on Friday.
Flamengo, which is at the top of the Brazilian competition, will end a 13-year-old Winless Streak for South American teams against European counterparts. The side comes the game in sparkling form after five consecutive victories in all competitions, including a convincing 2-0 victory over Esperance de Tunis in their tournament opener.
Prior to the match, Filipe Luis emphasized his relentless belief in the philosophy of his team.
“Never give up your beliefs. I have a conviction, a very clear idea of ​​what I think of the game,” he told reporters.
“I would never change my team because of an opponent. It would be complete and absolutely wrong for the players. We will play as we have been preparing for eight months.”
Filipe Luis has built a flamengo side that thrive in controlling possession and dictating the pace of competitions. However, he acknowledged that Friday's collision with Chelsea will require “sacrifice” and emphasized the importance of an experienced defense with former Juventus full-backs Danilo and Alex Sandro against the quality of the Premier League side.
“There always helps that these elite clubs have decisive players who do not lose the ball and create dangerous plays,” said the Flamengo coach.
“We know it will be a game of sacrifice. We will not always have the ball, and if we don't, we must run together and fight like a team. The players understand this because they have been doing it since I was their teammate and now as their coach.”
Flamengo Lead Group D with three points, which pointed Chelsea to the top location because of the tiebreak criterion of yellow cards. Los Angeles FC and Esperance have to register another point and will meet in the other group institution on Friday.
Filipe Luis, who played for Chelsea during his career, expressed faith in the unity and determination of his team.
“The only way to win is with all 11 players who pull in the same direction. Knowing that this is the way forward, we certainly have a chance,” he said.
Friday's game promises a collision of styles, with Flamengo's attacking flair and on possession based on Chelsea's defensive firmness and individual talent.