Journalist names Flamengo and Fluminense favorites; Botafogo eliminated from the 2025 Club World Cup

The draw for the 2025 Club World Cup groups brought a mix of optimism and concern to Brazilian clubs, especially those from Rio. Flamengo and Fluminense appear as favorites in their respective groups, while Botafogo, according to the projection of ESPN journalist Felipe Motta, should be eliminated in the group stage.

Flamengo and Fluminense with real possibilities of advancing

Flamengo (Group D)
Current champion of the Libertadores, Flamengo is in Group D, along with Chelsea (ING), Espérance de Túnis (TUN) and León (MEX). Felipe Motta believes that Rubro-Negro and Chelsea have a large favoritism, which could take the Rio club to the round of 16. The team led by Tite has a strong and experienced squad, accustomed to international decisions.

Fluminense (Group F)
In Group F, Fluminense will face Borussia Dortmund (ALE), Ulsan Hyundai (COR) and Mamelodi Sundowns (AFS). Fernando Diniz’s team, champion of the Copa Libertadores, will have to fight directly with Borussia for the lead. The dynamic football of Tricolor das Laranjeiras, directed by Germán Cano, promises to make the difference in advancing to the round of 16.

Botafogo faces difficulties in Group B
Botafogo, which fell into Group B along with Paris Saint-Germain (FRA), Atlético de Madrid (ESP) and Seattle Sounders (USA), has a much more complicated challenge. Despite the good moment that Brazilian football is experiencing, Felipe Motta believes that the European favorites will advance, leaving Glorioso on the way.

Flamengo, Fluminense and Botafogo Groups

Group D (Flamengo)

Flamengo (BRA)
Chelsea (ESP)
Tunisian Hope (TUN)
Leon (MEX)

Group F (Fluminense)

Fluminense (BRA)
Borussia Dortmund (ALE)
Ulsan Hyundai (COLOR)
Mamelodi Sunsets (AFS)

Group B (Botafogo)

Paris Saint-Germain (FRA)
Atlético de Madrid (ESP)
Botafogo (BRA)
Seattle Sounders (United States)

Expectations for Rio clubs

Flamengo and Fluminense have consolidated squads and recent experience in international tournaments, which increases their chances of qualifying. Flamengo faces a competitive but accessible group, while Fluminense needs to overcome the strong Borussia Dortmund team. Botafogo, which is once again competing in a major international competition, will face European giants and will need above-average performances to surprise.