LAFC Clash with Flamengo: Match Preview, Expert Predictions and Expected Starting XI

LAFC's journey in the Club World Cup reaches its conclusion with a fixture against Flamengo, who have already secured their spot in the knockout phase as Group D winners.

The summer competition initially generated significant enthusiasm among LAFC supporters following their thrilling qualification process. However, consecutive losses without finding the back of the net have quickly dampened the optimism, leaving the MLS representatives playing solely for honor.

Flamengo, conversely, have delivered outstanding performances throughout. Their convincing triumph over Premier League powerhouse Chelsea in their previous outing sent a strong message to the remaining Club World Cup participants. The Brazilian outfit is currently enjoying a 10-match undefeated run and will pose a formidable threat in the knockout stages.

While both teams' destinies may already be sealed, this remains a captivating encounter featuring two elite clubs from North and South America - a rare spectacle in world football.

Here's Sports Illustrated's comprehensive preview of LAFC vs. Flamengo in the Club World Cup.

What time does LAFC vs. Flamengo Kick-Off?

LAFC vs. Flamengo Head-to-Head Record (All Time)

LAFC and Flamengo have never faced each other in any competition.

Current Form (All Competitions)

How to watch LAFC vs. Flamengo on TV

LAFC Team News

Steve Cherundolo's squad will be eager to conclude their Club World Cup journey positively and prevent finishing the group phase without earning any points.

To achieve this objective, their offensive unit must rediscover their scoring touch. Denis Bouanga has served as LAFC's primary goal scorer in recent seasons, but he wasted clear-cut chances against Chelsea in the tournament opener and subsequently missed a crucial penalty against ES Tunis that could have dramatically altered his team's tournament trajectory.

However, Bouanga requires support from his teammates. David Martínez has shown glimpses of brilliance but lacks composure in crucial moments to elevate his performance. Leading the attack, Olivier Giroud aims to make an impact in what might be his final appearance in elite international competitions for the former Arsenal and Chelsea striker.

Igor Jesus consistently poses an aerial danger during set-piece situations, and it should be noted that Cherundolo's defensive unit has generally remained solid throughout this tournament. LAFC's inability to score has been the primary factor behind their group stage elimination.

LAFC Predicted Lineup vs. Flamengo

LAFC Predicted Lineup vs. Flamengo (4-3-3): Lloris; Palencia, Long, Segura, Hollingshead; Tillman, Jesus, Delgado; Martínez, Giroud, Bouanga

Flamengo Team News

It would be accurate to state that Flamengo has emerged as one of the tournament's standout performers in the Club World Cup thus far.

Former Chelsea player Filipe Luis has made a seamless transition into his managerial role. Since assuming control of Flamengo in October of the previous year, he has already secured three trophies for "El Mengão" and his team has suffered only four defeats across all competitions since the beginning of 2025.

With Flamengo having already secured the group's top position, Luis might choose to give some of his experienced players a rest, including former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Jorginho.

Gérson and Erick Pulgar have performed admirably in this tournament, but having received yellow cards, they could be among the players rested ahead of the round of 16. The same applies to striker Gonzalo Plata, who scored twice in the victory over Chelsea.

Georgian de Arrascaeta will orchestrate the attack as Flamengo seeks to complete the group stage with an unblemished record.

Flamengo Predicted Lineup vs. LAFC

Flamengo Predicted Lineup vs. LAFC (4-2-3-1): Rossi; Wesley, Danilo, Pereira, Sandro; Allan, Araújo; Éverton, De Arrascaeta, Araújo; Pedro

LAFC vs. Flamengo Score Prediction

Even without deploying their strongest starting eleven, Flamengo have demonstrated they possess sufficient quality alternatives to trouble opposing defenses.

LAFC have nothing left to lose and will likely adopt an attacking approach from the opening whistle, determined to avoid concluding their Club World Cup campaign without registering a single goal. This aggressive strategy will leave them vulnerable at the back, and Flamengo's offensive options are well-equipped to capitalize on such opportunities.

Bouanga will finally end his goal drought, but the Brazilian side should advance to the round of 16 maintaining their perfect record.

Prediction: LAFC 1–2 Flamengo