Flamengo overturned a first-half deficit to beat Chelsea 3-1 in their Club World Cup Group D match on Friday, earning a second straight win.
Pedro Neto gave Chelsea the lead early on, but the Premier League side failed to convert further chances, allowing Flamengo to mount a spirited comeback.
The Brazilian side struck twice in quick succession through Bruno Henrique and Danilo in the 62nd and 65th minutes to turn the game around.
Chelsea’s hopes were further dashed when Nicolas Jackson received a straight red card for a dangerous studs-up tackle in the 68th minute.
Flamengo sealed the win in the 83rd minute when Wallace Yan converted a rebound after a strong run and cross from Gonzalo Plata.
The result leaves Flamengo top of Group D with six points from two matches, while Chelsea sit second with three points.
Esperance de Tunis and Los Angeles FC are yet to earn a point, though both have a match in hand.
Flamengo started with intensity, pressing Chelsea high and forcing errors, but early chances were denied by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
Luiz Araujo, Giorgian de Arrascaeta, and Ayrton Lucas were all kept out in the opening spell despite Flamengo’s dominance.
Chelsea took the lead in the 13th minute when Wesley misjudged a clearance and slipped, allowing Neto to pounce on the loose ball.
Neto advanced unmarked and calmly slotted past Agustin Rossi to put the English side ahead against the run of play.
The goal boosted Chelsea’s confidence, with Malo Gusto and Liam Delap testing Rossi as they looked to extend their advantage.
Flamengo nearly equalised just before halftime, but Enzo Fernandez cleared a Gerson volley off the line to keep Chelsea ahead.
Chelsea also had a penalty appeal waved away when Fernandez appeared to be tugged in the area.
Flamengo responded strongly after the break, with substitute Bruno Henrique making an immediate impact in the 62nd minute.
Gerson’s deep cross found Gonzalo Plata, who headed across goal for Henrique to tap in the equaliser.
Three minutes later, Flamengo scored again from a corner as Henrique’s header set up Danilo for a close-range finish.
Jackson, who had only just come on, was sent off minutes later for a reckless challenge on Ayrton Lucas.
Flamengo capitalised on the numerical advantage and added a third in the 83rd minute through Wallace Yan’s composed finish. (Reuters/NAN)
