The World Club Cup has sparked an intriguing debate: are South American teams thriving because their European counterparts are worn out from a long season? It’s a topic that’s been buzzing around the tournament, as people search for reasons behind the impressive performances of teams that, on paper, should be the strongest in the world.
European teams are indeed nearing the end of their season, and some may view this competition as a precursor to their preseason. However, the Brazilian football calendar is notoriously demanding. Numbers from the statistical platform Sofascore reveal that the four Brazilian teams competing in the World Club Cup – all of which are currently leading their respective groups – have played the most games between June 14, 2024, and June 14, 2025.
The Most Exhausted Teams
According to Sofascore, the top 18 teams with the most games played during this period are:
- Flamengo – 77 games
- Botafogo – 73 games
- Fluminense – 72 games
The Benfica and FC Porto teams also rank among the top 10.
Despite their packed schedules, these Brazilian teams are dominating their groups. This raises questions about the impact of a congested calendar on team performance. Is it possible that the European teams’ exhaustion is giving their South American counterparts an edge?
Expert Insights
While the demanding Brazilian football calendar may be a factor, it’s essential to consider other aspects that might be contributing to the European teams’ fatigue. The World Club Cup is a prestigious tournament, and teams from both continents are eager to prove themselves. As the competition heats up, it will be fascinating to see how these teams navigate their schedules and adapt to the challenges ahead.
The stats are clear: Brazilian teams have played more games than their European counterparts. But will this advantage be enough to propel them to victory in the World Club Cup? Only time will tell.