Flamengo Win FIFA Challenger Cup, Set Up Intercontinental Final Clash With PSG

CR Flamengo lifted the FIFA Challenger Cup for the second consecutive year after securing a 2-0 victory over Egypt’s Pyramids FC at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, sealing their place in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025 final against Paris Saint-Germain.

The Brazilian side, coached by former Brazil international Filipe Luis, arrived in Qatar in outstanding form as reigning CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores and Brazil Serie A champions. The latest triumph followed their 2-1 win over Cruz Azul in the FIFA Derby of the Americas earlier in the tournament.

Flamengo dominate from the start

Flamengo asserted control from the opening whistle, dominating possession and pinning African champions Pyramids FC deep in their own half. Their early pressure was rewarded in the 24th minute when Giorgian de Arrascaeta delivered a pinpoint free kick from the left, allowing Léo Pereira to head home from close range past goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy.

Fresh from scoring twice against Cruz Azul, de Arrascaeta continued to orchestrate Flamengo’s attacking play, while Pyramids struggled to gain a foothold in midfield. The Egyptian side’s first clear chance came just before half-time when Fiston Mayele broke through on goal, only to be denied by a decisive intervention from Flamengo goalkeeper Agustín Rossi.

Set pieces seal the win

Pyramids FC emerged with greater urgency after the break, with Mayele firing over the bar and Mahmoud Zalaka striking the side netting as they searched for an equaliser. However, Flamengo quickly reasserted their authority.

In the 52nd minute, de Arrascaeta once again proved decisive from a set piece, delivering a superb free kick that Danilo met with a powerful header into the right corner to double Flamengo’s lead.

Despite late pressure from Pyramids, including efforts from Mohanad Lashin and substitute Ahmed Atef, Flamengo’s defence held firm. The Brazilian side nearly added a third in stoppage time when Pedro forced a sharp save from El Shenawy.

Final against PSG awaits

The final whistle confirmed Flamengo’s 2-0 victory, the FIFA Challenger Cup title, and a high-profile Intercontinental Cup final against European champions Paris Saint-Germain. The showdown will see South America’s and Europe’s champions face off under the lights in Qatar, setting the stage for one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.