The stage is set in Doha for a historic Intercontinental Cup final tonight, as South American giants Flamengo face European champions Paris Saint Germain, with both sides naming strong lineups for the chance to etch their name on a global trophy.
Flamengo possible starting XI: Rossi (GK); Varela, Danilo, Pereira, Lucas; Pulgar, Jorginho; Carrascal, De Arrascaeta, Everton; Plata.
Paris Saint Germain possible starting XI: Chevalier (GK); Zaire Emery, Beraldo, Marquinhos, Mendes; Vitinha; Neves, Kang-in; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia.
For PSG, this is the ultimate chance to finally claim that elusive first world title. Having fallen short in the Club World Cup earlier this year, Luis Enrique’s men arrive as Champions League holders and are unbeaten in their last three, boasting two clean sheets. The boost of Ousmane Dembele’s return from injury is tempered by the absence of the suspended Achraf Hakimi, but Lucas Chevalier is back in goal.
Standing in their way is a Flamengo side steeped in global pedigree. The Brazilian champions, who secured their final spot by winning the Challenger Cup, are already two time world champions and are chasing a second Intercontinental crown, their first since that famous 1981 win over Liverpool in Tokyo. Another trophy would cap a phenomenal year for the Rubro Negro.
With kick off approaching, the narrative is clear: history beckons for PSG, while legacy awaits Flamengo. All that’s left is to decide it on the pitch