Flamengo head coach Jorge Jesus has stated that Liverpool has left a mark on world football ahead of Saturday’s Club World Cup final between the two teams in Qatar.
Champions League holders Liverpool are 10 points clear at the summit of the Premier League table and have not been beaten in the competition since January 3 earlier this year.
However, the Reds needed a late goal from Roberto Firmino to squeeze through a tight semi-final against Mexican outfit Monterrey, while Jesus’ side beat Al Hilal 3-1 to book their place in the final of the Club World Cup.
South American club Flamengo secured their spot at the Club World Cup with a dramatic late comeback against fierce rivals River Plate in the final of the Copa Libertadores.
Former Benfica and Sporting CP boss Jesus feels there are similarities between Flamengo and Liverpool as they are set to do battle in the Club World Cup final.
While speaking to reporters ahead of the clash against Jurgen Klopp’s team, the 65-year-old Portuguese manager had only praise for the Premier League leaders, “We can’t easily compare two good teams, Yes, Liverpool has a distinct history, especially in recent years. They’ve won many titles and they are one of the best clubs in the world. Jurgen Klopp has been with the team for many years and has accomplished a lot with them, not only in the English league. They won the European Champions League. So, Liverpool has left its mark in world football. When we compare Liverpool and Flamengo, we know Flamengo is enjoying an excellent year, especially this season. We won the Brazilian league title and the Copa Libertadores, so there are great similarities between Liverpool and Flamengo in terms of their international presence.”
