For decades, South American football has shown that despite economic limitations, it can shine on the international stage. Historic clubs like Boca Juniors, Peñarol, and Sao Paulo left their mark in the old Intercontinental Cup, earning a place in history. However, the establishment of the FIFA Club World Cup and the growing European dominance have marked a new era, where the financial gap translates into a difficult imbalance to overcome.

Today, European clubs like Real Madrid boast squads valued in the billions — $1.5 billion according to Transfermarkt — compared to Palmeiras, South America’s most valuable club, with about $290 million. This gap impacts infrastructure, transfers, and salaries, deepening inequality in the competition.

Luis Enrique, coach of Paris Saint-Germain and recent Champions League winner, acknowledged that “European teams have an advantage… because we have the best from Europe, but also the best from Africa, America, and Asia.” His words reflect the global concentration of talent in Europe and the difficulty for South America to compete on equal footing.

Still, the 2025 Club World Cup will feature an unprecedented format with 32 teams and a group stage, expanding the platform for clubs from all confederations. Hosting the tournament in the United States, a strategic market, will boost visibility and commercial opportunities for South American teams.

Juan Pablo Sorín, former Argentine footballer and commentator, highlighted that the tournament “is a precious opportunity for South Americans, but also for teams from continents that might never have the chance to face champions from the most powerful continents, not only economically but also football-wise.”

For South Americans, beyond the results, what’s at stake is preserving a football identity symbolized by passion, tradition, and technical quality. Marcelo Gallardo, iconic River Plate coach, said that “being part of a tournament of such stature… generates great expectation,” and that the opportunity to face the great clubs “has a very, very special flavor.”

The 2025 Club World Cup will be a true test for South America to prove that passion and talent can bridge the gap with Europe’s deep pockets, keeping alive the flame of a football that still beats strongly.

With information from AFP