South American Clubs Still Lack Killer Instinct, Say FIFA Experts
- As the 2025 Club World Cup progressed into the knockout rounds on Saturday, FIFA technical advisors Arsene Wenger and Juergen Klinsmann observed that while South American and European clubs are becoming more evenly matched, notable differences remain in their goal-scoring efficiency.
- This change follows growing belief especially among Brazilian clubs like Flamengo, who have improved infrastructure and preparation but still face a difference in clinical finishing.
- Wenger observed that South American clubs brought large contingents including extensive support teams, and highlighted that Flamengo’s tactical approach reflects European styles, influenced by players such as Filipe Luis.
- Wenger remarked that European teams tend to be more efficient when attacking in the decisive areas of the pitch, and Klinsmann concurred, emphasizing that the main difference comes down to mindset and experience.
- The insights suggest South American teams are closing gaps but need improved execution and mindset to fully compete with European counterparts in future tournaments.
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Soccer-South American clubs still lack killer instinct, say FIFA experts
MIAMI (Reuters) -The gulf between South American and European teams may not be as wide as expected at the Club World Cup, but a clear gap still exists in their efficiency in front of goal, according to FIFA technical experts.


South American clubs still lack killer instinct, say FIFA experts
MIAMI :The gulf between South American and European teams may not be as wide as expected at the Club World Cup, but a clear gap still exists in their efficiency in front of goal, according to FIFA technical experts.Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, and Juergen Klinsmann, former Ger
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Final Third Ability Keeping Europe Ahead As Gap Narrows: Wenger
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