“Some events are etched in the annals of football history, never forgotten. Today we celebrate exactly 25 years since such a moment occurred.”
Mauro Galvao, pillar of the Brazilian national team with 24 caps and experience in two World Cups, remembers not his glories, like the conquest of the Copa América or the Copa Libertadores, but a seismic match far from these celebrated scenes.
On this day in 1998, his Vasco da Gama team shocked the football world by routing Manchester United at the legendary Maracanã Stadium. To say they simply ‘diminished’ United would be a serious understatement; they literally annihilated their European opponents, toppling them in the sweltering heat of Rio.
What unfolded during those 90 minutes was like a fever dream — a chaotic symphony of Edmundo and Romario tearing through United’s defense with an artistic elegance that put defenders in awkward positions. The atmosphere was electric, and by the final siren United were not only losing, but also seemed psychologically devastated, leading a young Gary Neville to later seek therapy to make sense of the traumatic experience.
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“Any team that day would have struggled against us,” recalls Galvao, a comment unlikely to comfort Neville’s psyche tonight.
Since that fateful match, the story has often been told, particularly through the English prism. United made the controversial decision to withdraw from the FA Cup in favor of this exhibition, which only fueled the scrutiny surrounding the encounter. What remains, however, is the stark contrast with the upcoming 2025 Club World Cup, which is shaping up to be a highly anticipated new chapter for world football.
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It is intriguing to ask many questions as we reflect on this anniversary. How was this inaugural Club World Championship perceived in Brazil? How did the local teams feel about facing European counterparts like Manchester United? And what significance did the victory have for the Corinthians?
The Athletic sought insight from six players who participated in this landmark tournament to answer these questions.
Interestingly, while the British media did not take the tournament seriously, it was received with overwhelming enthusiasm in Brazil. Local media highlighted every detail leading up to the opening matches, discussing tactics and strategies with fervor. Manchester United, the reigning European champions, attracted massive crowds eager to see their stars play. Flamengo supporters formed temporary United support groups, showing their enthusiasm by showering ‘Welcome Manchester’ signs across Rio.
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Upon their arrival at Galeao Airport on January 2, United were greeted by crowds of cheering fans, demonstrating Brazil’s admiration for the club. Amid the frenzy, United star David Beckham found himself carrying Flamengo caps — although he quickly threw them away, choosing to avoid photos with fans. Local MP Alessandra Torres summed it up succinctly: “I came to see him. He’s beautiful. If his wife isn’t careful, someone might seduce him here in Rio.”
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However, behind the flamboyance of their presence, United sought to shield themselves from interactions with the media and fans, retreating to the safety of their luxury hotel. A biting article in Jornal do Brasil mocked this distance: “With typical English politeness, they kept their distance from the fans and the press.”
In contrast, Vasco president Eurico Miranda proclaimed the event a monumental occasion for Brazilian football. “It’s historic,” he said with pride. “We are here to prove that we belong at this level, not just to compete.” His players welcomed the challenge wholeheartedly, with former midfielder Amaral saying: “It was a big event for us in Brazil. Everyone felt the importance of being part of history. It was a big stage, and we were ready to shine.”
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Real Madrid, in the midst of turmoil following a coaching change, were facing their own uncertainties as they navigated the competition. Ultimately, the matches against Corinthians and Vasco would be pivotal moments for the tournament.
Although far from ideal, Madrid managed to come out on top against Raja Casablanca, but failed to impress the critics. Meanwhile, United struggled against Mexican side Necaxa, ending in a 1-1 draw marred by Beckham’s late red card for an unfortunate move. United’s subsequent complaints about the refereeing of the match fell into indifference as they failed to take control.
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On the other hand, the meeting between Corinthians and Real Madrid was shrouded in anticipation. Corinthians felt no inferiority against the Spanish giants, and the match would lead to the dramatic final between Vasco and United.
Vasco came into the match against Manchester United historically aware of their opponents’ heritage, but confident in their quality. Galvao expressed that United may not fully understand their capabilities. “We executed our game plan superbly, and our technical skill took center stage that day. The remarkable synergy we displayed allowed us to win what we deserved — a victory. Edmundo and Romario were outstanding; They showed dazzling brilliance that day.”
In the end, it was United’s fall that resonated through the Brazilian media. The Jornal do Brasil headline accurately described Beckham’s presence: “Handsome, but ordinary.” This sentiment filtered through the press, with many pointing to perhaps English football’s precarious confidence following a period of European dominance but waning Brazilian prowess.
As the teams prepared for the final showdown, the emotion of the encounter began to emerge; it is clear that a sense of pride permeated the Brazilian ranks. Corinthians finally secured their status as champions after a tense penalty shootout, while Vasco would forever be marked as the team that showed the determination and talent of Brazilian football against the European powerhouses.
Years later, as the soccer world prepares for a new Club World Cup format in the United States, players like Batista see value in constant testing against the best on a global scale. “These moments are valuable for growth. If we want to improve, we must challenge ourselves against high-level opponents. Our history shows us that.”
