Gabigol Eyes 2029 Club World Cup: “Cruzeiro’s Process Will Take Us There”
Star striker shares long-term vision for Cruzeiro and praises Brazilian football’s global rise
With the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup generating global buzz and Brazilian teams making waves, Gabigol now at Cruzeiro is already dreaming big.
In a recent interview on the Podpah podcast, the striker expressed his confidence in Cruzeiro’s project, saying the club is on the right track to compete on the world’s biggest stage by 2029.
“The process will take Cruzeiro there,” said Gabigol.
“It’s not about winning everything overnight. With a long-term project, it’s going to happen.”
The Dream: Cruzeiro at the 2029 Club World Cup
While FIFA hasn’t officially confirmed a 2029 edition, the expanded Club World Cup format introduced in 2025 with 32 teams is expected to continue.
To qualify, Cruzeiro will need to either win the Copa Libertadores or rank among the top teams in the Conmebol coefficient standings, which rewards consistent performance in South American competitions.
Although the club isn’t playing in the Libertadores this season, Cruzeiro is currently 2nd in the Brasileirão, trailing only Flamengo, and showing signs of revival under Gabigol’s leadership.
Gabigol on Club World Cup 2025: “Elite teams, but surprises too”
The forward also commented on the current edition of the tournament:
“There are teams there that are truly elite Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Real Madrid, PSG,” said Gabigol.
“But Al-Hilal surprised everyone. That shows anything can happen.”
Brazilian Clubs Shining on the Global Stage
Brazilian teams are dominating the 2025 Club World Cup. Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Botafogo all advanced from the group stage with 100% success. As of now, Palmeiras and Fluminense remain alive in the knockout phase.
In contrast, Argentina’s Boca Juniors and River Plate failed to reach the Round of 16 further highlighting Brazil’s current supremacy in South American football.
What Cruzeiro Needs to Qualify
To reach the Club World Cup in 2029, Cruzeiro must:
- Win the Copa Libertadores by 2028
OR - Climb the Conmebol ranking through strong performances in international tournaments (Libertadores and Sudamericana)
Gabigol’s belief in the project is clear, and with his four-year contract, he’s set to play a leading role in Cruzeiro’s international ambitions.
Will Cruzeiro return to the global stage by 2029? Gabigol believes it — do you?
