As a data analyst raised on Oxford's rational tradition, I’ve watched LAFC’s decline and Flamengo’s rise not as drama—but as algorithmic truth. This isn’t about stars or slogans. It’s about xG, pass completion rates, and defensive shape models that traditional media ignores. I ran the numbers. The data doesn’t lie—those who interpret it do. Let me show you why midfield control, not fame, decides this game.