Real Madrid Outclass RB Salzburg to Secure Knockout Berth
Any doubts about Real Madrid’s focus in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup evaporated under the Miami sun. Facing RB Salzburg in a crucial Group H decider, Madrid asserted their dominance from the first whistle and walked away with a comfortable 3-0 win. This result didn’t just book their spot in the round of 16 — it sent a warning shot to the rest of the tournament.
Vinícius Júnior was at the center of the action, gliding past defenders and unleashing a thunderous strike into the top corner right before halftime. The Bernabéu faithful have seen this act before, but watching him pull it off in a global tournament with so much at stake just drives home how vital he is to Madrid’s current ambitions. He didn’t stop at scoring; deep into first-half added time, Vinícius turned provider with a well-weighted pass to Federico Valverde, who slotted in the team’s second goal.
Salzburg did bring energy and the odd moment of threat. The Austrian side pushed forward on the flanks, occasionally troubling the Spanish defense. But without the clinical edge in front of goal—and stretched thin desperately looking for a lifeline—their back line soon wilted. Madrid’s youngster, Gonzalo García, took full advantage, lofting the ball over Salzburg’s keeper in the second half to seal the deal. Salzburg’s body language said it all: this was a game too far.
With this win, Real Madrid not only secured top spot in Group H but also confirmed that Pachuca would be heading home pointless. Salzburg’s flashes of promise across the group stage weren’t enough to drag them into the next round, leaving the Spanish giants clear and confident on the road ahead.
Kylian Mbappé Set for Knockout Return as Madrid Prepare for Juventus
It’s hard to talk about Real Madrid these days without mentioning Kylian Mbappé. The star signing sat this match out, still nursing an injury. But Madrid boss Xabi Alonso wasted no time after the win, telling reporters Mbappé’s return is right on schedule for Tuesday’s round of 16 showdown with Juventus. That sets up a mouthwatering storyline: a rested, hungry Mbappé potentially unleashed in Miami during the high-stakes knockout phase.
This possibility should give Juventus plenty to worry about. Madrid’s attack looked sharp against Salzburg, but with Kylian Mbappé back on the pitch, their firepower reaches another level. The Frenchman’s pace, creativity, and killer instinct in front of goal have tilted plenty of big matches, making Madrid favorites in what’s already shaping up to be a blockbuster tie.
Elsewhere in the tournament, Al-Hilal set up a clash with Manchester City after advancing from their group. With global heavyweights squaring off and elite talent returning to fitness, the Club World Cup looks more unpredictable than ever.
