Real Madrid delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over RB Salzburg in their final Group H match of the FIFA Club World Cup, securing top spot in the group and a place in the round of 16. The Spanish giants showcased their attacking prowess and tactical adaptability under new manager Xabi Alonso, with goals from Vinícius Júnior, Federico Valverde, and Gonzalo García sealing a dominant performance at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
A New-Look Madrid Shines
Xabi Alonso, in his first season at the helm, introduced a bold tactical shift, deploying a five-man defence for the first time since replacing Carlo Ancelotti. The 3-5-2 formation, reminiscent of Vicente del Bosque’s Champions League-winning side of 2000, allowed wing-backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Fran García to push forward while Aurélien Tchouaméni anchored the backline alongside Antonio Rüdiger and Dean Huijsen. The change paid dividends as Madrid controlled the tempo and overwhelmed a lacklustre Salzburg side.
Salzburg’s Struggles
Salzburg, hampered by injuries to key players like goalkeeper Alexander Schlager and midfielder Takumu Kawamura, struggled to find their rhythm. Despite moments of promise, including a clever pass from Petar Ratkov to Edmund Baidoo and a long-range effort from Maurits Kjærgaard, the Austrian side lacked the clinical edge needed to trouble Madrid’s defence. Zawieschitzky made several sharp saves, notably denying Vinícius early on, but Salzburg’s attacking efforts were stifled by Madrid’s disciplined backline, with Thibaut Courtois comfortably handling the few shots that came his way.
García Seals the Deal
Vinícius Júnior was the standout performer, earning the Superior Player of the Match award for his goal, assist, and constant threat. “It’s a pleasure to play in this competition,” he said post-match. “The award is the reward for all the team’s hard work.” His backheel assist for Valverde was a highlight, with the Brazilian later calling it “one of the best of my career.” Jude Bellingham also impressed, dictating play with his vision and tenacity, while Valverde’s composed finish marked his second goal in as many Club World Cup matches.
84' ⚽ GOLAZOOO — GONZALO GARCÍA!
— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) June 27, 2025
Real Madrid grab their third as the youngster gets on the scoresheet.
Watch the @FIFACWC | June 14 - July 13 | Every Game | Free | https://t.co/i0K4eUtwwb | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld pic.twitter.com/5P2gcN1rva
What’s Next?
The victory ensures Real Madrid finish atop Group H with seven points, two clear of Al-Hilal, who defeated Pachuca 2-0 in the group’s other fixture to also advance. Salzburg, with four points, and Pachuca, with none, were eliminated. Madrid now face a tantalizing round-of-16 clash against Juventus in Miami, a rematch of their 2018 Champions League quarter-final. Despite topping the group, Alonso’s side find themselves on the tougher side of the draw, with potential quarter-final matchups against Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey looming.
For Salzburg, the defeat marks the end of their Club World Cup journey. While they showed flashes of potential, their injury-hit squad was no match for Madrid’s depth and quality. Coach Thomas Letsch will now turn his attention to the Austrian Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League, where Salzburg aim to regroup and rebuild.
