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MIAMI, USA — European champions Real Madrid booked their place in the Club World Cup Round of 16 in emphatic style, brushing aside Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg 3–0 in their final Group H clash on Friday night.
Real Madrid, led by Xabi Alonso, showed their class with a dominant performance built around Brazilian star Vinícius Júnior, who scored one and assisted another in a brilliant first-half display.
Vinícius Lights It Up
The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Vinícius danced past defenders and fired a low finish into the far corner. Moments later, in first-half stoppage time, he turned provider with a clever back-heel assist for Federico Valverde, who doubled Madrid’s lead with a calm finish.
“He’s electric — he changed the game in five minutes,” said Madrid boss Alonso in the post-match press conference.
Salzburg Struggles and Madrid’s Dominance
Despite a promising opening 20 minutes from Salzburg, the Austrian side faded under Madrid’s midfield control. Jude Bellingham pulled strings in the middle, while Madrid’s back three absorbed Salzburg’s high pressing with composure.
A late third goal in the 84th minute from substitute Gonzalo García, who chipped the onrushing goalkeeper, sealed the result — and Madrid’s top spot in the group.
Group H Final Standings
| Team | Played | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid | 3 | 7 | +5 |
| Al Hilal | 3 | 5 | +2 |
| Salzburg | 3 | 4 | –2 |
| Pachuca | 3 | 0 | –5 |
Next Up: A Heavyweight Clash
With the victory, Real Madrid will now face Juventus in a blockbuster Round of 16 matchup set for next Tuesday in Miami. Meanwhile, Salzburg’s campaign comes to an end despite showing flashes of promise throughout the group stage.
Match Highlights:
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⚽ 40′ – Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
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⚽ 45+3′ – Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
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⚽ 84′ – Gonzalo García (Real Madrid)
Key Player: Vinícius Júnior
1 Goal, 1 Assist, 6 Dribbles Completed – a decisive force on the wing.
Quote of the Match:
“We know what’s expected at Real Madrid. This is just the beginning.” — Jude Bellingham, post-match interview
