FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Real Madrid thrash RB Salzburg to advance into the knockouts

After a struggling start to the campaign, Real Madrid registered a comprehensive 3-0 win against RB Salzburg to advance to the next round of 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The Spanish giants started with a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal, but they staged a comeback to win the next two games to qualify for the knockouts of the game. While the scoreline reads amazing, RB Salzburg put in a serious fight against Real Madrid in the first half up until 40 minutes.

While Los Blancos dominated the proceedings, they did not buckle down to the pressure. Vinícius Jr found the moment of inspiration to break the deadlock in the 40th minute. The Austrian outfit tried equalizing before half-time, but they opened up more than expected, which allowed Real Madrid to find one more goal through Federico Valverde in injury time of the first half. Xabi Alonso’s side went into half-time with a comfortable two-goal lead. 

In the second half, Real Madrid comfortably maintained their possession. However, they squandered several chances in front of the goal like they did in the first half. However, in the 84th minute, Gonzalo Garcia wrapped up the game for Real Madrid with him lobbing the ball over Christian Zawieschitzky on a quick counter-attack. 

With the defeat, RB Salzburg are out of the competition. While Real Madrid dominated the game, the Austrians were not completely outplayed. They had 12 shots and three of which were on target, like how Real Madrid did it. However, it was the moments of brilliance that cost RB Salzburg their qualification. 

What next for Real Madrid?

After qualifying for the round of 16, Real Madrid will play against Juventus. The game will be played on Tuesday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, while Manchester City will play Al Hilal on Monday in Orlando.