Real Madrid Defeats RB Salzburg Secures Club World Cup Last-16 Spot

Real Madrid faced RB Salzburg in a critical Club World Cup group stage match with high stakes for both teams' advancement prospects. Under the new management of Xabi Alonso, Madrid displayed a dominant first-half performance characterized by tactical discipline, relentless pressing, and effective spatial control, leading to early goals by Vinicius Junior and Federico Valverde. Despite some cautious play in the second half, Madrid secured a decisive 3-0 victory, setting up a last-16 encounter with Juventus. Alonso’s strategic formation adjustments and squad selection, including the absence of suspended Raúl Asencio and unfit Kylian Mbappé, highlighted his intent to solidify the team's position atop Group H. Fans showed unwavering support even amid adverse weather, underscoring the global appeal and passion surrounding Real Madrid’s campaign. This victory not only affirmed Madrid’s status as tournament favorites but also provided a promising glimpse of Alonso’s influence on the team’s playing style.