Philadelphia, June 27 -- Real Madrid secured a place in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 knockout stage with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Salzburg in their final Group H match on Thursday, setting up a clash with Juventus as group winners.
Entering the match level on four points, Real Madrid led the group only on goal difference. Both teams needed a win to avoid facing Manchester City in the Round of 16.
Under drizzling rain at Lincoln Financial Field, Xabi Alonso's side dominated early and created sustained pressure. The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Vinicius Jr. fired a left-footed strike from outside the box after a swift counterattack.
Just before halftime, Vinicius turned provider, flicking a backheel pass to Federic...