RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid: The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 continues to deliver high-stakes football, and Group H is set for a thrilling finale as Austrian champions RB Salzburg go head-to-head with European giants Real Madrid. Both teams are currently level on points at the top of the group, making this a pivotal encounter to determine who progresses to the knockout stages with momentum.
RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid Match Details
RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid Match Preview
Real Madrid, the record five-time winners of the Club World Cup, came into this expanded tournament as one of the firm favorites. Their campaign, however, had a slightly inauspicious start with a 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal. They quickly recovered with a 3-1 victory over Pachuca, showing their resilience even when playing with 10 men for a significant portion of the match. Led by their star-studded lineup and under the guidance of coach Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid will be keen to secure top spot in Group H and avoid a potentially tougher draw in the Round of 16. Despite some key injuries (Alaba, Carvajal, Mendy, Militão, Endrick) and the uncertainty surrounding Kylian Mbappé’s return from illness, Real Madrid still possesses immense quality and experience. Their last encounter with Salzburg in the Champions League earlier this year saw them comfortably win 5-1, a result they’ll hope to replicate.
RB Salzburg has been one of the pleasant surprises of the tournament so far. Despite being considered underdogs, they secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Pachuca in their opening match, followed by a credible goalless draw against Al-Hilal. This puts them in a strong position, level on points with Real Madrid. The Austrian champions, known for their youthful energy and tactical discipline under coach Thomas Letsch, will be looking to capitalize on their strong defensive showing (only one goal conceded so far) and create chances on the break. They will be highly motivated to prove themselves against one of the world’s biggest clubs and secure a historic qualification for the next round. While their last meeting with Real Madrid was a heavy defeat, they will enter this match with renewed belief.
This match is essentially a winner-takes-all for guaranteed progression to the Round of 16 as group winners, assuming Al-Hilal defeats Pachuca in their simultaneous match. A draw could also be enough for both, depending on the other result.
RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid Fantasy Tips
For fantasy football managers, this promises to be a high-scoring affair with several key players to consider:
- Real Madrid Attackers: Despite Mbappé’s potential absence, players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham are always strong contenders for goals and assists. Valverde and Güler also showed their scoring prowess in the last match.
- Real Madrid Midfielders: Jude Bellingham is a top-tier fantasy pick, known for his goal contributions and all-around play. Valverde and Tchouaméni could also provide steady points.
- RB Salzburg’s Creative Spark: Keep an eye on Oscar Gloukh, who scored a stunning goal in their opener. Karim Onisiwo is another forward who can pose a threat.
- Defensive Considerations: While Real Madrid’s defense has been impacted by injuries, they are still capable of keeping a clean sheet against lesser opposition. However, Salzburg’s defense has been more resolute in the tournament.
- Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois for Real Madrid is a premium option, while Salzburg’s goalkeeper Zawieschitzky could earn save points.
RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid Match Prediction
Real Madrid, despite their injury concerns and a mixed start, still possess a significant quality advantage over RB Salzburg. Their experience in high-pressure matches and the individual brilliance of their players are likely to shine through. While Salzburg has been impressive, overcoming the reigning European champions will be a monumental task, especially given Real Madrid’s motivation to secure the top spot in the group.
Our Prediction: Real Madrid to win 3-1. While Salzburg will put up a strong fight, Real Madrid’s attacking depth and desire to progress comfortably should see them through.
