Real Madrid cruised into the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with a dominant 3-0 victory over RB Salzburg in their final Group H clash. With this result, the Spanish giants finished at the top of the group, collecting seven points from three matches.
Vinicius Junior was the star of the night, producing a sparkling display that included a goal and a sensational assist. Federico Valverde and youngster Gonzalo Garcia were the other scorers.
Vinicius opened the scoring in the 40th minute with a composed finish and followed it up just moments later with a moment of sheer brilliance. At the stroke of half-time, he delivered a cheeky backheel assist to Valverde, who made no mistake in doubling Madrid’s lead. The Brazilian’s creativity and vision were on full display, earning him the MVP award for the match.
Speaking at the post-match news conference, Vinicius reflected on the assist with pride. “I’m very happy with the assist, I think it’s one of the best I’ve had in my career. They’ve been two very good weeks. We’re gaining confidence, and trying to understand as quickly as possible what the boss wants. I have to play inside a bit more, and I’ve always liked that, I’m closer to goal,” he said.
“I’m happy for Vini, it’s important to feel good.” – Alonso
Head coach Xabi Alonso was equally pleased with Vinicius’ performance but added a touch of humour when asked to compare it to one of the most iconic assists in football. “Vini’s was very good, but I was on the field for Guti’s, and it was crazy. So I’ll go with that one. But Vini’s was almost, almost the same,” Alonso told DAZN.
Alonso also praised Vinicius for more than just his attacking contributions. “Vini had a great game, but not just the goal and assist — I focus on his sacrifice, his defensive commitment. It allowed us to be very compact with and without the ball, and then in attack, having a bit more freedom. I’m happy for Vini, it’s important to feel good. We all have a good feeling, me too, but there’s a long way to go.”
Now, Real Madrid will take on the Italian giants, Juventus, on 2 July in the Round of 16.
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