Red Bull Salzburg vs Real Madrid Prediction, Preview, News: 27/6/2025

Real Madrid and Red Bull Salzburg are preparing for a pivotal Group H showdown at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, taking place on June 27 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. With both teams sitting on four points after two matches, the outcome will be critical in determining who advances to the Round of 16. Real Madrid currently tops the group due to superior goal difference, while Salzburg trails just behind.

This fixture is part of the new expanded 32-team Club World Cup format introduced for the 2025 edition, increasing competition among continental and national champions. For Real Madrid, the tournament provides a platform to reassert global dominance. For Salzburg, it is an opportunity to cement their place among Europe’s elite.

Real Madrid: Aiming to Continue Club World Cup Legacy

Real Madrid, the most decorated team in European club football, is targeting their sixth Club World Cup title. Under head coach Xabi Alonso, the Spanish side has displayed excellent form, winning four and drawing one of their last five matches. They secured a 3-1 victory over Mexican side Pachuca in their previous group outing.

Star forward Kylian Mbappé has rejoined training after recovering from illness, offering a boost to an already potent attack. With players like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham in peak form, Real Madrid has scored four goals and conceded only twice in the tournament so far. Alonso has implemented a high-tempo, possession-based approach that blends traditional flair with tactical discipline.

Their track record in pressure matches, including multiple UEFA Champions League triumphs in recent years, gives the Spanish giants a psychological edge heading into this clash.

Red Bull Salzburg: Resilience and Opportunity

Red Bull Salzburg has emerged as one of the surprises of the tournament. The Austrian champions, led by Thomas Letsch, have combined youthful energy with strategic precision. They opened their campaign with a 2-1 win over Pachuca and followed it with a goalless draw against Al-Hilal, demonstrating both attacking ambition and defensive resilience.

With only one goal conceded in the group so far, Salzburg’s backline has held firm, while their pressing game has created opportunities on the break. The team is built around a core of homegrown talents and a few experienced leaders, aiming to capitalize on any slip from their more celebrated opponents.

Despite losing 5-1 to Real Madrid earlier this year in the UEFA Champions League, Salzburg enters this rematch with added motivation and a chance to rewrite the narrative.

Tactical Expectations and Key Players to Watch

Real Madrid will likely look to dominate possession and apply early pressure. Their midfield, orchestrated by Toni Kroos and Eduardo Camavinga, will aim to control the tempo and exploit any gaps in Salzburg’s high defensive line. With Mbappé expected to feature, the flanks may see explosive duels that stretch the Austrian defense.

Salzburg is expected to counter with rapid transitions and high pressing, hoping to disrupt Madrid’s rhythm. Forward Karim Konaté, who scored in the opening match, remains a threat on the break. Goalkeeper Alexander Schlager will also play a crucial role if Salzburg is to absorb Madrid’s offensive waves.

Group H Implications and Road Ahead

The result of this match will significantly shape the Round of 16 matchups. A win for Real Madrid guarantees top spot in the group and avoids a potential early meeting with tournament favorites Manchester City. A draw could also suffice if other results go their way.

For Salzburg, a victory would not only be historic but also secure qualification with momentum. Even a draw could be enough, depending on the outcome of the concurrent group match between Pachuca and Al-Hilal.

Matchday Details

• Date: June 27, 2025
• Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, USA
• Kickoff: 1:00 AM UTC (Local: 9:00 PM EDT, June 26)
• Group: H – Club World Cup 2025
• Broadcast: Available through FIFA’s official channels and international broadcasters

Prediction

Given current form, squad strength, and prior head-to-head results, Real Madrid enters as strong favorites. Salzburg’s compact setup and recent performances suggest they won’t go down easily, but Madrid’s attacking depth and experience in high-stakes tournaments likely tip the balance in their favor.

Prediction: Red Bull Salzburg 1:3 Real Madrid