AFCON 2025
Real Madrid delivered a commanding performance at the Santiago Bernabeu defeating Red Bull Salzburg 5-1 in their penultimate Champions League group stage match.
After an initial period of Salzburg pressure, Real Madrid seized the lead when Rodrygo capitalized on a crossfield pass from Vinícius Júnior, with Jude Bellingham providing a crucial touch, allowing Rodrygo to finish clinically.
Rodrygo doubled the advantage in the 34th minute from another Bellingham assist by slotting home from close range. Shortly after the break, Kylian Mbappé extended the lead to 3-0, capitalizing on a misjudgment by Salzburg’s goalkeeper, Janis Blaswich, to score into an empty net.
Vinícius added two more goals in the 55th and 77th minute, the first a deft chip over the goalkeeper and the second a powerful shot into the top corner, underscoring his attacking prowess.
Mads Bidstrup netted a late goal for Salzburg, a well-placed shot from the edge of the box, serving as a consolation in an otherwise one-sided affair.
This victory elevates Real Madrid to 16th place with 12 points, positioning them just one point shy of the top eight. A win in their final group stage match against Stade Brestois could secure automatic qualification to the knockout stages.
Conversely, Salzburg’s defeat cements their elimination from the competition, as they remain with only three points from seven matches.
Real Madrid will aim to secure their progression in the Champions League with a strong performance against Stade Brestois in their final group stage fixture. Salzburg, already eliminated, will look to conclude their campaign with a positive result in their remaining match against Atletico Madrid.
