Stunner from Gonzalo seals the deal

Vinícius’ backheel and Valverde’s goal make it 0–2

Vinícius puts Real Madrid ahead

The match kicks off

Confirmed lineups

The Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, home of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, will host Real Madrid vs Red Bull Salzburg this Thursday, June 26, in a matchup that will decide who tops Group H at the 2025 Club World Cup. With a capacity of over 69,000, a packed and electric atmosphere is expected for a game that hands a direct ticket to the round of 16 to the winner. Both teams have four points, but Madrid holds the edge on goal difference and their earlier head-to-head result.

Kickoff is set for 9:00 PM Eastern Time (ET), which is 7:00 PM in Mexico. Although a heatwave has hit the U.S. Northeast, conditions are expected to improve by game time, with temperatures around 22°C and a chance of rain—possibly helping the flow of play in what promises to be a physically intense match.

Madrid aiming to finish top

Xabi Alonso’s side comes into the game full of confidence after a solid 3–1 win over Pachuca, bouncing back from an opening draw with Al Hilal. A win or a high-scoring draw would be enough to seal first place in the group. Even though Kylian Mbappé remains out with gastroenteritis, Madrid still has plenty of firepower in Vinícius Jr, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and young star Arda Güler—all key players in their push for another title.

Salzburg looking for revenge

The Austrian side also has four points after a goalless draw with Al Hilal, and they need at least a draw to stay alive. Known for their young, energetic squad, Salzburg will be looking to pull off an upset against Europe’s most decorated club. They already faced Madrid earlier this season in the Champions League, where they were thrashed 5–1, so there’s definitely a score to settle.

Key absences and likely lineups with Round of 16 on the line

Real Madrid will be without Raúl Asencio, who was sent off last match—his spot in defense is expected to go to Antonio Rüdiger, just back from a knee injury. Eduardo Camavinga is also a doubt after missing training. The likely starting XI includes Courtois, Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Fran García, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Bellingham, and Vinícius among the regulars. Salzburg will likely stick with their usual high-tempo setup, featuring Oscar Gloukh, Nené, Mads Bidstrup, and Karim Onisiwo.

This match will decide who faces the runner-up from Group G, where Juventus and Manchester City are neck and neck. Finishing top not only avoids stronger opponents but also brings extra rest days. Real Madrid, seen as one of the top contenders for the title, can’t afford any slip-ups if they want to make it all the way to the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. All signs point to a big night in Philly.