Real Madrid take on RB Salzburg in Matchday 3 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in what promises to be a decisive fixture in Group H. With Al Hilal close behind and both Madrid and Salzburg level on points, the stakes could not be higher. The outcome will determine who advances—and who may face an early exit from the tournament.
Madrid enter this match following a shaky 1–1 draw against Al Hilal that raised questions about their rhythm and identity under new head coach Xabi Alonso. While the Spaniard is still in the early stages of his managerial tenure with Los Blancos, the pressure is already mounting. A 3–1 victory over Pachuca in their second outing eased some nerves, thanks in large part to Gonzalo García, who has stepped up in the absence of Kylian Mbappe.
Salzburg, meanwhile, have shown flashes of potential but remain inconsistent. The Austrian side narrowly edged Pachuca 2–1 and held Al Hilal to a scoreless draw. Despite these results, questions remain about their ability to handle a high-pressure encounter against a team of Madrid’s caliber. Facing the Spanish giants will be their toughest test yet in the group stage.
What happens if Real Madrid beat Salzburg?
If Madrid win, they will advance to the Round of 16 as the Group H winners regardless of the outcome between Al Hilal and Pachuca. Securing top spot would set up a high-profile matchup against Juventus, who finished second in Group G. The Spanish side controls its destiny—and will be eager to avoid any surprises.
Federico Valverde #8 of Real Madrid C. F. celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with Brahim Diaz #21 and Vinicius Junior #7 of Real Madrid C. F. during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
What happens if Real Madrid lose to Salzburg?
A loss could spell disaster for Madrid. Both clubs sit on four points, and Al Hilal trail with two. If Salzburg defeat Madrid and Al Hilal beat Pachuca, Los Blancos would be eliminated in the group stage—an unprecedented failure in the club’s storied international history. Such a scenario would send shockwaves through the tournament and put Xabi Alonso’s tenure under early scrutiny.
see also
FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group E standings: Final table with Inter Milan, River, Monterrey, and Urawa Reds after Matchday 3
That said, Madrid could still qualify with a loss if Al Hilal fail to beat Pachuca. In that case, they would move on as group runners-up and still have a path forward. The margin for error, however, is razor thin.
What happens if Real Madrid and Salzburg tie?
A draw would be enough for Madrid to reach the knockout stage, and depending on Al Hilal’s result, they could still finish as group winners. If Al Hilal either draw or win by fewer than two goals against Pachuca, Madrid would advance in first place. However, if Al Hilal win by a larger margin, Madrid would move on in second.
Complicating matters is the continued absence of Kylian Mbappe. The French star has yet to recover from a stomach illness that has sidelined him since arriving in the United States. His absence has forced Madrid to find alternative solutions up front—and could play a key role in how far they go in this tournament.
