Real Madrid Thrash RB Salzburg 5-1 to Secure Knockout Playoff Spot

Real Madrid delivered a commanding performance at the Santiago Bernabeu, cruising to a 5-1 victory over RB Salzburg to seal their place in the Champions League knockout playoff round. The reigning champions showcased their trademark flair, led by a sensational Vinicius Junior, who was named Player of the Match.

Dominant Madrid Show Their Class

Real Madrid, the 15-time Champions League winners, came into the match under pressure, having lost three of their first six games in the league phase. Positioned dangerously close to the bottom eight, Carlo Ancelotti’s side needed a decisive performance—and they delivered.

A vibrant, energized Madrid took the field with determination and made their intentions clear. With star players like Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior on display, the holders reminded everyone why they remain the most successful club in the competition’s history.

Rodrygo’s Brilliance Sets the Tone

It was Rodrygo who ignited Madrid’s dominance. His first goal in the 23rd minute was a calm, measured finish into the far corner. However, it was his second strike that stole the show. Latching onto a sublime no-look back-heel from Jude Bellingham, the Brazilian winger curled a sensational effort beyond RB Salzburg goalkeeper Janis Blaswich to put Madrid 2-0 up before halftime.

Second Half: Vinicius Junior Takes the Spotlight

After the break, Kylian Mbappe capitalized on a defensive error to score one of the easiest goals of his career, making it 3-0. The night, however, belonged to Vinicius Junior.

The Brazilian forward showcased his quick feet and clinical finishing, scoring his first goal with a thunderous strike into the far corner following Luka Modric’s incisive pass. His second came from a blistering counterattack orchestrated by Federico Valverde. The Uruguayan’s marauding run through midfield ended with a perfect pass, which Vinicius converted with ease.

While Madrid dominated, a late consolation goal for Salzburg’s Mads Bidstrup denied Thibaut Courtois a clean sheet.

Real Madrid Player Ratings

• Thibaut Courtois: 7.5 – Solid performance but conceded late.
• Federico Valverde: 8.2 – Brilliant in his makeshift right-back role, provided a key assist.
• Raul Asencio: 7.3 – Reliable in defense.
• Antonio Rudiger: 7.8 – Commanded the backline effectively.
• Ferland Mendy: 7.3 – Supported attacks well from the left.
• Dani Ceballos: 7.4 – Controlled the midfield in the first half.
• Luka Modric: 8.6 – Dictated the tempo and assisted Vinicius’s first goal.
• Rodrygo: 8.8 – Electrifying performance with two stunning goals.
• Jude Bellingham: 8.7 – Vision and creativity were on full display, assisted Rodrygo’s second.
• Vinicius Junior: 9.0 – Player of the Match. Exceptional display with two goals.
• Kylian Mbappe: 7.9 – Capitalized on a defensive error to score.

Substitutes:
David Alaba (6.2), Arda Guler (7.0), Endrick (6.3), Brahim Diaz (6.3), Jacobo Ramon (6.3).

What’s Next for Real Madrid?

This emphatic victory propels Real Madrid to 16th place in the Champions League standings, just a point behind the top eight. They’ll face Ligue 1 side Brest in their final league-phase match, but a top-eight finish is no longer possible.

Join the Conversation!

What did you think of Real Madrid’s performance against RB Salzburg? Was Vinicius Junior your standout player, or did someone else impress you? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your take on this electrifying match!