Credit: DAZN
In the Group H clash of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which was played at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, goals from Vinicius Junior, Fede Valverde, and Gonzalo Garcia led Real Madrid into the knockouts. This victory was enough for Xabi Alonso’s side to confirm top spot in Group H, while the Austrian club were eliminated from the competition.
The goal from Vinicius Junior and the assist he provided, played an immense role in boosting the morale of the team in order to secure the win. He played a pivotal role in the Los Blancos' second goal during first-half added time, picking up a loose ball in the box and delivering an audacious back-heeled pass to Federico Valverde, who fired home from close range.
Vinicius Junior earned Player of the Match award in the FIFA Club World Cup clash
In the post-match interview after the game, Vinicius Junior was awarded the player of the match after his spectacular goal and crucial assist. To which he said, "It's a pleasure to play in this competition. It's the first edition of this format and Madrid always wants to win. The Player of the Match award is the reward for all the team's hard work. Today I was able to help them".
Meanwhile, new club manager Xabi Alonso deployed a five-man defence for the first time since replacing Carlo Ancelotti as the manager in the team, Real looked at ease in the new formation and claimed a comfortable win at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. After a shaky opening draw against Al-Hilal, Real Madrid found a bit more rhythm in their other two Group H matches. They are now all set to face the Italian side Juventus in the Round of 16 which promises to be a thrilling encounter.
