
Real Madrid delivered a scintillating performance on Wednesday night, thrashing RB Salzburg 5-1 to confirm their place in the Champions League knockout rounds.
After back-to-back defeats earlier in the campaign raised questions about their qualification hopes, Los Blancos responded in style, ensuring their European journey remains on course.
Rodrygo was the star of the first half, netting a stunning brace to put the reigning champions firmly in command. The Brazilian’s sharp movement and clinical finishing gave Salzburg no chance as Madrid dominated from the outset.
After the break, Kylian Mbappe capitalised on a mistake by Salzburg goalkeeper Janis Blaswich to add a third, showcasing his trademark composure in front of goal. Not to be outdone, Vinicius Junior took center stage, scoring twice in quick succession to cap off a flawless Madrid display. His first goal marked a significant milestone—his 100th in a Real Madrid shirt—a testament to his growing legacy at the club.
Despite Mads Bidstrup’s late consolation for Salzburg, the night belonged to Madrid, who now head into their final match against Brest with their sights set on climbing further up the table.
For Carlo Ancelotti’s men, the focus will now shift to securing a top-eight finish to book a last-16 berth, but the relief of locking in knockout qualification after a turbulent start cannot be understated.
The European champions are finding their rhythm at the perfect time, and with Rodrygo and Vinicius in sparkling form, they remain a team to fear.
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