Real Madrid secured a convincing 3-0 victory over RB Salzburg, securing their spot in the FIFA Club World Cup last 16.
Alonso’s tactical shift to a five-man defence, a first for the club since his arrival, proved highly effective at Lincoln Financial Field.
The revamped system saw Trent Alexander-Arnold and Fran Garcia operate as dynamic wing-backs, while Aurelien Tchouameni anchored the defence.
Vinicius Jr opened the scoring in the 40th minute, followed by Federico Valverde’s goal just before halftime. Academy product Gonzalo Garcia sealed the win in the 84th minute.
“We’re taking it step-by-step,” Vinicius Jr told Dazn, acknowledging the ongoing adaptation to Alonso’s ideas.
Real Madrid now faces Group G runners-up Juventus in the last 16 on July 1st in Florida. RB Salzburg, with four points, finished third in Group H and are eliminated.
