Real Madrid continued their undefeated streak with a 3-0 win over RB Salzburg in their third and final group stage game of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
This has been Xabi Alonso’s first assignment as a Real Madrid manager, and despite a 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal in their first game, and a red card to Raul Asencio in their win against Pachuca, the team eased through the group stage.
The victory over Salzburg was a fantastic outing for Vinicius Jr, who was the protagonist for Real Madrid with a goal and an assist against the Austrian champions.
The Brazilian was surprisingly seen pressing defenders high up the field. Following the game, Vinicius revealed that pressing is a key factor in Alonso’s philosophy.
“Pressing the defenders is key, Xabi Alonso is telling us what to do day by day. It’s been two very good weeks. The team is playing more compact,” Vinicius said when asked about pressing after the win.
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“We’re taking it step by step. Of course we’re not going to do everything he asks so quickly. Today was a good match for that.”
Vinicius highlighted that they are still in the adapting phase, but the Spanish tactician is clear with his tactics that he wants aggressiveness, pace and collective responsibility in retrieving the ball back.
What did Vinicius Jr say about his future at Real Madrid?
Vinicius has been one of the standout players for Real Madrid since moving to the Spanish capital from Flamengo in 2017.
He has been pivotal in Los Blancos’ recent success under Carlo Ancelotti and will look to continue that consistency under Alonso.
While there were some murmurs about his contract extension, which runs until 2027, Vinicius has clarified that he wants to continue for many more years.
“Real Madrid is the club of my life! I hope to continue here for many and many years.”
“I love Real Madrid. I owe everything to this club. Pressure and criticism are not a problem. I’m so happy with this club, the new coach Xabi and these players”.
Real Madrid have progressed to the knockout round of the Club World Cup as the winner of Group H, and they will lock horns against Juventus in the round of 16 on July 1.
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