Real Madrid vs. RB Salzburg: Predicting the Lineups and Breaking Down the Stakes
There’s a heavy dose of anticipation swirling around the Real Madrid vs. RB Salzburg clash at the FIFA Club World Cup. Both clubs step onto the pitch at a crossroads in the group stage, and there’s enough drama before kickoff to keep any football fan glued to their seat. Real Madrid, fresh off a confidence-boosting 3-1 victory over Pachuca after stumbling to a 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal, aren’t just looking for another win—they’re eyeing control of Group H.
The focus for Madrid is as much about who’s on the pitch as it is about who’s missing. Thibaut Courtois looks set to anchor the defense in goal, but the backline will have a new face—Trent Alexander-Arnold—out at right back, with Aurélien Tchouaméni slotting in next to António Rüdiger at center-back. This isn’t your typical Madrid defense, and Alvaro Odriozola is expected to round out the back four.
The midfield is where Madrid still flex their muscles, with Jude Bellingham leading a trio that shifts the ball up and down the pitch. Up front, Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo look hungry for goals, but here’s where things get interesting: Gonzalo García might snag a rare start because Kylian Mbappé’s been sidelined by gastroenteritis—the French superstar isn’t likely to even make the bench. Madrid fans hoping to catch Endrick or Eduardo Camavinga in action should hold those expectations in check, as both are confirmed absentees. Ferland Mendy and Raúl Asencio are out as well, the latter serving a suspension.
Salzburg’s Hopes, Streaming Options, and What’s at Stake
RB Salzburg, meanwhile, are trying to pick up the pieces after a bruising 5-1 beatdown by Real Madrid in January’s Champions League. This time around, they’re going with Zawieschitzky in goal and Lainer at right back, flanked by Gadou and Ramussen as central stoppers. Midfielders Bidstrup and Diabate are tasked with withstanding that relentless Madrid press. Salzburg’s game plan hinges on getting something meaningful from a lineup that, while sturdy in moments, hasn’t always held up against top European firepower.
The absence of star names couldn’t come at a worse time for Madrid, but it also hands opportunities to emerging talent such as García, who might see this as a moment to stamp his place in the squad—especially with Mbappé still not fully recovered and likely to be nursed along for more critical showdowns. For Salzburg, the memory of their last defeat is still fresh, but these group matches present a rare chance to rewrite some narratives, especially against a Spanish giant that hasn’t quite hit peak consistency yet this tournament.
Ready to catch all the action live? The game streams on CBS Sports Golazo Network, with options for live updates across platforms like NBC Sports. With group supremacy at stake for Madrid and a shot at redemption for Salzburg, this isn’t just another stop on the calendar—it’s a must-watch for fans who thrive on moments when anything can happen.