Thu Jan 23 04:20:19 UTC 2025: ## Real Madrid Rout Salzburg 5-1 in Champions League Thriller
**Madrid, Spain** – Real Madrid emphatically secured their place in the next round of the Champions League with a resounding 5-1 victory over RB Salzburg at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday. A brace each from Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr, alongside a goal from Kylian Mbappé, overwhelmed the Austrian side, despite a strong start from Salzburg.
Salzburg initially applied significant pressure, but Real Madrid gradually took control, fueled by impressive performances from their Brazilian stars and English midfielder Jude Bellingham. Rodrygo opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a composed finish after Bellingham’s initial attempt was blocked. He added a second in the 34th, expertly curling the ball home following a clever back-heel assist from Bellingham.
Mbappé capitalized on a significant error by Salzburg goalkeeper Janis Blaswich in the 48th minute, easily slotting the ball into the empty net. Vinicius Jr then showcased his dazzling skills, scoring two spectacular goals in the 55th and 77th minutes, both demonstrating his pace and skill to beat defenders before finding the back of the net.
Mads Bidstrup scored a late consolation goal for Salzburg in the 85th minute.
Despite their dominant win, Real Madrid are currently 16th in their domestic league, having lost three of their first five matches. While qualification to the next Champions League stage is secured, they must win their final group game and hope for favorable results to secure a top-eight finish and avoid a playoff.
“A very important day for us. A win that gives us a lot of confidence going forward,” Rodrygo stated post-match. He acknowledged the team’s struggles in recent domestic matches but expressed confidence in their ability to improve. Salzburg, on the other hand, are eliminated from the competition, finishing with only three points.
First Piper 