[_Real Madrid_](https://www.managingmadrid.com) _3 - 0 Salzburg (Vinicius, Valverde, Gonzalo). Here’s our immediate reaction at the final whistle. Still to come: Player ratings, post-game podcast, post-game quotes, tactical analysis, and much more._
This was the best version of Real Madrid we’ve seen so far at this tournament, and it’s not particularly close. Has ‘Xabi-ball’ arrived? It seems so — but it’s important not to to get too carried away even if it’s tempting.
It’s been a long time since we’ve see Real Madrid play with purpose and clear ideas, like _this_. The build-up was surgical and methodical. Arda Güler has slotted in midfield like he’s meant to play there, and it seems like Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham, alongside him, are being used to their full capacity.
In addition, Gonzalo Garcia has looked the real deal, and, despite being very impressive in the first two games, had his best game so far. He led Real Madrid’s press and his flicks and dribbling to get his teammates in goal-scoring positions: majestic.
Real Madrid controlled the play and created several chances, but it wasn’t until the 40th minute when they scored the opener. Bellingham set up Vinicius:
Just before half-time, Real Madrid doubled the lead through some Vinicius / Valverde sorcery:
To start the second half, Real Madrid came out a little sloppy after a terrific first half. The team misplaced several passes in transition, looked out of shape when possession was lost, and Salzburg found some avenues behind the backline. Real Madrid were lucky not to concede a goal.
Alonso reacted immediately by making three subs in the 67th minute, bringing on Rodrygo, Modric, and Jacobo for Vinicius, Güler, and Rüdiger. Ceballos and Brahim also entered the field.
In the 84th minute, Gonzalo Garcia capped off his performance with a brilliant, Raul-esque finish to seal the game:
It should be noted that Tchouameni, playing in a new anchor role in a three-man backline as part of Alonso’s new three-at-the-back system, played his role perfectly, and looks to cement himself as a cornerstone in Xabi’s XI. He’ll have a lot on his shoulders and he looks up to the task.
Miami next!