Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham Shine as Real Madrid Advance in Club World Cup

Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham turned on the style as well as an assist each to help Real Madrid seal a FIFA Club World Cup victory over RB Salzburg.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid faced RB Salzburg in their final FIFA Club World Cup group clash in rain-soaked Philadelphia. Los Blancos needed a point against the Austrian outfit to qualify from Group H, and their superstars delivered as Vinicius Jr opened the scoring with a deft finish in the first half after being set up brilliantly by Bellingham. Vinicius then assisted Federico Valverde on the hour mark after pouncing on a defensive error as Madrid sealed an easy win. Vinicius is yet to miss a penalty in his career. Bellingham was once again his usual brilliant self, marshalling the midfield and dictating proceedings for Real Madrid. The Englishman’s chemistry with Vinicius was there for everyone to see as the two celebrated wildly after linking up with each other for the goals.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

This was another big-show performance for both Vinicius and Bellingham. After his heroics in last year’s UEFA Champions League final, the Brazilian took on the responsibility of leading Real Madrid to another title in yet another knockout match in the Club World Cup. Bellingham has built a brilliant partnership with the Brazilian, too, as the two rely on each other for goals and assists. Real Madrid have won three Club World Cups in a row, and the dynamic duo is key to their chances of winning a fourth title.

WHAT NEXT?

Real Madrid are set to face reigning Serie A champions Juventus in the round of 16 in a clash that will be held in Miami on July 1. Juve, coached under Ivan Tudor also qualified in their own tricky group in second place behind Man City and will be difficult to beat. Manager Xabi Alonso believes Jude Bellingham has all the attributes to make him the best player in the world.