Real Madrid secured their progression to the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup on Thursday evening as they saw off Red Bull Salzburg at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Los Blancos needed at least a point against their European opponents to guarantee their spot in the knockout stages after being held to a surprising draw by Al-Hilal in their first group meeting.
They glided to a resounding victory, achieving the desired outcome. Xabi Alonso’s team led by two goals at the half thanks to goals from Vinicius Jr. and Federico Valverde. Real Madrid won 3-0 thanks to a strike from Gonzalo Garcia in the second half.
How Trent Alexander-Arnold Performed vs Salzburg
Spanish media have reacted to his display
For his first few games as a Real Madrid player, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been the centre of attention. In his first game against Al-Hilal, he received criticism; but, in his second game against Pachuca, he performed marginally better. However, how did he do against RB Salzburg in his third game?
The 26-year-old played the entire game after being selected in the starting lineup once more. His game statistics are encouraging: Sofascore gave him a 7.5/10 match rating since he won six of his 11 duels, produced two crucial passes, recorded five clearances, and won four tackles.
His highlights from the match have emerged and you can view them below:
His performance has not received much praise from Spanish media, despite his great statistics and highlights. He received a 6/10 from Football Espana, which wrote: “Alexander Arnold had another erratic display. The England international has been workman-like in his first games for Real Madrid, and this followed that trend.”
The assessment from Mundo Deportivo said, “The Englishman played a very serious game, without showing off, but always doing what he had to do.” “He was serious.”
However, AS English stated: “He still lacks the ability to generate opportunities for Madrid, but he did establish a British link with Bellingham (who moved to the right side) that could prove to be quite intriguing in the long run. He is getting better little by little.
In the competition’s round of 16, Trent and Real Madrid will next play Juventus on Tuesday, July 1. They will play either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey in the quarterfinals if they defeat the Italian powerhouses.
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