UEFA Champions League: Real Madrid vs RB Salzburg Preview– January 22, 2025
The knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League bring an intriguing clash between Spanish giants Real Madrid and Austrian side RB Salzburg. Set for January 22, 2025, this Round of 16 encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu will showcase contrasting styles and ambitions. Real Madrid, the most successful club in the competition's history, takes on a spirited Salzburg side eager to prove their mettle on the grand stage.
Here’s a detailed preview of the match, including event details, team news, possible lineups, playing ground specifics, head-to-head statistics, and live-streaming options.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Kick-Off Time: 21:00 CET / 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET
Venue: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid, Spain
Broadcast and Live Stream:
UK: BT Sport
US: CBS Sports, Paramount+, Univision
Worldwide: UEFA.tv and local broadcasters
Team News
Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid navigated the group stage with their trademark dominance. They’ve been bolstered by a mix of experienced stalwarts and emerging stars, making them one of the tournament favorites.
Injuries/Suspensions:
Ferland Mendy: A thigh strain rules him out of this clash.
Vinícius Júnior: Questionable with a minor muscle issue but remains hopeful to feature.
David Alaba: Fully fit and expected to start.
Key Players:
Jude Bellingham has been a revelation this season, orchestrating play with maturity beyond his years. Karim Benzema continues to deliver when it matters most, while Antonio Rüdiger and Thibaut Courtois ensure defensive stability.
RB Salzburg
Matthias Jaissle’s Salzburg qualified for the knockouts after an impressive group-stage campaign. Known for their high-energy pressing and youthful exuberance, Salzburg will aim to disrupt Real Madrid’s rhythm.
Injuries/Suspensions:
Noah Okafor: Out with a long-term knee injury.
Luka Sučić: A doubt due to a lingering ankle problem.
Oumar Solet: Suspended after accumulating yellow cards in the group stage.
Key Players:
Striker Benjamin Šeško is Salzburg’s primary goal threat, combining physicality and technical prowess. Nicolas Seiwald’s work rate in midfield and the defensive solidity of Strahinja Pavlović will be critical.
Possible Lineups
Real Madrid (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Fran García
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Toni Kroos, Jude Bellingham
Forwards: Rodrygo, Karim Benzema, Vinícius Júnior
RB Salzburg (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Philipp Köhn
Defenders: Amar Dedić, Strahinja Pavlović, Bernardo, Andreas Ulmer
Midfielders: Nicolas Seiwald, Lucas Gourna-Douath
Attackers: Maurits Kjærgaard, Luka Sučić (if fit), Roko Šimić
Forward: Benjamin Šeško
Playing Ground: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
The Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid is one of football’s most iconic venues, renowned for its rich history and electric atmosphere. With a capacity of over 81,000, the stadium is a fortress for Los Blancos. Its state-of-the-art renovations enhance both player performance and fan experience, making it a fitting stage for this Champions League spectacle.
Head-to-Head
Total Matches Played: 0
Real Madrid Wins: 0
RB Salzburg Wins: 0
Draws: 0
This will be the first competitive meeting between Real Madrid and RB Salzburg, adding an element of unpredictability to the tie. Real Madrid’s vast European experience contrasts with Salzburg’s underdog spirit, promising an intriguing battle.
Match Preview
Real Madrid’s Strategy
Real Madrid will look to dominate possession and dictate the tempo. Ancelotti’s side thrives in controlling the midfield, with Bellingham and Kroos orchestrating play. The pace of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo on the wings will stretch Salzburg’s defense, while Benzema’s clinical finishing remains a potent weapon.
Defensively, the presence of Courtois between the sticks provides a safety net, while Rüdiger and Alaba are tasked with neutralizing Salzburg’s counterattacks.
RB Salzburg’s Approach
Salzburg’s high-pressing game will aim to disrupt Madrid’s buildup. They’ll look to capitalize on turnovers and exploit the spaces left by Madrid’s attacking full-backs. Benjamin Šeško’s physical presence upfront can trouble Madrid’s center-backs, while Seiwald’s relentless pressing in midfield will be key to stifling Madrid’s creativity.
Jaissle’s side must maintain defensive discipline and take their chances in transition to stand a chance against the 14-time champions.
Key Players to Watch
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid): The English midfielder has been instrumental this season, combining creativity, work rate, and goal-scoring ability. His ability to break lines and deliver in the final third will be crucial.
Benjamin Šeško (RB Salzburg): The Slovenian forward is a rising star, capable of troubling even the most experienced defenders with his pace and physicality.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Real Madrid Win: 1/4
RB Salzburg Win: 7/1
Draw: 5/1
Real Madrid is the overwhelming favorite, given their home advantage and superior squad depth. A 3-1 victory for Los Blancos seems a likely outcome, but Salzburg’s energy and unpredictability could lead to surprises.
How to Watch
United Kingdom:
BT Sport 2
BT Sport App
United States:
CBS Sports
Paramount+
Univision
Fans worldwide can follow live updates and highlights on UEFA’s official platforms and social media channels.
Conclusion
Real Madrid vs. RB Salzburg offers a fascinating matchup between experience and exuberance. While Madrid’s pedigree and quality make them strong favorites, Salzburg’s fearless approach and young talents could spring a surprise. The first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu sets the stage for an enthralling contest that will shape the narrative of this Round of 16 tie.
Football fans can expect a blend of tactical battles, individual brilliance, and unforgettable moments as these two teams lock horns on Europe’s grandest stage.