Date: Monday, June 23, 2025
Kickoff: 6:00 PM ET
Venue: Audi Field, Washington, D.C.
RB Salzburg vs Al Hilal
Match Context
The stage is set at Audi Field for a high-stakes clash in Group G as RB Salzburg lock horns with Al Hilal. Salzburg, known for their high-octane pressing style, are making their Club World Cup debut this year and bring the energy of youth and tactical sharpness. On the other hand, Al Hilal enter the match with experience on their side and a deep squad filled with international talent.
This match could decide who stays alive in the group stage, especially with Manchester City also in the same group. A win here is almost mandatory for both clubs if they want to keep knockout hopes alive.
Tactical Breakdown
RB Salzburg (4-2-2-2)
Salzburg play with intensity and verticality. Their front four press aggressively while the midfield double pivot works to recover second balls and launch counters. Expect the Austrian side to push high and try to disrupt Al Hilal’s buildup early.
Al Hilal (4-3-3)
Under coach Jorge Jesus, Al Hilal favor control. They like to dominate possession and shift play quickly through the wings. With players like Malcom and Mitrović up front, expect them to rely on width, crosses, and clinical finishing.
This game will be about tempo vs control. Salzburg will try to rush Al Hilal into mistakes, while the Saudis will aim to slow it down and play on their terms.
Key Players to Watch
RB Salzburg:
- Oscar Gloukh: The Israeli playmaker is Salzburg’s most dangerous creator. Look for him to link midfield and attack.
- Karim Konaté: A lightning-quick forward who can punish any defensive lapse.
Al Hilal:
- Aleksandar Mitrović: A proven goalscorer with strength in the air and clinical finishing.
- Malcom: The Brazilian winger brings flair and creativity. If Salzburg leave space behind, he’ll exploit it.
Predicted Lineups
RB Salzburg (4-2-2-2): Schlager; Dedić, Pavlović, Baidoo, Ulmer; Gourna-Douath, Seiwald; Gloukh, Simic; Konaté, Ratkov
Al Hilal (4-3-3): Al Owais; Abdulhamid, Koulibaly, Al Bulayhi, Al Shahrani; Neves, Kanno, Milinkovic-Savic; Malcom, Mitrović, Michael
Pre-Match Stats Snapshot
| Category | RB Salzburg | Al Hilal |
|---|---|---|
| Tournament Debut | Yes | No |
| Avg. Possession | 46% | 58% |
| High Press Actions | 18 per match | 10 per match |
| Clean Sheets | 1 in last 5 | 3 in last 5 |
| xG (Avg) | 1.6 | 2.1 |
Manager Quotes
Gerhard Struber (RB Salzburg):
“We know we’re the underdogs, but our identity is clear. Press, win the ball, and go forward.”
Jorge Jesus (Al Hilal):
“They’re young and fearless. But we have experience, and experience wins tournaments.”
Predicted Scoreline
Salzburg will give it a real fight, but Al Hilal’s depth and frontline quality might prove too much over 90 minutes.
Predicted Score: Al Hilal 2-1 RB Salzburg
- Mitrović to score
- Salzburg to have more shots, but lower shot accuracy
- Al Hilal to dominate midfield late
What This Result Means
If Al Hilal win, they’ll stay alive in the group with a possible shot at qualifying, depending on the Man City result. For Salzburg, anything less than a win will likely eliminate them from contention.
Group G is tight, and this match could shape who stays in the running.
A Fan POV
As someone who’s followed Al Hilal since they stunned Flamengo in 2022, this match has the feel of a must-win. I’m nervous about Salzburg’s energy, but I trust Jorge Jesus to get it right. Let’s get it done, Hilal!
FAQs
Q1: What time is the RB Salzburg vs Al Hilal match in ET and PT?
A: Kickoff is 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT on June 23, 2025.
Q2: Where can I watch this match in the US?
A: The match is available live on FOX Sports, Tubi, and FIFA+.
Q3: Who is the key player for Al Hilal?
A: Aleksandar Mitrović. His experience and physical presence up top make him a constant threat.
Q4: Has RB Salzburg played in the Club World Cup before?
A: No. This is their debut appearance.
Q5: What’s the venue for this game?
A: Audi Field in Washington, D.C., home of D.C. United (MLS).