Real Madrid will soon face RB Salzburg in the third and final group game of the Club World Cup. Winning the group is a real possibility, and Los Blancos need only a draw to secure the top spot.
All other teams in the group have underperformed, which has allowed the mathematics to tilt in Madrid’s favor. However, the game against Salzburg will not be easy. The Austrian side are also fighting for qualification and will need to score—if not win—to finish second ahead of Al Hilal.
Real Madrid will also be without key centre-back Raul Asencio, who earned a needless red card against Pachuca. But even if Los Blancos manage to cruise into the round of 16, their troubles may not end there.
Real Madrid star at risk of suspension ahead of Club World Cup knockouts
Vinicius Jr, who was booked against Al Hilal, will be walking a suspension tightrope against Salzburg. If he picks up another yellow, he will miss the Round of 16 match, a match that will most likely be against Manchester City. And facing City without Vinicius would be a tough task.
The Brazilian must be cautious in this game. He is known to get into frequent arguments with referees and opponents, and this match could easily become heated with both sides playing for their objectives.
Vinicius’ importance has grown, especially since Kylian Mbappe is not fully fit after recovering from illness. Mbappe is not guaranteed game time against Salzburg and is only hopeful of being fit for the round of 16.
Real Madrid are counting on goals and contributions from Vinicius in this tournament they so desperately want to win, especially in its inaugural edition under the new format. After a sub-par season, the Brazilian forward cannot afford to risk his spot in a potential knockout clash by making a reckless challenge or indulging in needless confrontations.