Salzburg manager warns Real Madrid ahead of crucial Club World Cup encounter – ‘Not here on a holiday'
As Red Bull Salzburg prepare to face Real Madrid in their final Group H match of the FIFA Club World Cup, coach Thomas Letsch made it clear during his pre-match press conference that his team is not just there for the experience, they are aiming for victory.
Speaking to the media ahead of the game, Letsch confidently stated, 'The goal is to win against Real Madrid, that's why we're here.
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'We're not in Philadelphia to enjoy a holiday, we're here to go far in the World Cup. To do that, we need to win.'
Currently, both teams sit on four points each, with Madrid leading the group due to their superior goal difference. A draw with goals or a win would seal top spot for Los Blancos.
Salzburg, on the other hand, must beat Madrid outright if they want to finish as group winners and advance with more favourable momentum.
Letsch described the scenario as 'exciting' and said it speaks volumes about Salzburg's level that they are neck and neck with Madrid.
'We know we have to win to move on. It's a great tournament, and we're fully motivated for this challenge,' he said.
Lessons from past defeats
Thomas Letsch has warned Real Madrid. (Photo by)
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Salzburg's coach acknowledged their painful 5-1 loss to Madrid in the Champions League back in January. That memory serves as both a lesson and a motivator.
'We must avoid a repeat of that result. We're confident and excited to play in a fantastic stadium and in such a great city,' Letsch added.
He also took a moment to speak about Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, who he previously faced when managing VfL Bochum against Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen.
Letsch praised the Spaniard for his blend of styles, saying: 'I was curious to see how he'd approach Madrid—if he'd stick to his style or adapt.
'For now, it's still the typical Real Madrid: 4-3-3, brilliant forwards, but we're starting to see signs of Xabi's influence. It is not easy for him with such limited time, but he's combining both approaches well,' he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
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