Where to see Pachuca vs RB Salzburg live: tickets, top scorers, and head-to-head history
On June 18, 2025, Pachuca and RB Salzburg face off in an electrifying match during the first phase of the FIFA Club World Cup at 9:00 PM (Brasília time). The game, held at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, Qatar, brings together the Concacaf champion and the European representative vying for a spot in the next stage. With live broadcasts secured, the match is set to captivate fans from Mexico, Austria, and global football enthusiasts. Expectations are high, with both teams fielding competitive lineups and standout players. The clash marks a historic moment, as Pachuca aims to repeat past international successes, while Salzburg looks to make a statement in their tournament debut.
The 2025 Club World Cup, organized by FIFA, gathers the best clubs from each continent, and this matchup is a highlight of the initial phase. Al Khor, known for its modern infrastructure, hosts the game in a stadium that was a venue for the 2022 World Cup. Beyond the on-field spectacle, fans anticipate a tactical battle between Pachuca’s coach Guillermo Almada and Salzburg’s Pepijn Lijnders.
- What’s at stake: A spot in the next phase of the Club World Cup.
- Pachuca’s key players: Salomón Rondón and Oussama Idrissi, pivotal in attack.
- Salzburg’s strengths: Karim Konaté’s speed and defensive solidity.
- Expectation: A balanced game, with potential for a tight finish.
The head-to-head history between the teams is nonexistent, as this will be their first official meeting. The match, therefore, carries an element of unpredictability, with both sides eager to impose their playing styles from the opening whistle.
Live broadcast and viewing options
Fans unable to attend at Al Bayt Stadium can watch the game through various channels. In Brazil, the match will be broadcast live on Globo (free-to-air TV) and SporTV (cable TV), with coverage starting at 8:30 PM. The FIFA+ platform offers free, high-quality streaming accessible on mobile devices and computers. CazéTV on YouTube is another online option, providing lively commentary and real-time analysis. For the best experience, fans should check the schedule and test their internet connection in advance, especially for streaming.
Probable lineups for the clash
The lineups are among the most anticipated aspects for fans, and both teams are expected to stick with their recent formations. Pachuca, led by Guillermo Almada, will likely rely on defensive solidity and the flair of their attacking stars. Based on their last game, a 6-4 friendly win against Al Ahly, the probable lineup is:
- Goalkeeper: Carlos Moreno
- Defenders: Carlos Sánchez, Gustavo Cabral, Sergio Barreto, Bryan González
- Midfielders: Pedro Pedraza, Elías Montiel, Nelson Deossa
- Forwards: Oussama Idrissi, Arturo González, Salomón Rondón
RB Salzburg, under Pepijn Lijnders, comes off a 2-0 league win against LASK. The team is expected to maintain its high-intensity style, emphasizing speed on the wings and defensive compactness. Their probable lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Alexander Schlager
- Defenders: Amar Dedic, Oumar Solet, Strahinja Pavlovic, Flavius Daniliuc
- Midfielders: Mads Bidstrup, Maurits Kjaergaard, Oscar Gloukh
- Forwards: Karim Konaté, Petar Ratkov, Dorgeles Nene
Both teams may see last-minute changes due to fitness or tactical decisions, but these lineups reflect their current form.
Coaches in the spotlight
Guillermo Almada, Pachuca’s coach, is renowned for his attacking approach and ability to develop young talents like Elías Montiel. His experience in the 2024 Concacaf Champions League, where he led Pachuca to the title, is a key asset. Meanwhile, Pepijn Lijnders, formerly Jürgen Klopp’s assistant at Liverpool, brings a modern mindset to Salzburg, focusing on quick transitions and high pressing. The tactical duel between the two is set to be a highlight, with strategies that could determine the outcome.
Players to watch
For Pachuca, Salomón Rondón is the main attacking threat. The Venezuelan striker scored 14 goals in 29 matches in the 2024-25 season, per AiScore data, and his presence in the box is a constant danger. Oussama Idrissi, with his dribbling and creativity, is another player to watch. For Salzburg, Karim Konaté’s pace and finishing make him a standout, having netted 12 goals in the Austrian Bundesliga this season. Oscar Gloukh, a rising star in midfield, is also expected to influence the game with his vision and passing.
Ticket information and stadium details
Tickets for the match at Al Bayt Stadium are available through FIFA’s official website, with prices ranging from $20 for basic seats to $150 for premium sections, based on recent ticketing data for the tournament. The stadium, with a capacity of 60,000, offers modern amenities and a vibrant atmosphere. Fans attending should arrive early to navigate security checks and enjoy pre-game activities.
Top scorers and team form
Pachuca’s attacking output is led by Salomón Rondón, who has been in fine form, supported by Oussama Idrissi’s assists. The team’s recent results include a 3-1 win over Tigres and a 2-2 draw against Cruz Azul in Liga MX, alongside their high-scoring friendly against Al Ahly. Salzburg, meanwhile, relies on Karim Konaté and Petar Ratkov for goals. Their last five games show consistent form: a 2-0 win over LASK, a 3-1 victory against Sturm Graz, a 1-1 draw with Rapid Vienna, a 4-0 thrashing of Hartberg, and a 2-1 win over Austria Vienna.
Historical context of the teams
Pachuca has a proud history in international competitions, having won the Concacaf Champions League five times, most recently in 2024. Their 2006 Copa Sudamericana title remains a landmark achievement. RB Salzburg, while yet to claim a major global title, dominates Austrian football, with 17 Bundesliga titles and a reputation for developing young talents like Erling Haaland and Dominik Szoboszlai. This match represents a chance for both clubs to add to their legacies.
Weather forecast for the game
The weather in Al Khor on June 18, 2025, is expected to be clear, with temperatures around 28°C at kickoff and low humidity, per AccuWeather forecasts for the region. These conditions favor a fast-paced game, with no disruptions anticipated. Players and fans should stay hydrated, given the warm climate.
Refereeing and officiating
The match will be officiated by a FIFA-appointed referee, with the crew yet to be confirmed. Based on recent Club World Cup trends, a neutral referee from a non-competing confederation, such as Asia or South America, is likely. VAR will be in use to ensure accurate decisions, particularly for goals, penalties, and red-card incidents. Fans can expect a closely monitored game, with minimal controversies anticipated.
Curiosities about the matchup
- Pachuca is the first Mexican club to face an Austrian team in a FIFA competition.
- RB Salzburg’s squad includes players from 12 different nationalities, reflecting their global scouting network.
- Al Bayt Stadium’s unique tent-like design, inspired by Qatari culture, adds a distinctive backdrop to the game.
- The Club World Cup 2025 is the first expanded edition, featuring 32 teams, a format change from previous tournaments.
Palpites for the game
Analysts predict a tight contest, given the teams’ contrasting styles. Pachuca’s physicality and set-piece prowess could challenge Salzburg’s high-pressing game. A 2-1 win for Pachuca is a common prediction among Mexican pundits, while Austrian media lean toward a 1-1 draw, with Salzburg’s speed potentially forcing extra time. The outcome will likely hinge on which team adapts better to the opponent’s tactics.
