Introduction
Real Madrid wrapped up their preseason in style with a commanding 4–0 victory over Austrian side WSG Tirol at Tivoli Stadium, Innsbruck. The match served as a tactical rehearsal before the La Liga season kicks off, allowing Xabi Alonso to test different combinations, integrate new signings, and give game time to squad players.
While on paper the fixture seemed straightforward, it provided valuable insights into Real Madrid’s readiness for competitive action — from Kylian Mbappé’s ruthless finishing to Arda Güler’s creative spark and the defensive solidity shown by the backline.
Match Preview
Before kick-off, Real Madrid approached this game as both a confidence booster and a tactical experiment.
Squad Selection & Absentees
Several key midfielders — Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Jude Bellingham — were unavailable due to minor injuries or recovery plans, which meant Dani Ceballos and Brahim Díaz had the responsibility to control the tempo.
New Signings on Show
Fans were eager to see how Trent Alexander-Arnold and Álvaro Carreras would adapt in a Madrid shirt. The match also offered a chance for Dean Huijsen, the young center-back, to demonstrate his composure against a physical Austrian side.
Tactical Goals for Madrid
Xabi Alonso wanted his team to:
- Maintain high possession and control.
- Build chemistry between Mbappé and the attacking midfield.
- Work on defensive shape with a rotated backline.
Detailed Match Report
First Half
The match began with Real Madrid instantly taking control. WSG Tirol defended deep, but Madrid’s passing triangles quickly stretched their shape.
- 14th Minute: Éder Militão rose highest from a Brahim Díaz corner, powering a header past the goalkeeper to make it 1–0.
- 27th Minute: Mbappé doubled the lead after a slick through ball from Arda Güler split the defense. The Frenchman slotted it low into the far corner — a classic striker’s finish.
Real Madrid’s pressing forced Tirol into errors, and the half ended with Madrid enjoying 81% possession and not allowing a single shot on target.
Second Half
The second period followed the same pattern.
- 49th Minute: Güler found Mbappé in space again. A quick shift of feet and a curling shot into the far corner made it 3–0.
- 62nd Minute: Mbappé turned provider, breaking down the left before squaring for Rodrygo, who calmly finished to make it 4–0.
The remaining minutes saw Alonso rotate the squad, bringing on youngsters to gain match fitness. WSG Tirol had a couple of half-chances but failed to trouble Thibaut Courtois.
Player Ratings
Star Performers
- Kylian Mbappé (9.5/10): Two goals, one assist — unstoppable all evening.
- Arda Güler (9.5/10): The creative heartbeat, constantly threading passes through tight spaces.
- Dean Huijsen (9/10): Composed at the back, excellent distribution under pressure.
Key Contributors
- Éder Militão (8.5/10): Scored the opener and looked defensively solid.
- Tchouaméni (8.5/10): Controlled the midfield with ease.
- Álvaro Carreras (8.5/10): Balanced defensive stability with overlapping runs.
Solid Performances
- Trent Alexander-Arnold (7.5/10) – Good link-up play on the right.
- Brahim Díaz (7/10) – Assisted the opener but faded later.
- Dani Ceballos (7.5/10) – Kept possession ticking over.
- Vinícius Júnior (7/10) – Dangerous runs but lacked end product.
- Thibaut Courtois (6.1/10) – Rarely tested.
Key Highlights
- Militão’s Set-Piece Goal – A reminder of Madrid’s aerial strength.
- Mbappé’s Movement – Constantly exploiting the defensive line.
- Güler’s Vision – Several passes that split Tirol’s defensive block.
- Rodrygo’s Clinical Finish – Calm under pressure to complete the scoring.
Tactical Insights
- High Press Success: Madrid’s forwards pressed aggressively, winning the ball back in Tirol’s half repeatedly.
- Midfield Rotation: Without Valverde or Bellingham, Ceballos and Güler handled control well.
- Defensive Cohesion: Even with changes, the backline communicated effectively and dealt with long balls with ease.
- Mbappé–Güler Partnership: Their link-up play looks like a major attacking weapon for the season.
Full Recap Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Real Madrid 4–0 WSG Tirol |
| Venue | Tivoli Stadium, Innsbruck (preseason friendly) |
| Goal Scorers | Militão, Mbappé (2), Rodrygo |
| Star Performers | Mbappé, Arda Güler, Dean Huijsen |
| Midfield Setup | Güler–Tchouaméni–Ceballos |
| Tactical Notes | Testing of defensive formation, lack of midfield depth, reliance on creative newcomers |
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s 4–0 win over WSG Tirol was the perfect send-off for their preseason campaign. The performance was a showcase of both individual brilliance and collective discipline. Mbappé and Güler look ready to light up the season, the defense showed reassuring solidity, and Alonso’s tactical blueprint appears well-drilled.
With their La Liga opener against Osasuna just around the corner, Madrid will take confidence from this dominant display — and fans will be hoping that the fluid, ruthless football seen in Innsbruck becomes a hallmark of the season ahead.
