Red Bull Salzburg moved to the summit of Group H at the FIFA Club World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Pachuca in a rain-affected contest at TQL Stadium.
Teenage goalkeeper Christian Zawieschitzky impressed on debut, denying Salomón Rondón twice in the first half, including a superb fingertip save to push a header onto the bar.
Despite Pachuca’s early pressure, Salzburg took the lead just before halftime through Oscar Gloukh, who curled in a fine effort after dancing past his marker.
The second half was interrupted by a 90-minute weather delay, and Pachuca struck back almost instantly after the restart with a stunning free-kick from Bryan Gonzalez that caught Zawieschitzky off guard.
But Salzburg responded well, and it was substitute Karim Onisiwo who delivered the winner, heading in from close range after captain Mads Bidstrup’s precise cross.
The Austrians held firm late on to secure all three points and take control of the group, capitalising on Real Madrid’s earlier slip.
See also:
Delap and Lewis-Skelly Among Nominees for PFA Young Player Award
Sundowns Edge Ulsan to Seal Historic Club World Cup Win
River Plate Overcome Urawa to Open Club World Cup with Victory
