CF Pachuca vs Salzburg Prediction & Picks - FIFA Club World Cup

Prediction published on 6/18/25, 2:18 PM  by Erik Gibbs in FIFA Club World Cup Picks

CF Pachuca and Red Bull Salzburg will meet on June 18, 2025, in an interesting Group H match of the FIFA Club World Cup. It will be a captivating intercontinental battle between the Mexican giant and the Austrian giant. Having both emerged through very different paths—the Pachuca after a robust performance at the CONCACAF Champions Cup and Salzburg after qualifying through consistent domestic performances—the match will witness a clash of style, strength, and shape.

Pachuca's recent record has been patchy. They finished 8th in the Liga MX 2025 Clausura and were eliminated in the quarterfinals, with a modest domestic record of 12 wins, 9 draws, and 16 losses.

They’ve averaged 1.22 points per match and have struggled at the back, conceding more (55) than they’ve scored (51) throughout the season. They’ve been fighting international form, though, defeating Columbus Crew to eliminate the CONCACAF Champions Cup and giving Real Madrid a stiff test in a close Intercontinental Cup match.

Salzburg, however, are on the back of yet another dominant Austrian Bundesliga campaign, securing their 14th title in 17 seasons. They have been playing well consistently, especially away from home, winning three and drawing one of their last six away games.

Salzburg are highly rated for their high press, rapid transitions, and flexibility in attack, averaging nearly two goals per game domestically. Preparations have been plagued, however, by an injury outbreak to some of their most critical players, including striker Karim Konaté (ACL), midfielders Nicolás Capaldo and Maurits Kjaergaard, and defenders Daouda Guindo and Maximiliano Caufriez. This weakened squad will test the depth and tactical flexibility of the team.