That was an absolute thriller in Jeddah! Barcelona managed to edge out Real Madrid 3-2 to secure their record-extending 16th Spanish Super Cup title.
🏆 Final Score: Barcelona 3 - 2 Real Madrid
Goal Scorers
FC Barcelona: Raphinha (36', 73'), Robert Lewandowski (45+4')
Real Madrid: Vinicius Junior (45+2'), Gonzalo García (45+6')
📺 Match Highlights
The Raphinha Show: The Brazilian winger was the Man of the Match, opening the scoring with a clinical finish and later netting the winner with a deflected strike in the 73rd minute.
First-Half Stoppage Time Chaos: In a truly "manic" five-minute window before the break, three goals were scored. Vinicius Jr. leveled with a world-class solo run, Lewandowski immediately restored Barca’s lead with a delicate dink, and young Gonzalo García equalized again just seconds before the whistle.
The Return of Mbappé: After missing the semi-finals due to a knee injury, Kylian Mbappé entered in the 76th minute but couldn't find the equalizer against a resolute Barca defense.
Late Red Card Drama: Frenkie de Jong was sent off in the 91st minute for a professional foul on Mbappé, forcing Barcelona to defend with 10 men for the final moments.
📊 Tactical Analysis
1. Flick’s High Press vs. Alonso’s Low Block
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona dominated the early tempo, controlling nearly 75% of possession in the first half. Their high-pressing system forced Real Madrid into deep defensive positions. Xabi Alonso opted for a more conservative setup, relying on the pace of Vinicius and Rodrygo to hurt Barca on the counter.
2. The Midfield Battle
Pedri was instrumental in the middle of the park, winning the "Best Assist" award for his vision in setting up Lewandowski’s goal. Barcelona’s ability to circulate the ball quickly prevented Madrid’s midfield duo of Tchouaméni and Camavinga from establishing any rhythm.
3. The Impact of Raphinha
Raphinha has become a "Clásico specialist." His ability to find space between the lines and his high work rate made him a nightmare for Madrid’s Raul Asencio and Álvaro Carreras. Even his winning goal, though lucky with a deflection, was a result of his constant willingness to shoot.
Final Verdict
This victory marks back-to-back Super Cup titles for Hansi Flick and further establishes Barcelona as the dominant force in Spanish cup competitions. For Real Madrid, the loss puts pressure on Xabi Alonso to bridge the four-point gap currently separating the two teams in La Liga.