On Sunday, Barcelona showcased their dominance by defeating their arch-rival Real Madrid with a 5-2 victory, securing the Spanish Super Cup at the King Abdullah Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The match kicked off with high energy, highlighting the longstanding rivalry between these two titans of soccer.
Real Madrid's forward, Kylian Mbappé, shocked the Barcelona defense by scoring the first goal in the 5th minute. Yet, Barcelona responded swiftly and powerfully. Lamine Yamal equalized in the 22nd minute, followed by a penalty successfully converted by Robert Lewandowski in the 36th minute. Just three minutes later, Raphinha found the net, and before halftime, Alejandro Baldé extended Barcelona’s lead during added time (45+10).
In the second half, Raphinha scored again at the 47th minute, further widening the gap. Although Rodrygo gave Real Madrid a glimmer of hope with a free-kick goal in the 60th minute, Barcelona faced a challenge when their goalkeeper, Szczesny, was sent off in the 54th minute, leaving them with only ten men on the field.
Despite having a numerical advantage, Real Madrid couldn't capitalize due to Barcelona's robust defense and some questionable tactical decisions by Carlo Ancelotti, including the substitution of Vinicius Jr., who was already on a yellow card. Barcelona dominated possession with 69 percent in the first half and demonstrated impressive offensive play, reaffirming their status as a formidable opponent on any stage.
Under the leadership of Hansi Flick, Barcelona's lineup featured Szczesny, Koundé, Cubarsí, Íñigo Martínez, Baldé, Casadó, Pedri, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, Lewandowski, and Raphinha. Meanwhile, Real Madrid lined up with Courtois, Lucas Vázquez, Rüdiger, Tchouaméni, Mendy, Valverde, Camavinga, Bellingham, Rodrygo, Vinicius, and Mbappé.
FAQs About the Spanish Super Cup Victory
What was the final score between Barcelona and Real Madrid?
Barcelona defeated Real Madrid with a final score of 5-2.
Who scored the opening goal in the match?
Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid scored the opening goal in the 5th minute.
How did Barcelona manage the game after going down to ten players?
Despite being reduced to ten players, Barcelona maintained a solid defense and managed to hold off Real Madrid thanks to tactical adjustments and their early lead.