Barcelona Dominates to Claim Spanish Super Cup
Barcelona claimed a stunning 5-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final at the Jewel Stadium in Jeddah on Sunday. This victory marks Barcelona’s 15th Super Cup title, extending their lead over Real Madrid in the competition’s history.
Real Madrid’s Early Lead, Barcelona Responds Strongly
The match kicked off with Barcelona pressing for an early advantage. However, Real Madrid stunned the Catalan side with an early goal from Kylian Mbappe in the 5th minute. A quick counterattack saw Mbappe break free and finish past goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
Barcelona Equalize Through Lamine Yamal
Barcelona quickly equalized in the 22nd minute. Lamine Yamal was set up by Robert Lewandowski’s pass behind the defence. Yamal made no mistake, calmly placing his shot into the far left corner of the goal.
Lewandowski Converts the Penalty to Give Barcelona the Lead
In the 33rd minute, Barcelona were awarded a penalty after Gavi was fouled by Eduardo Camavinga inside the box. Lewandowski stepped up and confidently scored, putting Barcelona 2-1 ahead.
Raphinha’s Header and Balde’s Stoppage-Time Goal Add to Barcelona’s Lead
Barcelona kept the pressure on and extended their lead in the 39th minute. Raphinha received a cross from Jules Kounde and headed it past Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for Barcelona’s third goal.
Just before halftime, in the 45+10th minute, Alex Balde scored Barcelona’s fourth goal. Raphinha made a superb solo run and passed to Balde, who finished well to give Barcelona a commanding 4-1 lead.
Raphinha’s Rocket Secures Barcelona’s Fifth Goal
In the second half, Barcelona continued to dominate, with Raphinha scoring his second goal in the 48th minute. He unleashed a powerful shot that found the back of Courtois’ net, essentially sealing the victory for Barcelona
Szczesny’s Red Card and Real Madrid’s Late Push
Barcelona faced a setback in the 56th minute when goalkeeper Szczesny was sent off for a foul on Mbappe. The referee reviewed the incident via VAR and awarded Szczesny a direct red card, leaving Barcelona to play with 10 men. Inaki Pena replaced Gavi as the substitute goalkeeper.
Rodrygo’s Free Kick Keeps Real Madrid’s Hopes Alive
Despite playing with a numerical disadvantage, Barcelona continued to defend well. However, Real Madrid did not give up. In the 60th minute, Rodrygo scored a free kick, reducing the score to 5-2. Real Madrid tried to find more goals, but Barcelona’s defence stood firm.
Real Madrid’s Late Chances Fall Short
In the final stages of the game, Real Madrid had a few chances. Raul Asensio’s header went over the bar in the 84th minute. Jude Bellingham appealed for a penalty in the 84th minute, but the referee did not give it. With just minutes remaining, goalkeeper Pena made a crucial save to deny Mbappe and secure Barcelona’s victory.
Barcelona Celebrate 15th Super Cup Title
With their 5-2 win, Barcelona claimed their 15th Spanish Super Cup title, marking a historic triumph over Real Madrid. The win also gave manager Hansi Flick his first trophy with the club.
