For the fourth consecutive year, the Spanish Super Cup final—once again played in Saudi Arabia—will feature Spanish football’s two most famous rivals: FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. Barcelona have won two of the last three finals, including last year’s thrilling 5–2 victory in one of the most memorable matches of the season. With Barça currently holding a four-point lead over Real Madrid atop the La Liga table and aiming to repeat as champions, this clash could set the tone for the remainder of the Spanish season. Here is your preview of Sunday’s showdown as the two giants of world football collide once more.
Can Anyone Stop FC Barcelona’s Attack?
The biggest concern for Real Madrid heading into the final is their defensive solidity. In a 2–1 semifinal win over rivals Atlético Madrid, Los Blancos allowed Atlético to pepper Thibaut Courtois with 22 shots. Despite trailing 2–0 in the second half, Atlético clawed a goal back and could easily have found another. Real Madrid were arguably “fortunate” to advance. Xabi Alonso’s side had endured consecutive defeats in December but have since rebounded with five straight wins and are rediscovering their form. In their October La Liga meeting, Real Madrid edged Barcelona 2–1, conceding possession but not goals, as Jude Bellingham struck the decisive winner.
Barcelona, meanwhile, have won nine straight matches since their defeat against Chelsea in the Champions League. During that run, they have scored at least twice in every game, highlighted by a stunning 5–0 demolition of Athletic Bilbao in the Supercopa Semifinal that showcased their attacking brilliance. Barça raced to a 4–0 halftime lead in that match, with Raphinha and 20-year-old Roony Bardghji producing a magical display.
The emergence of the young Swede Bardghji has given Barcelona a dangerous option off the bench, with Lamine Yamal expected to start. The presence of players like Robert Lewandowski and Marcus Rashford as substitutes only adds to the Blaugrana’s firepower. While Barcelona’s high defensive line under Hansi Flick can be risky, it also allows them to apply relentless pressure—and an early goal could put Real Madrid on the back foot immediately.
Will Kylian Mbappe Return And Make The Difference for Real Madrid?
The most encouraging news for Real Madrid could be the potential return of Kylian Mbappé. If fully fit after a knee injury, Mbappé represents one of the few truly elite scorers in world football capable of deciding a match on his own. In his absence, 21-year-old Gonzalo García has stepped up admirably, most recently scoring a hat trick against Real Betis in La Liga. Brazilian winger Vinícius Jr., however, has struggled for form and has gone two months without a goal, with speculation continuing about his future at the club. Ultimately, Mbappé gives Real Madrid their cutting edge; without him, they will need a collective attacking effort to break through Barcelona’s defense.
The Forecast Calls for Goals
What seems highly unlikely in this edition of El Clásico is a dull affair. Barcelona’s attacking depth and aggressive approach under Hansi Flick suggest they should find a way through Real Madrid’s defense at least once. If Mbappé returns, Real Madrid will have the firepower to respond in kind. Barcelona enter as favorites, but this rivalry is often decided on fine margins, with individual brilliance from world-class players tipping the balance. Real Madrid may need the win more, but Barcelona look like a fortress at the moment. Prediction: FC Barcelona 3 Real Madrid 2
Main Photo Credit: IMAGO / AFLOSPORT