We all know why the Supercopa was moved to Saudi Arabia a few years back: cash money dollar. It is yet another blatant example of Saudi sportswashing.
Many have criticised this revamped competition, arguing that shifting a national trophy to foreign soil creates a complete disconnect with fans and it is hard to disagree.
That said, Barcelona’s wild 5–2 win over Real Madrid last year delivered unforgettable theatre and gave this offshore venture a much-needed shot of credibility. From an organisational point of view, another Clasico final is exactly what the doctor ordered.
Barca the team in the ascendancy
Reigning Spanish champions Barcelona head into this clash as clear favourites after a thumping 5–0 demolition of Athletic Bilbao. Barca blew the Basques away in a devastating first half with every member of the attacking unit getting involved. Hansi Flick rested talisman Lamine Yamal, instead handing Roony Bardghji a start on the right. He was a revelation, linking up superbly with Fermin and Raphinha.
Flick suddenly has options everywhere, with Lewandowski and Dani Olmo waiting patiently on the bench. Barca also hold a four-point lead over Real in La Liga and should approach this final with real confidence.
Real grind out another win in age old grudge match with Atletico
Another Madrid derby, another gritty razor thin victory for Real Madrid. Diego Simeone must be sick of the sight of them. Xabi Alonso talked a big game ahead of the semifinal in Jeddah, insisting Atletico were about to see the best of Real despite growing pressure on his shoulders.
They made the perfect start when stand in captain Fede Valverde smashed home a thunderous free kick in the second minute. Atletico regrouped and largely controlled the rest of the half, forcing the criminally underrated Thibaut Courtois into a series of outstanding saves.
Against the run of play a resurgent Rodrygo doubled the lead early in the second half, latching onto a Valverde pass before finishing with trademark calm. Atletico responded in typical fashion as Sorloth headed home to atone for earlier misses, but despite heavy pressure they could not find an equaliser. Real march into a fourth straight Supercopa final against Barca.
October’s Clasico now a distant memory
It feels strange that the season’s first Clasico was almost three months ago. Alonso enjoyed a dream start back then, beating an injury ravaged Barcelona 2–1 in what felt like a personal coming of age moment. Much has changed since.
Barcelona’s early season injury crisis has eased considerably, with Gavi the obvious long-term exception. Depth has returned and Flick now has genuine game changing options off the bench, giving him huge tactical freedom.
Los Blancos defensive uncertainty
Real have endured their own injury woes, particularly in defence. Almost every member of their back line has spent time on the treatment table. Antonio Rudiger returned in the semifinal but is still nursing a hamstring issue. This patched together defence has lacked cohesion and Flick’s fearless attacking side will look to exploit that.
Mbappe absence looms large
It feels wrong to bury the lead but Kylian Mbappe’s absence is massive. The Frenchman has been in electric scoring form and his raw pace would have posed serious problems for Barca’s occasionally chaotic high line. Still, Real are far from toothless. Vinicius Junior and a confident Rodrygo will be eager to show that Madrid can still hurt teams without their superstar.
Contrasting midfield approaches
The midfield battle could decide everything. Barca’s gegenpressing system thrives on relentless intensity, quick vertical passing and supreme ball retention in tight spaces. Real take a more measured route, blending pressing with defensive balance and leaning heavily on athletic power. Tchouameni and Camavinga are vital in protecting the centre of the pitch.
Will Barca’s silk and control prevail, or will Real’s physical edge disrupt a well-oiled machine?
Alonso’s future under the spotlight
This final may mean more than just silverware. There is a sense that Alonso’s job could be edging towards a crossroads. Madridistas are famously hard to satisfy and many have been unconvinced by his calmer, more pragmatic approach. A heavy defeat to their eternal rivals would only amplify the noise.
Whatever the outcome, another Supercopa Clasico awaits and it promises drama, tension and plenty of fire.