Match Preview: Barcelona vs Real Madrid
Barcelona and Real Madrid will clash in the final of the Spanish Super Cup after both teams secured victories in their respective semi-finals. Barcelona were dominant in their 5-0 win over Athletic Bilbao, while Real Madrid edged past Atletico Madrid with a 2-1 victory. With both sides in strong form, this El Clásico final promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with intensity, quality, and drama.
Barcelona Form and Performance
Barcelona looked unstoppable in their semi-final, scoring four goals before halftime and cruising to victory. Raphinha starred with two goals, while Fermin Lopez, Ferran Torres, and Roony Bardghji also found the net. The Catalan giants will aim to win the Spanish Super Cup for the 16th time. They enter this match on a nine-game winning streak in all competitions and have not lost a domestic match since late October. Barcelona have also won four of their last five meetings against Real Madrid.
Real Madrid Form and Performance
Real Madrid faced a tougher test in their semi-final against Atletico Madrid. Federico Valverde opened the scoring with a stunning free kick before Rodrygo doubled the lead. Atletico pulled one back, making the final stages tense, but Los Blancos held on for victory. Real Madrid have won the Spanish Super Cup 13 times, with their most recent success coming in 2024. They currently trail Barcelona by four points in La Liga but remain strong contenders in all competitions.
Barcelona Team News
Barcelona will be without Gavi, Marc-André ter Stegen, and Andreas Christensen due to injury. However, Lamine Yamal is expected to return to the starting lineup after featuring as a substitute in the semi-final. Ronald Araujo has resumed full training but may not be risked from the start, meaning Eric Garcia could again partner Pau Cubarsi in defense. Flick has several attacking options, which may see players like Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski start on the bench.
Real Madrid Team News
Kylian Mbappe has recovered from a knee injury and could return to the starting lineup. However, Real Madrid will miss Trent Alexander-Arnold, Eder Militao, and Brahim Diaz. Rodrygo, Antonio Rudiger, and Raul Asencio are all being assessed after picking up minor injuries. Dean Huijsen could come into the defense if Rudiger is ruled out.
Possible Lineups
Barcelona:
J Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, E Garcia, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Raphinha, Fermin; Ferran Torres
Real Madrid:
Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Huijsen, Carreras; Camavinga, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius
Prediction
Matches between Barcelona and Real Madrid are always unpredictable and full of goals. Both teams possess world-class attacking talent, and defensive lapses are likely on either side. While Real Madrid have the quality to win, Barcelona’s recent form and momentum could give them the edge.
Prediction: Barcelona 3–2 Real Madrid
⚽ Don’t miss this exciting clash: Barcelona vs Real Madrid — coming soon!