Real Madrid edged past city rivals Atletico Madrid 2-1 in a thrilling Spanish Super Cup semifinal in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, booking a showdown with Barcelona in the final.
Key Highlights
- Fede Valverde opened the scoring with a thunderous free-kick in the 2nd minute.
- Rodrygo doubled Madrid’s lead in the 55th minute with a composed finish through Atletico’s defense.
- Alexander Sorloth pulled one back for Atletico shortly after, but Real held on for victory.
This marks Real Madrid’s fifth consecutive win across all competitions, as coach Xabi Alonso continues to stabilize the team following a patchy run at the end of 2025.
Match Summary
Madrid started the game on the front foot, taking the lead almost immediately. Valverde’s powerful free-kick beat a poorly positioned wall and Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak, signaling Madrid’s intent early.
Rodrygo continued his fine form, scoring his third goal in five games. He broke through Atletico’s central defense and calmly slotted past Oblak, giving Madrid a comfortable cushion.
Atletico responded quickly, with Sorloth heading in from a cross by Giuliano Simeone, but the visitors struggled to create further clear chances. Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made several key saves, denying Conor Gallagher, Julian Alvarez, and Antoine Griezmann.
Despite late pressure, Atletico could not find an equalizer. Marcos Llorente’s shot went wide, and Alvarez’s final-minute effort failed to trouble Courtois.
Road to the Final
- Barcelona secured their final spot with a 5-0 demolition of Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday.
- Real Madrid and Barcelona will face off on Sunday at King Abdullah Sports City, marking the latest chapter in the historic El Clasico rivalry.
Context: Real Madrid Form
- Alonso has gradually steadied the team after a turbulent period in late 2025.
- Young striker Gonzalo Garcia continues to impress in the absence of injured Kylian Mbappe, following a hat-trick against Real Betis.
- Madrid’s recent victories have included a win over Barcelona in Alonso’s first Clasico as coach in October.
Key Players
| Player | Role | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Fede Valverde | Midfielder | Scored opening goal from free-kick |
| Rodrygo | Forward | Scored second goal, continuing strong form |
| Alexander Sorloth | Forward | Scored Atletico’s only goal |
| Thibaut Courtois | Goalkeeper | Key saves to preserve lead |
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