Federico Valverde produced a moment of magic just seconds into the match as Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid to book a Clasico showdown with Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.

The semi-final clash, played in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, saw Real Madrid secure a hard-fought victory thanks to early brilliance from Valverde and a composed second-half finish from Rodrygo, overcoming a spirited Atletico side that dominated chances but lacked cutting edge in front of goal.

Lightning Start: Valverde Stuns Atletico in 77 Seconds

Thursday’s semi-final was barely underway when Real Madrid struck. Just 77 seconds after kick-off, captain Federico Valverde stepped up to a free-kick from nearly 30 yards out and unleashed a thunderous effort that flew past Jan Oblak and into the top corner.

The strike immediately set the tone for the match and silenced the Atletico supporters, giving Los Blancos the perfect start in one of Spain’s fiercest rivalries.

Rodrygo Doubles the Lead with Class

Real Madrid continued to threaten and doubled their advantage 10 minutes into the second half. Valverde once again played a decisive role, threading a precise pass into Rodrygo, who produced an exquisite first touch before accelerating away from Robin Le Normand and finishing calmly beyond Oblak.

While the goal itself was impressive, it was Rodrygo’s composure, close control, and burst of pace that highlighted his growing influence in Real Madrid’s attack.

Atletico Fight Back but Fail to Capitalise

Atletico Madrid responded positively and finally found a breakthrough when Alexander Sørloth rose highest at the back post to head home, reducing the deficit and giving Diego Simeone’s side renewed hope with over half an hour remaining.

Despite registering 22 attempts on goal, that strike proved to be Atletico’s only conversion. Sørloth missed a golden chance late in the first half, heading wide from an inch-perfect Conor Gallagher cross, while Julian Alvarez, struggling for form, dragged a late effort wide deep into stoppage time.

Real Madrid Hold Firm Without Mbappe

Real Madrid, coached by Xabi Alonso and missing the injured Kylian Mbappe, were forced to defend resolutely as Atletico poured forward in search of an equaliser.

Both Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior — the latter still without a goal in 16 matches — had chances to extend the lead in both halves, but Real ultimately had to withstand heavy pressure in the closing stages to secure the win.

Their defensive discipline proved decisive as they protected their narrow advantage until the final whistle.

Clasico Final Against Barcelona Awaits

The victory sends Real Madrid into Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final (19:00 GMT), where they will face Barcelona in the second Clasico of the season. Los Blancos already hold the psychological edge after defeating Barca 2–1 at the Santiago Bernabeu in October.

Barcelona reached the final in emphatic fashion, dismantling Athletic Club 5–0 in Wednesday’s first semi-final under manager Hansi Flick.

Spanish Super Cup Continues in Saudi Arabia

The Spanish Super Cup remains in Saudi Arabia after the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) extended its agreement to stage the tournament in the country until 2029, a move that continues to generate debate among fans but delivers significant financial benefits.

Player of the Match: Rodrygo

Rodrygo was named Player of the Match, earning an outstanding average rating of 9.50 from fans for his goal, creativity, and overall impact on the game.