The footballing world is once again set ablaze as Barcelona and Real Madrid prepare to clash in the Spanish Super Cup final, the year’s first El Clasico, taking place at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. For the fourth consecutive year, these two Spanish giants meet in the Supercopa de España final, promising another chapter in one of the sport’s most storied rivalries. With both teams vying for the season’s first domestic trophy, the stakes could hardly be higher.
Barcelona enters the final riding a wave of momentum, having dispatched Athletic Club in emphatic fashion with a 5-0 victory in the semifinal just days ago. Real Madrid, meanwhile, had to dig deep to overcome city rivals Atletico Madrid, edging them out 2-1 in a nervy contest. The contrast in semifinal performances has pundits and fans alike speculating that Barcelona may have the edge, but as any seasoned observer knows, El Clasico rarely follows the script.
This year’s Supercopa final is not just about silverware—it’s about pride, momentum, and, perhaps most intriguingly, the evolving relationship between the two clubs. Barcelona president Joan Laporta did not mince words ahead of the showdown, stating, “Relations with Real Madrid are very bad and are currently broken. They can always be repaired, but right now they are like this.” Laporta also acknowledged the high stakes, noting that Real Madrid “want to relive what we experienced last year in terms of the season that was historic for us, and for that, they have to start by winning the Spanish Super Cup.”
Since the Spanish Super Cup adopted its ‘final-four’ format and relocated to Saudi Arabia in 2019, the tournament has gained significant international prestige. Laporta was quick to praise the Royal Spanish Federation and its president, Rafael Louzan, for their organization, saying, “Since it has been played here in Saudi Arabia and since it adopted this ‘final-four’ format, it has gained in prestige and international recognition.”
Barcelona’s resurgence under Hansi Flick has been nothing short of remarkable. Flick, who joined the club in the summer of 2024, boasts a perfect record in finals as a manager. His trophy-laden spell at Bayern Munich saw him win seven titles, including the UEFA Champions League, and since arriving in Catalonia, he has led Barcelona to three trophies in his first season: La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. The only blemish was a Champions League semifinal exit to Inter Milan.
Flick’s finals record is particularly daunting for Real Madrid, as he has already bested them in two previous finals since taking charge at Barcelona. This Sunday’s final will be his third against Los Blancos, and the German tactician will be eager to extend his unbeaten streak. “I have to thank Joan for that performance,” Flick said after Barcelona’s recent win, highlighting the impact of goalkeeper Joan García, whose return from injury has coincided with a run of five consecutive clean sheets.
Barcelona’s lineup is bolstered by the return of key players. Raphinha, who netted twice in the semifinal, has brought renewed energy to the attack, while Pedri’s presence has restored composure in midfield. The squad’s depth is further exemplified by attacking options such as Fermín López, Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski, Marcus Rashford, and the ever-dangerous Lamine Yamal, who leads the team with 19 goal contributions this season. With only long-term absentees Gavi and Andreas Christensen ruled out, Flick has the luxury of a nearly full-strength squad.
The defensive improvement is tangible, too. Barcelona has conceded just once in their last five matches, a statistic that contrasts sharply with their earlier season form. The preferred back four of Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, and Alejandro Balde has provided much-needed stability, with Eric García stepping in seamlessly when called upon. Joan García’s heroics between the posts have been a revelation, earning praise from both fans and coach alike.
On the other side of the pitch, Real Madrid faces questions about their own form and fitness. Head coach Xabi Alonso, in his first season at the helm, has already felt the heat after a rocky spell in December. “It’s the tournament we’re playing, so it’s the most important,” Alonso emphasized in the lead-up to the final. “Over the season, it’s the fourth [most important trophy] but it’s the one we have right now, so it’s an absolute priority.”
Alonso’s squad has been plagued by defensive injuries, forcing makeshift solutions in the backline. Antonio Rüdiger is expected to miss the final, and Éder Militão remains out long term. The semifinal saw midfielders and full-backs pressed into unfamiliar roles, a situation that could be exploited by Barcelona’s potent attack. The responsibility may fall heavily on goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, whose knack for big saves in finals is legendary.
Yet, Real Madrid’s hopes have been buoyed by the return of superstar Kylian Mbappé. The French forward, who had been sidelined with a left knee sprain, is now back with the squad and could play a decisive role. “Kylian travels tomorrow,” Alonso revealed with a smile, adding, “The feelings are good, and just like any other player, if he’s in the squad, he could play.” Mbappé’s 29 goals this season are a testament to his importance, and his record against Barcelona—six goals in five Clásicos—offers Los Blancos a much-needed boost.
With both teams boasting attacking firepower and a point to prove, the match promises fireworks. Barcelona is currently a slight favorite with -105 odds, while Real Madrid sits at +230, according to bookmakers. A draw, leading to penalties, is priced at +300, underscoring just how tight this contest is expected to be.
For both clubs, the Supercopa has become a springboard for greater success. The last four winners—Madrid in 2022 and 2024, Barcelona in 2023 and 2025—have all gone on to win La Liga, making Sunday’s result a potential omen for the rest of the season. The match will be broadcast live on ABC, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN Unlimited, with kick-off set for noon MT/1 p.m. CT.
As the footballing world turns its gaze to Jeddah, anticipation is at fever pitch. Will Flick’s flawless finals record remain intact, or can Alonso and Mbappé inspire Real Madrid to a statement win? One thing’s for sure: with pride, history, and a trophy on the line, this El Clasico is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter. The action is about to unfold, and the world will be watching.