For the third consecutive year, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid will clash in the Supercopa de Espana final, setting the stage for a high-stakes El Clasico at the King Abdullah Sports City stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Barcelona secured their spot in the final with a convincing 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday, showcasing their determination after experiencing rough patches earlier this season. Meanwhile, Real Madrid booked their place with a commanding 3-0 win against Mallorca, putting them on notice as they prepare to take revenge for their recent 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Barcelona.
The match is set to kick off at 10 PM local time (19:00 GMT), adding excitement to this year's Supercopa, which officially serves as the curtain-raiser to the Spanish football season. The competition features the winners and runners-up of La Liga and the Copa del Rey, creating high stakes for both teams as they play for this prestigious title.
The Supercopa de Espana has evolved over time, now featuring four teams beginning with the semi-finals, and it is highly regarded as the initial piece of silverware for the season. Real Madrid, the reigning La Liga champions, and Barcelona, the runners-up, aim to add this trophy to their illustrious histories. Barcelona is the most successful club in Supercopa history, having claimed the title 14 times, just one more than Real Madrid.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized the importance of learning from their previous loss to Barcelona, saying, "We have to think about [the last match against Barcelona] obviously, they beat us, we had a clear evaluation of what happened." Ancelotti identified the need to build on the positive aspects of their last encounter and avoid repeating mistakes, particularly focusing on team defense against Barcelona's dynamic attacks.
On the other side, Barcelona's new coach Hansi Flick views this Supercopa final as his first opportunity for silverware since taking over from Xavi. He noted the boost Dani Olmo's presence brings now he’s available after being controversially granted temporary clearance to play. Flick expressed optimism about their form and the impact of young star Lamine Yamal, who has quickly made a name for himself this season.
Barcelona is coming off successive wins, including their semifinal match, where they showcased their tactical flexibility. Gavi's standout performance not only tightened Barcelona's midfield but opened the door for Olmo's anticipated return to the squad. Flick stated, "If we win, we will have more confidence for the rest of the season," indicating the importance of this match as both clubs continue competing for the La Liga title.
With both sides seeking redemption and success, the match is expected to be closely contested. The last meeting between the rivals, which ended dramatically with Barcelona thrashing Madrid 4-0, highlighted the talent both teams possess but also their need for balance to avoid defensive lapses. Ancelotti remarked, "The Clasico is even more pressured when it’s a final... playing a final against them is always something special.”
Real Madrid's recent performances indicate they have hit form at the right time, with five straight wins and only one loss over their last eight matches. Conversely, Barcelona is improving from their recent struggles, hinting at resilience as they head to this decider.
Head-to-head history shows Real Madrid has won 105 of their encounters, and with tensions high, fans around the world are eager to see which club will leave Jeddah with the Supercopa de Espana trophy.
Where to watch:
Electric anticipation surrounds the event, but it is important to note for fans tuning in changes to broadcasting details. The final will not be available on live telecast on any TV channel across the UK, but live streaming will be available through Movistar Plus. For fans across India, the match will be streamed live on the FanCode platform, ensuring international viewership aligns with the excitement surrounding the clash.
Regardless of the outcomes, the 2025 Supercopa de Espana will stand as another memorable chapter in the storied rivalry of Barcelona and Real Madrid, igniting fervent passion among supporters and football enthusiasts alike.