The women’s team of Real Madrid has made history by securing their first victory against their arch-rivals, FC Barcelona, on March 23, 2025, in a triumphant match that could ignite their hopes for a successful run in the Champions League. The match, held at Montjuïc, featured impressive performances from Alba Redondo and Scottish international Caroline Weir, who scored two goals, leading Real Madrid to a stunning 3-1 win.
This landmark victory stands in stark contrast to the previous nine attempts where Real Madrid had failed to emerge victorious against their fierce competitors, which included a disheartening goal difference of 33-2. On this occasion, however, they managed to slice through past disappointments to claim a monumental win that not only boosts their confidence but also signals a shift in the competitive landscape of women's football in Spain.
The first goal came from Alba Redondo just before halftime, putting Real Madrid in the lead. Barcelona's Caroline Graham leveled the score at 1-1 in the 67th minute, but the match remained contested until Weir scored a vital brace late in the game, with her first goal arriving in the 87th minute, followed by another in the sixth minute of stoppage time.
Furthermore, a controversial moment occurred when a goal from Barcelona was disallowed due to a perceived offside from Jana Fernandez, which has sparked discussions about officiating standards in women’s football. The match showcased the determination of Real Madrid, with over 35,000 fans witnessing the exciting contest, amplifying the growing support for women’s sports.
Despite a significant budget disparity, with Barcelona’s annual budget at €17.1 million compared to Real Madrid’s €9 million, Madrid has made considerable strides in building a competitive squad since their establishment as a professional team in July 2020. This season marks a critical turning point for them, as they not only aim to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time after defeating Arsenal 2-0 earlier in the tournament but also strive to consistently challenge Barcelona, who have historically dominated women's football with five consecutive league titles.
Aitana Bonmatí, the Ballon d’Or winner from Barcelona, spoke candidly about the rivalry. She recognized the challenge Real Madrid poses, stating, "If we have won 18 out of 18 games against them, it shows we've done something right.” However, her remarks come at a time when the tides seem to be turning in favor of Madrid, who, buoyed by their recent success, are ready to challenge Barcelona's established dominance.
The path forward for Real Madrid appears promising. Coach Toril, who has faced criticism regarding his team’s competitive edge, now has evidence to dispel doubts surrounding his leadership after this decisive victory. The resilience demonstrated against Barcelona signals a pivotal moment that could reshape the dynamics of women’s football in Spain.
The excitement surrounding the match extends beyond just the players; it speaks to the growing interest and support for women’s football in Spain. The recent engagement of fans, evidenced by over 35,000 attending the El Clásico, illustrates a robust cultural shift toward recognizing the significance of women athletes. This is markedly different from the only a fraction of that number attending prior Champions League fixtures.
Real Madrid’s ascent in women’s football not only showcases their athletic prowess but also reflects broader societal developments toward gender equality in sports. Fans and analysts alike are now keenly observing how this rivalry evolves, as the recent results indicate that Real Madrid is energized and ready to confront the challenges posed by their more traditional rivals.
As prospects for success grow, both teams will carry the weight of expectations and scrutiny as they continue to battle for supremacy in the league. Madrid's recent victories are a clear signal that they are prepared to push boundaries and possibly reshape the future narrative of women’s sports in Spain. Time will tell if this game marks the beginning of a new era where Real Madrid firmly establishes themselves as competitors not just in matches but as powerful contenders for every title.
