Barcelona lifted the Spanish Super Copa after edging past arch-rivals Real Madrid in a pulsating final that delivered drama, quality, and late heartbreak in equal measure.
While the scoreline reflected Barcelona’s cutting edge, the contest itself was far tighter than it appeared, with Madrid pushing their rivals until the very final moments.
In the end, it was Raphinha’s brilliance and Robert Lewandowski’s composure that ensured Barca walked away as CAMPEONES DEL SUPER COPA, sealing a record 16th title in the competition.
Barcelona dominate early but Real Madrid stay alive
Barcelona began the final on the front foot, controlling possession and forcing Madrid into long spells without the ball.
Real Madrid struggled to establish any rhythm in the opening half, often chasing shadows as Barcelona’s midfield dictated the tempo. Despite that, Madrid remained dangerous on the counter and never fully slipped out of contention.
The breakthrough arrived in the 36th minute, when Raphinha showcased his confidence and form. Cutting inside with intent, the Brazilian found space and finished decisively to give Barcelona a deserved lead after sustained pressure.
First-Half Chaos Sets the Tone
Madrid’s response was immediate and emphatic. In 45+2 minutes, Vinícius Jr produced a moment of individual brilliance, gliding past defenders and finishing with authority to level the score.
The goal served as a statement, silencing critics and reaffirming his importance in big matches.
Barcelona struck back almost instantly. Just two minutes later, in 45+4, Robert Lewandowski timed his movement perfectly to restore Barcelona’s advantage, capitalizing on Madrid’s momentary lapse at the back.
The half still had one final twist. Madrid’s new recruit Gonzalo Garcia, coming fresh off a marvelous hat trick against Betis, announced himself on the biggest stage again, equalizing in 45+7 minutes with a composed finish to send the match into halftime locked at 2-2 and finely balanced.
Raphinha delivers when it matters most
The second half saw Madrid grow in belief, pressing higher and testing Barcelona’s resolve. Chances came at both ends, and Real Madrid repeatedly pushed Barcelona to the edge, refusing to fade despite defensive lapses earlier in the match.
Just when the contest seemed destined for extra time, Barcelona’s hero of the season stepped up again. In 90+1 minutes, Raphinha struck the decisive blow, completing his brace and breaking Madrid hearts with a late winner that sealed the trophy.
Record-Breaking Triumph for Barcelona
The final whistle confirmed a memorable night for Barcelona and a bitter one for Real Madrid, who had fought relentlessly but fell just short.
With the victory, Barcelona secured their 16th Spanish Super Copa title, extending their dominance in the competition under Hansi Flick and reaffirming their winning pedigree on the biggest domestic stages.