Real Madrid booked a mouthwatering Spanish Super Cup final against arch-rivals Barcelona after overpowering Atletico Madrid in a high-octane semi-final clash in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with Federico Valverde’s stunning early strike setting the tone for another famous derby victory.
The contest was barely underway when Valverde, wearing the captain’s armband, unleashed a spectacular 30-yard free-kick just 77 seconds after kick-off. The fierce effort flew past a helpless Jan Oblak and into the top corner, instantly silencing Atletico and igniting celebrations among Los Blancos supporters.
Real tightened their grip on the game ten minutes into the second half when Rodrygo doubled the lead. The Brazilian forward showed quick thinking and composure, cushioning a precise pass from Valverde before darting away from Robin Le Normand and sliding the ball beyond Oblak for a clinical finish.
Atletico responded with urgency and pressure, eventually pulling one back through Alexander Sorloth. The Norwegian striker rose above Raul Asencio at the back post to head home, giving Diego Simeone’s side renewed hope with more than half an hour still to play.
Despite launching 22 attempts on goal, Atletico could not find an equaliser. Sorloth squandered a golden opportunity just before the break, heading wide from a pinpoint Conor Gallagher cross, while Julian Alvarez dragged a late effort off target as frustration mounted.
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Real Madrid, missing injured superstar Kylian Mbappe, were forced to dig deep as Atletico pushed forward relentlessly. Vinicius Junior, who has gone 16 matches without a goal, and Rodrygo both had chances to extend the lead, but Carlo Ancelotti’s men ultimately relied on discipline and resilience to see out the win.
The victory sends Real Madrid into Sunday’s final at 19:00 GMT, where they will face Barcelona in a second Clasico of the season. Los Blancos already hold the psychological edge, having beaten the Catalan giants 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu in October.
Barcelona secured their place in the final after a dominant 5-0 demolition of Athletic Club in Wednesday’s first semi-final under coach Hansi Flick.
The Spanish Super Cup continues to be staged in Jeddah under a long-term agreement between Saudi Arabia and the Spanish Football Federation, keeping the tournament in the Middle East until 2029.
