The Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final in Jeddah delivered a high-quality contest as Barcelona edged past Real Madrid 3–2 to lift the first trophy of the year.
In a match marked by tactical shifts, quick momentum changes and decisive individual moments, the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final showcased intensity from the opening whistle to the closing stages.
Just 1 win in the last 6 games against Barcelona.
20 goals conceded.— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) January 11, 2026
Barcelona Spanish Super Cup Final: Tactical Battle in the Opening Stages
Both sides began the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final with attacking intent, but it was Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso, who surprised observers by setting up in a low defensive block.
This approach forced Barcelona to circulate the ball patiently and search for openings rather than attacking at speed.
Barcelona eventually found a breakthrough through Raphinha, and that goal allowed the Catalans to settle into their rhythm.
From that moment, Barcelona largely controlled the first half, dictating possession and territory as they looked to stretch Real Madrid’s defensive shape.
Barcelona Spanish Super Cup Final: First-Half Chaos Before the Break
Despite Barcelona’s dominance, the closing minutes of the first half of the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final produced a dramatic sequence of events.
Vinicius Jr struck a solo equaliser for Real Madrid, cutting through the defence to level the score.
Barcelona responded quickly, with Robert Lewandowski restoring their lead through a composed finish.
However, the advantage was short-lived, as Gonzalo Garcia brought Real Madrid back on level terms once again.
Three goals arrived in rapid succession, turning the end of the half into a frantic and unpredictable spell.
Barcelona Spanish Super Cup Final: Second-Half Decider
The second half of the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final remained finely balanced. Barcelona continued to look for control in midfield, while Real Madrid searched for opportunities on the counter.
The decisive moment arrived in the 73rd minute when Raphinha scored his second goal of the night, putting Barcelona back in front.
Real Madrid pushed hard in search of another equaliser, increasing pressure in the final stages.
However, they were unable to convert their chances, allowing Barcelona to see out the match and secure the trophy.
Barcelona Spanish Super Cup Final: Player Ratings
Joan Garcia – 7
The goalkeeper made several routine saves during the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
He was beaten by Vinicius Jr’s solo effort and could do little about Real Madrid’s second equaliser. His distribution, positioning and comfort on the ball stood out throughout the game.
Alejandro Balde – 7
Balde offered width and pushed high when Barcelona attacked in the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
Defensively, he was rarely tested, as Real Madrid did not focus much play down his side. However, his final delivery into the box lacked sharpness.
Pau Cubarsi – 6.5
Cubarsi showed composure in possession and distributed the ball effectively.
However, he will be disappointed with how he handled Vinicius Jr for the opening goal, going to ground too easily and failing to block the shot convincingly during the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
Eric Garcia – 8
Garcia was Barcelona’s most reliable defender on the night. He consistently looked to move the ball into advanced areas and complemented Cubarsi well.
While he could have marked better for Real Madrid’s second goal, his blocks and defensive interventions were crucial, especially as pressure increased in the second half of the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
Jules Kounde – 6
Kounde endured a difficult evening. Vinicius Jr regularly got the better of him, often exploiting a lack of recovery pace.
He was dribbled past on multiple occasions, including during Vinicius’ goal late in the first half, making it a challenging Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final for the Frenchman.
Frenkie de Jong – 7.5
De Jong operated as a controlling presence in midfield during the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
While he retained possession well, his tendency to slow the tempo and play sideways passes limited Barcelona’s attacking threat. He maintained ball security but was sent off in the final minute of the match.
Pedri – 8
Pedri played a more advanced role and was heavily involved throughout the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
His passing was precise, his movement intelligent, and his work rate off the ball consistent. He provided the assist for Lewandowski’s goal with an excellent pass through the centre-backs.
Fermin Lopez – 7.5
Fermin was quieter than usual but still effective in linking play. Operating behind the striker, he helped Barcelona bypass Real Madrid’s low block and combined well with Lamine Yamal.
However, he did not reach goal-scoring positions as frequently as he might have hoped in the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
Lamine Yamal – 8.5
Yamal struggled early on, finding it difficult to beat Alvaro Carreras and lacking decisiveness.
After Raphinha’s opener, he grew into the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final, taking on defenders with greater confidence and creating several dangerous moments.
Raphinha – 10
Raphinha was the standout performer of the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
After missing an early chance, he opened the scoring with a powerful strike past Thibaut Courtois.
He led the team with energy, contributed defensively, and added a second goal in the 70th minute with a fierce effort that found the net.
Robert Lewandowski – 8
Lewandowski had limited involvement in open play during the first half but remained influential with his movement.
He finished clinically late in the half to give Barcelona a brief lead, playing a key role in the outcome of the Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final.
The Barcelona Spanish Super Cup final lived up to expectations, delivering goals, drama and decisive individual displays.
Barcelona’s ability to regain control after moments of chaos proved decisive, with Raphinha’s influence ultimately making the difference in a closely contested final.
