The Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win was secured on Thursday night in Jeddah as Xabi Alonso’s side defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1 to book their place in Sunday’s final against Barcelona.
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A stunning early free-kick from Federico Valverde and a composed second-half finish from Rodrygo proved decisive, despite a spirited response from Diego Simeone’s team.
The clash, staged in Saudi Arabia, lived up to its billing as a tense Madrid derby on neutral ground, with moments of quality, controversy and late pressure before Real Madrid held firm to complete their Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win.
Valverde Sets the Tone With a Stunning Early Strike
The Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win began in emphatic fashion, with Los Blancos taking the lead after just 77 seconds.
A foul on Jude Bellingham around 30 yards from goal handed Real Madrid an early opportunity, and Valverde seized it with authority.
Standing in for Dani Carvajal as both captain and right-back, the Uruguayan unleashed a powerful free-kick that flew past Jan Oblak and into the top corner.
Although the Atletico goalkeeper got a touch, and replays suggested a slight deflection off Alexander Sorloth in the wall, the strike was simply too fierce to keep out.
The goal immediately set the tempo for the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win, giving Ancelotti’s side early control and confidence.
Atletico Respond but Fail to Capitalise
Atletico Madrid reacted positively to falling behind, enjoying a strong spell during the next 20 minutes.
Simeone’s side pressed aggressively and forced Real Madrid onto the back foot, with Sorloth emerging as a constant aerial threat.
Thibaut Courtois was called into action on several occasions, most notably with a diving save to deny Sorloth’s header.
The Norwegian striker was then presented with another clear chance soon after, but his free header sailed over the bar.
Despite Atletico’s pressure, the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win remained on course as Los Blancos limited clear chances and waited for openings on the break.
Rodrygo Doubles the Advantage After the Break
Real Madrid struck again 10 minutes into the second half to strengthen their grip on the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win. Rodrygo, who had earlier squandered a promising chance after being released by Alvaro Carreras, made no mistake this time.
Breaking onto a precise pass from Valverde, the Brazilian drove towards goal and calmly side-footed past Oblak to make it 2-0.
The finish highlighted Rodrygo’s composure and continued his fine form in decisive matches.
Immediate Atletico Response Keeps the Tie Alive
Atletico refused to go away and responded almost instantly. Sorloth, who had missed opportunities earlier in the match, finally found the net with a powerful back-post header.
Giuliano Simeone delivered the cross, and Courtois was left helpless as the striker reduced the deficit.
The goal injected renewed urgency into Atletico’s play and added tension to the closing stages of the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win.
Late Drama and Touchline Tensions
As the match entered its final phase, emotions began to spill over. Vinicius Jr was introduced from the bench in the 80th minute, and his arrival coincided with a heated exchange between the two benches. Both the Brazilian winger and Diego Simeone were shown yellow cards following the confrontation.
Atletico continued to push for an equaliser, with Antoine Griezmann coming closest after an acrobatic effort that was expertly saved by Courtois.
Julian Alvarez also had a late chance but failed to convert, ensuring Real Madrid preserved their narrow advantage.
Despite sustained pressure, the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win was sealed as Atletico were unable to find a second goal.
Courtois and Valverde Key to Defensive Stability
Courtois played a vital role in the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win, producing a series of important saves to keep Atletico at bay. His first-half stop from Sorloth stood out during a period of intense pressure.
Valverde, meanwhile, delivered at both ends of the pitch. Alongside his sensational opening goal, he provided the assist for Rodrygo’s strike, underlining his influence throughout the match.
Supercopa Clasico Final Confirmed
The final whistle confirmed that the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win would set up a Clasico showdown against Barcelona in Sunday’s final.
The victory extended Real Madrid’s strong record in high-pressure fixtures and ensured their place in another major final.
Having navigated a challenging derby encounter, Los Blancos now turn their attention to their traditional rivals, with the Spanish Super Cup title on the line in Jeddah.
Real Madrid Hold Firm When It Matters
Ultimately, the Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win was built on early decisiveness, clinical finishing, and composed defending under pressure.
Atletico had chances and spells of dominance, but Real Madrid’s efficiency in key moments proved decisive.
With Valverde’s thunderous opener and Rodrygo’s calm finish providing the cutting edge, Alonso’s side did enough to secure their place in the final and keep their Supercopa campaign alive.
The stage is now set for another Clasico, as Real Madrid look to carry the momentum of this Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final win into Sunday’s decisive encounter against Barcelona.
