Real Madrid and Barcelona clash again in Super Cup final

This encounter also repeats last season’s Copa del Rey final, which Barcelona won 3-2 after extra time. Real Madrid claimed the first league meeting this season, winning 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu in October.

Barcelona enters the match atop La Liga with a four-point lead over Real Madrid, while coach Xabi Alonso’s future remains under scrutiny. Real Madrid reached the final after a hard-fought semifinal victory over Atletico Madrid, where despite Atletico’s dominance, poor finishing and Thibaut Courtois’ goalkeeping secured the win. Barcelona, by contrast, advanced comfortably, with young talent Lamine Yamal expected to play a bigger role after limited minutes against Athletic Bilbao.

Real Madrid faces injury concerns heading into the final. Antonio Rudiger is likely out with a knee issue, Rodrygo is doubtful with a muscle problem, and there is uncertainty over Kylian Mbappe, who missed the semifinal but traveled to Jeddah. Alonso said he will not risk important players unnecessarily, though Mbappe’s presence could influence both the team and Barcelona’s strategy.

Defensive adjustments are expected, with either Dean Huijsen or Aurelien Tchouameni likely partnering Raul Asencio in central defense. Barcelona’s previous 5-2 Super Cup victory over Madrid adds extra motivation for Alonso’s side to avoid a repeat outcome.

The final promises to be tightly contested as both sides look to assert dominance in Spain’s first major title of 2026, reports UNB.