Barcelona clinched the Spanish Super Cup for a record-extending 16th time with a dramatic 3-2 El Clásico victory over Real Madrid in Saudi Arabia.
Raphinha was the hero for the Catalans, scoring twice on Sunday, while Robert Lewandowski also found the net. Despite Frenkie de Jong’s late dismissal, Hansi Flick’s side held firm to secure their fourth trophy under the German coach.
The contest in Jeddah was packed with drama. Raphinha opened the scoring before Vinícius Júnior equalised with a brilliant solo effort. Lewandowski restored Barça’s lead with a deft chip in first-half stoppage time, only for Gonzalo García to level again moments before the break.
The decisive moment came in the 73rd minute when Raphinha’s strike from distance deflected past Thibaut Courtois, sealing the win. It was the Brazilian’s seventh goal in his last five matches across all competitions.
Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, who started Kylian Mbappé on the bench following a knee sprain, introduced the French star late on in search of a leveller. De Jong was sent off for a reckless challenge on Mbappé, but Barcelona still carved out the best chance in stoppage time, Marcus Rashford firing wide when clean through.
Raúl Asencio nearly snatched a last-gasp equaliser for Madrid, but his header was saved by Joan García.
The victory continues Flick’s dominance in El Clásico clashes, having beaten Madrid four times last season. For Barcelona, the triumph not only secures silverware but also raises hopes of another La Liga title, with the last four Super Cup winners all going on to lift the league crown.
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