Supercoupe d’Espagne 2025 : FC Barcelone vs Real Madrid
The 2025 Supercopa de España final between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid kicked off with a high-paced intensity in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The Catalans quickly took control, looking to stretch Madrid’s defensive lineup with the runs of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, while Real attacked through quick transitions led by Vinícius Júnior. The Brazilian posed the first real threat with a skillful control, but his shot was too weak to surprise Joan García (14′). Gradually, Barcelona seized territorial dominance, requiring Courtois to make several crucial saves, particularly against a half-volley from Raphinha (27′) and a tight-angle attempt from Fermín López (40′), showcasing the Blaugranas’ growing control.
Barcelona Strikes First
Barcelona’s pressure bore fruit in the 36th minute. Raphinha, who had missed a one-on-one seconds earlier, corrected his earlier mistake. After being served slightly to the left by Fermín López, he fixed Tchouaméni and curled a precise left-footed shot past Courtois into the bottom corner (36′). While Barça seemed in control, Real Madrid remained vigilant. In a moment of individual brilliance, Vinícius Júnior outmaneuvered Koundé and Cubarsí before slotting a low shot past García to equalize right before the half (45+2′). Not to be outdone, Lewandowski put Barça back in the lead shortly after with a delicate lob following a clever assist from Pedri (45+4′). The drama continued as Gonzalo García scored a last-gasp equalizer from a corner, capitalizing on a rebound off the post (45+6′).
Raphinha Makes the Difference
As the second half commenced, both teams maintained high intensity. Real Madrid looked more assertive, with Vinícius and Rodrygo creating quick combinations to disrupt the Catalan defense. Vinícius nearly scored again, but his follow-up shot sailed over the bar (51′). Joan García kept Barcelona afloat with a decisive save from a low shot (63′). On the flip side, the Blaugranas continued to dominate possession, patiently seeking openings against a more compact Madrid block, with Yamal’s shot landing safely in Courtois’ arms (71′).
The match’s deciding moment arrived late in the game. After a chaotic sequence, the ball inadvertently fell to Raphinha at the edge of the box. His slid shot, deflected by Asencio, caught Courtois off-guard and marked Raphinha’s second goal of the evening, sealing a 3-2 victory for Barcelona (73′).
The Final Whistle and Highlights
In the closing moments, tensions flared when Frenkie de Jong, who had entered the match earlier, fouled Kylian Mbappé and received a straight red card (90+1′). Barcelona, now down to ten men, showcased resilience, expertly managing the dying moments and thwarting late attempts from Carreras (90+5, 90+7) and Alaba’s header (90+8′). In a thrilling and dramatic encounter, Barça clinched the Supercopa de España title, attributed greatly to Raphinha’s efficiency and Barcelona’s collective composure under pressure.
Man of the Match: Raphinha (8.5)
Raphinha’s performance was exceptional, mirroring his show against Athletic. Playing primarily on the left alongside Balde, he functioned dynamically. Despite missing a key opportunity early in the match, he instantly redeemed himself by scoring the opening goal. His tireless work rate, attacking flair, and crucial defensive efforts against Vinícius underscored his significance on the pitch. Raphinha’s two goals not only highlighted his talent but also reaffirmed his vital role in securing the trophy for Barcelona.
Player Ratings Snapshot
FC Barcelona:
- Joan García (6.5)
- Raphinha (8.5)
- Lewandowski (6)
Real Madrid:
- Courtois (5)
- Vinícius Júnior (6.5)
- Bellingham (3)
The match was a thrilling spectacle of intensity, skill, and drama, reaffirming both teams’ legendary rivalry.