Thu Jan 09 01:51:20 UTC 2025: ## Barcelona Beat Athletic Bilbao to Reach Spanish Super Cup Final

**Jeddah, Saudi Arabia** – FC Barcelona secured their place in the Spanish Super Cup final with a convincing 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in a thrilling semifinal clash in Jeddah. Goals from Gavi (17′) and Lamine Yamal (54′) sealed the win for the Catalan giants, sending them to their third consecutive final.

Barcelona dominated the early stages, with Raphinha coming close on several occasions. However, it was Gavi who broke the deadlock, expertly slotting the ball past Athletic keeper Unai Simón. Yamal, returning from injury, doubled the lead in the second half with a composed finish after a clever assist from Gavi.

Athletic Bilbao pushed for a comeback in the latter stages, creating several opportunities. However, Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny made crucial saves, denying Iñaki Williams and thwarting a near certain goal from Gorka Guruzeta. Late offside calls also ruled out goals for Athletic’s Óscar de Marcos and Iñaki Williams.

Despite Athletic’s late surge, Barcelona controlled the game and ultimately deserved their victory. Barcelona manager, Hansi Flick, expressed his satisfaction with the performance, highlighting the team’s clean sheet and their progress to the final. He also noted Lamal’s successful return from injury, stating that the young winger’s presence was crucial.

Barcelona, the record Super Cup winners with 14 titles, will now face either Real Madrid or Mallorca in Sunday’s final. The news also emerged that Barcelona’s recent signings Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor will be eligible to play in the final after the Spanish National Sports Council approved their registration.

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