Sun Jan 12 15:02:49 UTC 2025: ## FC Barcelona and Real Madrid Set for Spanish Super Cup Showdown

**Jeddah, Saudi Arabia** – FC Barcelona will face Real Madrid in the final of the Spanish Super Cup on Sunday, setting the stage for a highly anticipated El Clásico clash. Barcelona secured their place in the final after a 2-0 victory over Athletic Club, with goals from Gavi and Lamine Yamal. Real Madrid followed suit, defeating Mallorca 3-0 in their semi-final match.

This marks the tenth time since 1982, and the third consecutive year, that the Super Cup final will be contested by these two arch-rivals. The match, kicking off at 8 PM CET, promises to be a thrilling encounter, despite neither team displaying their best form in the semi-finals. Fans are advised to check local listings for broadcast information, as it may differ from typical Liga and Champions League coverage.

A victory for Barcelona would extend their record number of Super Cup titles to 15, further cementing their dominance. A Real Madrid win, however, would level the all-time tally at 14 titles each.

Recent history between the two clubs highlights the unpredictable nature of El Clásico, with a mix of closely fought matches and lopsided victories for both sides. While Barcelona convincingly defeated Real Madrid 4-0 in October, Real Madrid had previously enjoyed a four-game winning streak against their rivals, including a 4-1 Super Cup victory two years ago.

Real Madrid’s squad remains largely unchanged since last year’s Super Cup, although the retirement of Toni Kroos and injuries to Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao are notable absences. The arrival of Kylian Mbappé has added significant firepower to their attack.

Barcelona, meanwhile, has faced injury issues throughout the season, but key players Dani Olmo and Pau Victor are now available for selection after resolving registration problems. Lamine Yamal, who impressed in the semi-final, is also fit to play, while Andreas Christensen is recovering from injury and Ronald Araujo is reintegrating into the team. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny’s recent strong performances have given manager Hansi Flick a selection dilemma, with Iñaki Peña also vying for the starting spot.

Ahead of the final, players from both teams expressed their determination. Iñigo Martinez stated his confidence in knowing how to exploit Real Madrid’s weaknesses, while Pedri emphasized the importance of controlling the game. Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s manager, stressed the need for an improved performance compared to their semi-final match.

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