Barcelona secured their first trophy under Hansi Flick with an emphatic 5-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final held in Saudi Arabia. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring early for Madrid, but Barcelona responded with a dominant display, scoring five goals before losing goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny to a red card in the second half.
Goals from Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha (who bagged a brace), and Alejandro Balde sealed the victory, leaving Real Madrid reeling from their second heavy defeat to their arch-rivals this season. Despite Rodrygo Goes pulling one back with a stunning free-kick, Madrid could not capitalize on their numerical advantage.
The match began with promise for Madrid as Mbappé broke free on the counter to score in the fifth minute, showcasing his pace and finishing. However, Barcelona’s 17-year-old star, Lamine Yamal, equalized with a dazzling solo effort reminiscent of Lionel Messi.
Lewandowski then converted a penalty after Eduardo Camavinga’s clumsy foul, and Raphinha added a third with a precise header from Jules Koundé's cross. Just before halftime, Balde scored the fourth goal after a swift counterattack orchestrated by Yamal and Raphinha, giving Barcelona an unassailable lead.
Raphinha added his second goal in the second half, showcasing his dribbling skills and composure. Although Szczesny’s red card for a foul on Mbappé gave Madrid a glimmer of hope, Inaki Peña’s impressive goalkeeping and a late defensive block by Koundé denied Madrid further opportunities.
Reflecting on the match, Flick celebrated the team's strong performance, while Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted defensive errors cost his side dearly. Barcelona's triumph marked their record-extending 15th Spanish Super Cup title, capping a brilliant night with a special Clasico victory.
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