Held in Saudi Arabia, the Spanish Super Cup has seen Barcelona continue their pursuit of silverware, with this victory setting up a potential El Clásico showdown against Real Madrid, should their rivals triumph over Mallorca in the second semifinal.
Barcelona Dominate Despite Absences
Barcelona entered the match missing the creative influence of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, whose temporary clearance to play came just hours before kickoff, ruling them out of contention. Nevertheless, Xavi’s men started brightly, with a strong attacking display that kept Copa del Rey winners Athletic Bilbao on the back foot.
The Catalans wasted no time asserting their dominance. Jules Kounde’s pinpoint cross found Raphinha, whose volley narrowly sailed over the bar. Minutes later, Raphinha forced a fine save from Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simón with a well-taken free kick. Barcelona’s relentless pressure eventually paid off in the 17th minute when Alejandro Balde provided an incisive cutback for Gavi to score from close range.
Gavi’s first goal of the season! pic.twitter.com/ZWVxcb6HDK
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 8, 2025
The 20-year-old midfielder, deputizing for Olmo in the attacking midfield role, celebrated by pointing to an imaginary watch—an homage to Olmo’s trademark goal celebration.
Yamal Adds the Second
Teen sensation Lamine Yamal, returning from an ankle injury, was instrumental in the Catalans offensive efforts. After missing a golden opportunity in the first half, the 17-year-old made amends early in the second. Receiving a perfectly weighted pass from Gavi, Yamal coolly slotted the ball past Simón, doubling Barcelona’s lead.
HIGHLIGHTS
Barça gets the job done as Gavi and Lamine Yamal put Athletic Club to the sword pic.twitter.com/Qux3F3IzZ7— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 8, 2025
Speaking to Movistar after the match, Yamal praised the team’s collective effort and expressed relief at his recovery. “Athletic are a very physical team that make you run a lot. We suffered, especially towards the end, but we’re happy with how we played,” he said.
Yamal also commented on the reinstatement of Olmo and Victor’s playing licences. “In the end, you’re nervous when you can’t play. When you get news like that, you’re very happy,” he added.
Athletic Struggle to Break Through
Ernesto Valverde, the Athletic Bilbao coach and former Catalan boss, faced a challenging night against his old club. Athletic’s best chance in the first half came when Inaki Williams found space in the box but hesitated too long, allowing Barcelona’s defense to recover. The Ghanaian forward continued to trouble Barcelona’s backline but was repeatedly thwarted by a well-organized defense and Barcelona’s goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
Szczesny, making just his second start for the Blaugrana, produced a standout performance, including a critical save to deny Williams just before halftime.
Second-Half Push from Athletic
Valverde introduced Nico Williams in the second half to inject energy into Athletic’s attack. The Spain international, who has been linked with a move to Barcelona, made an immediate impact. Williams set up Oscar de Marcos for a potential goal, but the defender’s effort was ruled out for offside.
Inaki Williams also saw a goal disallowed after Frenkie de Jong’s errant back-pass was marginally deflected, leaving the forward in an offside position. Despite their relentless push, Athletic failed to find a breakthrough.
“It’s a shame given all the effort… but we have good things ahead of us and we have to continue,” said Inaki Williams after the match.
Missed Opportunities for Barcelona
The Catalans had chances to extend their lead, with veteran forward Robert Lewandowski squandering a promising opportunity in the second half. The Polish striker, who has been in fine form this season, uncharacteristically missed the target when well-placed inside the box.
Xavi expressed satisfaction with the result but acknowledged room for improvement. “We played well overall but need to be more clinical in front of goal. It was a solid team performance, and the young players stepped up brilliantly,” the Barcelona coach said post-match.
Gavi and Yamal Lead the Charge
Gavi’s leadership and Yamal’s sharpness were critical to Barcelona’s success. Gavi, tasked with filling Olmo’s creative void, excelled in the midfield, combining defensive tenacity with attacking flair. His assist and goal highlighted his growing maturity and ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Yamal, despite his young age, showcased confidence and skill throughout the match. His goal not only solidified Barcelona’s lead but also reaffirmed his status as one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
Final Awaits in Saudi Arabia
Barcelona’s victory sets the stage for Sunday’s final, where they will face either Real Madrid or Mallorca. The Spanish Super Cup, held in Saudi Arabia since 2020, has become a prestigious battleground for Spain’s top clubs.
When asked about potential opponents in the final, Yamal remained focused. “We don’t care who we face. It will be hard, but we want to win and bring the trophy back home,” he said.
Barcelona’s chances will be boosted by the return of Dani Olmo, who is now eligible to play. Olmo’s creativity and experience could prove pivotal as Barcelona look to add another trophy to their collection.
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