Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid clash in a high-stakes Spanish Super Cup semifinal in Saudi Arabia, with the winner advancing to face Barcelona in Sunday’s final. The match kicks off at 2 p.m. ET at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
The Madrid derby arrives with contrasting momentum from their last encounter. Atlético Madrid demolished their city rivals 5-2 at the Metropolitano Stadium in September, with Julián Álvarez scoring twice in a dominant performance that marked Real Madrid’s heaviest defeat of the season.
Real Madrid Missing Key Star
Real Madrid enters the semifinal without star forward Kylian Mbappé, who remains sidelined with a persistent knee injury. While the French international could potentially return for the final if Los Blancos advance, coach Xabi Alonso must rely on Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham to lead the attack.
“We must be well prepared mentally and take care of the details,” Alonso said ahead of the clash. Bellingham, named in the squad, added: “We know how important this match is and we want to win for our fans.”
Historical Edge for Real Madrid
Despite recent struggles against their crosstown rivals, Real Madrid holds a favorable historical record in Spanish Super Cup meetings between the sides. The teams have faced each other five times in the competition, with Real Madrid winning twice, drawing once, and losing once.
Real Madrid captured the 2019-20 Spanish Super Cup title by defeating Atlético on penalties. In the 2023-24 semifinal, Los Blancos prevailed 5-3 in extra time before going on to win the tournament.
Road to the Semifinal
Real Madrid qualified as runners-up in both La Liga and Copa del Rey last season. The team enters the semifinal riding a four-match winning streak, scoring 12 goals across victories over Alavés, Talavera, Sevilla, and Betis.
Atlético Madrid, third-place finishers in La Liga, seeks their third Super Cup title under Diego Simeone. The Argentine manager has built his reputation on tactical discipline and fierce derby performances.
Barcelona Awaits
Barcelona secured their spot in the final with a commanding 5-0 victory over Athletic Club on Wednesday. Raphinha scored twice as the Catalan club demonstrated dominant form, setting up a potential El Clásico showdown if Real Madrid can overcome their city rivals.
The match represents Real Madrid’s first opportunity to capture silverware this season. A 14th Spanish Super Cup title would extend their record in the competition and provide early-season momentum for Alonso’s squad.
With Atlético having won four of the last 10 meetings between the sides, Real Madrid faces a formidable challenge. The absence of Mbappé adds pressure on Vinícius Júnior, who must deliver a standout performance to help his team advance to Sunday’s final.
