Real Madrid arrive in the Super Cup final on a five-game winning streak but carry key injury concerns (Militão out; Rüdiger, Rodrygo and Mbappé doubtful). Betting angle: Madrid remain favorites, but the fitness doubts and Barcelona’s scoring form make Both Teams To Score or an anytime scorer wager on Jude Bellingham smarter value for punters.
Real Madrid vs Barcelona: Spanish Super Cup Final Preview
Real Madrid head into the Spanish Super Cup final buoyed by five straight wins that have quieted growing pressure on Xabi Alonso. Their 2-1 semi win over Atlético Madrid in Jeddah set up a heavyweight clash with defending champions Barcelona, who will be eager to hang on to the trophy and avenge their October Clasico defeat.
Form and Stakes
Barcelona arrive with momentum after a potent attacking run — nine goals in their last three matches — while Madrid’s recent surge has restored confidence. The final is more than silverware: it’s a battle for early-season supremacy, tactical bragging rights and a statement on both clubs’ trajectories under new and existing management.
Injury Watch and Team News
Militão is ruled out, and late fitness doubts hang over Rüdiger, Rodrygo and club top scorer Kylian Mbappé, who joined the squad in Jeddah despite a knee issue. That leaves Alonso with selection questions in defence and attack. All eyes will also be on Vinícius Jr., whose long goal drought and off-field talk add an emotional subplot, and on Jude Bellingham, whose performances often define Madrid in big games.
Key match-ups
- Bellingham vs Barcelona’s midfield: Expect the England international to be Madrid’s creative and driving force. - Valverde vs Raphinha: A crucial duel on the right flank, with transitional play deciding momentum. - Young centre-back test: If Rüdiger is absent, Dean Huijsen faces a baptism of fire against Barcelona’s forwards.
Predicted Real Madrid Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Starting XI and notes
GK: Thibaut Courtois — Will be busy against a free-scoring Barca. RB: Federico Valverde — Key to neutralising Raphinha and aiding transitions. CB: Raúl Asencio — Gets the nod despite a recent injury scare; offers physicality. CB: Dean Huijsen — Likely partner if Rüdiger is unavailable; a big test for the youngster. LB: Álvaro Carreras — Has pedigree from his October performance and will need to shut down Yamal. DM: Aurélien Tchouaméni — Seeking redemption after last season’s final; crucial in midfield balance. DM: Eduardo Camavinga — On course for a third straight start; his engine will be vital. RW: Rodrygo — In form and central to Madrid’s attacking momentum; fitness permitting. AM: Jude Bellingham — The talisman; often Madrid’s decisive player in Clasicos. LW: Vinícius Júnior — Desperate to end a long drought; capable of moments of magic. ST: Kylian Mbappé — Questionable but could start; if not fully fit, Madrid will need alternatives up front.
Betting Angles and Tactical Expectations
Madrid’s recent form makes them the likely favorite, but key defensive absences and attack fitness doubts reduce certainty. Barcelona’s scoring run suggests an open game. Recommended betting angles are Both Teams To Score or backing Jude Bellingham as an anytime scorer for better value than a straight match winner bet on Madrid. Punters should monitor final team news for Rüdiger and Mbappé before locking markets.
What to Watch
- Final team sheets for last-minute injury updates on Rüdiger and Mbappé. - How Madrid manage wide threats and whether Valverde can contain Raphinha. - Vinícius Jr.’s response under pressure and Bellingham’s influence in decisive moments.
The Serie A starlet destined for Real Madrid return
Los Blancos will look to make it two wins in a row against their biggest rivals.
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