Barcelona edged Real Madrid 3-2 to retain the Spanish Super Cup as Raphinha netted twice and Frenkie de Jong was sent off for a studs-up tackle on Kylian Mbappe. Punters may back Barca in short-term match markets but must factor in a likely De Jong suspension and midfield disruption; markets could also lean toward over 2.5 goals given both sides' attacking intent.
Raphinha Double Seals Super Cup Glory as De Jong Sees Red
Barcelona triumphed 3-2 over Real Madrid in a pulsating Spanish Super Cup final, with Raphinha scoring twice and Robert Lewandowski also on target. Frenkie de Jong was shown a straight red late on for a studs-up challenge on Kylian Mbappe, but Barca held on to claim the trophy.
Match Summary: High Drama at the Finish
Barcelona carved out the win after a frantic contest that produced five goals. Raphinha’s brace and a strike from Lewandowski were enough to overcome a resilient Real Madrid side. Despite finishing the game with 10 men, Barca managed to navigate stoppage time and secure the title.
Turning Point: De Jong’s Dismissal
Frenkie de Jong was given a straight red for a dangerous studs-up challenge that struck above Mbappe’s shin. The sending-off forced Barcelona to defend deep in stoppage time and became the decisive moment that tested their composure at the very end.
Player and Manager Reactions
Robert Lewandowski reflected on the significance of the win, saying that beating Real Madrid is always “a big deal” and praised his team’s patience and collective effort. Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso described mixed feelings: proud of his side’s competitiveness but disappointed to lose a closely fought final. Alonso highlighted Vinicius Jr’s threat and confirmed the late introduction of Mbappe was planned to increase attacking danger.
Tactical Notes
Barcelona’s strategy involved patience and shifting play from side to side to break down Madrid’s compact block. Real responded with resilience and counter threats, particularly through Vinicius Jr and the late inclusion of Mbappe to chase an equaliser. The contest swung on moments of clinical finishing and a high-risk defensive challenge.
What This Means for Betting Markets
The result will likely nudge markets toward Barcelona as short-term favorites in upcoming head-to-head fixtures, but bettors should account for potential suspensions and midfield disruptions if De Jong is banned. Given the 3-2 scoreline and attacking displays from both sides, markets may also favour over 2.5 goals in future meetings. Card and disciplinary markets could see increased attention given the high-stakes nature of Clasico contests.
Looking Ahead
Both clubs return to domestic and European commitments with lessons learned: Barcelona with silverware and a defensive scare to address, Real Madrid with confidence in their competitive level but a clear need for greater precision in the decisive moments. The Super Cup outcome will shape short-term narratives and selection choices as the season progresses.
Transfer rumors, news: Barcelona eye Murillo, Aké in defensive push
Frenkie de Jong was sent off as Raphinha scored twice for Barcelona as they beat Real Madrid in a thrilling Clasico to retain the Spanish Super Cup
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