Spanish Super Cup: Barca vs Madrid Tactics, Injuries, Predictions
Real Madrid forward, Kylian Mbappe been tackled by Barcelona defender, Cubarsi in 2024/25 El Classico clash. Photo Credit- Goal.com
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium
Time: 8PM (GMT)
Date: Sunday, January 12, 2025
The football world will be abuzz as arch-rivals FC Barcelona and Real Madrid prepare to clash in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday, January 12, 2025. The match is set to kick off at 7:00 PM GMT (8:00 PM local time) at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Recent Performances
Barcelona: Under the management of Hansi Flick, Barcelona secured their spot in the final with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. This match offers Flick the opportunity to clinch his first trophy with the Catalan giants, aiming for the club’s 15th Spanish Super Cup title, which would set a new record.
Real Madrid: Carlo Ancelotti’s side advanced to the final following a commanding 3-0 win against RCD Mallorca, with goals from Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo. The team has displayed strong form, and Ancelotti anticipates an “unpredictable” Clasico, reflecting on the varied outcomes in recent encounters between these storied rivals.
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Tactical Approaches
Barcelona: Flick has been implementing a possession-based style, emphasizing quick transitions and high pressing. The potential inclusion of Dani Olmo, who has been granted temporary registration, could add creativity and dynamism to their midfield, either as a starter or an impactful substitute.
Real Madrid: Ancelotti’s squad is known for its tactical flexibility, capable of adapting to various in-game scenarios. With key players like Jude Bellingham contributing significantly, Madrid may employ a balanced approach, focusing on solid defense while exploiting counter-attacking opportunities.
Key Players
Barcelona: Dani Olmo’s availability could be pivotal, offering creativity and goal-scoring threats from midfield. Additionally, young talents like Lamine Yamal, Gavi and experienced striker, Lewandoski are expected to play crucial roles in breaking down Madrid’s defense.
Real Madrid: Jude Bellingham has been instrumental in midfield, providing both defensive support and offensive contributions. Mbappe and Rodrygo recent form also poses a significant threat to Barcelona’s backline.
Injury Updates
Barcelona: The team will be without Marc Bernal, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Hector Fort, and Andreas Christensen due to injuries. However, the temporary registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor provides a boost to their squad depth.
Real Madrid: Defenders Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal are sidelined with injuries, though David Alaba has returned to the squad. Aurelien Tchouameni, who was substituted early against Mallorca due to a head injury, will undergo assessment to determine his availability.
Prediction
Considering Real Madrid’s current form and Barcelona’s injury concerns, Madrid appears to have a slight edge. However, the unpredictable nature of El Clasico means any outcome is possible. A closely contested match is anticipated, with a predicted scoreline of Real Madrid 2, Barcelona 1.
