JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia – Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over city rivals Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final on Thursday, setting up a highly anticipated El Clásico final against Barcelona. The match, played at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, saw Los Blancos extend their winning streak to five games across all competitions despite a late surge from Diego Simeone’s side.
The scoring opened dramatically within two minutes as Federico Valverde unleashed a thunderous free-kick that powered through Atlético’s defensive wall and past goalkeeper Jan Oblak. The Uruguayan midfielder’s celebration – emphatically slapping his own head – reflected his relief at scoring his first goal of the campaign after a difficult personal season.
Brazilian forward Rodrygo doubled Madrid’s advantage in the 55th minute with a clinically taken strike, marking his third goal in five appearances. The young attacker demonstrated exceptional composure after finding space through the heart of Atlético’s defense before sliding the ball past Oblak.
Atlético responded immediately through Norwegian striker Alexander Sørloth, who reduced the deficit just three minutes later with a powerful header from Giuliano Simeone’s cross. The goal set up a tense finale as Los Colchoneros pushed desperately for an equalizer.
Thibaut Courtois proved instrumental in preserving Madrid’s lead, making crucial saves against Sørloth’s first-half header and a spectacular acrobatic attempt from Antoine Griezmann in the closing stages. The Belgian goalkeeper’s interventions ultimately denied Atlético’s comeback efforts, including a last-gasp attempt from Julián Álvarez that flashed across the goalmouth in stoppage time.
The victory provides continued momentum for manager Xabi Alonso, whose position had been under scrutiny following inconsistent results in late 2025. Despite some performances lacking complete conviction, his team has now recorded five consecutive victories.
Sunday’s final will see Madrid face Barcelona, who advanced with a commanding 5-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. The showdown marks Alonso’s second Clásico as manager, having previously guided Madrid to victory over their archrivals in October.