By Victor Eludire
Barcelona were crowned Supercopa de España champions for a record-extending 16th time after defeating Real Madrid 3–2 in a thrilling El Clásico final in Saudi Arabia on Sunday. Raphinha was the hero for the Blaugrana, scoring twice, including a decisive second-half winner, to settle a pulsating contest between Spain’s two biggest rivals.
The Catalans took the lead in the 36th minute through Raphinha’s precise finish, but a dramatic end to the first half saw three goals in stoppage time. Vinícius Júnior levelled with a brilliant solo effort before Robert Lewandowski restored Barcelona’s advantage with a delicate chip over Thibaut Courtois.
Real Madrid responded almost immediately, as Gonzalo García turned in the rebound after Dean Huijsen’s header struck the crossbar, sending both sides into the break level at 2–2.
Both teams searched for a winner after the restart, with Courtois and Joan García making key saves. The breakthrough arrived in the 73rd minute, when Raphinha struck again, his shot deflecting off Raúl Asencio and into the net.
Barcelona finished the match with three goals from five shots on target, highlighting their clinical edge on the night.
Barcelona were forced to defend deep late on after Frenkie de Jong was sent off for a two-footed challenge on Kylian Mbappé, but they survived intense pressure.
Real Madrid spurned late chances in stoppage time, and Barça held firm to secure another Clasico triumph and extend their lead as the most successful club in Supercopa history.
