Barcelona defeated Athletic Club 2-0 in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal in Jeddah on Wednesday, securing their place in the final for the third consecutive year. Goals from Gavi and Lamine Yamal helped the Catalan giants see off Athletic Bilbao, continuing their dominance in the competition.
Gavi and Yamal Seal Victory for Barcelona
The match saw an early flurry of chances for Barcelona, with Raphinha coming close twice—first with an acrobatic volley that went over the bar, and later with a powerful free-kick that Athletic’s goalkeeper Unai Simón managed to parry away. However, it was Barcelona who broke the deadlock in the 17th minute. A well-timed pass from Pedri found Alejandro Balde on the left side of the penalty area. Balde then pulled the ball back across the box, where Gavi calmly slotted the ball past Simón from close range.
Barcelona could have doubled their lead in the first half, but Raphinha’s shot, after being set up by Yamal, was saved by Simón in a one-on-one situation. Athletic began to grow into the game, creating a few chances of their own, notably through Gorka Guruzeta and Iñaki Williams. However, Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny made crucial stops to keep his team in the lead.
Yamal Doubles the Lead After the Break
The second half saw Lamine Yamal, who had missed Barcelona’s last two matches due to an ankle injury, extend the lead. Gavi delivered a perfect pass for Yamal, who controlled it smoothly and finished coolly past Simón to make it 2-0 in the 52nd minute. Yamal’s performance proved why coach Hansi Flick trusted him to start, even after his injury layoff.
Athletic’s Late Push Falls Short
Athletic tried to respond, with Iñaki Williams having a great opportunity to pull one back but firing wide from a good position. Late efforts from Óscar de Marcos and Iñaki Williams were ruled out for offside, leaving Barcelona firmly in control and on track to reach their third Super Cup final in a row.
Barcelona’s Strong Super Cup Legacy
With 14 Super Cup trophies to their name, Barcelona will now face the winner of Thursday’s semifinal between Real Madrid and Mallorca in the final, which is set for Sunday. This win ensures Barcelona’s place among the best in Spain, as they continue to challenge for domestic silverware.
Injury Updates: Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor Ready for the Final
Although Barcelona’s new signings Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor were not available for the semifinal due to late registration approval by Spain’s National Sports Council (CSD), they will be eligible to play in Sunday’s final, adding more depth to the squad.
Conclusion: Barcelona’s Path to Glory Continues
With a convincing 2-0 victory over Athletic Club, Barcelona ;has shown their strength and determination in the Spanish Super Cup, progressing to the final with a solid all-around performance. As they await their final opponent, Barcelona will be aiming to secure another Super Cup title and continue their domestic dominance under manager Hansi Flick.
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