For the fourth time, the Spanish Super Cup was held with 4 teams, and for the third time in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, there was a statistically high probability that it would end up in extra time and/or penalties.
After all, penalties had to be taken twice in the semi-finals and in both 2020 and 2021 the final was not decided until after extra time on Sunday.
But the difference in level between Barcelona and Real Madrid was so great this time that this scenario soon seemed unlikely. With a great save, Thibaut Courtois managed to keep his appearance somewhat, but in the end, Javi Lewandowski’s tandem (each goal and one assist) secured the score 0-2 at half-time.
The second half was unnecessary, as the seemingly disinterested Real never showed the willpower to mount another comeback.
Courtois saved his team from a bigger fall, although he couldn’t avoid Pedri scoring 0-3 at the far post. Benzema’s goal was mainly a target for Ter Stegen, who saw his clean sheet go up in smoke.
For Barcelona it is the 14th Super Cup in its history, more than Real Madrid 2. It is Xavi’s first trophy as Barcelona coach.
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