Real Madrid 3-0 Mallorca
Spanish champions prepare to face Barcelona in Jeddah
Real Madrid moved one step closer to another Spanish Super Cup title with a dominant 3-0 victory over Mallorca in the semi-finals. The win secured a spot in the final, where they will meet their fierce rivals Barcelona in Jeddah. A second-half brace, including a goal from Jude Bellingham and a close-range finish by Rodrygo, helped Carlo Ancelotti’s side see off a resilient Mallorca team, with an own goal from Mallorca’s Martin Valjent in stoppage time adding further to the scoreline.
The match, which took place at the King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was a spectacle of clinical finishing, excellent team play, and a defensive blunder that sealed Mallorca’s fate. After a goalless first half, Real Madrid broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute through Bellingham, who has been in superb form this season. The English midfielder showcased his growing importance to the team, scoring with a low drive after an intricate passing move.
Rodrygo then doubled Madrid’s advantage in the 86th minute, converting a superb cross from Lucas Vázquez. The Brazilian forward’s sharp positioning and quick reflexes allowed him to slide the ball past Mallorca’s goalkeeper, Dominik Greif, from close range. The match was further sealed in the dying moments when Mallorca’s Valjent scored an own goal in an unfortunate attempt to clear a pass from Brahim Díaz aimed at Kylian Mbappé. The ball ricocheted off Valjent’s foot and rolled into the back of the net, giving Real Madrid a commanding 3-0 victory.
With the win, Real Madrid has set up a thrilling final against Barcelona, who triumphed 2-0 over Athletic Bilbao in the other semi-final. The match saw goals from Gavi and the young star Lamine Yamal, who has continued to impress since his breakthrough into the first team. Despite their loss in the final last season, Barcelona are currently in strong form under coach Xavi Hernández and will undoubtedly pose a serious challenge for their arch-rivals.
This will be the third consecutive Spanish Super Cup final between the two giants of Spanish football, with Real Madrid triumphing last year after a dramatic 3-1 victory. In 2023, however, Barcelona lifted the trophy, securing a 3-1 win in the final. This year’s edition promises to be just as thrilling, with both sides in strong form domestically. Real Madrid, who lead La Liga by five points over third-place Barcelona, are eager to add another title to their growing trophy cabinet, while Barcelona will look to assert their dominance after their 2023 victory.
The Spanish Super Cup final is not just a contest between two teams but also a clash of two footballing philosophies. Real Madrid, with their rich history and a squad brimming with experienced internationals, are known for their relentless pursuit of success, while Barcelona, now reasserting themselves under Xavi’s guidance, are building a new era of youthful dynamism. The contrasting styles and fierce rivalry make the Super Cup final one of the most eagerly anticipated fixtures in world football.
Real Madrid’s victory over Mallorca was a comprehensive one, and it highlighted the individual brilliance of players like Bellingham and Rodrygo. Bellingham, in particular, continues to justify the high expectations surrounding his signing from Borussia Dortmund. The 20-year-old midfielder has been a revelation for Real Madrid this season, showcasing maturity beyond his years. His goal against Mallorca was a testament to his growing influence in Ancelotti’s midfield, and his partnership with the likes of Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos has been central to Madrid’s dominance this season.
Rodrygo, too, has stepped up in crucial moments, and his finish against Mallorca was a reminder of his clinical ability. As Real Madrid continues to evolve under Ancelotti, players like Bellingham and Rodrygo will be key to their hopes of further silverware this season.
While Mallorca fought hard, they were ultimately outclassed by Real Madrid. The Balearic Islanders, managed by Javier Aguirre, were disciplined defensively in the first half but were unable to cope with the attacking threat posed by Madrid after the break. Mallorca had their chances but struggled to break down Madrid’s defense, which was marshaled effectively by Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão.
The own goal in the final moments of the match was a cruel blow for Mallorca, who had been hoping to keep the scoreline respectable. Valjent’s unfortunate error was a reflection of the pressure Real Madrid applied throughout the game, forcing mistakes and capitalizing on every opportunity.
As the final whistle blew, Real Madrid could begin to turn their attention to the Super Cup final, where they will once again face Barcelona. Both teams are on the hunt for domestic and international glory this season, and this final will serve as a vital early-season encounter. For Ancelotti’s side, this match offers a chance to avenge Barcelona’s triumph in 2023 and add another trophy to their collection, while Barcelona will be eager to continue their strong season and reclaim the Super Cup.
The stage is set for an electrifying Super Cup final between two of the world’s most storied clubs. Real Madrid, with their experienced squad and star players, will face off against a Barcelona side determined to prove their worth. With both teams at the peak of their powers, football fans worldwide will be eagerly awaiting the latest chapter in this historic rivalry.
