JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia—What a night! Real Madrid edged Atletico Madrid 2-1 on Thursday in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal, with star midfielder Federico Valverde setting the tone just two minutes in. His fierce free kick left Jan Oblak flat-footed and Real were off and running. 🎯
After dominating the first half, Valverde turned provider in the 55th minute, slicing through Atletico’s back line with a perfect pass to Rodrygo. The Brazil forward made no mistake, slotting a low finish past Oblak to make it 2-0. 🔥
Atletico pulled one back through Alexander Sorloth’s header three minutes later, but the Rojiblancos couldn’t find the equalizer despite late pressure. Thibaut Courtois was on top form, denying point-blank chances and keeping Madrid in front. 🧤
Madrid was without Kylian Mbappe, who missed a second straight game with a left knee sprain, but Xabi Alonso’s side looked sharp. Valverde said: 'After so many games without scoring, today was a great day to find the net again and for the team to win. We must be prepared, rested and focused to win the final.'
This Sunday, January 11, Real Madrid will face archrivals Barcelona in an El Clasico final that promises fireworks. Can Los Blancos lift the Spanish Super Cup trophy this time? Stay tuned! 🏆💥
Reference(s):
Real Madrid beats Atletico 2-1 for clasico final in Spanish Super Cup
cgtn.com
