How did Barcelona secure their spot in the Spanish Super Cup final?
Synopsis
FC Barcelona showcased their dominance by defeating Athletic Club 5-0 in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal. With a stellar performance, the team ensured their place in the final for the fourth consecutive time, reinforcing their status as the most successful club in the tournament's history. Their remarkable journey continues as they aim for yet another title.
Key Takeaways
Barcelona demonstrated exceptional skill with a 5-0 victory.
This win marks their fourth consecutive Super Cup final.
Fermín López was instrumental, contributing goals and assists.
Athletic Club struggled to maintain focus after a promising start.
The upcoming final could add another title to Barcelona's storied history.
Jeddah, Jan 8 (NationPress) FC Barcelona smoothly advanced to the final of the Spanish Super Cup with a decisive 5-0 victory over Athletic Club, a match that was practically concluded by halftime.
This marks Barca's fourth consecutive appearance in the Super Cup final and their 28th overall, reinforcing their supremacy in a tournament they have claimed more than any other team (15).
Athletic's captain Iñaki Williams had previously voiced concerns about hosting the Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, and after a promising start, his team appeared to lose focus, offering minimal resistance to Barcelona's dynamic offensive play.
Before the opener, Unai Simon had saved a shot from Fermín López, but Ferran Torres found the net first with a bouncing shot from within the box, as reported by Xinhua.
Athletic believed they were wronged when the opening goal was scored, asserting that a foul had occurred against them as winger Álex Berenguer had fairly won the ball, yet they struggled to respond to Barcelona's flurry of goals.
In the 30th minute, Fermín López doubled the lead, finishing off a splendid cross from Raphinha, and just two minutes later, he assisted Roony Bardghji to make it 3-0.
Roony then set up Raphinha to score again in the 38th minute, with the duo combining once more for Barcelona's fifth goal just seven minutes after the break.
Athletic's coach Ernesto Valverde made five substitutions before the hour mark, while Hansi Flick introduced Marcus Rashford, Marc Bernal, Gerard Martin, and Lamine Yamal for Barcelona.
By this point, the urgency had dissipated, and although Unai Gómez missed a good opportunity for Athletic, Barcelona was already looking ahead to their final on Sunday against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid, who will compete in the second semifinal on Thursday.
Point of View
This match emphasizes FC Barcelona's continued dominance in Spanish football. Their performance not only highlights their skill but also raises questions about the future competitiveness of the Super Cup. As they prepare for the final, the anticipation builds, and fans eagerly await to see if they can add another trophy to their illustrious history.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times has Barcelona won the Spanish Super Cup?
Barcelona has won the Spanish Super Cup a record 15 times.
Who scored the opening goal in the semifinal?
Ferran Torres scored the opening goal for Barcelona.
When will the final be played?
The final will be played on Sunday, with Barcelona facing either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.
