Real Madrid secured a place in the 2026 Spanish Super Cup final after overcoming city rivals Atletico Madrid in Jeddah.
Xabi Alonso’s side approached the derby with clear intent after suffering a 5-2 defeat in the teams’ earlier meeting this season, and they wasted no time in asserting control.
Lightning start sets the tone
Inside 90 seconds, Federico Valverde broke the deadlock with a ferocious free-kick from around 30 yards, leaving Jan Oblak with no chance.
The early strike allowed Madrid to manage the game on their terms, conceding possession but remaining structurally disciplined.
Atletico pushed forward and created opportunities, with Alexander Sørloth missing two presentable chances and Alex Baena denied by a strong save from Thibaut Courtois. Their inability to capitalise would soon be punished.
Madrid punish missed chances
Ten minutes into the second half, Real Madrid doubled their advantage as Rodrygo Goes timed his run perfectly to collect Valverde’s pass before finishing clinically past Oblak.
Atletico responded on the hour mark when Sørloth finally converted, heading in at the back post to reduce the deficit and inject urgency into Simeone’s side.
Despite late pressure and attacking substitutions including Antoine Griezmann and Thiago Almada, Real Madrid held their ground, even while ending the match without a natural centre-back on the pitch.
The win sets up a Superclasico final against Barcelona on Sunday, after the Catalans swept aside Athletic Club in the other semi-final on Wednesday.