A new title kicks off, in this case the Spanish Super Cup, held in Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) just like last year. The stadium where the match will be played is the King Abdullah of Jeddah, aiming to qualify for the final of the first title. You can follow the match through Movistar Plus+, Movistar Spanish Super Cup and the minute-by-minute on our social media @carpetasblaugranas
The person in charge of officiating the match will be Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias, joined in the VAR by referee Valentín Pizarro. The Madrid native has refereed Barça 7 times and the Basques 8 times, both with positive records.
How Athletic Club Arrives
Valverde's team arrives after overcoming Logroñés in the round of 32 of the Copa del Rey, not without suffering. They had to go to penalties to eliminate the second federation team, after a 0-0 where the Basques dominated but couldn't find the goal. In the League, they ended 2024 in the best way, fourth just 2 points from third and Europa League leader alongside Lazio (16 points).
The last matches between both teams, out of the last ten, the blaugranas have won six, two draws, and the rest victories for the "lions." While it's true that the record favors the Catalans, the last time they faced each other in the Super Cup they won 2-3. In that match, the hero was Iñaki Williams, who scored the decisive goal in the first half of extra time.
His brother might not be there, suffering from discomfort in his left ankle after the Copa del Rey match. Those who definitely won't be there are Oihan Sancet and Yeray, both injured.
How Barça Arrives
The Catalans continue to experience complicated times, especially at the institutional level, due to the 'non' registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor. Raphinha's latest statements haven't helped to calm the atmosphere, in fact, Laporta had a conversation with him before training. The best news was the solid victory against Barbastro, by 0-4 with a good Pablo Torre and Lewandowski's first goal of 2025.
Hansi Flick has assured in a press conference that this situation affects the team, but it can also make them more united. Regarding Raphinha's statements, he clarifies that he knows what the club is going through and that he would sign yes or yes. He also wanted to comment on the possible debut of Lamine Yamal, assuring that he is ready and could play tomorrow.
Match Keys
The speed of the wingers: the Williams brothers, Raphinha, or Berenguer will be the main offensive weapons of both teams. Both teams produce a lot on the wings, as they have great crossers and dribblers, especially Nico and Lamine. Hence, the full-backs will be crucial in stopping their rivals, a good performance from them increases their team's chances of victory.
Emotional factor: the situation is not ideal to face Athletic, as it's already quite complicated. However, this should be taken as a reinforcement factor for the team, to unite in the face of adversity and overcome this obstacle. On the other hand, the Basques will be able to see how emotionally strong their opponent is, as it would be rare for them not to score.
Effectiveness in the areas: one of the biggest problems this Barça had at the end of 2024 was the lack of effectiveness in front of goal. Lewandowski's misses and Lamine Yamal's injury caused a significant drop in numbers. Recovering that scoring instinct is key, especially against a team that defends very well and finds it easy to launch counterattacks.
Possible final: this match is played far from Spain, but even so, the value of winning it shouldn't be underestimated. Last year started with a defeat by Real Madrid in the Super Cup final. This 2025, Flick wants to start it in the opposite way, coming out as champions and boosting the morale of his team.