FC Barcelona cruised into the final of the Spanish Super Cup with a comfortable 5-0 win over Athletic Club in a game that was effectively over by halftime.
Barca’s Dominance
This victory marks Barcelona’s fourth consecutive Super Cup final and the 28th overall, underlining their dominance in the competition, which they have won more than any other club, with a total of 15 titles.
Athletic’s Struggles
Athletic captain Inaki Williams had criticized the decision to host the Super Cup in Saudi Arabia ahead of the match. After a bright opening 10 minutes, his side lost focus, showing very little resistance to Barcelona’s flowing attacking football. Unai Simon had already saved from Fermin Lopez when Ferran Torres scored the opener with a bouncing shot from inside the area.
Controversial Moments
Athletic had a reasonable claim that the opening goal followed a foul against them, as winger Alex Berenguer had cleanly won the ball, but they had no answer to Barcelona’s avalanche of goals that followed.
Goals Galore
Fermin Lopez doubled Barcelona’s lead after slotting home following an excellent cross from Raphinha in the 30th minute. Two minutes later, he set up Roony Bardghji to make it 3-0 with another fine assist. Roony then assisted Raphinha for his first goal of the night with a powerful shot in the 38th minute, and the pair combined for Barcelona’s fifth seven minutes after the break.
Tactical Changes
Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde made his five changes before the hour mark, while Hansi Flick brought on Marcus Rashford, Marc Bernal, Gerard Martin, and Lamine Yamal for Barcelona.
Looking Ahead
By this time, the urgency had dissipated from the game, with Unai Gomez missing a good chance for Athletic. Barcelona was already thinking about Sunday’s final against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid, who are set to play in the second semifinal on Thursday.