Barcelona Secure Super Cup Final Berth with Commanding 5-0 Victory Over Athletic Club

8 January 2026 Football Matches

Introduction: A Statement Performance in Jeddah

Barcelona cruised to a dominant 5-0 victory over Athletic Club at King Abdullah Sports City in Saudi Arabia to secure a spot in the 2026 Spanish Super Cup final. This comprehensive triumph on 7 January 2026 showcased the Catalan giants at their very best, demonstrating why they remain one of Spain’s most formidable forces. The match holds particular significance as the winner of the 2026 Spanish Super Cup could earn between €10 million and €11 million, a substantial boost at this stage of the season.

First-Half Brilliance Sets the Tone

The match belonged to Barcelona from the opening exchanges. Barca soon took control of the semifinal and stormed into a 4-0 lead at the break with goals from Ferran Torres, Fermín López, Roony Bardghji and Raphinha all in the space of a destructive 16-minute period. Ferran Torres opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, sparking a relentless offensive surge. The attacking quartet proved unstoppable, exploiting Athletic Club’s defensive vulnerabilities with clinical precision.

Raphinha’s Masterclass

Raphinha scored a brace as Barcelona eased into the Spanish Super Cup final with a thumping 5-0 victory over Athletic Club in Saudi Arabia. The Brazilian winger delivered a man-of-the-match performance, continuing a stellar performance with another goal shortly after the restart to complete a dominant display. His second goal in the 52nd minute effectively extinguished any remaining hope of an Athletic Club comeback.

Tactical Decisions and Squad Rotation

Manager Hansi Flick made strategic decisions regarding his starting lineup. Yamal and Lewandowski did not start, as Hansi Flick opted to rest them; however, they were expected to come off the bench in the second half. This rotation proved successful, demonstrating Barcelona’s squad depth and allowing key players to remain fresh for the final.

Looking Ahead to the Final

The Blaugrana will advance to the title match, where they’ll face the winner of Thursday’s semi-final between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. Barcelona enter the final with tremendous momentum, having extended their winning streak to nine consecutive matches. This commanding performance sends a clear message to their potential opponents that the Catalans are serious contenders for silverware in 2026.