In an exciting Spanish Super Cup semifinal in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Real Madrid defeated Atlético Madrid 2–1 to reach the final. The match was defined by Fede Valverde’s record-breaking ‘rocket’ goal in just 26 seconds and Thibaut Courtois’ superhuman performance, securing the first ‘El Clásico’ of the season for Xabi Alonso’s side.
Less than half a minute after kick-off at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Real earned a free-kick well outside Atlético’s box. After Jude Bellingham was fouled, Valverde stepped up and unleashed a bullet-speed shot that pierced Atlético’s defense and hit the back of the net in the blink of an eye.
This was the fastest goal in Spanish Super Cup history, breaking Mario Mandzukic’s 2014 record of 81 seconds. It was also Real Madrid’s quickest goal against Atlético in La Liga or Super Cup since 2008.
In the 55th minute (10 minutes into the second half), Rodrygo doubled Real’s lead, finishing superbly inside the box after receiving Valverde’s pass. This was his third goal in the last five matches.
Atlético, however, didn’t give up. Just three minutes later (58th minute), Alexander Sørloth headed in a cross from Juliano Simeone, reducing the deficit to 2–1.
Throughout the match, Atlético dominated possession and attacks, keeping the ball around 55% of the time and taking 22 shots, six of which were on target. Real Madrid, on the other hand, managed only eight shots, with four on target. To withstand Atlético’s onslaught, Thibaut Courtois stood tall like the Great Wall of China, making crucial saves.
Next Sunday, at the same venue, Real Madrid will face their arch-rivals Barcelona in the final. Barcelona reached the final by thrashing Athletic Bilbao 5–0 in the first semifinal. Last season, Barça won the final against Real, so this is a chance for Real to avenge that defeat.