Valverde’s Screamer Sends Real Madrid into the Final
In the early hours of January 9, Real Madrid defeated Atlético Madrid 2–1 to book their place in the Spanish Super Cup final, where they will face Barcelona.
Before kickoff, head coach Xabi Alonso declared that Real Madrid would show their best version — and his players immediately turned words into action.
Just two minutes in, Federico Valverde set the stadium alight with a breathtaking free kick from around 35 meters out. The ball rocketed into the top corner like a missile, leaving Jan Oblak completely helpless and giving Los Blancos the opening goal.
Conceding early didn’t shake Atlético Madrid. Diego Simeone’s side gradually regained control and created several dangerous chances.
Thibaut Courtois was forced into a series of outstanding saves, most notably a point-blank header from Alexander Sørloth. However, poor finishing meant the Rojiblancos failed to find an equalizer before halftime.
The match unfolded with high intensity, in stark contrast to the clash between Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao.
After the break, Real Madrid capitalized on Atlético pushing forward. In the 55th minute, Rodrygo collected a pass from Valverde, beat Robin Le Normand, and calmly finished to double the lead.
Real’s joy lasted just three minutes, though, as Sørloth rose high to head home from a Giuliano Simeone assist, cutting the score to 2–1.
The closing stages saw relentless pressure from Atlético, with Sørloth missing more chances and Antoine Griezmann attempting an audacious bicycle kick. Still, Real Madrid’s defense — backed by an exceptional Courtois — held firm.
In the end, Real Madrid secured a 2–1 victory, knocking Atlético out and setting up a Spanish Super Cup final showdown with Barcelona, where they will be determined to avenge last season’s painful 2–5 defeat.