Barcelona vs Athletic Spanish Super Cup
Barcelona showcased their resilience and depth as they defeated Athletic Bilbao 2-0 to reach the Spanish Super Cup final without key playmaker Dani Olmo. Goals from Gavi and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal sealed the victory, setting up a thrilling final showdown in Saudi Arabia.
FULL-TIME: 🔵 Barcelona 2-0 Athletic Club 🔴
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) January 8, 2025
⚽️ Gavi 17'
⚽️ Lamine Yamal 52'#BarçaBilbao #SpanishSuperCup pic.twitter.com/SHZ2NsKGMt
Barcelona’s Dominance Shines Through
From the opening whistle, Barcelona asserted their authority. Despite Olmo’s absence, the Catalans controlled possession and created early chances. Raphinha came close with a volley and a free-kick, but it was Gavi who broke the deadlock in the 17th minute. The young midfielder, filling in for Olmo, slotted home from close range after a precise cutback from Alejandro Balde.
Gavi’s celebration, pointing to an imaginary watch, was a touching tribute to Olmo, who often uses the same gesture. The goal set the tone for Barcelona’s dominance, as they continued to press Athletic Bilbao’s defense.
Yamal Seals the Deal
After the break, Barcelona doubled their lead through 17-year-old Lamine Yamal. The winger, returning from an ankle injury, displayed composure beyond his years as he finished a well-timed pass from Gavi. Yamal’s goal not only highlighted his potential but also underscored Barcelona’s ability to thrive even without their star players.
Athletic Bilbao struggled to break through Barcelona’s defense, with Inaki Williams squandering their best chance of the first half. Wojciech Szczesny, making his second start in goal for Barcelona, made crucial saves to keep the clean sheet intact.
Athletic’s Frustrations Mount
Athletic Bilbao, managed by former Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde, pushed hard in the second half. Nico Williams, introduced as a substitute, provided a spark and set up Oscar de Marcos for a disallowed goal due to offside. Inaki Williams also saw a goal ruled out after a deflection from Frenkie de Jong’s backpass.
Despite their efforts, Athletic couldn’t find a way past Barcelona’s defense. “It’s a shame given all the effort… but we have good things ahead of us,” said Inaki Williams after the match.
Looking Ahead to the Final
With this victory, Barcelona reach the Spanish Super Cup final, where they await the winner of the clash between Real Madrid and Mallorca. Yamal expressed the team’s determination, stating, “We don’t care who we face in the final. It will be hard, but we want to win it and go back home with the trophy.”
Barcelona’s performance without Olmo and Pau Victor demonstrated their depth and adaptability. As they prepare for the final, the Catalans will be eager to lift their first trophy of the season and continue their resurgence under Xavi’s leadership.
🍿 HIGHLIGHTS 🍿
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 8, 2025
Barça gets the job done as Gavi and Lamine Yamal put Athletic Club to the sword pic.twitter.com/Qux3F3IzZ7
