Hansi Flick's Barcelona continues to assert its authority in El Clásico showdowns. In their second clash of the season, the Catalan side once again overwhelmed Real Madrid, claiming a 5-2 victory in the Supercopa de España final in Jeddah. This emphatic result follows the 4-0 win at the Santiago Bernabéu during the October La Liga fixture, further highlighting Carlo Ancelotti's team's struggles.

A Brief Illusion for Real Madrid

Real Madrid began with early hope thanks to a 5th-minute goal by Kylian Mbappé, a brilliant individual effort. Thibaut Courtois had kept the team afloat with key saves against Lamine Yamal and Raphinha moments earlier. However, Madrid's dominance was short-lived as Barcelona seized control of the match.

• Lamine Yamal leveled the score in the 22nd minute with a precise finish.
• A penalty committed by Eduardo Camavinga allowed Robert Lewandowski to make it 2-1 in the 36th minute.
• Raphinha and Alejandro Balde extended the lead to 4-1 before halftime.
• Raphinha's second goal in the 48th minute sealed the result, with Rodrygo scoring a consolation goal later.

Hansi Flick once again outmaneuvered Ancelotti, deploying a strategy that capitalized on Madrid's vulnerabilities:

• High pressing disrupted Madrid’s buildup play, forcing errors.
• Targeting Lucas Vázquez on the flank stretched Antonio Rüdiger out of position.
• Lewandowski's intelligent movements created space for teammates, allowing Barcelona’s attacking trio to thrive.

With standout performances from Raphinha and rising star Lamine Yamal, Barcelona rendered Madrid's defense helpless.

A Madrid in Crisis and Transfer Window Pressure

This defeat deepens concerns for Ancelotti’s project. The same lineup that triumphed 3-0 over Mallorca in the semifinal collapsed under the relentless pressure of their biggest rivals.

With the January transfer window open, the club may need to address glaring weaknesses in the squad. The absence of Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, and the uncertainty around David Alaba have exposed a fragile defensive line.

Barcelona’s Superiority in El Clásico

In just two matches this season, Flick's Barcelona has scored nine goals against Real Madrid, signaling a dominance that excites their fanbase. The team’s tactical clarity and offensive firepower position them as strong contenders in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid faces a crucial 19-day period to regroup and act decisively in the market before the season's most critical moments arrive.