Overview
- Raphinha scored twice and Ferran Torres, Fermín López and Roony Bardghji added goals as Barcelona raced to a four-goal lead before halftime at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.
- The victory came in the first semifinal of the Supercopa de España, securing Barcelona’s place in the January 11 final against the winner of Real Madrid vs Atlético Madrid.
- Lamine Yamal was named to the bench, with outlets offering differing explanations for his reduced role, citing either a stomach virus or recent muscular discomfort.
- Robert Lewandowski also started on the bench in what was reported as a tactical decision by Hansi Flick’s staff.
- Barcelona extended their unbeaten surge with a ninth straight win across competitions and continued a run of clean sheets highlighted in recent coverage.