Sports
Bellingham, Rodrygo propel Real Madrid to Spanish Super Cup Final against Barcelona
Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo shone as Real Madrid secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Real Mallorca on Thursday, setting up a Spanish Super Cup final clash with arch-rivals Barcelona.
Playing in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Madrid delivered a dominant performance, with Bellingham’s second-half strike breaking the deadlock and paving the way for victory. An own goal by Mallorca’s Martin Valjent and a late close-range finish from Rodrygo sealed the result, ensuring Madrid’s chance at redemption following their heavy El Clásico defeat in October.
“It’s always tough to play against Barcelona, but we’re ready, we’re performing well, and we want this trophy,” Rodrygo told Movistar. He also lauded Bellingham, who has now scored eight goals in his last ten games for Madrid. “He’s been phenomenal, working hard every day, and his effort is paying off,” Rodrygo added.
Dominance and Challenges
Real Madrid started aggressively, with Lucas Vázquez and Rodrygo threatening early, but Mallorca’s resilient defense limited the European champions’ opportunities in the first half. Despite Kylian Mbappé’s appeals for a penalty, the referee waved play on.
Aurelien Tchouaméni was substituted early in the second half after a head collision but later confirmed he was uninjured.
Madrid eventually found their breakthrough in the 63rd minute. After Dominik Greif and the post denied Madrid’s earlier efforts, a rebound fell to Bellingham, who calmly slotted it past Mallorca’s defenders.
“Jude is a phenomenal player. He consistently helps us win, whether through goals, assists, or sheer work rate,” said Tchouaméni.
Sealing the Victory
Mallorca struggled to respond and inadvertently contributed to their defeat when Valjent turned a pass into his own net. Rodrygo then added a third in stoppage time, capitalizing on a Vinícius Junior cross to complete the scoreline.
While tensions flared late in the game with scuffles between both sides, Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti played down the incident, emphasizing his team’s attacking strength. “When our forwards activate, anything is possible. Their quality is undeniable,” Ancelotti remarked.
Madrid will now face Barcelona in a repeat of last season’s Super Cup final, aiming to reclaim the title and assert their dominance once more.