Real Madrid secured their spot in the Spanish Supercopa final with a 3-0 victory over Mallorca, a game that blended moments of struggle with flashes of brilliance. Goals from Bellingham, Valjent (own goal), and Rodrygo paved the way for Carlo Ancelotti’s side to face Barcelona in another thrilling Clásico.
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However, as Ancelotti himself pointed out, the win wasn't as emphatic as what the scoreline depicts. "We suffered, even though we started very well. We could have opened the scoring in the first half. Demanding match because Mallorca defended very well, closed the spaces, and tried to create chances through crosses. They caused problems on several occasions."
Performance analysis
Italian boss underlined that Real Madrid has yet to reach their peak, but the team is on the right track. "We are very close to our best level. We've maintained consistent results, and it's important to keep it that way. Rather than aiming for our top form, we need to focus on consistency in our play and results. So far, it's working."
Notwithstanding, some complicated situations against Mallorca, Ancelotti lauded the defensive organization of his side and its capacity to be fluid. He used the inclusion of Tchouameni in place of Raúl Asencio as a pointer. "Defensively, we were solid. After Tchouameni's injury, Raúl Asencio stepped in very well."
Brilliantness of Bellingham, offensive chemistry
One of the season’s standout players, Jude Bellingham, once again proved his value, with Ancelotti singling him out for praise. “He means a lot to the team. The improvement in our performance has come because Bellingham, Vini Jr., Rodrygo, and Mbappé are starting to combine more. Additionally, we’ve managed to maintain good balance even with so many attackers on the field.”
This synergy from the Madrid attackers is perhaps where Barça are finally beaten at this final. Rodrygo's birthday goal reaffirmed his knack for shining bright on critical days.
El Clásico test
Today's Supercopa final will bring into battle Spain's two heavyweights in what is a collision the Real Madrid boss Ancelotti claims was always going to be impossible to foresee a clear outcome. We have had some matches that we have won easily and others in which we lost 0-4. The final is not easy to forecast, but from so much quality on the pitch, I do believe it will be highly competitive. I really don't know how it's going to go, but we want to do better than Barcelona.
For Madrid, doing better involves striking the right balance between attack and defense. “Against Barcelona, we’ll try to defend well and attack well, because that’s what soccer is about.”
Steering clear of controversy
Ancelotti also sidestepped getting caught up in the debate about player registrations, like the ones concerning Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor. "I don't want to talk about this topic, but obviously I have an opinion. Giving an opinion on this is complicated, and I prefer not to comment. Everyone has their perspective. I have an official public profile, and it's better to keep my thoughts to myself."
Fans' importance
The fact that the fans of Madrid in Saudi Arabia supported them was another high point for the coach. "There was a fantastic atmosphere. We played in a wonderful stadium with so many Real Madrid fans. We received a lot of affection, they supported us, and they got to see a good performance from the team."
Expectations and the Mbappé factor
Another player in great focus is Kylian Mbappé, who is gradually getting back to his best. Ancelotti didn't hold himself back when praising the French forward. "He's doing very well right now and is showing a great version of himself. In December, he had an excellent performance, scoring goals, and little by little, he's reaching his top level. What is his best level? I don't know. With his quality, it's hard to imagine how far he can go."
With Mbappé, Bellingham, Vini Jr., and Rodrygo all in scintillating form, Real Madrid has an offensive quartet that would be able to break down any team - including Barcelona.