With an extra-time victory against rivals Barcelona, Real Madrid have advanced to the Spanish Super Cup final.
Ansu Fati’s late equaliser for Barca forced the match into extra time in Riyadh, where Federico Valverde scored the winning goal.
In an exciting El Clasico match, Real Madrid seized the lead three times, with Barcelona responding twice before Valverde scored to make it 3-2.
Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema scored and assisted in normal time, but Luuk de Jong and Fati equalised in each half.
Benzema, who set up Vinicius Junior for Real’s opening goal in the 25th minute, also struck the crossbar in normal time and came close to extending Real’s lead with minutes remaining in the extra period.
At all times, he posed a threat, and Vinicius’ quickness on the counter-attack made things difficult for the visitors.
In addition to creating opportunities, Xavi’s side did so through the likes of Ousmane Dembele and replacements Pedri and Fati, albeit they were unable to take advantage of them.
Additionally, former Manchester City attacker Ferran Torres had his first appearance for Barcelona since returning from injury, however he failed to register a goal before being substituted at half-time.
Atletico Madrid, the champions of La Liga last season, will face Athletic Bilbao in the second semi-final on Thursday, with the winner going on to face Real Madrid, who are chasing their 12th Super Cup on Sunday in Riyadh.
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