The King of Saudi Arabia wasn't the only royalty in Riyadh last night. Barcelona reaffirmed their status as the kings of Spanish football, demolishing arch-rivals Real Madrid 3-2 to retain the Spanish Super Cup. In a match defined by high pressing and lethal finishing, Brazilian winger Raphinha emerged as the hero, silencing his critics with a brace that will go down in Clásico folklore.

For manager Xavi Hernandez, this was more than a trophy; it was a vindication. Facing a Real Madrid side that has looked imperious in La Liga, Barça dismantled Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield diamond with surgical precision. "We did not just win; we taught a lesson in football," Xavi told reporters, a rare moment of boastfulness from the usually understated coach.

The Raphinha Show

Raphinha, often the subject of transfer rumors, was unplayable. His first goal, a thunderous volley from a Pedri cross, set the tone in the 12th minute. His second, a delicate chip over Thibaut Courtois, showed the composure of a world-class forward.

• The Tactical Battle: Barça’s midfield trio of Gavi, Pedri, and De Jong completely overrun Madrid’s aging engine room. Luka Modric looked his age, unable to cope with the relentless intensity of the Blaugrana press.
• Madrid’s Crisis? For Real Madrid, the alarm bells are ringing. This is their second consecutive Super Cup final loss to their eternal rivals. "We lacked hunger," admitted a visibly frustrated Ancelotti. "You cannot play a final walking."
• The Yamal Factor: Teen sensation Lamine Yamal, coming off the bench, provided the assist for the winner, proving that La Masia remains the heartbeat of the club’s future.

Momentum Shift

The victory injects massive confidence into Barcelona’s season as they chase the Champions League. For Madrid, it is a psychological blow. Losing a trophy is painful; losing it to Barcelona in such comprehensive fashion is a crisis. The balance of power in Spain, it seems, has shifted decisively to Catalonia.