RMA vs FCB: Key Duels and Tactics for Super Cup Glory

Barca are set to face arch-rivals Real Madrid in an epic Super Cup finale in Jeddah. As Carlo Ancelotti’s side looks for revenge, here are a few considerations Flick needs to make. I’ll also highlight key players to watch and interesting duels, as Clasicos have always been influenced by individual brilliance.

Winner Takes it All

Barca’s start to the season has been far better than Los Blancos’, as the Blaugrana have bagged the most goals in Europe and also thrashed the rivals in La Liga already. However, there has been a dip in form for the Catalans and an increase for Madrid. Madrid players like Jude Bellingham and Mbappe, who had a quiet start to the season, are suddenly in red-hot form.

Although Barca has started the year on a high note, the club’s actual test will be this clasico. Both teams have secured promising victories in the semi-finals and are ready for the grand finale. The winner will not only grab the trophy but also the psychological advantage in the La Liga race and Copa Del Rey.

Key Considerations For Hansi Flick

Flick’s tactics worked against Madrid in October, but will the same tactics work again? I think Flick might not risk an immensely high line, as Carlo Ancelotti must have taken notes from the previous loss. Hansi Flick would likely go with his 4-3-3 system. The coach needs to assert dominance through strong press, positional play, and passing.

This system will get the midfield in action and create chances but will make the defense vulnerable to counterattacks. The Madrid front three are quick like a flash, and Barca must do their homework against them. A sweeper keeper, like Inaki Pena, might be a good option in this situation, but Wojciech Szczęsny will likely start.

Precaution Against a Speedy Customer

Flick must take extraordinary measures to stop Vinicius Junior, as the player is a match-winner and can single-handedly win games for Madrid. A good example would be his match-winning hat trick in the same fixture last year. With Vinicius suppressed, I think most of Madrid’s attack will suffer.

Players To Watch: Key Duels

• Pedri vs Bellingham: Although both players have different profiles, the success of the particular player will likely guarantee a win for his team. Both of them are in sensational form and have done well this season. Personally, I’d like an advancer role of Pedri, as his attacking prowess takes a toll whenever he plays from the back. Bellingham’s muscle and Pedri’s magic will surely be a spectacle.
• Kounde Vs Vinicius Jr: Vini is a tricky customer, and he’ll be battling our reliable right-back Jules Kounde on the far right. Kounde is sharp and strong, while Vini is speedy and possesses swift feet. Their tussle will be interesting.
• Lamine Yamal vs. Mbappe: Both are ace players and will likely go all out. Yamal will look for his first title with Barca, and Mbappe will want to register his first goal in a Clasico.

The Clasico is on the horizon, and the whole world awaits this historic fixture. A win for Barca will be a significant shot of adrenaline in the team and might be the start of a golden era for Barcelona under coach Hans-Dieter Flick.

I predict Barca will win this 3-1 and win the trophy in Saudi Arabia. Vamos Barca!