Sports
Barcelona Defeats Osasuna to Set Up Spanish Supercopa Final Against Real Madrid
Barcelona secured a spot in the Spanish Supercopa final after defeating Osasuna in a tightly contested semi-final match in Saudi Arabia. Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored in the second half to secure a 2-0 victory for Barcelona. The win sets up a highly anticipated final against arch-rivals Real Madrid, replicating last year’s final which Barcelona won 3-1.
The first half of the match was uneventful, with Barcelona dominating possession but struggling to create clear scoring opportunities. It wasn’t until the 59th minute that Lewandowski broke the deadlock, scoring from close range after a through-ball from Ilkay Gundogan.
Controversy arose as Osasuna players complained that Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen had fouled Jose Arnaiz in the build-up to the goal. However, a VAR check confirmed the goal, leaving Osasuna frustrated. Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez acknowledged the dispute but believed it did not ultimately impact the game’s outcome.
Barcelona’s Joao Felix, who came off the bench, injected energy into the attack and threatened Osasuna’s defense. His quick counter led to the second goal, as he provided an assist to Yamal, who powerfully shot into the net.
Xavi expressed excitement about facing Real Madrid in the final, emphasizing that there are no favorites in an El Clasico showdown. He hopes to replicate last year’s success and defend their Supercopa title.