A tough challenge in prospect – an easy win on the pitch. Barcelona seemed to have played as good as they needed to to secure a victory over Athletic Bilbao and reach the Spanish Super Cup finals. The Catalans netted both goals in time – over Gavi in the 17th and Yamal in the 52nd minute, completely anaesthetizing Bilbao’s offensive spirit – 2-0.GAVI DEDICATES HIS GOAL TO OLMO 😭😭😭🥹💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/bAnADwrpa9— ᴘɢ² (@angrygavi) January 8, 2025 During the opening half an hour, Barcelona could have been at least 3-0 in front. However, thanks to Unai Simon, Bilbao awaited the break with only a goal down – 1-0. The decisive moment of the first half was Gavi’s 17th-minute opener following Barca’s nice action over the left flank and Alejandro Balde’s assist.⚽️ GOAL: Gavi🇪🇸 Athletic Club 0-1 Barcelonapic.twitter.com/R1p37OBY8a— Goals Xtra (@GoalsXtra) January 8, 2025 In the final 15 minutes of the period, Athletic managed to put in a better performance but failed to threaten Wojciech Szczesny, who surprisingly got a place in the XI after Inaki Pena – who was planned to start – had reportedly been four minutes late for a training session and thus benched by Hansi Flick.Lewa doesn’t like your eggs – you’re fired!Barca’s dominance and pressing continued after the break as well, giving results only seven minutes into the second half, when Lamine Yamal exploited Gavi’s timely pass to make it 2-0! Nico Williams entrance slightly improved Bilbao’s display, though the Catalans opted for a more defensive style after securing a convincing lead.🎥 FC Barcelona Goal⚽️ Lamine Yamal pic.twitter.com/gIyggc4Mm9— Barça Spaces (@BarcaSpaces) January 8, 2025 Bilbao even managed to net in the 87th minute, but the goal was disallowed due to Inaki Williams’ offside. That moment could have given wings to Ernesto Valverde’s crew, but instead disheartened them altogether.Easier than expected, Barca reached the finals, as Flick will be able to fight for the first trophy with La Liga side. The Catalans will find out the rival’s name tomorrow when Real Madrid and Mallorca face in the other semi-final (22.00).SPAIN SUPER CUPSemifinalsWednesdayAth.Bilbao – Barcelona 0-2 (0-1)/Gavi 17, Yamal 52/Thursday22.00: (1.40) Real Madrid (5.00) Mallorca (9.00)***odds are subject to change***
