The Spanish Super Cup semi-final is finally here! Today, January 8, 2026, the footballing world turns its eyes to Saudi Arabia as the iconic Madrid Derby takes center stage. With a place in the final against a rampant Barcelona on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Here are 10 quick-fire facts to get you ready for tonight’s clash between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
1. The Venue: Jeddah’s Jewel
The battle will take place at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It is the third time this historic city has hosted the tournament, providing a neutral but electric atmosphere for the cross-town rivals.
2. Xabi Alonso’s Super Cup Debut
This marks Xabi Alonso’s first appearance in the Spanish Super Cup as the manager of Real Madrid. Having already transformed the team’s tactical identity, the legendary midfielder is looking for his first piece of silverware in the dugout.
3. No Kylian, No Problem?
The biggest team news is the absence of Kylian Mbappé. The French superstar did not travel to Saudi Arabia due to a minor injury. Los Blancos will have to rely on the clinical finishing of their younger stars to breach Atleti’s wall.
4. A High-Scoring Precedent
The last time these two met earlier this season in La Liga, fans were treated to a 7-goal thriller. Atletico Madrid emerged victorious with a stunning 5-2 win, a result Real Madrid will be desperate to avenge tonight.
5. Chasing the Blaugrana
The winner of this match already knows their opponent for Sunday’s final. Barcelona dismantled Athletic Bilbao 5-0 yesterday, setting a daunting standard for whichever Madrid side progresses.
6. Historical Edge
This is the 5th time the two clubs have faced off in the Spanish Super Cup format. Historically, the “Whites” hold a slight advantage with 2 wins to Atleti’s 1, including that memorable penalty shootout victory in 2020.
7. Simeone’s Tactical Longevity
While Real Madrid has entered a new era under Alonso, Diego Simeone remains the heartbeat of Atletico Madrid. This will be his 15th year managing in these high-pressure derbies, making him the most experienced coach in the tournament.
8. Jude Bellingham: The X-Factor
With Mbappé out, the spotlight shines brighter on Jude Bellingham. The Englishman has been in sensational form, netting 12 goals so far this season, and is expected to play a more advanced “false nine” role tonight.
9. Defensive Reinforcements
Real Madrid fans will be buoyed by the return of Dani Carvajal and young star Dean Huijsen, who have both been cleared to play. Their presence will be vital in stopping the duo of Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez.
10. The 2026 Kick-Off
This match represents the first chance for either team to secure a trophy in the 2026 calendar year. For Atleti, it would be their first Super Cup title since 2014; for Real, it’s about maintaining their dominance as the “Kings of Cups.”
Where to Watch
- Kick-off: 20:00 CET / 22:00 Local Time
- Streaming: Movistar+, Canal+ Sport, and the 365Scores App for live updates. ➡️ Where to watch
Editor’s Note: Expect a cagey start, but with the talent on the pitch, this derby rarely stays quiet for long. Prediction: 2-1 to the men in white!
