The Supercopa de España Femenina Final on January 26, 2025, marked a historic occasion as FC Barcelona Femení and Real Madrid Femenino squared off at the Estadio Municipal de Butarque. In what was anticipated as a closely contested battle, Barcelona delivered a dominant performance, securing an emphatic 5-0 victory to claim their fifth Supercopa title. This decisive result not only showcased Barcelona’s superiority but also highlighted the gap Real Madrid must bridge to compete at the highest level in women’s football.
The 2025 final was significant as it was the first time Barcelona and Real Madrid faced each other in the Supercopa de España Femenina Final. Despite their storied rivalry in men’s football, Real Madrid’s women’s team was only established in 2020, making this clash an important milestone in the growing history of the women’s game. However, the stark difference in experience and quality was evident on the field, as Barcelona extended their undefeated record against Real Madrid to 16 matches, having won all previous encounters. While Barcelona brought their formidable experience and cohesive gameplay to the final, Real Madrid entered the match with notable challenges. Injuries to key players like Melanie Leupolz, Caroline Weir, and Naomie Feller left the team undermanned and reliant on a younger, less experienced lineup. This disparity set the stage for Barcelona to assert their dominance early on.
Barcelona’s tactical brilliance was on full display as they controlled the match from start to finish. The team showcased their signature style of possession-based football, coupled with relentless attacking intent. By the 32nd minute, Barcelona had already established a 3-0 lead, effectively sealing the game before halftime. Their ability to capitalize on defensive lapses and transition seamlessly between midfield and attack was a testament to their quality. The return of Alexia Putellas to the Supercopa final was one of the highlights of the match. The Barcelona captain, who has battled back from significant injuries, delivered an inspiring performance. Her contributions this season have been nothing short of remarkable, with 14 goals and eight assists in 20 matches. In this final, Putellas not only showcased her technical prowess but also her leadership, orchestrating play and leading by example on the pitch.
For Real Madrid Femenino, the final was a harsh reality check. Despite showing glimpses of potential, the team struggled to match Barcelona’s intensity and technical precision. Madrid’s coach, Alberto Toril, acknowledged in post-match interviews that while the scoreline was decisive, the game remained competitive until Barcelona’s second goal. This brief period of parity offered a glimpse into Real Madrid’s progress but also underscored the mental and physical gap they must address to compete with elite teams like Barcelona. The absence of their star players further exacerbated Madrid’s struggles. Without experienced leaders like Leupolz and Weir, Madrid’s younger players faced immense pressure against one of the best teams in Europe. Defensive errors and a lack of cohesion in the midfield allowed Barcelona to exploit spaces and create scoring opportunities with ease.
While the entire Barcelona squad performed admirably, certain players stood out for their exceptional contributions. Aitana Bonmatí was instrumental in controlling the tempo of the game, making precise passes and linking up effectively with the forwards. Mariona Caldentey used her pace and creativity on the wing to cause constant problems for Madrid’s defense. Meanwhile, Asisat Oshoala, with her clinical finishing, was crucial in converting chances into goals, underlining her status as one of the most feared strikers in women’s football. These players, along with Putellas, embodied Barcelona’s attacking philosophy, making it nearly impossible for Madrid to contain them.
This match underscored the existing footballing and mental disparity between Barcelona and Real Madrid in women’s football. Barcelona, with years of experience and a well-established structure, has become a dominant force both domestically and in Europe. Real Madrid, on the other hand, is still in the developmental phase, building a team capable of challenging the best. While the 5-0 scoreline highlights Barcelona’s dominance, it also serves as a reminder of Real Madrid’s potential. The team has made significant strides since its formation in 2020, and competing in the Supercopa final is a milestone in itself. However, to truly challenge teams like Barcelona, Madrid must focus on enhancing their squad depth, improving defensive organization, and instilling a winning mentality within the team.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this final was the presence of Alexia Putellas, who made her return to the Supercopa final after three years. Having overcome serious injuries that sidelined her for extended periods, Putellas has emerged stronger than ever. Her journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication to the sport. Putellas’ leadership extends beyond her on-field performances. She is a role model for young players, inspiring them with her determination and work ethic. In this final, her composure and ability to dictate play were instrumental in Barcelona’s success. As one of the most decorated players in women’s football, Putellas continues to set the standard for excellence.
For Real Madrid, this defeat is both a learning experience and a benchmark for the growth required to compete at the highest level. Despite the result, Madrid’s journey in women’s football has been commendable. Establishing a competitive team within a short period is no small feat, and the club’s commitment to investing in its women’s team is a positive sign for the future. To close the gap with Barcelona, Madrid must prioritize player development and recruitment. Building a cohesive squad with a blend of experienced leaders and young talents will be essential. Additionally, fostering a culture of resilience and tactical discipline will help the team navigate high-pressure matches like the Supercopa final.
The 2025 Supercopa de España Femenina final was a showcase of Barcelona’s dominance and Real Madrid’s aspirations. Barcelona’s 5-0 victory highlighted their status as one of the best teams in the world, while Real Madrid’s performance reflected a team in progress, striving to establish itself among Europe’s elite. For Barcelona, this triumph adds another chapter to their illustrious history, reaffirming their position at the pinnacle of women’s football. For Real Madrid, the final serves as both a moment of reflection and a source of motivation. As women’s football continues to grow, matches like these not only captivate fans but also inspire the next generation of players to dream bigger and aim higher.
