Unlike previous editions, the match was played as a one game encounter, in a neutral location.
This was the first ever Spanish Super Cup to be hosted as a single match on foreign soil. The venue was Stade Ibn Batouta in Tangier, Morocco.
Barcelona came out on top, let’s look at some key points noted.
#1 Resolute Sevilla
Ernesto Valverde demonstrated confidence in his new signings as Arthur and Lenglet were placed in the starting lineup, while big names like Rakitic, Phil Coutinho, and Umtiti were left on the sidelines.
The final result went in Barcelona’s favour despite Sevilla getting off to a great start with an 8th minute lead.
The goal was not given at first as the referee had given it as offside, but the use of VAR proved to be helpful for the Sevilla side as Pablo Sarabia’s finish gave them the edge over their opponents inside the first 10 minutes.
Throughout the game, Sevilla showed exactly why they beat Manchester United last season. They held back the fierce Barcelona attack for a long time.
Barcelona was a little edgy in the first 15 minutes, but improved as the game wore on.
#2 The Messi factor
It was almost the end of first-half before Messi hit the woodwork from a free-kick on the edge of the box, the ball rebounded to Pique and he sent home the equalizer for the Catalan side. Things looked up for Barcelona at half-time.
Barcelona looked up to their new captain, who took the reigns after Andres Iniesta left the club. He was a crucial piece in the Barcelona attack.
Lifting a trophy as captain for the first time, Messi became the first player in the history of Barcelona to win the most trophies ever. It was his 33rd trophy as a Barca player.
#3 Arthur shines
The Brazilian maestro - Arthur, had a fantastic game on Sunday as he was a shining light in the Barca midfield. Constantly asking for the ball and moving forward quickly, he showed the prowess of an 8 in the team. Stepping into legendary Andres Iniesta’s position, Barcelona looks to have gotten him on a bargain.
#4 Dembele shines
It was a fantastic show for the Frenchman who was rumored to be leaving Barcelona after the arrival of Malcom. He showed exactly why he cost so much money, the winning shot was stunning.
His constant movement on the flank proved to be decisive. He was not overshadowed by the presence of heavyweights like Suarez and Messi. Surely the future is exciting for the young Frenchman.
#5 Not quite the Barcelona Attack
Although Barcelona registered a win, the attackers were not quite there. Suarez now a year older, showed signs of fatigue. He was not in his best form for the final on Sunday.
The attacks were a little sluggish, and not quite as effective as they were last season. But he always begins his seasons slowly, so we can hope he regains his form and fitness for the long season ahead.
#6 Brilliant Ter Stegen
Barcelona might not have won the trophy if it wasn’t for the last minute penalty save from their German goalie. It all came to this, Ben Yedder on the ball, and all eyes were on Ter Stegen.
He leaped to the right angle, saving the game for Barcelona. He definitely is a key player for the side.
He has shown his quality on lots of occasions, this being on top the stack. It seems another German is on his way to making his presence felt in football’s goalkeeping department.
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