Mbappé sparks controversy after Barcelona edge Real Madrid in Super Cup

Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 3-2 to clinch the 2025 Spanish Super Cup in Riyadh, but the post-match focus quickly shifted to Kylian Mbappé after the French forward was seen in heated discussion with his teammates.

The final itself delivered drama. Raphinha opened the scoring for Barcelona before Vinícius Júnior equalised with a brilliant solo run. Robert Lewandowski restored the lead in stoppage time of the first half, only for Gonzalo García to level moments later. The decisive strike came in the second half when Raphinha’s effort deflected off Raúl Asencio to seal a 3-2 victory for the Catalans.

Barcelona players honoured their rivals with a guard of honor as Madrid collected silver medals, but Mbappé’s reaction drew attention. Reports suggested he urged teammates to leave the pitch rather than salute Barcelona, sparking criticism from fans who accused him of arrogance and disrespecting a tradition he had previously benefited from.

The atmosphere inside the stadium had been electric, with both sides trading blows in a high-tempo contest. Madrid’s attack looked dangerous through Vinícius and García, while Barcelona’s midfield control allowed Lewandowski and Raphinha to thrive.

Key incidents included Lewandowski’s precise finish just before half-time and García’s immediate response, which kept the game finely balanced. The decisive moment came when Raphinha’s shot took a deflection off Asencio, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and handing Barcelona the trophy.

In the second half, Madrid pressed for an equaliser but found little joy against a disciplined Barcelona defence. Mbappé struggled to impose himself, with the Catalans limiting his space and forcing him wide.

Late drama unfolded not on the pitch but in the aftermath. Mbappé’s visible frustration and alleged refusal to participate in the guard of honor overshadowed the celebrations. Some sources claimed officials instructed Madrid players to leave because they were blocking broadcast cameras, though no official statement has been issued by the club or organisers.

Barcelona’s victory reinforced their momentum under Xavi, while Madrid were left to reflect on missed chances and the controversy surrounding their star forward. For Mbappé, the incident has added scrutiny to his role at the club, ensuring the fallout will continue long after the final whistle.