Real Madrid in Helsinki: The European Super Cup Showdown
Real Madrid arrives in Helsinki with the belief that their latest European crown can be the start of a new era. The club faces Eintracht Frankfurt, a side that’s been weakened by the absence of Filip Kostic, who was linked with a move to Juventus. Madrid’s objective is clear: win a first final and add another European trophy to an already illustrious collection.
Madrid’s squad has been reinforced through arrivals like Rudiger and Tchouameni. Yet the team has long shown that the seemingly impossible can become reality. The champions of La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Champions League have consistently toppled favorites by performing when it matters most. The team is aiming for a record-extending triumph and to keep building a history that places them among the sport’s most storied outfits.
Carlo Ancelotti’s return to Real Madrid marked a triumph-filled period for the club. The Italian coach, who may step away after this stint, seeks to continue writing history. If Madrid beats Eintracht, Ancelotti would surpass Pep Guardiola to hold the record for the most European Super Cup titles by a manager. It would also add another line to Ancelotti’s already remarkable résumé, a list that places him among the game’s greatest managers. This final could be another milestone in a coaching career that has left an enduring mark on European football.
One notable strength of Ancelotti’s leadership is how he steers veteran groups and nurtures locker room harmony. In Helsinki, the team is set to welcome champions who make the improbable possible and who celebrate success with the ultimate trophy raised high to the sky.
Our arrival in Helsinki. Our European Super Cup squad is ready. The squad photo circulated online as Madrid prepared for the clash, a reminder of the journey that brought them here and the history they aim to extend.
Madrid lines up with a familiar spine that proved effective in recent battles. Thibaut Courtois remains a commanding presence in goal, while the defense features Carvajal, Alaba, Militao, and Mendy. In midfield, Casemiro, Kroos, and Modric anchor the team, with Fede Valverde providing dynamism alongside a forward line led by Vinícius Júnior and Karim Benzema, who continues to serve as captain and a pivotal figure in the attack. The combination has sparked a chemistry that Madrid has consistently relied upon to control matches and finish chances efficiently.
The trio of Casemiro, Kroos, and Modric has earned the affectionate nickname during Ancelotti’s tenure, reflecting their long-standing chemistry and reliability. Although age brings changes, the blend of experience and fresh energy helps Madrid navigate the tempo of European finals. The objective for the season is to further strengthen a squad that has already delivered multiple trophies, while managing the inevitable turnover that accompanies a long calendar year in top-level football.
Historically, Real Madrid has been a dominant force in Europe, with more than a few clubs chasing their footsteps. The balance of power in the continent’s top competitions has often seen Madrid holding a leading position, even when the path is challenging. The European Super Cup stands as a special prize, with Madrid eyeing a fifth victory in the competition and aiming to build upon an impressive record of five titles tied with other European giants. The memory of classic clashes, including legendary matches from the early days of the European Cup, remains part of the club’s rich tapestry—moments that still resonate with fans and players alike.
Eintracht enters the match with a proud trajectory after a standout Europa League campaign and a resilient performance in the Bundesliga. Their path to the Super Cup featured a decisive victory over Bayern Munich in their domestic league opener, signaling ambition and capability. The absence of Kostic, who was briefly connected with Juventus, opens a space on the left wing, likely to be filled by Christopher Lenz or another teammate. This adjustment will shape Eintracht’s approach as they seek to test Madrid’s defense and exploit any chances on the break.
Coach Oliver Glasner has emphasized a return to basics after a tough pre-season test against Bayern. The plan is to organize a compact defense and to press Madrid into difficult decisions, aiming to seize opportunities on the counter or through set pieces. As the match unfolds, observers will watch how Eintracht adapts to Madrid’s control in midfield and whether the German side can convert chances into goals against a resilient Madrid back line and a goalkeeper who has repeatedly delivered decisive moments in big games.
Possible lineups:
Real Madrid: Courtois; Carvajal, Alaba, Militao, Mendy; Casemiro, Kroos, Modric; Valverde; Vinícius and Benzema.
Eintracht: Trapp; Tuta, Ndicka, Knauff; Kamada, Rode, Sow, Lenz; Gotze, Lindström; Kolo Muani.
Referee: Michael Oliver (England).
Stadium: Helsinki Olympic Stadium.
Kick-off: 21:00, local time in Helsinki.