Real Madrid suffered another painful setback on Sunday night, losing their second consecutive Spanish Super Cup final to arch-rivals Barcelona. Xabi Alonso’s side were beaten 3-2 in Jeddah, extending a frustrating run in decisive matches for Los Blancos.
One of the main talking points after the final whistle involved Kylian Mbappe, whose actions following the match drew widespread attention and criticism.
Mbappe reacts after Super Cup defeat
Mbappe did not start the final due to a minor knee issue, with Gonzalo Garcia leading the line instead. The French forward was introduced in the second half, but was unable to significantly change the course of the game, aside from winning a late foul that resulted in Frenkie de Jong’s red card.
After collecting his runners-up medal, Mbappe was caught on camera encouraging his teammates not to form a guard of honour for Barcelona as they walked up to receive the Super Cup trophy. His stance was followed by the rest of the Real Madrid squad, who remained off the pitch during the ceremony.
The incident quickly sparked backlash, particularly from Barcelona supporters, who viewed the decision as disrespectful. Mbappe, in particular, was singled out due to his visible leadership role in the moment.
Context behind the reaction
The frustration was understandable given the circumstances. Real Madrid have now lost three consecutive finals, and have not lifted a trophy since winning the Intercontinental Cup in December 2024. Emotions were running high after another narrow defeat to their biggest rivals.
While criticism has followed Mbappe’s actions, those close to the club point out that the 26-year-old is an ultra-competitive figure, whose disappointment stems from an intense desire to win rather than any lack of respect.
Focus turns to the remainder of the season
Despite the disappointment in Jeddah, there are signs of progress under Xabi Alonso, particularly in recent league performances. Real Madrid remain firmly in contention for La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey.
Mbappe will be determined to turn the narrative around in the second half of the season and deliver silverware, which would quickly overshadow the controversy surrounding the Super Cup final.
MZ view
Moments of defeat often reveal emotion, but long-term judgment in football is always shaped by results