Opponent watch: Real Madrid defender fit to play against Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona’s preparations for the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid have taken a slightly different turn over the past 24 hours, particularly with regard to the condition of their rivals’ defence. 

Until recently, the Blaugrana were working under the assumption that Real Madrid would arrive at the final with a severely weakened backline, an idea reinforced by the physical problems picked up by key players during the semi-final against Atletico Madrid.

Real Madrid’s defensive concerns emerged after Antonio Rudiger and Raul Asencio both showed signs of discomfort during the intense clash with Atletico. 

Their situations immediately raised doubts over their availability for the final, leading to the belief that Barcelona could once again benefit from instability at the back for Los Blancos.

Raul Asencio is fit

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, the picture is now clearer. 

While Real Madrid do have issues to manage, Xabi Alonso’s side are expected to recover Asencio in time for the showdown against Barcelona. 

Real Madrid held a recovery session on Friday for players involved in their semi-final victory, and although Asencio did not take part, his absence was precautionary rather than alarming.

Importantly, Asencio is not suffering from any injury despite being forced off early in Thursday’s semi-final. 

Raul Asencio will be fit to play. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The defender is expected to return to full training on Saturday, placing him in contention for a starting role in the final. 

In contrast, uncertainty remains around Rudiger, while Rodrygo is also still considered a doubt, leaving some lingering questions for Alonso ahead of the Clasico.

Not a problem for Barcelona

From Barcelona’s perspective, though, this update does little to alter the overall approach. 

The Blaugrana have shown in recent encounters that Real Madrid’s defensive setup, whether complete or compromised, has not been enough to stop them from finding the net. 

Even though Barcelona lost the league Clasico earlier in the season, their recent record against their rivals in decisive matches tells a different story.

During the 2024/25 season, Barcelona defeated Real Madrid in two cup finals, doing so in emphatic fashion and with eye-catching scorelines. 

Those victories were built on confidence, attacking clarity, and an ability to exploit spaces regardless of who lined up in Madrid’s defence.