FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club, Super Copa de Espana, semi-final: Preview, when and where to watch in India?
In the first semi-final of the Supercopa de España, FC Barcelona faces Athletic Club, showcasing contrasting styles: Hansi Flick’s attacking prowess against Ernesto Valverde’s tactical discipline.
Last Updated: 06.27 PM, Jan 07, 2026
The first major silverware of 2026 is on the line as defending champions FC Barcelona take on the resilient Athletic Club in the first semi-final of the Supercopa de España. Tonight’s clash at the Al-Inma Stadium (King Abdullah Sports City) isn't just a match; it's a battle of philosophies between Hansi Flick’s high-flying offensive machine and Ernesto Valverde’s disciplined, "cup specialist" Lions.
Match details
Match: FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club, Super Copa de España, semi-final
Dates: January 8
Venue: 12.30 AM IST
Where can I watch FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club, Super Copa de España, semi-final online?
Football fans in India can watch the FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club, Super Copa de España, semi-final on SonyLIV, via OTTplay Premium.
Preview
Barcelona arrives in Saudi Arabia in imperious form. Sitting four points clear at the top of La Liga, the Blaugrana are on an eight-match winning streak in domestic play. Having dismantled Athletic 4-0 earlier this season in the league, Flick’s men are heavy favorites to reach Sunday's final.
For the Athletic Club, this is an opportunity for redemption. While their league form has stuttered (8th place), the Basque side has a storied history in the Supercopa, famously defeating Barcelona in the 2021 final.
Valverde knows that in a single-leg knockout, his team's physicality and transitional speed can unsettle any giant.
Team news
The most significant development from the Barcelona camp is the sudden and unfortunate withdrawal of Marc-André ter Stegen. The veteran German goalkeeper suffered a fresh injury setback during a training session in Jeddah and has already flown back to Spain for further evaluation.
In his absence, the pressure shifts to youngster Joan García, who is expected to take over the responsibilities between the sticks for this high-stakes semi-final.
On a more positive note, Hansi Flick will be encouraged by the availability of Pedri and Dani Olmo, both of whom have been declared fully fit following their recent injury scares. The squad also welcomes back defensive powerhouse Ronald Araujo; however, he is likely to begin the match on the bench as the medical team carefully manages his return to full match fitness.
There is still a lingering cloud of uncertainty regarding Lamine Yamal, as the teenage sensation missed the final training session due to a minor stomach virus. His participation remains a game-time decision for the coaching staff.
Meanwhile, Athletic Club is grappling with a genuine defensive crisis that could define their approach to the match. Ernesto Valverde is facing a tactical nightmare with three key components of his backline unavailable: Yeray Álvarez is out due to suspension, while Yuri Berchiche and Aymeric Laporte are sidelined with hamstring and muscle injuries, respectively.
These absences leave the Basque side vulnerable against Barcelona’s relentless attacking pressure.
Despite these defensive struggles, the "Lions" remain a potent threat on the counter-attack. Their dangerous attacking trident of Nico Williams, Iñaki Williams, and Gorka Guruzeta remains fully intact and ready for selection.
Athletic will be looking to exploit Barcelona’s notoriously high defensive line, relying on the blistering pace and chemistry of their forwards to pull off an upset in Jeddah.
Head-to-head stats
Predicted lineups
FC Barcelona (4-2-3-1): J. García, J. Koundé, P. Cubarsí, G. Martín, A. Balde, Pedri, E. García, L. Yamal, F. López, Raphinha, R. Lewandowski.
Athletic Club (4-2-3-1): U. Simón, A. Gorosabel, D. Vivian, A. Paredes, A. Boiro, I. R. d. Galarreta, M. Jauregizar, I. Williams, O. Sancet, N. Williams, G. Guruzeta.