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Courtois: We Let a Simple Win Slip Away as Vinicius Haunts Barcelona

12 January 2026

Courtois: We Let a Simple Win Slip Away as Vinicius Haunts Barcelona
Vinicius Junior's display kept Madrid competitive, but it wasn't enough to lift the trophy.

Match takeaway

Real Madrid watched a comfortable win slip away as Barcelona clinched a 3-2 victory in the Spanish Super Cup final. Courtois admitted Madrid were too cautious and failed to convert their chances, despite Vinicius Junior's constant threat.

Vinicius and the game's turning moments

Vinicius produced a superb goal and caused Barcelona constant problems, earning his nickname as a nightmare for the opponents. Madrid's finishing let them down in the second half, while Barcelona punished those lapses to seal the win.

Next steps and reflections

Courtois insisted the team remains confident for the cup and the league, promising a quick return to training and improved finishing. He also reminded fans that the season is long and that losses make for good bullet points in the team diary.

As he wrote on social media, Madrid are hurt but ready to bounce back. The night summed up Madrid's effort and a streak of bad luck in front of goal.

While Real Madrid regrouped, Barcelona celebrated a risk paid off, and fans hoped for more fireworks in the next fixtures. The Super Cup duel lived up to its billing, with drama and decisive moments.

Punchline 1: If football is a game of inches, Madrid just found the extra inches in the referee notes.

Punchline 2: Vinicius did his best to haunt Barcelona; let's hope the rest of the team can prank the scoreboard next time.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score?

Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid.

What did Courtois say about the performance?

He said Madrid were too cautious and failed to convert chances, despite Vinicius's impact.

How did Vinicius Junior influence the match?

He scored a superb goal and caused Barcelona problems, earning the nickname of a nightmare for the opponents.

What are Madrid's next steps?

Focus on the Cup and the league, with training and improved finishing.