Final Whistle, Open Hands: Raúl Asensio Caps a Sportsmanship Show in the Spanish Super Cup

Final backdrop

At the end of the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Spanish Super Cup final, held in Saudi Arabia, a heated debate over sportsmanship erupted between the clubs.

Barcelona players formed a guard of honor for Real Madrid during the medal ceremony, but Lamine Yamal, the Barça star, stirred controversy as he was the only player who did not clap as the Real Madrid players passed, delaying slightly.

Kylian Mbappé also faced widespread criticism after refusing to participate in a guard of honor for Barcelona as players were leaving the trophy distribution area.

Sporting spirit shines elsewhere

But one Real Madrid player showed high sportsmanship, praised by all, after the Clasico ended.

According to AS, Real Madrid defender Raúl Asensio was a symbol of sportsmanship, walking over to the Barcelona players and shaking hands with 15 of them right after the final whistle, congratulating them on winning the trophy.

Barcelona claimed the title after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Real Madrid, in a match that delivered plenty of drama.

Punchline 1: If sportsmanship were a trophy, Raúl Asensio would be lifting it with both hands—and a smile.

Punchline 2: Mbappé’s guard of honor was so exclusive that even the trophy felt left out of the parade.