"Could mark a turning point" - Barcelona sporting director Deco previews Supercopa final clash against Real Madrid
Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, feels their Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid on Sunday could mark a turning point in their season.
The El Clasico rivals lock horns at the Al-Awwal Stadium in the decider as both sides aim to pick up their first title of the 2023–24 campaign.
Winners of the La Liga title last season, Barcelona overcame Osasuna 2-0 in the semi-finals as goals from Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal got the job done. On the other hand, Copa del Rey holders Real Madrid prevailed 5-3 over city rivals Atletico Madrid in the other semi-final.
Now, the rivals meet in a final that promises to be epic. Deco, a former Barcelona player and now their sporting director, feels a win for his side could mark a turning point in their campaign.
He said (via Barca Universal):
"Against Real Madrid, it will be special as always. We are arriving at an important moment in the season, which could mark a turning point. We are recovering players, like Pedri, and this final comes at the right time."
Barcelona are on a hot run of form right now, winning their last four games in all competitions, having gone the previous three without one.
However, their arch-rivals aren't too shabby either, as Real Madrid come into the clash on the back of six wins in a row.
Barcelona looking to seek revenge on Real Madrid for their earlier loss
Barcelona have lost to Real Madrid once this season, going down 2-1 to the side in La Liga in October. Ilkay Gundogan had given them the lead after only six minutes, but Jude Bellingham equalized in the 68th minute before netting the winner in stoppage time.
That remains one of their only two losses this season, and they will hence be wary of their Clasico rivals, who are unbeaten in their last 20 games in all competitions, winning their last six in a row too.
Last year, Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-1 in the Supercopa finals, and the Catalans will be looking back on that victory for inspiration as they aim to retain their trophy.