<p>The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/uefa-super-cup/">UEFA Super Cup</a>, the curtain-raiser to European soccer’s club season, is often billed as a battle between Europe’s very best: the Champions League winner and the Europa League champion. Yet history shows that&nbsp;<strong>victories for the Europa League side are rare</strong>&nbsp;— moments that stand out for their drama and significance.</p>



<p>The question remains:&nbsp;<em>When did the Europa League champion last overcome the Champions League holder in this prestigious clash?</em> To answer that, we must revisit one of the most unforgettable nights in modern soccer history.</p>



<p>The Super Cup has been contested since 1973, with the original idea of pitting the best of the continent’s top-tier competition against the winner of its secondary tournament. While&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/champions-league/">Champions League</a> winners usually enter as heavy favorites</strong>, there have been occasional, and often spectacular, upsets.</p>



<p>From the&nbsp;<strong>UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup era</strong>&nbsp;to the present-day <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/europa-league/">Europa League</a>, the underdogs have sometimes risen to the occasion. Among the most notable examples:</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="#ATMINSIDER Supercampeones de Europa 2012 (Chelsea 1 - Atlético de Madrid 4)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rUFSRkb_8DA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<ul><li><strong>2010</strong>: Atletico Madrid (Europa League) stunned Champions League winners Inter <strong>2-0</strong>.</li><li><strong>2012</strong>: Atletico Madrid again made headlines, thrashing Chelsea&nbsp;<strong>4-1</strong>&nbsp;in a one-sided affair.</li></ul>



<p>These matches proved that on a single night, Europe’s so-called “second-tier” champions could punch far above their weight.</p>



<h2>The last time it happened</h2>



<p>It was in&nbsp;<strong>2018</strong>&nbsp;that the most recent and perhaps most dramatic instance took place. On&nbsp;<strong>15 August 2018</strong>, at the&nbsp;<strong>Lillekula Stadium in Tallinn, Estonia</strong>, Atletico Madrid faced their city rivals,&nbsp;<strong>Real Madrid</strong>, the newly crowned Champions League winners.</p>



<p>The game began at a furious pace, with goals traded early. The match reached full-time deadlocked, sending the Super Cup into&nbsp;<strong>extra time</strong>. That’s when Atletico took control. Two decisive goals in the additional period secured a&nbsp;<strong>4-2</strong>&nbsp;victory, sending their fans into ecstasy.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="#ATMINSIDER | El Atlético de Madrid, campeón de la Supercopa de Europa 2018" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HjfkzYuYkyA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<h2>Historic hat-trick of triumphs</h2>



<p>The 2018 win was not an isolated incident for Atletico. In fact, it was their&nbsp;<strong>third victory over a Champions League holder</strong>&nbsp;in the Super Cup within a decade:</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><thead><tr><td><strong>Year</strong></td><td><strong>Europa League Winner</strong></td><td><strong>Champions League Winner</strong></td><td><strong>Result</strong></td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>2010</strong></td><td>Atletico Madrid</td><td>Inter</td><td><strong>2-0</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>2012</strong></td><td>Atletico Madrid</td><td>Chelsea</td><td><strong>4-1</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>2018</strong></td><td>Atletico Madrid</td><td>Real Madrid</td><td><strong>4-2 (aet)</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>This remarkable record cements their reputation as specialists in this competition, capable of&nbsp;<strong>dismantling the most powerful sides in Europe</strong>.</p>


When did the Europa League champion last defeat the Champions League team in the UEFA Super Cup?

When did the Europa League champion last defeat the Champions League team in the UEFA Super Cup? - World Soccer Talk

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<p>This Wednesday marks the first trophy up for grabs in the 2025–26 European soccer season. <strong>Paris Saint-Germain</strong> and <strong>Tottenham Hotspur,</strong> last campaign’s top continental champions, go head-to-head for the <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/uefa-super-cup/">UEFA Super Cup</a></strong>. Stay with us for breaking news and live, minute-by-minute coverage of the match.</p>



<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/">PSG</a></strong> come into this clash after an almost perfect 2024–25 season. Under head coach <strong>Luis Enrique</strong>, they finally captured the elusive <strong>UEFA Champions League</strong> title that had long been their obsession—doing so with clear dominance, particularly in the final against <strong>Inter Milan.</strong></p>



<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/tottenham/">Tottenham</a></strong>, meanwhile, also achieved something historic last campaign: the <strong>Europa League</strong> trophy was their first international title in 41 years, and their first trophy of any kind since 2008. However, much has changed since their victory over <strong>Manchester United</strong> in the final, with coach <strong>Ange Postecoglou</strong> stepping down and <strong>Thomas Frank</strong> taking over the reins.</p>



<p>Stay with us for all the pre-match news and, once the whistle blows, follow along with our minute-by-minute coverage of everything happening in this thrilling clash. </p>


Paris Saint-Germain vs Tottenham LIVE: The Spurs take the lead in the UEFA Super Cup (0-2)

Paris Saint-Germain vs Tottenham LIVE: The Spurs take the lead in the UEFA Super Cup (0-2) - World Soccer Talk

<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/">PSG</a></strong> and Tottenham will officially kick off the <strong>2025-26 season</strong> today at the Friuli Stadium in Udine, Italy, with the <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/uefa-super-cup/">UEFA Super Cup</a></strong> title on the line. The French side, reigning <strong>Champions League</strong> winners, are led by <strong>Luis Enrique</strong> and aiming to add another international trophy after the bitter disappointment of losing the <strong>Club World Cup final</strong> to Chelsea.</p>



<p>Tottenham arrive at this major clash as <strong>Europa League</strong> champions, securing their first international title in more than 40 years. Now, under <strong>Thomas Frank</strong>, who replaced Ange Postecoglou, they will chase the first UEFA Super Cup in the club’s history.</p>



<p>While PSG are widely considered favorites, <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/tottenham-hotspur">Tottenham</a></strong> have built a squad that has proven capable of upsetting elite opponents. Their physical midfield, pace on the wings, and recent European momentum could turn this into a far more balanced contest than many anticipate. For Spurs, winning tonight would not only mark another milestone in their history but also send a strong message ahead of the new Premier League season.</p>



<h3>PSG and the painful memory of their only Super Cup appearance</h3>



<p>Nearly 30 years after their last appearance in a <strong>UEFA Super Cup final</strong>, PSG are looking to add a new star to their trophy cabinet. In <strong>1996</strong>, they faced <strong>Juventus</strong>, the reigning Champions League winners, after PSG had lifted the now-defunct <strong>European Cup Winners’ Cup</strong>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/08/13111458/PSG-training-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-584083" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p>However, that two-legged series turned into a nightmare for the Parisians. They suffered a <strong>6-1 defeat at the Parc des Princes</strong> and followed it with a <strong>3-1 loss in Turin</strong>, for a crushing <strong>9-2 aggregate score</strong>. This time, PSG come in as favorites, but will need to prove it on the pitch.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/luis-enrique-suffer-major-blow-as-psg-star-suspended-for-super-cup-vs-tottenham-after-donnarumma-dropped/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20250812_WST_583836_luis-enrique-psg-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After dropping Gianluigi Donnarumma, Luis Enrique has received a major blow as a PSG star has been suspended for the UEFA Super Cup final against Tottenham Hotspur.
" title="Luis Enrique suffers major blow as PSG star suspended for Super Cup vs. Tottenham after Donnarumma dropped" publication_id="WST#/news/luis-enrique-suffer-major-blow-as-psg-star-suspended-for-super-cup-vs-tottenham-after-donnarumma-dropped/"></div>


<h3>PSG vs. Tottenham – Confirmed lineups for the UEFA Super Cup</h3>



<p><strong>PSG:</strong> Lucas Chevalier; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Warren Zaïre-Emery, Vitinha, Désiré Doué; Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.<br><em>Manager:</em> Luis Enrique</p>



<p><strong>Tottenham:</strong> Guglielmo Vicario; Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Kavin Danso, Micky Van de Ven, Djed Spence; Rodrigo Bentancur, João Palhinha, Pape Matar Sarr; Mohammed Kudus, Richarlison.<br><em>Manager:</em> Thomas Frank</p>


PSG vs Tottenham: Confirmed lineups for UEFA Super Cup clash

PSG vs Tottenham: Confirmed lineups for UEFA Super Cup clash - World Soccer Talk

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<strong>Here are all of the details of where you can watch PSG vs Tottenham on US television and via legal streaming:</strong>
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<table class="table6">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td id="magenta" width="20%"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHO</strong></span></td>
<td width="70%">PSG vs Tottenham</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="green"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHAT</strong></span></td>
<td>UEFA Super Cup</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="sky"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHEN</strong></span></td>
<td>3:00pm ET / 12:00pm PT • Wednesday, August 13, 2025</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="red"><span style="color: #ffffff"><strong>WHERE</strong></span></td>
<td>TUDN, <em><a href="http://www.fubo.tv/lp/soccer/?irmp=330866&amp;irad=356358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Fubo</a></em><a href="http://www.fubo.tv/lp/soccer/?irmp=330866&amp;irad=356358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">, <em></em></a><em><a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-5531305-15177288" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">DirecTV Stream</a></em><a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-5531305-15177288" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">, <em></em></a><em><a href="https://paramountplus.qflm.net/c/330866/1007330/3065" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Paramount+</a></em><a href="https://paramountplus.qflm.net/c/330866/1007330/3065" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">, CBS Sports Network, Univision</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td id="yellow"><span style="color: #e04403"><strong>STREAM</strong></span></td>
<td><strong><a href="http://www.fubo.tv/lp/soccer/?irmp=330866&amp;irad=356358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">WATCH NOW</a></strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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<h2>Match Overview</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/psg/">PSG</a> </strong>and <strong>Tottenham </strong>collide in the <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/uefa-super-cup/">UEFA Super Cup</a></strong>, with Europe’s first trophy of the season hanging in the balance. Fresh off a <strong>Club World Cup</strong> final appearance, <strong>PSG </strong>arrive loaded with talent and determined to add to their trophy haul.</p>



<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/tottenham/">Tottenham</a></strong>, coming off a turbulent 2024-25  redeemed by a <strong>Europa League </strong>crown, now see this as the perfect chance to upset <strong>PSG</strong>. Don’t miss this showdown as two of Europe’s biggest names battle for early-season glory.</p>



<p></p>



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<h2>More details of how to watch</h2>

With <a href="http://www.fubo.tv/lp/soccer/?irmp=330866&amp;irad=356358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Fubo</a>, you can watch PSG vs Tottenham and tons more games with a 7-day trial. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
</div><div>
Now with Fubo, you can stream USA Network, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS, CBS Sports Network, FS1, FS2, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español, beIN SPORTS Connect, beIN SPORTS XTRA, NBC (in select cities), CNBC, USA, FOX (in select cities), FOX Soccer Plus, FOX Deportes, Telemundo, Universo and Galavision.
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Plus Fubo, the legal streaming service, also streams Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League (in Spanish), Europa League (in Spanish), Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games and more.
</div><div>
The <a href="http://www.fubo.tv/lp/soccer/?irmp=330866&amp;irad=356358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Fubo</a> app is available for Windows PC, Mac, Apple iPhones, Android phones, Amazon Fire TV, Android Mobile, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Hisense TVs, iOS devices, LG TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smartcast TVs and Xbox One.
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If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/channels/fubotv-soccer-schedule/">Fubo soccer schedule</a> to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.
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<h2>How to watch anywhere with VPN</h2>

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as <a href="https://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?offer_id=15&amp;aff_id=93006&amp;url_id=902" target="blank" rel="noopener">NordVPN</a>, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/vpn-soccer/">guide to the best VPNs</a> for streaming soccer.

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<h2>Free resources available to you</h2>
World Soccer Talk is the number one destination in the United States for soccer television and streaming information. We recommend that you bookmark our <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/upcoming-matches/">soccer games on TV today</a> page as well as subscribing to our <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/email-newsletter/">free daily email newsletter</a> that includes TV schedules and the latest soccer news and opinion from around the world.
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Courtesy of World Soccer Talk, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ultimate-soccer-tv-streaming-guide/">download a complimentary copy of The Ultimate Soccer TV And Streaming Guide</a>, which features details on where to watch all of the leagues from around the world on US TV and streaming.
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To find out when soccer games are on, download the free <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2020/12/26/soccer-tv-schedules-app-making-it-easier-to-watch-soccer-games-on-tv/">Soccer TV Schedules App</a> which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/soccer-tv-schedules/id1543713555" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Apple iOS devices</a> and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.worldsoccertalk.SoccerTV" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Android devices</a>).
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How to watch PSG vs Tottenham in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2025 UEFA Super Cup

How to watch PSG vs Tottenham in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2025 UEFA Super Cup - World Soccer Talk

<p>On August 14, Real Madrid will face Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup final; a match that fans are eagerly awaiting.</p>



<p> This match in Warsaw marks the beginning of the new season for Los Blancos; it also presents an early opportunity to secure silverware. </p>



<p>However, with the arrival of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/madrid-compelled-to-sell-youth-stars-after-mbappes-arrival/">Kylian Mbappe</a>, coach <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ancelotti-real-madrid-breaks-records/">Carlo Ancelotti</a> faces a significant selection dilemma. The Spanish press has been buzzing with speculation about which players will make up the attacking trio for this crucial clash.</p>



<p>Last season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> won the La Liga and the Champions League under Ancelotti’s leadership. </p>



<p>Now, he must make a difficult choice. The Italian coach is known for his loyalty to the players who have delivered success, and this situation is no different. </p>



<p>According to <a href="https://as.com/futbol/primera/objetivo-varsovia-n/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diario AS</a>, he looks likely to stick with the lineup that started in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund in June. </p>



<p>However, with the arrival of Mbappe, Ancelotti must decide whether to disrupt the successful partnership of Vinicius and Rodrygo; or to introduce the French superstar into the starting XI.</p>



<p>The Italian’s loyalty to his tried-and-tested players was evident when he said, “Those that helped win the Champions League should play against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/losses-injury-woes-issues-arise-for-atalanta-ahead-of-super-cup/">Atalanta</a>“. </p>



<p>This statement suggests that Mbappe might have to start on the bench despite his immense talent and the fanfare surrounding his transfer. </p>



<p>The established front line of Vinicius, Rodrygo, and Bellingham could be the trio the manager relies on for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-madrid-will-rest-bellingham-to-recharge-after-euro-fatigue/">Super Cup</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/16034338/Real-Madrid-Champions-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-522090" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div><figcaption>Ancelotti is rumored to want to use the players that delivered the Champions League trophy</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Impact of Mbappe’s arrival</h2>



<p>Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at the Bernabeu has undoubtedly added a new dimension to Real Madrid’s attacking options. </p>



<p>The 25-year-old forward, who scored a staggering 256 goals in 308 appearances for PSG, aims to elevate Madrid to even greater heights. However, integrating such a high-profile player into a successful team presents challenges.</p>



<p>But Vinicius is currently in the form of his life; with performances that have many tipping him as a favorite for this year’s Ballon d’Or. </p>



<p>His chemistry with Rodrygo has been a key factor in the club’s recent success; thus, disrupting this partnership could be risky. Ancelotti must weigh the benefits of starting Mbappe against the potential drawbacks of breaking up a winning formula.</p>



<h2>Just two forced changes for Ancelotti?</h2>



<p>There are a number of things that might affect Ancelotti’s Super Cup plan. First, the coach’s respect for the players who secured last season’s treble cannot be understated. </p>



<p>The report adds that nine of the 11 players who started the Champions League final will keep their places in the lineup against Atalanta. The only changes would be Eder Militao replacing Nacho in defense and Modric coming in for the retired Kroos.</p>



<p>Secondly, the game against Atalanta offers Ancelotti an opportunity to experiment. </p>



<p>With the match serving as a curtain-raiser for the new season, Ancelotti might use it to test different formations and combinations, particularly since he did not have Mbappe or Bellingham for the entirety of the preseason. </p>



<p>This could see Mbappe introduced as a substitute, allowing Ancelotti to assess how he fits into the team dynamic before making long-term decisions.</p>



<p>Photo credit: IMAGO / PanoramiC IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire</p>


Touch decisions for Ancelotti: Will Mbappe start in Super Cup?

With the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti faces a significant selection dilemma against Atalanta.

Touch decisions for Ancelotti: Will Mbappe start in Super Cup? - World Soccer Talk

<p>Atalanta find themselves in a dire situation just days before their UEFA Super Cup clash with Real Madrid. </p>



<p>After winning the Europa League, the Italian club earned the right to compete for this prestigious title. However, now they are grappling with a series of setbacks threatening their preparations.</p>



<p>The summer of 2024 has been nothing short of disastrous for La Dea. It began with the devastating injury to star striker Gianluca Scamacca. </p>



<p>The Italian striker suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during a 4-1 friendly defeat against Parma. </p>



<p>This injury has sidelined him for at least six months, forcing <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atalanta-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers">Atalanta</a> to seek a replacement. They quickly moved to sign Mateo Retegui from Genoa, but the challenges didn’t stop there.</p>



<p>The team’s struggles continued in their latest pre-season match against German side St. Pauli, where they suffered a <a href="https://www.atalanta.it/news/test-match-contro-il-st-pauli-debutto-di-retegui" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">demoralizing 3-0 defeat</a>. </p>



<p>Atalanta’s defensive vulnerabilities were fully displayed during their encounter with St. Pauli. Despite reaching half-time with the scoreline level, the team collapsed in the second half, conceding three goals in less than 25 minutes. </p>



<p>The goals resulted from glaring defensive errors; including a poorly defended set piece, a blunder by Isak Hien, and a chaotic attempt to deal with a third goal.</p>



<p>This latest performance only adds to the growing sense of unease within the Black and Blues camp. </p>



<p>The team’s defensive issues, coupled with the absence of key players due to injuries, have left them in a state of disarray. </p>



<p>As they prepare to face <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a>, these defensive weaknesses could be their undoing.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="436" height="577" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/16034354/image-12-436x577.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-522013" sizes="(max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px"></figure></div><figcaption>Scamacca is going to be a huge loss for Atalanta</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Injury woes and transfer sagas</h2>



<p>To make matters worse, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/tonali-zaniolo-leave-italy-team-amid-investigation-20231013-WST-461990.html">Nicolo Zaniolo</a>, one of their key players, was <a href="https://www.pazzidifanta.com/news-fantacalcio/atalanta-zaniolo-infortunio-news-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forced out of the match</a> due to tendonitis in his left foot; the same foot that had previously sustained a fracture, ending his chances of representing Italy at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">Euro 2024</a>. </p>



<p>Zaniolo’s injury is particularly concerning as he was expected to play a significant role in the upcoming <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-madrid-will-rest-bellingham-to-recharge-after-euro-fatigue/">Super Cup</a> match.</p>



<p>The 25-year-old’s injury is the latest setback in Atalanta’s challenging period. The Italian midfielder, who joined Atalanta on loan from Galatasaray earlier this summer, was expected to be a key figure for the team. However, his ongoing injury issues have cast doubt on his availability for the UEFA Super Cup.</p>



<p>Initial reports suggest that Zaniolo will undergo further specialist consultations and tests at the La Madonnina Hospital in Milan. </p>



<p>The club hopes he will recover in time for the match against Real Madrid, but the situation remains uncertain. Zaniolo’s potential absence, combined with <a href="https://www.pazzidifanta.com/news-fantacalcio/scamacca-infortunio-parma-atalanta-condizioni-serie-a-news/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scamacca’s long-term injury</a>, leaves Atalanta severely depleted in attack.</p>



<p>Adding to their woes, midfielder Teun Koopmeiners did not make the journey to Hamburg as he is reportedly <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/amp/news/koopmeiners-skips-training-to-force-move-to-european-giants/">pushing for a transfer to Juventus</a>. Koopmeiners’ refusal to train or play as he seeks to secure his move adds another layer of uncertainty to the team’s preparations. </p>



<p>His potential departure would further weaken Atalanta’s squad, leaving them without one of their most influential players.</p>



<h2>Advantage Real Madrid?</h2>



<p>As Atalanta grapple with injuries and internal turmoil, Real Madrid can easily capitalize on their opponents’ misfortunes. </p>



<p>The Spanish giants, who secured the UEFA Champions League title last season, are the overwhelming favorites to win the Super Cup. </p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ancelotti-real-madrid-breaks-records/">Carlo Ancelotti</a>‘s side has its own challenges, particularly in defense, but the absence of key Atalanta attackers like Scamacca and potentially Zaniolo significantly tilts the odds in their favor.</p>



<p>Real Madrid will view the Super Cup as an opportunity to kickstart their season with silverware. </p>



<p>The match, set to take place in Warsaw on August 14, will be their first competitive fixture of the season. With Atalanta in crisis, Los Blancos will be confident of adding another trophy to their illustrious collection.</p>



<p>Photo credit: IMAGO / Giuseppe Maffia</p>


Losses, injury woes: Issues arise for Atalanta ahead of Super Cup

Atalanta find themselves in a dire situation just days before their UEFA Super Cup clash with Real Madrid.

Losses, injury woes: Issues arise for Atalanta ahead of Super Cup - World Soccer Talk

<div id="attachment_1762" style="width: 530px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><div><figure class="external-image"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1762" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-1762" src="http://epltalk.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/6/files/2009/09/Zlatan-Ibrahimovic.jpg" alt="Par2745035" width="520" height="301"></figure></div><p id="caption-attachment-1762" class="wp-caption-text">Ibrahimovic scores in his first La Liga game</p></div>
<p><em>Writer’s Note: Unfortunately, WordPress does not recognize the “c” with an accent mark, so Bojan Krkic and Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s names will not include an accent mark above the ” c.”</em></p>
<p>It is easy to overreact and overanalyze after one match and assume that whatever happens in that match will become a trend throughout the season; therefore, in evaluating Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s performance in the Barcelona – Sporting Gijón match on Monday night, hyperbole will not be the overall sentiment of this piece.</p>
<p>As for the match itself, Barcelona never let Sporting Gijón play, and Sporting did not really seem interested in retrieving the ball back from Barcelona.&nbsp; Barça had 74% of the possession in each half, but uncharacteristically, Barça constructed their three goals from corner kicks rather than from open play.&nbsp; Bojan Krkic, deputizing for Thierry Henry, who Pep Guardiola decided to rest after playing in the UEFA Super Cup on Friday, performed at a high level with a goal and numerous individual runs that menaced the Sporting defense all night long.&nbsp; While Bojan brought the Camp Nou to its feet, Seydou Keita was the man of the match with his tireless work rate in the midfield and his ability to get his head onto free kicks and crosses.&nbsp; His near post flick on from a corner kick in the 18th minute directly led to Bojan’s headed goal on the back post, his header from a corner kick in the 42nd minute scored the second goal for Barcelona, and another header in the 67th minute hit the post.&nbsp; While Barcelona did not produce the sparkling display of football like most expect them to do on every occasion, they took the belief out of Sporting and thus could play around with the ball for ninety minutes.</p>
<p>With Thierry Henry resting and Lionel Messi in Argentina preparing for World Cup qualifying against Brazil, the limelight was squarely focused on Zlatan Ibrahimovic and how he would fare in his first match in the <em>blaugrana</em> shirt.&nbsp; With Pedro Rodríguez on his right and Bojan Krkic on his left, Ibrahimovic had more than capable forwards on the wings, but they were not Henry or Messi.&nbsp; His first significant touch came in the fourth minute when Pedro sent him a through ball into the box, which got him behind the Sporting defense; however, he was positioned at an acute angle and he scuffed his shot trying to blast it past Sporting goalkeeper Juan Pablo.&nbsp; In the 30th minute, he made a run into the box and faked a shot, causing two defenders to go to ground in anticipation.&nbsp; Open for the shot, he tried a cute, swerved shot towards the near post, and Juan Pablo saved it easily.&nbsp; A diagonal run in the 40th minute set up a shot for Ibrahimovic, but Juan Pablo made a routine save.&nbsp; In the first half, Ibrahimovic seemed a bit sluggish and lax in attack, but that could be directly attributed to his lack of match fitness.&nbsp; He injured his hand while on a US tour with Inter Milan and did not play a competitive match until the Joan Gamper Trophy against Manchester City on August 19.</p>
<p>Ibrahimovic raised his energy level and involved himself more into the attack in the second half.&nbsp; In the 66th minute, Eric Abidal sent a long ball to the edge of the penalty area, and Alberto Botía, a central defender on loan to Sporting from Barcelona, harassed Ibrahimovic, but he was able to fight him off and restart the attack.&nbsp; His willingness to scrap and clash with the defense gave a rise to the Barça faithful.&nbsp; In the 74th minute, on an average cross by Pedro, Ibrahimovic was able to rise over Botía and deliver a solid header, but it headed toward Juan Pablo’s grateful hands.&nbsp; Pedro’s cross hung in the air, so Ibrahimovic had to supply most of the power for the header, and he accomplished that feat quite well.&nbsp; His aerial ability is one of the attributes that differentiated Ibrahimovic from his predecessor Samuel Eto’o.</p>
<p>Then in the 82nd minute, Ibrahimovic scored his first goal for Barça.&nbsp; On another corner kick, Xavi took it short to Dani Alves, and after he crossed the ball into the box, it took a slight deflection off Sporting defender Grégory’s head, and Ibrahimovic executed the diving header at the back post to perfection.&nbsp; It was almost a carbon copy of the first Barcelona goal where Seydou Keita’s near-post flick sent the ball to the back post, and Bojan headed home the opening score.&nbsp; It was not the most attractive goal he has ever scored, but at that moment, it must have been sweet for him to score in his first match for Barça.</p>
<p>There were a few flashes of brilliance by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, including the goal late in the contest, but he will not be putting this performance in his scrapbook of the best ninety minutes in his career.&nbsp; The chemistry among his fellow forwards lacked that something extra, but anyone expecting the gears to shift seamlessly in the first match hold unrealistic expectations.&nbsp; While he did not play his best, scoring in his first match was important because now he does not have to face the pressure of a goal drought to start his season.&nbsp; Ibrahimovic would admit that he still needs time to adapt to life in Spain and the Barça system.&nbsp; When the international break concludes and Henry and Messi join Ibrahimovic in attack for a string of games, Pep Guardiola will see if the infinite attacking potential of this trio will culminate into consecutive La Liga titles.&nbsp; A straightforward win and an Ibrahimovic goal is just the start that Barcelona needed to launch a successful La Liga campaign.</p>
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic: A Mixed Bag in Barcelona's 3-0 Victory over Sporting Gijón

Zlatan Ibrahimovic: A Mixed Bag in Barcelona's 3-0 Victory over Sporting Gijón - World Soccer Talk

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