The Spanish Super Cup semi-final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid wasn't just a battle for a place in the final – it ignited a fierce personal feud between Vinicius Junior and Diego Simeone.
Real Madrid swiftly took control in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with Federico Valverde unleashing a breathtaking free-kick in the opening minutes. The early goal set the tone for a match brimming with intensity and, ultimately, controversy.
Rodrygo extended the lead in the second half, showcasing a clever touch and finish to beat Atletico’s Jan Oblak. However, Alexander Sorloth quickly responded for Atleti, injecting a spark of hope into their challenge.
Despite Sorloth’s goal, Real Madrid held firm, securing their passage to the final where a clash against Barcelona awaits. But the scoreline barely scratches the surface of the drama that unfolded.
The tension between Vinicius and Simeone reached boiling point on the touchline during the first half, nearly escalating into a physical altercation. Both men were visibly agitated, exchanging heated words that initially remained unheard by viewers.
Cameras captured Simeone’s side of the exchange, revealing a venomous attack directed at the young Brazilian star. He reportedly told Vinicius to “Listen to the people,” gesturing towards the jeers from the crowd.
The Atleti manager didn’t stop there, allegedly adding a chilling prediction: “Florentino [Perez] is going to kick you out [of Madrid], remember that!” He repeated the warning, emphasizing Vinicius’s potential departure.
These comments arrive amidst swirling speculation about Vinicius’s future at Real Madrid. Reports suggest he’s become increasingly unsettled, attracting interest from clubs like Chelsea and teams in the Saudi Pro League.
The animosity didn’t end at the final whistle. Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso refused to shake Simeone’s hand, publicly condemning the Argentine’s behavior as crossing a line.
“I heard what Simeone said to Vini, and I didn’t like it,” Alonso stated firmly to reporters. “You cannot talk like that, some things cross the line.”
The rivalry between these two Madrid clubs has always been intense, but Simeone’s words have injected a deeply personal and unsettling element into the dynamic, raising questions about the future and the emotional toll on Vinicius Junior.
