REAL MADRID PLAYER RATINGS: Thibaut Courtois – 8. Well prepared to cover Athletic’s attacks, long range efforts and second half spells of pressure as Madrid won a first trophy in 18 months. Didn’t face a shot on target until the 82nd minute, then acrobatically saved an 88th minute Raul Garcia penalty with his left foot. The Belgian has been excellent this season. AP

Real Madrid v Athletic Bilbao player ratings: Benzema 8, Modric 8; Muniain 6, Balenziaga 4



Real Madrid were crowned Spanish Super Cup champions on Sunday after goals from Luka Modric and Karim Benzema earned them a 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in Saudi Arabia.

Madrid took the lead in the 38th minute after Rodrygo sprinted past two defenders before passing to Modric, who rifled a shot into the back of the net.

Benzema extended their lead in the second half with a penalty after the video assistant referee spotted a handball from Yeray Alvarez inside the area.

Madrid were reduced to 10 men three minutes from time after Eder Militao was sent off for a goalline handball.

Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois then brilliantly stopped Raul Garcia's penalty kick with his left foot in the dying seconds.

Assessing the performances at the King Fahd International Stadium, Andy Mitten has provided his player ratings for the Real Madrid squad, while Emma James gives her verdict for Athletic in the photo gallery above.

To move on to the next photo, click on the arrows, or if using a mobile device, simply swipe.

Updated: January 17, 2022, 7:24 AM