El Clasico Preview: Real Madrid vs. Barcelona – La Liga 2024-25
The stage is set for the highly anticipated first El Clasico of the season as Real Madrid takes on league leaders Barcelona in a thrilling top-of-the-table clash in La Liga 2024-25. Both teams enter this monumental match on the heels of impressive victories in the Champions League.
Real Madrid, currently trailing Barcelona by just three points in the La Liga standings, has a prime opportunity to shift the momentum at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad recently showcased their attacking prowess with a commanding 5-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund, marking their second win in the Champions League this season.
On the other hand, Barcelona arrives with confidence after a stunning 4-1 triumph against Bayern Munich, highlighted by Raphinha’s remarkable hat trick. Following a surprising defeat to Osasuna, the Catalan giants have bounced back with four consecutive wins.
Hansi Flick faces a daunting challenge, as Barcelona has struggled in recent El Clasico encounters, losing 10 of the last 14 matches since 2020.
Team News
Real Madrid will be without key players Rodrygo and Thibaut Courtois due to injuries. Rodrygo sustained an injury late in the match against Dortmund, while Courtois is expected to be sidelined for up to three weeks. Additionally, David Alaba and Dani Carvajal are also out, and Brahim Diaz remains a doubt.
In light of Rodrygo’s absence, Jude Bellingham is set to take on a more advanced role, with either Tchouameni or Camavinga stepping in to fill the gap. The formidable front three will feature Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Bellingham.
Real Madrid Predicted XI (4-3-3): Lunin (GK) — Vazquez, Militao, Rudiger, Mendy — Tchouameni, Camavinga, Valverde — Bellingham, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr.
Barcelona, meanwhile, will miss Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo due to injuries. However, Gavi has made a return after recovering from an ACL injury. Robert Lewandowski will spearhead the attack in a 4-3-3 formation, flanked by Yamal and Raphinha.
Barcelona Predicted XI (4-3-3): Pena (GK) — Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde — Casado, Pedri, Fermin — Yamal, Lewandowski, Raphinha.
As both teams gear up for this epic showdown,
