This weekend our screens will be blessed with the most hotly anticipated fixture of all
El Clásico always captures the imagination of a global audience, and this Sunday’s clash will be no different. It’s a rivalry that never disappoints; there is so much quality on the pitch and always the potential for a bit of needle too.
As Barcelona and Real Madrid prepare to face off in the LaLiga showpiece, there’s one intriguing plot line above all others. It will be the first time since 2007 that neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi will play a part, after the former moved to Juventus in the summer and the latter injured his arm while playing against Sevilla last week.
Real Madrid head to the Camp Nou desperately needing a result after four LaLiga matches without a win, while Barcelona face the challenge of keeping their place at the league’s summit without Messi.
The match will provide a platform for certain fringe players to make a statement. Gareth Bale could define himself as the new king of Madrid, while Ousmane Dembélé will be looking to justify his transfer fee by stepping up to the plate in Messi’s absence.
Whatever happens, it’s set to be a thriller that could decide Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui’s fate.
To whet your appetite for the big game, test yourself with this El Clásico quiz. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favour.
