Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
Kick-off: 16:15 local time
The football world will come to a standstill this weekend as Real Madrid and Barcelona renew their legendary rivalry in El Clásico at the Santiago Bernabéu. With both sides fighting for supremacy at the top of La Liga, this fixture promises drama, passion, and world-class football.
Historic Rivalry
Few rivalries in sports carry the weight and history of El Clásico. Across all competitions, Real Madrid hold a slight edge with 106 victories, while Barcelona trail closely with 104, alongside 51 draws.
Last season, however, Barcelona dominated the encounters, winning all four meetings — a record Xabi Alonso’s side will be eager to overturn in front of their home fans.
Current Form
Real Madrid enter the clash in red-hot form, sitting top of La Liga with 24 points from nine matches (8 wins, 1 draw). Under Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos have looked sharp, disciplined, and ruthless in front of goal.
Barcelona, led by Hansi Flick, aren’t far behind. The Catalan giants sit second on the table with 22 points from nine matches, having won seven, drawn one, and lost just once this season. A victory in Madrid would see them leapfrog their fierce rivals and reclaim the top spot.
Players to Watch
- Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid): The French superstar has been unstoppable, with 18 goals for club and country this season. His pace and finishing make him Madrid’s biggest weapon.
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona): At just 16, the prodigy continues to impress with his flair and maturity, contributing vital goals and assists.
- Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid): The Brazilian winger thrives on big occasions and has already registered 5 goals and 4 assists in the league.
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid): The English midfielder’s dynamism and eye for goal have made him one of La Liga’s standout players this season.
Tactical Battle
This El Clásico is shaping up as a tactical chess match.
Xabi Alonso’s Madrid favor high-intensity pressing and swift transitions, while Hansi Flick’s Barcelona will rely on their possession-based structure and fluid midfield creativity. The midfield duel between Bellingham and Pedri could be decisive, while Mbappé and Yamal’s directness could tilt the balance on either flank.
Injury Updates
- Real Madrid: Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba remain sidelined.
- Barcelona: Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Marc-André ter Stegen, and Raphinha are doubtful ahead of the trip to Madrid.
Prediction
With both sides in strong form and first place on the line, expect an intense and evenly matched contest.
Home advantage might give Madrid the edge, but Barcelona’s resilience under Flick can’t be underestimated.
Predicted Score: Real Madrid 2–2 Barcelona
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