El Clasico pits the best against the very best when Real Madrid hosts Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu this Saturday. Both on a hot streak and each with the urge to claim the top spot in La Liga, this clash promises drama and skill in the highest degree possible.
Real Madrid vs Barcelona: Where and When to Watch
Kickoff Time: 3:00 p.m. ET, Saturday, October 26, 2024
Stadium: Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid
How to Watch: Catch the action on ESPN Deportes or stream live on ESPN+
Real Madrid Team News & Key Players
Reigning champions Real Madrid will be hoping to defend their crowns, both on the domestic and continental front. Injuries have mounted early for them, but the superstars on this roster continue to come through with big moments. Vinicius Junior led an epic comeback against Borussia Dortmund in midweek Champions League action, turning a 2-0 deficit into a 5-2 victory with a hat trick. Kylian Mbappe is warming into his new role and Jude Bellingham hasn’t hit his stride yet this season.
However, things are quite serious in the rear for Madrid: David Alaba is out with an ACL, and Dani Carvajal is out for the season, although Thibaut Courtois should be back between the sticks, and Rodrygo is fit to start. Although it would disrupt the balance, starting Vinicius Jr., Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Mbappe in the same lineup is an exciting prospect. Real Madrid’s midfield, though, is very experienced, led by Eduardo Camavinga or Aurelien Tchouameni alongside Fede Valverde.
Barcelona Team News & Key Players
Under new manager Hansi Flick, Barcelona has crafted a near-perfect start, leading the table in La Liga with nine wins from ten games. Flick has lifted the team into vital mode, starring Robert Lewandowski, who consistently shines in almost every game, and Raphinha, fresh off his hat trick against Bayern Munich. Up-and-coming Lamine Yamal leads a surging wave of new energy into the skillful ranks at Barcelona.
Barcelona’s injury list includes key defensive players in Marc-Andre ter Stegen-out for the season, Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia alongside forward Ferran Torres. But with Pedri running midfield, Barcelona now exudes its signature style as it seeks to seal their comeback with a statement victory.
Real Madrid vs Barcelona Prediction
These are the forms that both teams try to extend, creating an action-packed, goal-heavy scenario. Given the confidence of Barcelona and the defensive injuries to Real Madrid, the clash might very well end in a high-scoring draw. Prediction: Real Madrid 2-2 Barcelona
