The day that has been long awaited has finally arrived: Barcelona and Real Madrid are ready to renew their rivalry as both squads head into Sunday's match in top form.
Real Madrid started off the season chaotically and find themselves eight points behind rival Barcelona. But their play the last few weeks could be an indication that the defending champions are back. Cristiano Ronaldo, who was dreadful for weeks, has scored two hat tricks in a row against Deportivo La Coruna and against Ajax in the Champions League. While it is not expected for him to repeat the effort against Barcelona, these last two games could indicate a big game for him.
But Mourinho must figure out his lineup as his midfield has flip flopped every game and created instability. Right now there is a battle between Kaka and Mesut Ozil for who is the general in the midfield as the Brazilian has played brilliantly in the last few weeks. Karim Benzema has been the striker of choice lately over Gonzalo Higuain and while the Argentine would be a first choice man on most rosters, the Frenchman has shown his worth. Can anyone really overlook that tremendous bicycle goal he scored Wednesday? Defensively, Madrid is sound with fewer injuries than their rivals.
This brings us to Barca. The defense is ailing without Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique. Javier Mascherano looked disastrous against Benfica in Tuesday's UCL match. This is their greatest weakness. Lionel Messi has been everything to this team, but he is now behind Ronaldo in goals for the season. That could fuel the Barcelona man to carry his squad to victory. The first place squad has looked weak in the last few weeks due to defensive lapses and it could finally catch up to them. Andres Iniesta will also be back and could be the game changer with his explosiveness.
This is a battle for the ages.
Prediction: Barcelona looks better in many areas, but somehow, Madrid just looks to get hot at the right time and their bench looks deeper right now. Madrid edges Barcelona 2-1.
More Previews for Barcelona vs. Real Madrid
To find out which squad has a better keeper, click HERE.
Find out who has the better midfield HERE.
Find out which squad has better defenders HERE.
Which club has better Strikers? Who wins the Messi Ronalod battle? Find out HERE.
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