The first Clasico of the 2024/25 season promises a thrilling encounter as Real Madrid host Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu.
With both teams in strong form, the clash will be a major test of their Liga title ambitions. Barcelona sit three points clear at the top of the table, while Real Madrid remain unbeaten after 10 games, setting the stage for a gripping match.
Real Madrid Recent Form
Los Blancos have enjoyed a strong start to the season, remaining unbeaten after 10 matches. Their most recent Champions League performance included a stunning comeback win over Borussia Dortmund, where Vinicius Jr netted a second-half hat-trick.
Confidence will be high in the Madrid camp, but injuries to key players pose a challenge.
Injury and team news
Real Madrid will be without star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and forward Rodrygo, both sidelined with injuries. Andriy Lunin will deputise in goal, while Carlo Ancelotti faces a tough decision on how to adjust his attacking line.
Jude Bellingham is expected to play a pivotal role in midfield, potentially joining the forward line alongside Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe, who is set to make his Clasico debut.
Last Real Madrid Lineup
Here is how Real Madrid lined up for their last match:
Barcelona Recent Form
Barcelona have been in fine form, topping the league standings after a solid run of results. Robert Lewandowski, in particular, has been in spectacular form, leading the Pichichi race with 12 goals in 10 games.
Despite their success, Barca have struggled in recent Clasicos, having failed to win in their last four encounters with Real Madrid.
Injury and team news
Barcelona come into the match with several players recovering from injuries. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo remain sidelined, while Fermin Lopez, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong are available again after their own injury lay-offs. The fitness of Dani Olmo will also be key for Barcelona’s attacking options.
Last Barcelona Lineup
Here is how Barcelona lined up for their last match:
Real Madrid Player To Watch
Vinicius Junior is expected to collect his first Balon d'Or trophy next week and he emphatically proved why he is a worthy winner during the week with his spectacular hat-trick against Dortmund.
Barcelona Player To Watch
Robert Lewandowski continues to be Barcelona's talisman. With 12 goals in 10 games, he will be the focal point of Barcelona’s attack. Madrid's defence will have a hard task in keeping him quiet, especially with the absence of Courtois between the sticks.
Prediction
Both teams come into this match with solid form, but Real Madrid’s home advantage and the momentum from their recent performances may give them the edge.
However, Barcelona’s attacking firepower, led by Lewandowski, could make this a high-scoring affair.
A score draw, 2-2, seems likely in what promises to be a classic encounter.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score (Yes) – With attacking threats on both sides and Madrid missing Courtois, expect goals from both teams.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 Goals – Given the form of Lewandowski and Vinicius Jr, this Clasico is expected to be a high-scoring affair.
Tip 3
Draw – With both teams in strong form, a score draw seems the most probable outcome in a tightly contested match.
