Real Madrid vs Barcelona: El Clásico Returns to Light Up La Liga

The greatest rivalry in football is back. Real Madrid welcome Barcelona to the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, October 26, 2025, for the 262nd El Clásico. With just two points separating the two at the top of La Liga, this clash could have an early say in the title race.

Real Madrid: Alonso’s Men on a Mission

Under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid have found a new rhythm. They’ve been dominant in almost every game this season, with only a heavy loss to Atlético Madrid interrupting their momentum. The arrival of Kylian Mbappé has added a new dimension to their attack, as the French star has already bagged ten league goals.

However, Alonso’s biggest concern is his defence. Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba are both sidelined through injury, forcing Aurelien Tchouaméni to drop into the back line alongside Éder Militão. Ferland Mendy is still not fully fit, meaning Álvaro Carreras will continue at left-back.

In midfield, Jude Bellingham is finally back to full fitness after his shoulder surgery and looked sharp in the win over Juventus. Vinícius Jr. and Arda Güler will flank Mbappé in attack, while Federico Valverde provides his usual drive on the right.

Predicted Real Madrid XI (4-2-3-1):
Courtois; Valverde, Militão, Tchouaméni, Carreras; Bellingham, Camavinga; Mastantuono, Güler, Vinícius Jr.; Mbappé

Injuries: Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy (doubt)
Manager: Xabi Alonso

Barcelona: Flick’s Young Guns Step Up

For Hansi Flick, it’s been a mixed start at Barcelona. His team has been hit hard by injuries but continues to grind out results. Despite missing key names like Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Marc-André ter Stegen, and Dani Olmo, Barça remain just two points off the top.

Flick’s tactical flexibility and faith in young players have paid off. Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation, has been in electric form, while Pedri has rediscovered his rhythm in midfield. New signing Marcus Rashford is expected to start up front in his first-ever El Clásico, bringing pace and power to the attack.

The defence will again rely on the young pairing of Pau Cubarsí and Eric García, supported by Alejandro Balde at left-back. Flick will not be on the touchline due to suspension, leaving his assistants to guide the team from the bench.

Predicted Barcelona XI (4-3-3):
Szczęsny; Araújo, Cubarsí, García, Balde; De Jong, Pedri, F. López; Yamal, Rashford, Ferran Torres

Injuries: Marc-André ter Stegen, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Joan García, Raphinha, Jules Koundé
Manager: Hansi Flick (suspended)

Key Battles to Watch

• Kylian Mbappé vs Pau Cubarsí: The teenager faces the ultimate test against one of the world’s fastest and most clinical forwards.

• Jude Bellingham vs Pedri: Two of Europe’s finest young midfielders will battle to control the tempo and dictate play.

• Lamine Yamal vs Álvaro Carreras: Madrid’s left-back will need to stay composed as Yamal looks to exploit any defensive weakness.

Head-to-Head & Form Guide

Barcelona hold the upper hand in recent meetings, having won five straight El Clásicos, including two emphatic wins at the Bernabéu last season.

Real Madrid’s last five: W W W W L
Barcelona’s last five: W W L L W

Both teams have scored 12 goals in their last five matches, showing their attacking strength but also defensive frailty.

Prediction

Both teams come into this match with confidence and attacking flair. With so much firepower on display and a few key defenders missing, this promises to be another goal-filled contest. Expect an open game with chances at both ends and plenty of drama.

Prediction: Real Madrid 2–2 Barcelona

Match Details

Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
Kick-off: 20:45 (IST)
Venue: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid
Watch Live: Fancode