Real Madrid and Barcelona has always been one of the most anticipated encounters in world football. Millions of fans worldwide eagerly await two iconic teams as they continue their rivalry and battle for supremacy as the undisputed kings of Spain.
Both teams have seen moments of turbulence throughout the season but particularly Real Madrid who have been battling to keep themselves in the race for the league title. Santiago Solari replaced Julien Lopetegui earlier in the season and has by all accounts steadied the ship and made some decisive calls in the process. Personnel changes and tactical changes aside, Solari has changed the dour mood at the Santiago Bernabéu but there are gaping holes that need addressing.
Barcelona have had their own issues under Ernesto Valverde, but the Blaugrana coach has been able to guide his team to the top of the La Liga table whilst navigating his side towards another Champions League quarter-final, assuming they beat Olympique Lyonnais in two weeks. Barcelona lead Real Madrid by nine points in La Liga with Atletico Madrid sandwiched in between with 47 points. The race looks all but over. However, Real Madrid able to cut the gap to six points if they manage to snatch a victory at the Santiago Bernabeu this weekend in La Liga.
Real Madrid
The Argentine Santiago Solari has persisted with Madrid’s tried and tested 4-3-3 formation with the majority of the starting XI remaining the same. He has stamped his own authority though after being handed a two-year contract as a full-time manager. Los Blancos have improved massively under Solari and that showed in the 1-1 draw against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey first leg a short two weeks ago.
Their visit to the Camp Nou in October saw them mauled by the Catalan club in a 5-1 thrashing which resulted in Julien Lopetegui’s sacking. Santiago Solari has since brought back the swagger with goals flying in and improved overall performance.
