Football’s greatest rivalry is back. Real Madrid welcomes Barcelona to the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, October 26, 2025 for the 262nd El Clásico. With just two points separating the two La Liga leaders, this clash could have an early impact on the title race.
Real Madrid: Alonso’s men on a mission
Under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid has found a new rhythm. They have been dominant in almost every match this season, with only a heavy defeat to Atlético Madrid halting their momentum. The arrival of Kylian Mbappe has added a new dimension to their attack as the French star already has ten league goals to his name.
Alonso’s biggest concern, however, is his defense. Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba are both sidelined due to injury, leaving Aurelien Tchouaméni to sit alongside Éder Militão on the backline. Ferland Mendy is still not fully fit, so Álvaro Carreras will continue as left back.
In midfield, Jude Bellingham is finally back to full fitness after shoulder surgery and looked sharp in the win over Juventus. Vinicius Jr. and Arda Güler flank Mbappé in attack, while Federico Valverde provides his usual drive on the right.
Predicted Real Madrid XI (4-2-3-1):
Courtois; Valverde, military, tchouary, races; Bellingham, Camaviga; Massantuonus, güler, viiciicus Jr.; Mbappe
Injuries: Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy (doubt)
Manager: Xabi Alonso
Barcelona: Flick’s Young Guns perform
It has been a mixed start for Hansi Flick at Barcelona. His team has been hit hard by injuries, but continues to achieve results. Despite missing key names such as Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Marc-André ter Stegen and Dani Olmo, Barça remain just two points away from the top.
Flick’s tactical flexibility and faith in young players have paid off. Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation, is 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 Clasico, bringing pace and power to the attack.
The defense will once again rely on the young duo of Pau Cubarsí and Eric García, supported by Alejandro Balde as left back. Flick will not be on the sidelines due to a suspension, meaning his assistants will have to guide the team from the bench.
Predicted Barcelona XI (4-3-3):
szczęsny; Arújo, Cubasís, Garcia, Balde; De Jong, Pedri, F. Lopez; Yamal, Rashford, Ferren Torres
Injuries: Marc-Alle, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Joan Garcia, Raphinha, Jules Koundé
Manager: Hansi Flick (suspended)
Important fights to watch
Kylian Mbappé vs. Pau Cubarsí: The teenager faces the ultimate test against one of the world’s fastest and most clinical strikers.
Jude Bellingham vs Pedri: Two of Europe’s best young midfielders will battle to control the tempo and dictate the game.
Lamine Yamal vs Álvaro Carreras: Madrid’s left-back will have to remain calm as Yamal looks to exploit any defensive weakness.
Head-to-head and form guide
Barcelona have the upper hand in recent encounters, having won El Clasico five times in a row, including two emphatic wins at the Bernabéu last season.
Real Madrid’s last five: WWWWL
Barcelona’s last five: WWLLW
Both teams have scored twelve goals in their last five matches, demonstrating their attacking strength but also defensive weakness.
Prediction
Both teams come into this match with confidence and attacking flair. With so much firepower and a few key defenders missing, this promises to be another goal-packed match. Expect an open match with chances on both sides and lots of drama.
Prediction: Real Madrid 2-2 Barcelona
Match details
Date: Sunday October 26, 2025
Kick-off: 8:45 PM (IST)
Location: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid
Watch live: Fancode
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