Will Suarez’s Presence And Bale’s Absence Decide Who Wins El Classico?

Virtually one of the biggest fixtures in Europe every season is the El Classico. The recent exploits of both teams and the quality they possess makes it more interesting of recent. With both Real Madrid and Barcelona having the best two players in the world that have won six Ballon d’Or between them in six consecutive years, El Classico is set to produce another great display. Real Madrid had a mixed start to the season claiming the UEFA super cup but failed to do so with the Spanish super cup and struggled in the beginning of the season. Barcelona however have been impressive under new manager, Luis Enrique and are yet to concede in the La Liga this season with both Neymar and Messi scoring 15 goals amongst them. Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 15 times in 7 league games leaving the trio to be key players for their team on tonight.

Real Madrid will have to make do with the absence of Gareth Bale who sustained an injury last week as they face Barcelona later today. A big boost for Barcelona as it will reduce the amount of threat posed by the team. This may see much weight put on Cristiano Ronaldo who has scored twenty times so far this season for Real Madrid in all competition with the latest coming at Anfield during the week. Real Madrid also have to cope with the timing of the match as they travelled to England during the week to play Liverpool in the UEFA champions league 24 hours after Barcelona played at home to Ajax Amsterdam. Maybe the fixture should have been shifted till tomorrow or Monday to afford the Los Blancos more time with preparation and fitness. Ancelotti is expected to gear up his boys as they look to reduce the point deficit between themselves and Barcelona. Barcelona is currently at the summit with four points clear of Real Madrid.

Barcelona however is boosted by the return of Sergio Busquets who may feature in today’s encounter. The Spanish midfielder will also be joined by Luis Suarez who returns from a lengthy ban after the world cup ‘biting’ incidence. Suarez who is probably the best striker in the world at the moment will make his Barcelona debut today and it’s left to be seen if he will start from the bench. Luis Enrique may have to come up with a tactical change if he is to start anyway as Barcelona have built a team in his absence. This is the biggest boost for Barcelona and it remains to be seen how the Madrid’s shaky defence will keep out threats from Neymar, Messi and Suarez with the first two enjoying football at its best presently.

Both teams have been on a decent run of form prior to this match which makes it much more anticipated but a quiet day for Cristiano Ronaldo may ruin the party for the Blancos. Real Madrid have the advantage as they are playing in front of their massive home supporters but it will definitely take something special to defeat this Barcelona team and Ancelotti knows that. Cristiano Ronaldo may be a major factor today and with his recent form, Barcelona may struggle to curtain him and James Rodriguez.