El Clásico That Could Decide LaLiga
Barcelona can nearly lock up the LaLiga title with a draw, while Real Madrid needs a win to stay in the race. The stage is set for a decisive Clásico in Montjuic.
Barcelona and Real Madrid face off in a matchup that could determine the outcome of the LaLiga title race. The Catalans could all but seal the championship with a draw, while the Madrid side must win to keep their hopes alive.
Barcelona Looks to Bounce Back After Champions League Exit
Hansi Flick's squad enters the Clásico reeling from a heartbreaking elimination against Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinals. Despite nearly completing a dramatic comeback, a 93rd-minute goal forced extra time, and Barcelona ultimately fell 7–6 on aggregate. Still, the team remains unbeaten in league play in 2025 and sees this Clásico as a chance to reset and focus.
The schedule hasn't been kind to the league leaders, who have played nine matches in the last month—two of them going to extra time. Despite the fatigue, Eric García and Gerard Martín are expected to start after impressive showings in Milan. Alejandro Balde and Marc Casadó return from injury but will begin on the bench, as will Robert Lewandowski, who recently returned from a three-week layoff.
Ancelotti’s Last Chance, With a Depleted Back Line
For Real Madrid, this Clásico is a must-win. Trailing by four points and having lost all three previous Clásicos this season, the team faces the added challenge of an injury-ravaged defense. Carlo Ancelotti will be without Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, and Eduardo Camavinga.
With limited options, Ancelotti is expected to go with a 4-4-2 formation. Lucas Vázquez and Fran García will start as fullbacks, Aurélien Tchouaméni will shift to center-back, and academy product Raúl Asencio will complete the back line. Midfielder Fede Valverde will remain in his natural position, and Arda Güler, in strong form, may start over Rodrygo, who is enduring a long scoring drought.
Offensively, Real Madrid will rely on Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé, both looking to deliver after inconsistent performances. For Mbappé, it’s another shot at making his mark in a Clásico; for Vinícius, a chance to regain his Ballon d'Or-level form.
With just three matchdays remaining, this game will be pivotal—not just in the title race, but also for the future of both clubs, as Ancelotti prepares for his final Clásico and Xabi Alonso waits in the wings.
