Barcelona go into the weekend in what is probably a must-win match for them. The Blaugrana have been inconsistent and are yet to flourish this season. Already 4 points off their arch-rivals Real Madrid, who are currently leading the table, the margin for error is almost nil now. Barcelona had a narrow escape last year when an end-season slump saw Real Madrid almost catch up with them. But it was clear that the two Madrid sides were gradually becoming better prepared when it came to facing the Catalan giant. Luis Enrique had a pressing issue in the form of adding cover for the famed MSN as they didn’t really have a player who could step in and try to replicate even half of what Neymar and Suarez do.
And while that issue has still pestered them, the defence has let them down on various occasions and Luis Enrique will be looking for a much-improved display from his defence and central midfield. Messi’s form has seen them through till now and they are hanging on to the 2nd spot by a thread.
Real Madrid will come to Camp Nou high on confidence after defeating Cultural Leonesa 6-1 while a second-string Barcelona side managed a 1-1 draw at Hercules following their draws against Malaga and Real Sociedad.
PREDICTED BARCELONA LINE-UP VS REAL MADRID (4-3-3)
DEFENCE
Marc-Andre ter Stegen will be in goal but he has to drastically improve on his displays. He has been error-prone and giving away goals against Real Madrid will be suicidal. Sergi Roberto will be at right-back and has to be at his best to thwart Ronaldo. Pique’s return has been a boost and his passion and leadership will come in handy. Samuel Umtiti will also come back into the first team after proving his fitness against Hercules. Jordi Alba will hope to be fit in time for the match.
MIDFIELD
Sergio Busquets will anchor the midfield and fans will be hoping that facing Real Madrid brings the best out of him. Iniesta is in line to start after recovering and might be the difference between the two teams. Rakitic will be on the right side of the midfield.
ATTACK
Neymar will be on the left-wing and will look to dominate a tired and worn-out Carvajal. Luis Suarez has been blowing hot and cold recently and needs to improve his finishing. Lionel Messi will be looking to add to his impressive tally against Real Madrid and might be the deciding factor between the two sides.
