The El Clasico is the biggest ever matchup that is played between Real Madrid and Barcelona, arguably the two best teams in the world. Since 1929, the rivalry between these two giants of football has been renewed over time through this game, played twice every season. This time around, it will be played at Santiago Bernabeu, the home ground of Real Madrid.
Real Madrid currently holds the pole position in the Spanish La Liga points table, but Barcelona is not far behind, with only 3 points being the difference. This game is also going to be crucial for both the teams, as Real Madrid will be desperate not to give away their hard-earned advantage and Barcelona will look to snatch the number one position from Real’s grasp.
Both the teams have mercurial players at their disposal, which can prove to be a menace for the opposition. Real Madrid, also known as the Galacticos, have some of the best craftsmen of the game, who can turn it on its head when given the proper chance. Three such players who can turn the game in favour of the Galacticos are-
Cristiano Ronaldo-
Of late, the Euro Cup winning Captain of Portugal has been not so much in form. Scoring only 16 goals till now this season, the current holder of the Balon D’or had to miss some matches with an injury. However, now that the business end of the season is here, the Real Madrid talisman is seemingly finding form, having scored 5 goals in two matches against the German Champions Bayern Munich over the two legs of their quarter-final matchup including a hat-trick. This is good news for the Galacticos, who will want Ronaldo to be on the top of his game.
Isco Alarcon-
This 24-year old Spanish midfielder has been in the form of his life of late. He has proved to be the match-winner, scoring just before the final whistle against Sporting Gijon in Real’s 3-2 win to keep them on top of the ladder. Isco’s swift running, ball control, and shooting from both long and close range is the reason that he is being hailed as one of the key players in the forthcoming matchup against Barcelona.
Casemiro-
Casemiro has been one of the most influential midfielders in the Spanish La Liga as well as the Champions League for the Galacticos this season. His ability to intercept balls, along with scoring stunners from way out and concentration on the ball makes him a perfect contender to be hailed as a key player during the El Clasico.
