Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the La Liga match.
The decisive clash in this season’s La Liga title race arrives on Sunday, as Barcelona host arch-rivals Real Madrid in what promises to be a high-stakes edition of El Clásico. The last meeting between the two saw fireworks, with Barcelona edging a 3:2 victory after extra time in a thrilling cup tie. Now, fresh from Champions League elimination, they will be desperate to tighten their grip on top spot in the league.
Barcelona
Barcelona have been in sharp attacking form. Since 9 April, they’ve scored at least two goals in six of their last nine matches across all competitions. On Tuesday at San Siro, the Catalans produced 2.81 xG across 120 minutes, dominating 71% possession against Inter Milan. Robert Lewandowski’s late appearance in Milan indicates he’s match-ready again, offering a major boost to the home side’s firepower.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid, by contrast, continue to wrestle with defensive absences. Both David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger are out once again, and last weekend’s narrow 3:2 win over Celta Vigo highlighted ongoing issues at the back — Real Madrid conceded 1.96 xGA in that fixture. Carlo Ancelotti is expected to turn to a makeshift centre-back pairing of Aurélien Tchouaméni and Marco Asensio, a duo unlikely to withstand the full weight of Barcelona’s attacking line.
Barcelona vs Real Madrid Prediction
Barcelona boast a league-best 91 goals from 34 matches — a full 22 more than any other team. And in the three El Clásico meetings this season, Real Madrid have shipped a total of 12 goals against their biggest rivals. On home turf, with the title in sight, Barcelona look poised to strike again.
