Barcelona vs. Real Madrid: Predictions and Guarantees for Camp Nou Clasico

Real Madrid will descend upon the Camp Nou to battle their hated rivals Barcelona this weekend, and we have an idea of what's about to go down. 

There have been few misses along with the many hits when it comes to El Clasico, but this will be one of the best. 

When you meet as often as these two, there is bound to be a letdown or two at times, but this will not be one of those occasions.

There is far too many intriguing subplots for this match to fall flat, as Real Madrid must continue to stave off a surging Barcelona from claiming domestic glory. 

Losing La Liga would be tragic for Real Madrid, considering the cushion they once enjoyed. What's more, these are both teams that need a great deal of positive momentum heading into their all-important decisive legs of the Champion League semifinals. 

In an odd turn, both the Catalans and Los Blancos were turned away in their first legs, which makes every last bit of momentum crucial this week. 

With that, here are some predictions for a guaranteed classic.

1. Guarantee: Ronaldo and Messi will score

Both enter this matchup with 41 goals scored in La Liga this season, but expect that total to change. Real Madrid can't afford to sit back on their heels and play a defensive game. 

Madrid are much better instigating the action, and that should give Cristiano Ronaldo a great many looks at the net. 

If you saw any moment of the Chelsea match, you know that Barcelona—and especially Lionel Messi—were on the cusp of scoring.

I will expect the flood gates to open on Saturday.

2. Prediction: We are looking at a Draw

The stadium will be rocking and the play on the pitch will reflect fan emotions. I don't think Los Blancos will take a defensive stance, largely because you can't guarantee a clean sheet against Barcelona and because Madrid needs this game. 

We will see an early goal from Barca, which will lead to a more pressing attack from Los Blancos. In turn, this should make this game a punch-and-counter slug fest.

I like it to settle in the 2-2 range.

3. Prediction: Mesut Ozil Will Be Man of the Match

There is no telling how much of Mesut Ozil we will see, but his stint on the pitch will be crucial to the proceedings. 

He is an integral part of the team and Los Blancos are a stout side when he is the impetus to the offense. 

With Barcelona likely to own possession in the middle, Madrid will have to make the most of their touches, and that comes with the distribution and playmaking of Ozil. 

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