Why Real Must Keep Pace Ahead of Clash with Barcelona

A 1-0 defeat at the hands of Atletico Madrid leaves Los Blancos uncomfortably off the pace in La Liga. With their Madrid rivals and Barcelona leading the pack, Cristiano Ronaldo and company must ensure they win the next two league matches ahead of their October 26 Clasico at Camp Nou.

Despite a loss and a draw this season, Madrid are in a much better spot than last year. After seven rounds a season ago, the club sat on just 11 points compared to their current total of 16. However, they are not in a battle with themselves but with their bitter rivals from Catalonia. Barca have won all seven games thus far, leading the table with 21 points.

The crucial Clasico a few weeks from now could set the tone for the rest of the league campaign. Madrid cannot afford to lose the six-point match and fall eight points back from the leaders. Though not an insurmountable distance, eight points adrift with over a quarter of the season gone would be a tough hole to climb out of.

Barcelona are on an absolute tear. Despite some shaky defending clouding their success a year ago, the Catalans have plugged the holes, conceding just five goals in league play—best in the division. But their sturdiness at the back is surpassed by their offensive output. With 24 goals from just seven games, Barca lead the way on both ends of the pitch.

Barcelona's immaculate form creates a tricky task for Los Blancos. In the past, Madrid have utilized various strategies when playing their rivals away from home. Accustomed to ceding possession in most of the recent matches, Madrid's improved proficiency in keeping the ball offers Carlo Ancelotti some different options.

Though it would be a potential disaster if they lose, Ancelotti must not set up to defend. Madrid are at their best when they can break out and run, particularly through the wings. Luka Modric, Sami Khedira, or whoever else takes the role of defensive midfielder on the day will have the crucial responsibility of breaking up play and redistributing swiftly.

Madrid were successful in their 2-1 victory last year due to their constant pressure on the ball. Their swarming physicality kept Barca from dictating play, and the victory was a just reward.

But the team cannot look too far ahead. Upcoming matches against against Levante and Malaga must be handled to give Madrid a quality shot at gaining ground on the leaders. They have overlooked unassuming opponents in the past, but they cannot afford to any longer. 

El Clasico looms, but Madrid must navigate their way through their next two matches for the game to hold true significance.