Barcelona-Real Madrid, El Clasico: A Match Preview

When Real Madrid came to Camp Nou last season, they were beaten by two late goals.  Barca were on a successful roll, having great success in the league, Champions league, and the Spanish Cup. 

Madrid were having their share of struggles.

This year, Madrid come in on a bit of a hot streak, having one of the most successful starts in recent club history. Barca are struggling, but remain only one point behind Real in the league, and have outlasted them in the Spanish Cup.

The first deciding factor in this game will be the team play. Barca have, undoubtedly, the best youth system in Spain. Pedro is the standout this year with goals in every competition this season.

Barca's play as a team secures a win; not individual player displays. 

This was evident on Tuesday when, without Messi and Ibra, Barca dominated Inter in a must-win game to help secure a path through the group stage of the UCL.

Real Madrid have had their struggles without Ronaldo this year. Other players, including Kaka, have struggled to combine with the veteran Madrid starters. This game will come down to possession and the creation of chances.

Barca seem to have an edge when it comes to creativity, but are struggling to put away their chances.  Madrid, as always, seem to find a way to win against weaker opponents even when their football is not up to their standards. 

The second factor will be the back lines of both teams. 

Barca have had their struggles with set plays and occasionally being beaten by their own offside trap. Madrid have struggled as well being knocked out of the Spanish Cup by a 4-1 home and home series.

Discussing the starting line ups is always fun. Barca should be able to field a full squad , although a few players have some nagging injuries.

The big questions for Madrid remains with Ronaldo. 

I believe that Ronaldo will not start, but will come in after halftime.  Madrid still have concerns with the Champion's League and should not push Ronaldo since their struggles without him have already been severe.

The game tomorrow should be a real cracker. 

Whenever these two giant clubs clash the sparks always fly. I feel that Barca will be at their best tomorrow and will have the advantage going into halftime and finish the match up 4-1 with Messi having a brace big, and Ibra knocking in another.