This one is fuelled by fierce rivalry
Barcelona have made a near-perfect start to their La Liga title defence, but their first meeting with Real Madrid this season comes after a reminder that they are not unbeatable. Hansi Flick’s side lost 4-2 away to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Tuesday, their first defeat of the campaign.
The result gives Barcelona something to address before one of their biggest games of the season. They have won all nine of their league matches so far and sit six points ahead of Madrid, who are third in the table.
A victory at home would extend that advantage to nine points and put further pressure on their rivals. Madrid, however, have an opportunity to make the title race more competitive with a win of their own.
Jose Mourinho’s return to the clásico adds another layer to the occasion. The games between these two carried much drama during his first spell and should do so again now he is now trying to rebuild a side that has gone two seasons without a major trophy.
Madrid have shown signs of progress in recent weeks. They beat Sevilla 4-1 in the league before recording another 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Champions League. Those results have helped them build momentum ahead of a difficult trip to Catalonia.
Barcelona have also enjoyed an impressive domestic run. Their 5-2 win over Real Betis last weekend maintained their 100 per cent league record, and they will be keen to respond to the setback in Paris in front of their home supporters.
Together, as one team. 🔵🔴
#ElClásico https://t.co/tvcYmSGcWq— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 24, 2026
The recent history between the clubs favours Barcelona. They have won six of their last seven meetings in all competitions, including a 2-0 victory at Camp Nou last season. Madrid will need a stronger performance than in several recent clásicos if they are to leave Camp Nou with all three points.
Team News
Barcelona will be without Dani Olmo, Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia because of injuries. Jules Kounde is also expected to miss the match with an ankle problem. On the other side, Raphinha is fit and should start.
Madrid will be without Vinicius Junior, who is suspended, as well as injured players Rodrygo, Ferland Mendy and Raul Asencio. Mourinho must decide how best to replace Vinicius for this fixture.
Predicted Line-Ups
Barcelona predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Garcia; Cancelo, Cubarsi, Martin, Xavi Espart; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Fermin, Gordon; Raphinha.
Real Madrid predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Valverde, Konate, Huijsen, Cucurella; Tchouameni, Silva; Guler, Bellingham, Diomande; Mbappe.
🧠👀🔜 https://t.co/Nvj4KKTP7q
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) October 24, 2026
Date: Sunday, 25 October 2026
Kick-off time: 8pm GMT / 4pm ET
Barcelona vs Real Madrid match prediction
Barcelona 2-1 Real Madrid
