Kylian Mbappe in red-hot form as Real Madrid seek to reclaim Clasico supremacy.
Barcelona
After a season in which Barcelona swept four Clasico victories, Real Madrid are determined to turn the tables when the fierce rivals meet at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday. Last year, Hansi Flick’s side dominated La Liga and cup competitions, winning the domestic treble, beating Madrid twice in La Liga, as well as in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals, ultimately ending Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure.
Madrid, now led by Xabi Alonso, enter the clash with the confidence of topping the table by two points. However, doubts linger about their ability to perform in high-stakes matches, following a Club World Cup semi-final loss to PSG and a 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid in September. A Clasico win would not only redress past defeats but also open up a five-point advantage over Barcelona.
Central to Madrid’s hopes is Kylian Mbappe, who has hit new heights this season. The 26-year-old striker has scored 10 of Madrid’s 20 La Liga goals and 15 across all competitions, accounting for more than half of the team’s scoring output. Last year, Mbappe struggled in his first Clasico outings, including a 4-0 defeat at the Bernabeu, but has since gained confidence, scoring in subsequent matches against Barcelona, including a hat-trick in May despite Madrid losing 4-3.
This season, Mbappe has formed a strong understanding with Turkish playmaker Arda Guler, whose vision allows the forward to exploit Barcelona’s defensive weaknesses. “Arda gets between the lines and there he finds Mbappe well,” said Alonso. With Barcelona struggling defensively, Madrid believe Mbappe can finally tip the balance in their favour and end the Catalan side’s recent dominance in the Clasico.
