Sat Oct 25 12:29:39 UTC 2025: Headline: El Clasico Heats Up: Real Madrid Aims to Overturn Barcelona’s Dominance
Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid is set to face arch-rivals Barcelona in the first El Clasico of the La Liga season this Sunday at the Santiago Bernabeu. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:15 PM local time (14:15 GMT). Fans can follow live updates and commentary on Al Jazeera Sport, with build-up coverage beginning at 1:15 PM (11:15 GMT).
Last season saw Barcelona dominate, securing four Clasico victories. However, a revitalized Real Madrid, spearheaded by in-form striker Kylian Mbappe, is determined to reverse the trend. Led by new manager Xabi Alonso, Madrid currently sits atop the La Liga table, two points ahead of Barcelona. A victory would extend their lead to five points and ease concerns about their performance in major matches, following recent losses to Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid.
All eyes will be on Mbappe, who has been in sensational form, scoring 10 of Real Madrid’s 20 La Liga goals. While coach Alonso denies over-reliance on the French superstar, his impact is undeniable. Barcelona’s defense will need to be at their best to contain him.
Barcelona will be without key players like Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Ter Stegen and Flick is suspended for the game due to red card, putting pressure on the team to perform at their peak. However, young talent Lamine Yamal is expected to rise to the occasion, despite recent criticism.
Historically, El Clasico has been a closely contested affair, with Real Madrid claiming 105 wins and Barcelona 104. This 262nd encounter promises to be another thrilling chapter in the rivalry.
Real Madrid welcomes back Alexander-Arnold, Carvajal, Ceballos and Huijsen but are still without Rudiger and Alaba due to injuries. Barcelona sees the return of Frenkie de Jong, but Kounde is a doubt. With both teams eager to assert their dominance, Sunday’s El Clasico is a must-watch for football fans worldwide.
First Piper 