El Clásico, the highly anticipated clash between archrivals Barcelona and Real Madrid, captivates fans across Spain and Europe every year. However, this year’s match will have a slightly different atmosphere, as only 55,926 fans can attend in person. This reduced capacity is due to ongoing renovations at Spotify Camp Nou, which, under normal circumstances, can accommodate 40,000 more spectators. That, however, does not mean the support will not be felt. On the contrary, a smaller stadium will roar louder on the pitch than ever before.
This is not a season-defining clash on paper, but in Spain, every Clásico is a “final”, as mentioned by Xavi Hernández and Carlo Ancelotti in the past. The true status and form of either team do not matter: When it is El Clásico, it is El Clásico. And without a doubt, its importance could not be overstated. Barcelona sits in third place with twenty-four points, only one behind Girona and…Real Madrid. As such, a victory for Barcelona at home would not only demonstrate their strength but also deal a significant blow to Real Madrid’s morale. Many will remember Xavi’s 4-0 victory against Carlo Ancelotti, shoving shame up Real Madrid’s face. However, without Pedri and Frenkie uncertain, this weekend’s narrative could change indeed.
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Barcelona vs Real Madrid Match Info
- Date: Saturday, October 28, 2023
- Kick-off time: 4:15 p.m. local time (10:15 a.m. ET, 7:15 a.m. PT)
- Location: Montjuïc stadium (Barcelona, Spain)
- Official: Sánchez Martínez
Barcelona vs Real Madrid Prediction and Odds
- Pick: Barcelona to win
- Odds: +144 (Tonybet)
Barcelona has been on a great run, winning against Shakhtar Donetsk and Athletic Club, and will make sure to give its best version in Barcelona on such an important occasion. Clásicos determine the mood, and amid a raging injury crisis (Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Robert Lewandowski, Sergi Roberto), a victory would alleviate some of the troubles the club and fans are going through. Xavi Hernández, with his extensive experience as both a player and now as a coach, is likely well aware of the significance of this victory. A victory for Real Madrid would solidify their position as league leaders and alleviate the anxiety stemming from their inconsistent performance since the season’s start.
Barcelona vs Real Madrid Betting Tips
- Pick: Jude Bellingham to score anytime
- Odds: +214 (Tonybet)
Bellingham is without a doubt Real Madrid’s main threat. Surpassing even Vinicius Jr., Jude has quickly become one of the biggest superstars in recent times, impressively scoring plenty despite not being a forward. His goals are also of great value, as they help unlock situations (such as against Union Berlin, when Jude scored in the last minutes of the game). It’s an ongoing pattern instead of a few coincidences.
