*Match preview and betting tips provided by SVB Tips
Barcelona currently sit on top of the table with 79 points, four ahead of second-placed Real Madrid, who sit second on 75 points, and with just three rounds to follow, this match could very well decide the title.
The Catalans are no longer in contention for the treble after being knocked out of the Champions League semifinals by Inter. Despite a dramatic late goal by Raphinha to a 3-2 lead Inter equalised tin stoppage time and dramatically sealed qualification in extra time.
Manager Hansi Flick commended his side’s effort and promised the team would come back stronger next season. For now, total focus is on this clash, which could secure the league title. Even a draw keeps Barça comfortably four points clear with three games left.
Barcelona are on fire at home, unbeaten in their last nine league matches with eight wins and one draw since losing to Atletico. Only Real Betis managed to steal a point during that stretch — and even that match was dominated by Flick’s men.
Barcelona Team News:
- Balde returns to the lineup.
- Lewandowski will look to improve on his Champions League performance.
- Likely to start: Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha up front.
- Midfield trio: Pedri, De Jong, and Olmo.
- Defense: Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez at center-back, with Gerard Martín and Garcia on the flanks.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, must win to keep their title hopes alive. This is also a crucial game for Carlo Ancelotti, whose departure has already been confirmed, with Xabi Alonso expected to take over in the summer.
Madrid come into this game with four consecutive league wins, and a full week of rest. But their injury list continues to grow: Rüdiger, Mendy, Alaba, Carvajal, Militão, and Camavinga are all out.
Real Madrid Team News:
- Tchouaméni will start at center-back alongside Asensio.
- Full-backs: Fran García and Lucas Vázquez.
- Midfield shield: Ceballos and Valverde.
- Arda Güler, in top form vs Celta, starts in midfield with Bellingham.
- Up front: Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé.
- Mbappé has 24 goals this season, just one behind Lewandowski, and has scored 7 goals in 8 matches vs Barcelona.
Madrid have scored in every away match this season except one (vs Espanyol), but their results on the road have been patchy: just 9 wins in 17 games with five draws.
Head-to-Head This Season:
- Barcelona 4–0 Real Madrid (La Liga, at the Bernabéu)
- Barcelona 5–2 Real Madrid (Spanish Super Cup, Saudi Arabia)
- Barcelona 3–2 AET Real Madrid (Copa del Rey Final, Sevilla)
Top Betting Tips:
- Both Teams to Score – Yes: Real have scored in 16 of 17 away matches; Barça rarely blank at home.
- Over 2.5 Total Goals: All three El Clásicos this season saw 5+ goals.
- Kylian Mbappé to Score Anytime: 7 goals in 8 matches vs Barcelona; in the Golden Boot race.
- Barcelona Draw No Bet: Unbeaten in 9 straight home matches, including strong wins over top clubs.