Madrid, Oct 25 (V7N) — Football fans around the world are bracing for another electrifying encounter as arch-rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona face off in the season’s first El Clasico. The match will kick off at 9:15 p.m. Bangladesh time on Sunday (October 26) at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

The last time Real hosted Barcelona was in October last year, when Los Blancos suffered a humiliating 4–0 defeat. This time, with revenge on their minds and the La Liga top spot at stake, Xabi Alonso’s men are determined to turn the tables.

Real Madrid have been in superb form this season, winning 11 of their 12 matches across all competitions, with their only loss coming in a 5–2 defeat against Atlético Madrid. The squad is fully fit, and Kylian Mbappé, now recovered from injury, is expected to play a key role in the attack.

However, Barcelona will be looking to continue their dominance in this historic rivalry. The Catalans have won all of the last five head-to-head clashes, and another victory would allow them to reclaim the league’s top position.

Coach Hansi Flick, however, will miss the high-voltage encounter after being shown two yellow cards in the previous match against Girona. Raphinha is doubtful due to an injury in training, but Frenkie de Jong, who recently returned from illness, is likely to start.

For Real, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum, while Barça will aim to prove their mettle despite missing key personnel. As both teams gear up for the showdown, all eyes will be on the Yamal–Mbappé duel, which could decide who has the last laugh at the Bernabéu.

END/SMA/AJ