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El Classico will take place at 2am EAT in New Jersey
The eagerly anticipated El Clasico returns this Sunday, as Real Madrid and Barcelona clash in a prestigious friendly at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Both teams are in the midst of their pre-season preparations, and this encounter promises to offer a tantalizing preview of what’s to come in the 2024-25 season.
Real Madrid's pre-season form and squad updates
Real Madrid, the reigning Spanish and European champions, have had a mixed pre-season so far.
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Their campaign began with a 1-0 defeat to AC Milan on Wednesday, a result that highlighted some of the challenges Carlo Ancelotti's side might face as they integrate new signings and adjust to life without key departures.
The introduction of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick to the squad has generated significant excitement, although Mbappe is not in the United States due to an extended break following Euro 2024.
Endrick, however, will make his El Clasico debut, and his performance will be closely watched.
The Brazilian prodigy is expected to lead the line alongside Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, who are set to join the squad for this match.
Despite the absence of several key players, including Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid will feature a strong lineup. Luka Modric, Arda Guler, and Antonio Rudiger are all expected to start, while Dani Ceballos remains part of the squad despite speculation about his future.
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The defense will be bolstered by Eder Militao, who is expected to play a key role in keeping Barcelona’s attacking threats at bay.
Barcelona's pre-season and team news
Barcelona’s pre-season has been slightly more promising, with their first friendly resulting in a 2-2 draw against Manchester City, which they eventually won on penalties.
New head coach Hansi Flick has already made a positive impression, and Barcelona will look to build on that momentum in this high-profile fixture.
The Catalan giants have been relatively quiet in the transfer market but made headlines with the acquisition of Pau Victor.
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Victor scored in his debut against Manchester City and could be a key player in this clash.
However, Barcelona will be without several important players due to injury, including Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi.
The squad will feature the likes of Raphinha, Ilkay Gundogan, and Jules Kounde, all of whom are expected to be pivotal.
Alejandro Balde, who returned from injury, might start, and Robert Lewandowski is set to lead the attack alongside Pau Victor.
Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal are on extended breaks following Euro 2024, and Fermin Lopez, Eric Garcia, and Pau Cubarsi are currently occupied with the Olympics.
Key matchups and tactical insights
1. Attack vs. defence:
Real Madrid’s potent attack, led by Endrick and supported by Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, will be up against Barcelona’s defense, which includes the reliable Jules Kounde and the returning Alejandro Balde. How well Barcelona can contain Real Madrid’s dynamic forwards will be crucial.
2. Midfield battle:
With Luka Modric and Ilkay Gundogan set to feature, the midfield battle will be an intriguing one. Modric’s experience and vision will be pivotal for Real Madrid, while Gundogan’s creativity will be key for Barcelona. The outcome of this duel could influence the control of the game.
3. Goalkeeping showdown:
The battle between Thibaut Courtois and Marc-André ter Stegen could prove decisive. Both keepers are among the best in the world, and their performances could be the difference between victory and defeat.
With Real Madrid’s new signings making their mark and Barcelona’s exciting squad adjustments under Hansi Flick, fans can expect a high-quality match filled with intensity and quality. The clash at MetLife Stadium will set the stage for an eagerly awaited season of La Liga and European football.
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