The first El Clásico of the 2025–26 LaLiga season takes center stage this Sunday, October 26, as Real Madrid host Barcelona at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu. With just two points separating the eternal rivals, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both sides have endured mixed form and injury disruptions, setting up a contest that could swing either way.
Match Preview
Real Madrid come into this match sitting top of the LaLiga table with a narrow two-point cushion over Barcelona after nine rounds. Kylian Mbappé continues to lead the line with characteristic brilliance, having scored the winner against Getafe to keep Los Blancos in pole position. Carlo Ancelotti’s men have looked confident in domestic play, racking up solid wins over Villarreal and Espanyol, though the 5-2 defeat to Atlético Madrid earlier in the month remains a reminder of their defensive vulnerability.
A major boost for Madrid is the expected return of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been sidelined for six games with a hamstring injury. His duel with Marcus Rashford, now at Barcelona, adds an intriguing Premier League-flavored subplot to this Spanish classic. With Jude Bellingham orchestrating midfield transitions and Vinícius Jr. returning to form on the left flank, Real will look to impose their tempo early at the Bernabéu.
Barcelona, meanwhile, arrive in Madrid searching for stability. Despite a 2-1 win over Girona, the Catalans have been reeling from a 4-1 defeat to Sevilla and a 2-1 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. Injuries have hit Hansi Flick’s squad hard—Gavi and Eric Garcia remain out long-term with meniscus injuries, while Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Marc-André ter Stegen are all racing to prove their fitness before kickoff. To make matters more complex, Flick is suspended and will watch from the stands, leaving his assistants to manage one of the season’s most high-pressure games.
Even so, Barcelona’s youthful core continues to shine. Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Pau Cubarsí have shown maturity beyond their years, while Frenkie de Jong’s return to midfield control could be key to dictating possession.
Team Form & Recent Results
Real Madrid (Last 5 Matches): W–L–W–W–W
Goals Scored: 12 | Goals Conceded: 6
Clean Sheets: 2
Barcelona (Last 5 Matches): W–L–L–W–L
Goals Scored: 8 | Goals Conceded: 12
Clean Sheets: 1
Real Madrid’s consistency at home has been their foundation, while Barcelona’s defensive instability—12 goals conceded in their last five—remains a major concern.
Head-to-Head Record
- Last 5 Meetings: Real Madrid 4W – 0D – 1L
- Aggregate Score: Real Madrid 13–6 Barcelona
- Last Meeting: Barcelona 2–3 Real Madrid (LaLiga 2024/25)
Real Madrid have dominated recent Clásicos, winning four of the last five encounters, including both league fixtures last season. Barcelona’s last victory at the Bernabéu dates back to 2022.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Real Madrid (expected lineup):
Courtois – Alexander-Arnold, Rüdiger, Alaba, Mendy – Tchouaméni, Valverde, Bellingham – Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Mbappé
Unavailable: Militão (knee), Camavinga (ankle)
Key Players:
- Kylian Mbappé: Top scorer with 9 LaLiga goals; lethal in transition.
- Jude Bellingham: Midfield conductor with 4 goals and 3 assists this season.
- Vinícius Jr.: Dangerous on the counter, thrives in big-match moments.
Barcelona (expected lineup):
Ter Stegen – Koundé, Christensen, Araujo, Balde – De Jong, Gündogan, Pedri – Raphinha, Lewandowski, Rashford
Unavailable: Gavi (knee), Eric Garcia (meniscus)
Doubtful: Raphinha, Lewandowski, Ter Stegen
Key Players:
- Robert Lewandowski: If fit, remains Barcelona’s most potent finisher.
- Lamine Yamal: Rising star with pace and flair on the right wing.
- Pedri: Creative anchor linking defense and attack.
Tactical Analysis & Key Battles
Real Madrid are likely to maintain their possession-based 4-3-3, using Bellingham’s vertical runs and Mbappé’s off-ball movement to exploit gaps behind Barcelona’s high line. Tchouaméni will anchor the midfield, allowing Valverde to shuttle forward and support transitions. Madrid’s full-backs, particularly Alexander-Arnold, will aim to stretch play wide and deliver crosses into the box.
Barcelona, in contrast, will seek control through midfield fluidity. Pedri and Gündogan will look to dominate the ball, while De Jong’s positioning will be crucial in neutralizing Madrid’s counterattacks. However, their high defensive line could be exposed by Madrid’s speed on the break — a recurring theme in recent Clásicos.
Key Tactical Duels:
- Mbappé vs Koundé: The French duel that could define the match.
- Rashford vs Alexander-Arnold: Pace and power against defensive positioning.
- Bellingham vs Pedri: The midfield battle for creativity and control.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
1X2 Odds: Real Madrid 1.95 | Draw 3.70 | Barcelona 3.80
Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 1.65 | Under 2.15
Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes 1.65 | No 2.10
Top Betting Picks:
- Real Madrid to Win (1.95): Home advantage and superior form.
- Over 2.5 Goals (1.65): El Clásico rarely disappoints for goal action.
- Mbappé Anytime Scorer: The Frenchman thrives in high-stakes fixtures.
Quick Facts (Featured Snippet):
- Venue: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid, Spain
- Competition: LaLiga 2025/26 – Matchweek 10
- Kickoff: Sunday, October 26, 2025 – 21:00 CET
- Broadcast: Movistar LaLiga (Spain), ESPN+ (US), Viaplay (UK)
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Live Broadcast: Movistar LaLiga (Spain), ESPN+ (US), Viaplay (UK)
Streaming: FuboTV, DAZN, Now TV (International)
Kickoff: Sunday, October 26, 2025 – 21:00 CET / 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET
Prediction: Real Madrid vs Barcelona, LaLiga 2025
Real Madrid’s superior home form and attacking cohesion make them slight favorites heading into this El Clásico. Barcelona’s injuries and defensive uncertainty could leave them vulnerable, though their young stars will ensure a lively contest. Expect goals, drama, and moments of brilliance on both ends — but Los Blancos’ finishing edge may prove decisive.
Final Prediction: Real Madrid 3–1 Barcelona
Best Bet: Real Madrid to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Alternative Value: Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
Mbappé and Bellingham’s partnership could once again deliver on the grandest stage, sealing another El Clásico victory for Madrid in front of a roaring Bernabéu crowd.
