Barcelona has a golden opportunity to win the Spanish league title in the best possible way, by defeating arch-rival Real Madrid.
The Catalans only need a draw to defend their championship title, while they host Real Madrid at Camp Nou on Sunday night.
Absences of both teams:
In terms of absences, Barcelona are faring much better despite being without star player Lamine Yamal. The only other player expected to be absent besides the Spaniard is centre-back Andreas Christensen.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is in an injury crisis, with stars like Federico Valverde, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, Arda Guler, Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy not available.
Analysis:
Defender Jules Kounde returns from suspension in good time, with Hansi Flick expected to put him straight into the starting lineup.
The Frenchman has repeatedly proven this season that he is irreplaceable in Flick’s system, so he will be a great help to the Catalans.
On the other hand, Real Madrid is expected to have some changes in the lineup since starters like Militao, Valverde and Guler are missing due to injuries.
Positive news is the return of Kylian Mbappe, but it is still not clear whether he will play from the first minute.
Possible formations:
Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Garcia; Cancelo, Martin, Cubarsi, Kounde; Pedri, E. Garcia; Lopez, Gavi, Rashford; Lewandowski
Real Madrid (4-4-2): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Rudiger, Garcia; Diaz, Camavinga, Bellingham, Pitarch; Vinicius, Gonzalo.
Prediction: Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid
Barcelona is seen as the favorite as it could win the title while not knowing about a defeat in its last 10 matches, while also holding a record of 17 matches unbeaten at home.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, can only dream of a miracle in the title race with a win. They are unbeaten in their last four matches, but have only won two away games.
