Hansi Flick’s Barcelona dominated the fixture in 2024–25, dismantling Madrid in every competition. The tone was set early with a stunning 4–0 win at the Santiago Bernabéu in October 2024. That was followed by a thrilling 5–2 victory in the Supercopa semifinal in Jeddah, then a dramatic 3–2 triumph after extra time in the Copa del Rey final in Seville. Barça completed the sweep with a 4–3 home win in May, sealing their control over the rivalry.

Central to Barcelona’s dominance was the emergence of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. Unplayable in transition and ice-cold in the final third, Yamal tore into Madrid’s backline repeatedly, contributing goals and assists while raising eyebrows across Europe. His connection with Pedri and Gavi has formed a fluid, fearless midfield-attacking axis that Flick has leaned on in big moments.

But this season, Real Madrid may finally be ready to fight back. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, Madrid have regained their identity: tactically disciplined, confident in possession, and harder to break down. Alonso’s arrival has coincided with Kylian Mbappé reaching peak form, and the French forward has made an impressive impact thus far in 2025/26, delivering key goals in tight games and showing signs of real chemistry with Vinícius Jr.

Unlike last season, where Real often looked tactically reactive, Alonso’s Madrid side have clear principles: pressing high, dominating possession, and playing with calculated control. Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni have added steel and mobility to the midfield, while Jude Bellingham, still thriving in a free role and recovering to his best from injury, remains a goal threat from deeper positions.

The table adds extra spice: Madrid lead La Liga, and a win would push them five points clear of their rivals. A loss, though, would see them cede top spot — and reopen questions about their ability to win when it matters most.

Flick, for his part, knows the psychological edge remains with Barcelona. His team will look to impose their vertical game again, pressing Madrid’s backline and using Yamal’s pace to exploit any space behind. But Alonso will have learned from last season’s defeats. Expect a more cautious approach, especially early on, with a focus on controlling tempo and reducing Barça’s transition chances.

So, can Madrid finally break the spell? With home advantage, a more settled tactical identity, and Mbappé in form, this may be their best opportunity yet. But Barcelona’s confidence in this fixture — and Yamal’s continued brilliance — mean nothing will come easy. One thing’s certain: on Sunday night, Spain — and the footballing world — will be watching.

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Broadcast details

Sunday 26 October

• 17:15: Real Madrid v Barcelona – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3