El Classico

El Classico is today. The game between Real Madrid and Barcelona, the two biggest sports teams (thats right, not just the two biggest teams in Spain or in soccer but in all of sport) in the world. The Bernabeau plays host tonight as Barcelona take on Real Madrid, with both teams equal on points and tied for first in la Liga.

There is not a bigger regular season game or rivalry in the world and these two teams wont disappoint. Madrid are looking to erase last year's game as Barca came to the Bernabeau and won 6-2. This game is even more important than last years and will be much closer. The game at the Nou Camp in November was won 1-0 by Barca so this game will not only give someone the lead but a clear path to the title. Right now the teams are separated by goal differential, with Madrid leading by 1 goal. After today, however, the teams will be separated by head to head should they be tied on points. A win by Madrid equals things and means it will go back to goal differential while a win or draw by Barca gives them the advantage.

The big talk is Messi vs. Ronaldo but that is not true. Yes these are the two best players in the world but they will not see much of each other. The game will be decided who finishes better as a team in my opinion. Each team will create chances but whoever take advantage of those chances will win. Real will be without Kaka which does hurt them but Barca will be without Ibrahimavic and Abidal which will hurt them. All in all it will be very balanced.

I expect Barca to control most of the possession like they do in every game and try to control the pace. I expect Real to come out fast to try to get an early goal and protect their back line (which is suseptible). Barca will try to let Xavi and Iniesta and Messi create while Madrid will let Ronaldo and Higuain create. Should be a very tight, very exciting game.

Being a Barca fan obviously I think Barcelona will win but I am not about to make a 6-2 prediction. I could see a 2-1, 2-0, 1-0 win but I would also not be unhappy with a draw. Can't wait!!!!!