• Real Madrid sees the upcoming El Clásico as a chance for redemption after a disastrous previous season in head-to-head matches

• Kylian Mbappé carries the hopes of breaking the Barça defense and securing a crucial win at Santiago Bernabéu

Football fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating a fiery showdown this Sunday at Santiago Bernabéu, as Real Madrid hosts their traditional rival Barcelona in a clash that goes beyond three points in the La Liga title race.

For Los Blancos, the match represents an opportunity to redeem themselves and erase the memories of a catastrophic previous season, in which Barcelona dominated head-to-head encounters, winning all four matches.

This time, Real Madrid enters under the leadership of coach Xabi Alonso, sitting at the top of the league table with only a two-point lead over Barcelona. However, doubts remain about the team’s ability to perform in high-stakes matches.

Pressure of the big games and Alonso’s shadow

Despite relative stability shown by Alonso’s side in La Liga, the true tests this season have been challenging. The team still faces the lingering shadow of a European defeat against PSG and a poor performance in the recent derby against Atlético Madrid.

These results have raised questions about Real Madrid’s true identity: is the team only capable of domestic dominance, or do they possess the mentality to defeat the big rivals? Sunday’s match will provide the answer. A victory over Barcelona would not only widen their lead but also send a strong statement that the new Real Madrid is capable of winning crucial encounters, erasing the poor impressions left in the Paris and Madrid showdowns.

Mbappé: half of the attacking force

If anyone carries the hopes of the Bernabéu fans, it is undoubtedly French star Kylian Mbappé. The striker, enjoying an exceptional season, is central to breaking Barcelona’s defense.

Statistics highlight his importance: Mbappé accounts for half of Real Madrid’s attack this season, scoring 10 of the team’s 20 goals across all competitions. This immense responsibility places him under pressure to lead the attack, but it is also the perfect chance to prove his value in the most important match of the season.

Confidence in Barcelona’s “weak” defense

Real Madrid is not relying solely on Mbappé. According to reports, Alonso’s coaching staff trusts their team’s ability to exploit what they consider Barcelona’s “weak defense.”

The Royal strategy is expected to leverage Mbappé’s speed and attacking versatility to target Barcelona’s inconsistent backline. Alonso believes this vulnerability could secure a significant victory, not only in points but also in restoring the psychological balance and prestige lost in last season’s four encounters.

Sunday’s El Clásico will be a true test of Real Madrid’s strength, an opportunity for Mbappé to prove he is a big-game player, and for Alonso to confirm that his team’s top spot is no accident, but the result of a resilient squad capable of beating its toughest rivals.