Ahead of the El Clasico a look at the two teams and how they match up against each other, position by position.
Line-ups used are based on most appearances in each position thus far this season, or injuries permitting the strongest eleven that both manager’s would choose to pick.
Iker Casillas (10) vs Victor Valdes (8.5)
Both quality keepers but Iker Casillas eases home in this head to head.
Marcelo (9) vs Eric Abidal (8)
Brazilian Marcelo has been in excellent form over the past 18 months and edges Abidal, who has been very useful filling in at centre back this season.
Sergio Ramos (9) vs Carles Puyol (8.5)
It’s Real Madrid again on this one, Ramos is a consistent performer whether at full back or centre back. Puyol has suffered with injuries of late but is still a hugely important player in the Nou Camp dressing room.
Pepe (8) vs Gerard Pique (9)
Though Pepe has improved immeasurably under Mourinho, and curbed his temper, Pique is the more complete performer.
Alvaro Arbeloa (7) vs Dani Alves (9)
Alves’s all round game puts him well ahead of the defensively minded Arbeloa
Sami Khedria (8) vs Sergio Busquets (8)
German battler Khedira puts in a consistent shift as does Sergio Busquets, so we’re
calling this a tie.
Xabi Alonso (9.5) vs Xavi (10)
Almost too close to call but the Barcelona’s midfield maestro sneaks it.
Mesut Ozil (9) vs Andres Iniesta (9)
Both players can make something out of nothing and have the ability to produce a moment of brilliance just when it is needed.
Cristiano Ronaldo (10) vs Leo Messi (10)
Seems churlish to try to separate the two. Both are most definitely the best players of their generation.
Angel Di Maria (8.5) vs Pedro (8)
Portuguese international Di Maria is often undervalued by those outside the Madrid camp but the Argentine is a terrific provider of goals, top assist maker in La Liga this term.
Gonzalo Higuain (8.5) vs David Villa (8.5)
Unlike the image above, nothing separates these two attackers.
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