It’s nearly time for kick-off between Real Madrid and Barcelona in the latest edition of El Clásico. Lineups are out for both teams so let’s take a look at the 22 players who will begin Sunday’s match at the Bernabéu.
Real Madrid vs. Barcelona, 2014 El Clásico: Lineups
Both managers have announced their starting lineups for today’s massive Clásico at the Bernabéu.
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Real Madrid's lineup is exactly what you'd expect as it's basically Carlo Ancelotti's first choice group at the moment. The trio of Xabi Alonso, Luka Modrić and Ángel di María will be vital for Madrid with Barca's stacking their lineup to focus on ball control. The more effective Madrid is at disrupting their possession plans, the more likely Madrid ends up on top after 90 minutes.
Gerardo Martino's formation is all about controlling possession, and attempting to limit Real Madrid's time on the ball. With that in mind, Alexis Sánchez and Pedro Rodríguez start on the bench, in favor of getting both Andrés Iniesta and Cesc Fàbregas on the pitch, along with Xavi, Sergi Busquets and Lionel Messi. It worked well against Manchester City, but Real Madrid isn't City. Still, it's probably the smartest move for Martino, who must find a way to win this match.
Real Madrid (4-3-3): Diego López; Marcelo, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Dani Carvajal; Luka Modrić, Xabi Alonso, Ángel di María; Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale
Barcelona (4-3-3): Victor Valdés; Jordi Alba, Javier Mascherano, Gerard Piqué, Dani Alves; Sergio Busquets, Cesc Fàbregas, Xavi; Andrés Iniesta, Lionel Messi, Neymar
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