Context:

Barcelona hosts Real Madrid in a pivotal El Clasico clash, which is crucial for the La Liga title race as Barcelona leads by four points with four matches remaining. A win for Barcelona would almost secure the championship, while a Real Madrid victory would narrow the gap to one point, intensifying the competition. Rumors suggest this match could mark Carlo Ancelotti's farewell as Real Madrid coach, although he may remain for the final season matches. Both teams face significant injury challenges, with Barcelona missing key players like Jules Kounde and Real Madrid dealing with defensive shortages due to injuries to Rudiger, Alaba, and Militao. The lineups remain unchanged for both teams, with notable players like Robert Lewandowski and Rodrygo starting on the bench due to recent health issues.

Dive Deeper:

• Barcelona holds a four-point lead over Real Madrid in the La Liga standings, and a victory in El Clasico would effectively secure the domestic title with four matches left in the season.

• Real Madrid, facing a critical title race, needs a win to reduce the gap to one point, setting the stage for an intense finish to the campaign.

• Carlo Ancelotti's future as Real Madrid's head coach is uncertain, with reports suggesting the El Clasico could be his last, although he is expected to lead the team for the remaining fixtures.

• Injuries have plagued both teams, with Barcelona missing Jules Kounde and others, forcing changes in their lineup, while Real Madrid struggles with a depleted defense due to injuries to Rudiger, Alaba, and Militao.

• Barcelona's lineup sees Robert Lewandowski benched due to a recent hamstring injury, with Ferran Torres leading the attack, while Real Madrid's lineup features young talent Arda Guler, who retains his spot after performing well in Rodrygo's absence.

• Real Madrid's midfield is reshuffled due to injuries, with Aurelien Tchouameni moved to defense, and Dani Ceballos and Federico Valverde filling in alongside Jude Bellingham.

• Both teams aim to capitalize on this crucial match, with Barcelona looking to maintain their lead and Real Madrid aiming for a comeback in the La Liga race.

• Neither side wished to see their season come down to the final Clasico of the 2024/25 campaign, but that is the reality as Barcelona host bitter rivals Real Madrid in Catalonia on Sunday.

• With both set to watch the UEFA Champions League final from their couches, the only thing left to play for at this stage is the La Liga crown. Barcelona hold a four-point lead over Real Madrid with four matches to go, meaning a win here effectively secures the domestic championship.

• Meanwhile, a Real Madrid victory would leave Los Blancos with still some work to do, but would trim the gap to just a single point, setting up a dramatic run-in to cap off the campaign.

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