The first El Clásico matchup of the season will take place on Sunday as Real Madrid hosts Barcelona. These two teams are only separated by two points at the top of the La Liga table, making this a pivotal match in the title race.
Real Madrid are -105 favorites on the moneyline for this one on DraftKings Sportsbook, with a draw available at +330. Fancy a Barcelona upset? They are +235 on the moneyline.
Real Madrid vs. Barcelona Prediction, Pick
For this bet to hit, we need Barcelona to win, but if it ends in a tie, the bet will void. I’m surprised Madrid is favored as heavily as they are in this contest. Barcelona have dominated this fixture in recent seasons, winning each of the last four games between the teams, which includes two of those taking place at the Bernabéu. The first of those two was a 4-0 win, the second a 5-2 victory. Sheesh.
I don’t expect a lopsided victory once again on Sunday, but I think Barca has the edge. They won La Liga last season and despite being two points behind Madrid after nine games, I think they will have enough to retain their title.
Let’s look at each team’s league form this season. Madrid have won eight of nine games, the only blip being a shocking 5-2 loss to rivals Atlético Madrid. For Barcelona, it’s been a similar story. They have won seven games, drawing once and also suffered a shock defeat, falling 4-1 to Sevilla.
Both teams are consistent, but are capable of imploding in any match. I trust Barcelona more in this one to show up and deliver a good performance. They have shown in each of the last four El Clásico games that they are ready to meet the challenge and they are the reigning champions for a reason.
Anything can happen in this rivalry game, but I will back Barca in this spot on the road.
