Battle for supremacy

Real Madrid’s reincarnation of Galacticos face their ultimate test of the season so far - FC Barcelona.

When Real Madrid and Barcelona clash in what is known as the El Clasico, it is always a special game. It not just because they are the two most successful Spanish clubs but it is because of the intense rivalry between the clubs and the passion it generates. This Sunday when the two teams meet at Camp Nou, Barcelona, there will be more than three points at stake. It’s the game where the credentials of Real Madrid — after spending $225 million in the summer — will be put to the litmus test.

 

Barcelona had one of the most memorable seasons last year by winning the unique treble of the Spanish league, the Champions League as well as their domestic cup. Whereas Real Madrid on the other hand barely did anything of note. All that changed as soon as the season ended. Real Madrid made a statement of intent — an expensive one at that — by buying first Kaka and then Cristiano Ronaldo. Suddenly, Barcelona’s triumph was soon forgotten and all people could talk about was how Real Madrid would perform with Kaka, Ronaldo and other big names like Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso bought later.

So far, Real Madrid haven’t looked the part, even though they are top of the table. But that’s understandable as it takes time for a team to gel. Even though they have been unconvincing, Real Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini would be happy with his side’s performance so far. However, the problem with Real is that if you spend exorbitant sums on players, you are expected to produce world class performances week in, week out.

Barcelona, too, have been in blow-hot blow-cold form and haven’t looked their best. Pep Guardiola’s team haven’t looked the swashbuckling unit that decimated one and all in 2008-09. But temporary form goes out of the window when these two teams clash.

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo have their personal duel of who is the best player in the world. Barcelona would want to prove that money can get you big names but it is team work, tactics and work ethic that ultimately wins you trophies. It is too early to say that the outcome of the match will have any sort of impact on who will finish as champions. Real Madrid might just find out that Barcelona still are a better all-round team and that money can buy you the big names but it can’t guarantee success.