The timeless heavyweight clash of Spanish football returns to the spotlight as Real Madrid and Barcelona push for LaLiga Santander leadership. Both sides arrive with renewed energy, yet doubts linger about their most recent form as the campaign unfolds.
Kick-off is scheduled for 4:15 PM (14:15 GMT) on Sunday at the Madrid Coliseum, a venue steeped in history that will host a match drawing global attention. Barcelona sits atop the table for the first time since the 2019/20 season, holding a narrow lead on points while boasting a superior goal difference over their rivals.
Both clubs have won every league game except one. Xavi Hernández’s Barcelona slipped on opening day against Rayo Vallecano (0-0), while Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid have shown improvement with a draw against Osasuna (1-1).
In Europe, Real Madrid advanced to the knockout rounds after a tense 1-1 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk in Warsaw. Barcelona, meanwhile, finds itself on the edge of elimination for yet another season following a stalemate with Inter, with Robert Lewandowski delivering decisive moments for his side.
Wednesday’s results hit Barça hard, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities and leaving their fate partly in their own hands. In the league, a near-miraculous finish against Celta showcased their offensive resilience, despite injuries and absences. With Ronald Araujo sidelined and Jules Kounde facing uncertainty, the defense will be tested again in the classic clash.
Lewandowski remains a pivotal force for Barcelona, carrying much of the weight in attack as the Pole continues to threaten Madrid’s backline. His form has underscored the tension around Ancelotti’s plans, where Antonio Rudiger could feature after last week’s incident with the Shakhtar goalkeeper.
Conversely, Karim Benzema is resurging for Real Madrid, though he has endured a drought in earlier fixtures. His scoring drought spans several games, with confidence hinging on a strong performance in this derby. The attack also relies on the dynamism of Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha, and Ousmane Dembélé to unlock stubborn defenses.
Their last Bernabéu meeting ended a period of dominance by Madrid in past derbies, with Barcelona’s resurgence under Xavi delivering a 0-4 result the previous season that did not derail Madrid’s league charge. The upcoming match promises another high-stakes duel between two giants of Spanish football.
Saturday’s action continues with another historic fixture, Athletic Bilbao vs. Atlético Madrid at San Mamés. Athletic, currently in third place, holds a one-point edge over Atlético and will expect a tactical battle between Ernesto Valverde and Diego Simeone. Suspensions complicate Atlético’s plans as Ander Herrera sits out, while the Williams brothers eye opportunities to influence proceedings.
Real Betis under Manuel Pellegrini seeks to arrest a losing streak against Almería, while Real Sociedad aims to rebound with a visit to Celta Vigo in pursuit of a fourth consecutive win. In Valencia, the Elche matchup pits Jorge Almirón against a resurgent Valencia side following managerial changes, as both teams aim to climb the table.
With continental rivals Real Betis and Real Sociedad ready to challenge, Villarreal will close the ninth round on Monday against Osasuna, who have hit a rough patch after a strong start. Unai Emery’s squad sits just behind the top eight, facing a difficult test.
Sevilla, coached by Jorge Sampaoli, face a crucial phase as they look to rebound. Early results under his leadership have included draws against Athletic Bilbao and Borussia Dortmund, with Vedat Muriqi leading the line for Mallorca as Sevilla seeks revival in the relegation battle.
Although early in the season, Girona vs. Cádiz and Espanyol vs. Valladolid are two matches central to the ongoing struggle to maintain top-flight status. The tone is set for a weekend full of drama as teams chase consistency and points.
– The program of the 9th day:
. Friday:
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21.00 Rayo Vallecano-Getafe
. Saturday:
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14.00 Girona-Cadiz
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16.15 Valencia-Elche
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18.30 Mallorca-Seville
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21.00 Athletic-Atletico Madrid
. Sunday:
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14.00 Celta-Royal Society
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16.15 Real Madrid-Barcelona
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18.30 Espanyol-Valladolid
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21.00 Betis-Almeria
. Monday:
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21.00 Villarreal-Osasuna