Liga leaders Barcelona thrashed rivals Real Madrid 3-2 in an entertaining Clasico to retain the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia on Sunday (Jan 11). Brazilian winger Raphinha completed a brace, while veteran striker Robert Lewandowski was also on target as Barcelona inflicted a Spanish Cup final beating on Xabi Alonso’s men. This win also marked Barcelona’s record-extending 16th triumph in this competition.&nbsp;Midfielder Frankie de Jong also conceded a foul on Kylian Mbappe late in the game, only to see a straight red, while the star Madrid forward could barely feature in the final stages after a knee sprain.&nbsp;After Raphinha sent Barcelona ahead Vinicius Junior pulled Madrid level with a fine individual goal to kick-start a frenetic end to the first half in Jeddah. Lewandowski chipped Barca back in front but Gonzalo Garcia struck deep in stoppage time to send the teams in level at the break.&nbsp;&nbsp;The battle was decided by a deflected Raphinha effort after 73 minutes, as Barca claimed the fourth trophy of coach Hansi Flick's reign. Alonso is still looking for his first after arriving in June, and Madrid's run of five consecutive wins across all competitions was brought to an end by their arch-rivals.

"Whatever way you lose it hurts, but it's clear that this was a very even game, hotly competed, with a bit of everything," Alonso told Movistar. "We were very close to equalising, we fought it out until the end and I have to congratulate Barca."&nbsp;Barca thrashed Madrid 5-2 in last season's final, also at the King Abdullah Sports City stadium, but this was a far closer affair.&nbsp;"We're very happy, another trophy, it's always a big game against Madrid," Lewandowski told Movistar. "We played well in the first half, the second too, we were looking for more goals but we won and that's the most important thing."&nbsp;Flick, who led Barca to four Clasico wins over Madrid last season in four clashes, opted for Lewandowski up front over Ferran Torres and brought teenage star Lamine Yamal back in on the right wing. It was a scrappy start in the Saudi evening heat, with Barcelona keeping the ball and Madrid sitting deep to resist them, while looking to find Vinicius Junior on the counter. The Brazilian had not scored in his previous 16 matches but offered a potent threat, flying down the left and forcing Joan Garcia into the first save.&nbsp;Barca began to turn up the heat and Raphinha found a breakthrough after 36 minutes.&nbsp;Moments after the winger fired a fine chance badly wide, he made up for it with a low, early strike from just inside the area, across Thibaut Courtois and into the bottom corner.&nbsp;WATCH - Barcelona's first goal -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The opener 💥🇧🇷 <a href="https://t.co/SO5rMhVnsi">pic.twitter.com/SO5rMhVnsi</a>&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/2010473104426824089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Madrid pulled level with a superb Vinicius strike, floating in from the left, nutmegging Jules Kounde and slotting home.&nbsp;Barcelona went back ahead four minutes into first-half stoppage time, with Lewandowski dinking past Courtois after being played in by Pedri. However, Madrid rapidly hit back just before the interval through Gonzalo Garcia, who finished well while falling after Dean Huijsen's header bounced back to him off the crossbar.<h3>‘Always there’</h3>The second half was a calmer affair, with fewer chances as the teams slowed down. Mbappe was warming up on the sideline when Barcelona nosed ahead, with Raphinha's shot from outside the box deflecting in off Raul Asencio to leave Courtois with no chance. The Brazilian is in superb form and it was his seventh goal in his last five matches across all competitions.&nbsp;"He's always there at the right moment," said Lewandowski.&nbsp;Alonso sent on Mbappe for the last 15 minutes, trying to find a third goal and force a penalty shoot-out. The French forward could not get a sight of goal but Barca midfielder De Jong was sent off for a high lunge on him.&nbsp;Despite Madrid's numerical advantage Barca had the best chance in stoppage time with Marcus Rashford firing wide when through on goal.&nbsp;Asencio might have grabbed an equaliser at the death but headed straight at Garcia.&nbsp;The last four winners of the Spanish Super Cup have gone on to claim La Liga and Barcelona will be hoping it proves a platform for success once again. They have won 10 straight games across all competitions and lead La Liga, despite an inconsistent start to the season.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Brazilian winger Raphinha completed a brace, while veteran striker Robert Lewandowski was also on target as Barcelona inflicted a Spanish Cup final beating on Xabi Alonso’s men.

Liga leaders Barcelona thrashed rivals Real Madrid 3-2 in an entertaining Clasico to retain the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia on Sunday (Jan 11). Brazilian winger Raphinha completed a brace, while veteran striker Robert Lewandowski was also on target as Barcelona inflicted a Spanish Cup final beating on Xabi Alonso’s men. This win also marked Barcelona’s record-extending 16th triumph in this competition. Midfielder Frankie de Jong also conceded a foul on Kylian Mbappe late in the game, only to see a straight red, while the star Madrid forward could barely feature in the final stages after a knee sprain. After Raphinha sent Barcelona ahead Vinicius Junior pulled Madrid level with a fine individual goal to kick-start a frenetic end to the first half in Jeddah. Lewandowski chipped Barca back in front but Gonzalo Garcia struck deep in stoppage time to send the teams in level at the break. The battle was decided by a deflected Raphinha effort after 73 minutes, as Barca claimed the fourth trophy of coach Hansi Flick's reign. Alonso is still looking for his first after arriving in June, and Madrid's run of five consecutive wins across all competitions was brought to an end by their arch-rivals.

Brazilian winger Raphinha completed a brace, while veteran striker Robert Lewandowski was also on target as Barcelona inflicted a Spanish Cup final beating on Xabi Alonso’s men.

Barcelona beat Real Madrid to retain Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia

Barcelona&nbsp; vs Real Madrid, 2024-25 Copa del Rey final Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: An El Clasico Copa del Rey final will be on the platter as Real Madrid and Barcelona meet in the summit clash on Saturday (April 26). Two of the game's greats, Barcelona are currently chasing a treble while Real Madrid could put behind their sorrowful Champions League exit to lift their first trophy of the season. Ahead of the Copa del Rey final second leg contest between Barcelona and Real Madrid, here are all the live streaming details.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match Live Streaming online on OTT in India? (Barcelona vs Real Madrid Live Streaming)</h2>
The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website in India.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match on TV in India?</h2>
The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will not be telecasted on any sports network in India.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match in USA?</h2>
The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be live-streamed on the ESPN app and website and telecast on ESPN Network on TV in USA.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match in Australia?</h2>
Currently no network has the rights to show Copa del Rey matches in Australia, meaning Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match won't be broadcasted.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match in UK?</h2>
The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be live-streamed on the Premier Sports app and website and on ITV channel on TV in UK.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Which stadium will host the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match?</h2>
The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be played at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What time will the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match?</h2>
The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will start at 9:00 PM CET (1:30 AM IST) on Saturday (April 26).&nbsp;
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kkr-vs-pbks-dream11-prediction-check-team-captain-and-vice-captain-picks-for-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-punjab-kings-9003813" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona vs Real Madrid Probable Starting XI</h2>
Barcelona predicted lineup vs Real Madrid: Szczesny (GK); Kounde, Cubarsi, Iigo Martinez, Martin; De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Ferran Torres.
Real Madrid predicted lineup vs Barcelona: Courtois (GK); Valverde, Asensio, Rudiger, Fran Garcia; Modric, Tchouamni; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr.; Mbappe.

World | Football | Sports: An El Clasico Copa del Rey final will be on the platter as Real Madrid and Barcelona meet in the summit clash on Saturday (April 26).

Barcelona vs Real Madrid, 2024-25 Copa del Rey final Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: An El Clasico Copa del Rey final will be on the platter as Real Madrid and Barcelona meet in the summit clash on Saturday (April 26). Two of the game's greats, Barcelona are currently chasing a treble while Real Madrid could put behind their sorrowful Champions League exit to lift their first trophy of the season. Ahead of the Copa del Rey final second leg contest between Barcelona and Real Madrid, here are all the live streaming details. Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match Live Streaming online on OTT in India? (Barcelona vs Real Madrid Live Streaming) The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website in India. Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match on TV in India? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will not be telecasted on any sports network in India. Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match in USA? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be live-streamed on the ESPN app and website and telecast on ESPN Network on TV in USA. Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match in Australia? Currently no network has the rights to show Copa del Rey matches in Australia, meaning Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match won't be broadcasted. Where to watch the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match in UK? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be live-streamed on the Premier Sports app and website and on ITV channel on TV in UK. Which stadium will host the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will be played at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville. What time will the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final match will start at 9:00 PM CET (1:30 AM IST) on Saturday (April 26). ALSO READ | KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings Barcelona vs Real Madrid Probable Starting XI Barcelona predicted lineup vs Real Madrid: Szczesny (GK); Kounde, Cubarsi, Iigo Martinez, Martin; De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Ferran Torres. Real Madrid predicted lineup vs Barcelona: Courtois (GK); Valverde, Asensio, Rudiger, Fran Garcia; Modric, Tchouamni; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr.; Mbappe.

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey final live streaming: How to watch in India, US, Australia, UK?

Barcelona hammered rivals Real Madrid 5-2 in a wild Spanish Super Cup Clasico final in Saudi Arabia on Sunday to win the first trophy of the Hansi Flick era.<o:p></o:p>
Kylian Mbappe put Madrid ahead but a dominant Barcelona hit five in response before their goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was sent off in the second half. Madrid were hoping to avenge their 4-0 home defeat by Barcelona in October's La Liga Clasico but instead were left battered and bruised by their arch-rivals in Jeddah.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dakar-rally-2025-results-roadblock-error-creates-chaos-8613571" rel="dofollow">Dakar Rally 2025: 'This was disaster,' roadblock error creates chaos</a>
After Mbappe's opener, Lamine Yamal levelled and Robert Lewandowski sent Barcelona ahead from the penalty spot, with Raphinha bagging a brace and Alejandro Balde also on target.<o:p></o:p>
Rodrygo Goes pulled one back for Madrid with a free-kick but they could not capitalise further on their numerical advantage in a humiliating defeat for the European champions.<o:p></o:p>
"I think today is a good day because we beat one of the best teams in the world, for the second time this season, Real Madrid, and this is unbelievable," Flick told reporters. "We won a title here and we are really happy... today is a day to look positively at this team."<o:p></o:p>
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team's poor defending was the main reason for the heavy defeat.<o:p></o:p>
"We defended badly and that cost us the game -- they found their goals quite easily," Ancelotti told Movistar. "We're sad, like all our fans, it's disappointing and we don't have to hide that... we have to look forwards, there's nothing else we can do."<o:p></o:p>
Despite a strong Barcelona opening salvo it was Real Madrid who took the lead in the fifth minute with Mbappe's brilliant goal on the counter-attack. <o:p></o:p>The French forward, frustrated numerous times by the offside flag in the league defeat by the Catalans, broke loose on the halfway line after Vinicius won the ball back and, after bursting into the area, clipped past Szczesny.<o:p></o:p>
It took a stunning individual goal from 17-year-old Yamal to level the scoreline, with the Spanish winger cutting in from the right before stroking home a low finish inside the near post in a similar style to former Barca great Lionel Messi, to whom he is often compared.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'Always special'<o:p></o:p></h2>
Barcelona kept pushing and moved ahead through Lewandowski's penalty after Eduardo Camavinga arrived late and carelessly clattered Gavi.<o:p></o:p>
Raphinha soon added Barcelona's third with a header from Kounde's cross from deep and they grabbed their fourth before half-time on the break.<o:p></o:p>
Yamal and Raphinha combined and the latter slipped in Balde, who slotted past Courtois.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona continued in the same vein after the break and Raphinha netted the fifth with a neat dribble and finish after Marc Casado played him in.<o:p></o:p>
The Catalans were reduced to 10 men when Mbappe sped in at the other end, rounding goalkeeper Szczesny, who brought him down outside the area and after a VAR review was dismissed.<o:p></o:p>
Rodrygo, who earlier hit the post, rifled home the free-kick past Szczesny's replacement Inaki Pena.<o:p></o:p>
Mbappe brilliantly teed up Jude Bellingham but the England international was denied by a superb Jules Kounde challenge in stoppage time. The French forward also came close to scoring again himself on a fine individual display but Pena tipped away his effort.<o:p></o:p>
"He was the best (Madrid player)," said Ancelotti, noting an improvement after Mbappe's hit-and-miss start to life at the club following his switch from Paris Saint-Germain. <o:p></o:p>
"We can't always win, if we have to lose a cup, it's better that it's this one," said veteran Madrid midfielder Luka Modric.<o:p></o:p>
Barcelona brought on playmaker Dani Olmo for his first appearance since he was registered to play for the club on a temporary basis, a controversial issue which overshadowed the semi-finals earlier in the week.<o:p></o:p>
However their five-star display offered a host of other talking points as Barca won a record-extending 15th Spanish Super Cup.<o:p></o:p>
"It's really nice, it had been a season since we won a trophy, it's always special and on top of that in a Clasico against Real Madrid," Barcelona defender Kounde told Movistar.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Barcelona routed Real Madrid 5-0 in Saudi Arabia classico to win the Spanish Super Cup. Yamal and Robert Lewandowski were on the scoresheet for the Catalans. 

Barcelona hammered rivals Real Madrid 5-2 in a wild Spanish Super Cup Clasico final in Saudi Arabia on Sunday to win the first trophy of the Hansi Flick era. Kylian Mbappe put Madrid ahead but a dominant Barcelona hit five in response before their goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was sent off in the second half. Madrid were hoping to avenge their 4-0 home defeat by Barcelona in October's La Liga Clasico but instead were left battered and bruised by their arch-rivals in Jeddah. Also read | Dakar Rally 2025: 'This was disaster,' roadblock error creates chaos After Mbappe's opener, Lamine Yamal levelled and Robert Lewandowski sent Barcelona ahead from the penalty spot, with Raphinha bagging a brace and Alejandro Balde also on target. Rodrygo Goes pulled one back for Madrid with a free-kick but they could not capitalise further on their numerical advantage in a humiliating defeat for the European champions. "I think today is a good day because we beat one of the best teams in the world, for the second time this season, Real Madrid, and this is unbelievable," Flick told reporters. "We won a title here and we are really happy... today is a day to look positively at this team." Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team's poor defending was the main reason for the heavy defeat. "We defended badly and that cost us the game -- they found their goals quite easily," Ancelotti told Movistar. "We're sad, like all our fans, it's disappointing and we don't have to hide that... we have to look forwards, there's nothing else we can do." Despite a strong Barcelona opening salvo it was Real Madrid who took the lead in the fifth minute with Mbappe's brilliant goal on the counter-attack. The French forward, frustrated numerous times by the offside flag in the league defeat by the Catalans, broke loose on the halfway line after Vinicius won the ball back and, after bursting into the area, clipped past Szczesny. It took a stunning individual goal from 17-year-old Yamal to level the scoreline, with the Spanish winger cutting in from the right before stroking home a low finish inside the near post in a similar style to former Barca great Lionel Messi, to whom he is often compared. 'Always special' Barcelona kept pushing and moved ahead through Lewandowski's penalty after Eduardo Camavinga arrived late and carelessly clattered Gavi. Raphinha soon added Barcelona's third with a header from Kounde's cross from deep and they grabbed their fourth before half-time on the break. Yamal and Raphinha combined and the latter slipped in Balde, who slotted past Courtois. Barcelona continued in the same vein after the break and Raphinha netted the fifth with a neat dribble and finish after Marc Casado played him in. The Catalans were reduced to 10 men when Mbappe sped in at the other end, rounding goalkeeper Szczesny, who brought him down outside the area and after a VAR review was dismissed. Rodrygo, who earlier hit the post, rifled home the free-kick past Szczesny's replacement Inaki Pena. Mbappe brilliantly teed up Jude Bellingham but the England international was denied by a superb Jules Kounde challenge in stoppage time. The French forward also came close to scoring again himself on a fine individual display but Pena tipped away his effort. "He was the best (Madrid player)," said Ancelotti, noting an improvement after Mbappe's hit-and-miss start to life at the club following his switch from Paris Saint-Germain. "We can't always win, if we have to lose a cup, it's better that it's this one," said veteran Madrid midfielder Luka Modric. Barcelona brought on playmaker Dani Olmo for his first appearance since he was registered to play for the club on a temporary basis, a controversial issue which overshadowed the semi-finals earlier in the week. However their five-star display offered a host of other talking points as Barca won a record-extending 15th Spanish Super Cup. "It's really nice, it had been a season since we won a trophy, it's always special and on top of that in a Clasico against Real Madrid," Barcelona defender Kounde told Movistar. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barcelona romp past Real Madrid 5-2 to win Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez was left seething at referees&nbsp;after his team lost 2-3 to&nbsp;bitter rivals Real Madrid to fall behind in the La Liga title race. The match saw a number of 50-50 calls go in favour of the Los Blancos who snatched a stoppage-time winner, courtesy of young sensation, Jude Bellingham.&nbsp;

Speaking after the match, Xavi did not mince any words and questioned the referee for his 'poor' performance.

"Everyone has seen the referee’s performance. They can sanction me, but the images are there for all to see. We have been better than Real Madrid and we deserved all three points," said Xavi.&nbsp;

The absence of the goal-line technology during one of the biggest matches on the planet came as a shock to the Barca coach who said the decisions by the referee completely turned the tide against the defending champions.&nbsp;

"Marc-Andre Ter Stegen [Barca goalkeeper] said lack of goalline technology is a shame? Well, I totally agree. It is a shame. Yes, it is, yes. I think yesterday they asked me about the referee and I said I hope he goes unnoticed and gets it right. Well, neither of those things... A shame. If we want to be the best League in the world, we have to move forward and implement technology."

Lamine Yamal's goal was chalked off for Barca by the VAR due to the&nbsp;lack of goal-line technology. The ball appeared to cross Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin's goal line but the absence of technology meant that VAR sided with on-field call of no goal.&nbsp;

Apart from Yamal's disallowed goal, Barca players also protested the penalty offered to Madrid after Lucas Vazquez went down in the box under a challenge from Pau Cubarsi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-kylian-mbappe-brace-helps-psg-beat-10-man-barca-to-reach-semis-dortmund-down-atletico-712080">Also read |&nbsp;Champions League: Kylian Mbappe brace helps PSG beat 10-man Barca to reach semis; Dortmund down Atletico</a>

<h2>Xavi's feud with referees&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, Xavi has been fuming with the referees ever since Barca crashed out of the UEFA Champions League after a stinging defeat against Paris Saint-Germain at home.&nbsp;

Xavi was particularly angry about the red card shown to defender Ronald Araujo in the 29th minute when Barcelona were leading the tie with a two-goal margin.

"We are annoyed. The red card marked the tie. We were well organised 11 vs. 11. It completely changed everything. For me, it's too much to send [Araujo] off there," said Xavi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-a-disaster-xavi-accuses-referee-of-killing-the-tie-after-barcelonas-ucl-defeat-to-psg-712242">Also read |&nbsp;‘He was a disaster’: Xavi accuses referee of ‘killing’ the tie after Barcelona’s UCL defeat to PSG</a>

"The referee was really bad. I told him, he was a disaster. He killed the tie. I don't like speaking about referees but it has to be said."

Xavi will be stepping down as the Barcelona manager at the end of the season. The only chance for him to have a trophy in his final dance now lies in La Liga where Barcelona now trail Madrid by nine points.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez was left seething at referees after his team lost 2-3 to bitter rivals Real Madrid to fall behind in the La Liga title race. The match saw a number of 50-50 calls go in favour of the Los Blancos who snatched a stoppage-time winner, courtesy of young sensation, Jude Bellingham.

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez was left seething at referees after his team lost 2-3 to bitter rivals Real Madrid to fall behind in the La Liga title race. The match saw a number of 50-50 calls go in favour of the Los Blancos who snatched a stoppage-time winner, courtesy of young sensation, Jude Bellingham. Speaking after the match, Xavi did not mince any words and questioned the referee for his 'poor' performance. "Everyone has seen the referee’s performance. They can sanction me, but the images are there for all to see. We have been better than Real Madrid and we deserved all three points," said Xavi. The absence of the goal-line technology during one of the biggest matches on the planet came as a shock to the Barca coach who said the decisions by the referee completely turned the tide against the defending champions. "Marc-Andre Ter Stegen [Barca goalkeeper] said lack of goalline technology is a shame? Well, I totally agree. It is a shame. Yes, it is, yes. I think yesterday they asked me about the referee and I said I hope he goes unnoticed and gets it right. Well, neither of those things... A shame. If we want to be the best League in the world, we have to move forward and implement technology." Lamine Yamal's goal was chalked off for Barca by the VAR due to the lack of goal-line technology. The ball appeared to cross Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin's goal line but the absence of technology meant that VAR sided with on-field call of no goal. Apart from Yamal's disallowed goal, Barca players also protested the penalty offered to Madrid after Lucas Vazquez went down in the box under a challenge from Pau Cubarsi. Also read | Champions League: Kylian Mbappe brace helps PSG beat 10-man Barca to reach semis; Dortmund down Atletico Xavi's feud with referees Notably, Xavi has been fuming with the referees ever since Barca crashed out of the UEFA Champions League after a stinging defeat against Paris Saint-Germain at home. Xavi was particularly angry about the red card shown to defender Ronald Araujo in the 29th minute when Barcelona were leading the tie with a two-goal margin. "We are annoyed. The red card marked the tie. We were well organised 11 vs. 11. It completely changed everything. For me, it's too much to send [Araujo] off there," said Xavi. Also read | ‘He was a disaster’: Xavi accuses referee of ‘killing’ the tie after Barcelona’s UCL defeat to PSG "The referee was really bad. I told him, he was a disaster. He killed the tie. I don't like speaking about referees but it has to be said." Xavi will be stepping down as the Barcelona manager at the end of the season. The only chance for him to have a trophy in his final dance now lies in La Liga where Barcelona now trail Madrid by nine points. (With inputs from agencies)

‘It’s a shame’: Xavi seethes after Barcelona lose El Clasico following VAR controversy

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored second-half goals to give Barcelona an 2-0 win over Osasuna in a dour Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. Barca set up a dream showpiece clash on Sunday with Real Madrid, who had beaten city rivals Atletico Madrid in a breathtaking 5-3 derby earlier in the week. It will be a re-match from last year's final, which Barca won 3-1.

Barcelona dominated possession in a dismal first half but were bereft of ideas and barely threatened their opponents. Lewandowski could have done better in a couple of half-chances that were denied by a confident Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera, but it was not until the 59th minute that Barca came to life and managed to break the deadlock.

Ilkay Gundogan picked out Lewandowski with a through-ball and the striker scored from close-range. However, Osasuna players were left fuming and complained to the referee that Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen had fouled Jose Arnaiz before starting the counter-attack, but a VAR check confirmed the goal.

"We felt we were wronged, because the refereeing criteria was very different during the whole match. The foul was clear," Osasuna manager Jagoba Arrasate told Movistar Plus. "Watching live it looked like a foul, to be honest, but the replay shows that there was nothing..." Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez said. "Sometimes the referee works to our advantage, sometimes he works against us... However, I don't think he was decisive in today's outcome."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfers-jadon-sancho-escapes-manchester-united-exile-to-rejoin-borussia-dortmund-on-loan-679120">Football Transfers: Jadon Sancho escapes Manchester United exile to rejoin Borussia Dortmund on loan</a>

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After Lewandowski's goal, Xavi brought Joao Felix off the bench and the Portuguese forward added impetus Barca seemed to lack up-front, forcing goalkeeper Herrera to make a couple of fine saves to keep Osasuna alive.

Joao Felix created a quick counter and provided the assist to Yamal who blasted low in to the net to secure the win and set-up an El Clasico in the final. "You don't play finals, you win them. We want to compete against an opponent who I saw very well in the other semi-final," Xavi said. "However, there are no favourites, it's an El Clasico. Hopefully the final will go our way like last year. We are the reigning champions and at least we will enjoy it."

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored second-half goals to give Barcelona an 2-0 win over Osasuna in a dour Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday.

Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scored second-half goals to give Barcelona an 2-0 win over Osasuna in a dour Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday. Barca set up a dream showpiece clash on Sunday with Real Madrid, who had beaten city rivals Atletico Madrid in a breathtaking 5-3 derby earlier in the week. It will be a re-match from last year's final, which Barca won 3-1. Barcelona dominated possession in a dismal first half but were bereft of ideas and barely threatened their opponents. Lewandowski could have done better in a couple of half-chances that were denied by a confident Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera, but it was not until the 59th minute that Barca came to life and managed to break the deadlock. Ilkay Gundogan picked out Lewandowski with a through-ball and the striker scored from close-range. However, Osasuna players were left fuming and complained to the referee that Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen had fouled Jose Arnaiz before starting the counter-attack, but a VAR check confirmed the goal. "We felt we were wronged, because the refereeing criteria was very different during the whole match. The foul was clear," Osasuna manager Jagoba Arrasate told Movistar Plus. "Watching live it looked like a foul, to be honest, but the replay shows that there was nothing..." Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez said. "Sometimes the referee works to our advantage, sometimes he works against us... However, I don't think he was decisive in today's outcome." Also read: Football Transfers: Jadon Sancho escapes Manchester United exile to rejoin Borussia Dortmund on loan × After Lewandowski's goal, Xavi brought Joao Felix off the bench and the Portuguese forward added impetus Barca seemed to lack up-front, forcing goalkeeper Herrera to make a couple of fine saves to keep Osasuna alive. Joao Felix created a quick counter and provided the assist to Yamal who blasted low in to the net to secure the win and set-up an El Clasico in the final. "You don't play finals, you win them. We want to compete against an opponent who I saw very well in the other semi-final," Xavi said. "However, there are no favourites, it's an El Clasico. Hopefully the final will go our way like last year. We are the reigning champions and at least we will enjoy it."

Barcelona sets up clash vs Real Madrid in Super Cup final after 2-0 win over Osasuna

Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has urged his teammates to express more of their feelings, especially after a stinging loss against arch-rivals Real Madrid in the Clasico.&nbsp; Gundogan was speaking after Real Madrid completed a comeback win against the Catalan side at their home ground, deep in the stoppage time.&nbsp;

Gundogan had fired Barcelona to advantage after an early goal when David Alaba failed to clear the ball, leaving the former Manchester City player to tiptoe around the penalty box before guiding&nbsp;the ball past a diving Kepa Arrizabalaga.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I come from the dressing room and obviously people are disappointed after such a big game, such an important game and such an unthinkable result, I would like to see more anger, more disappointment," Gundogan was quoted as saying by Optus Sport.&nbsp;

"This is part of the problem, they have to express more emotions when you lose and when you know you can play better, you have to do better in certain situations and we don't react

Gundogan, who recently won the treble with City, minced no words and said he had not arrived in Barcelona to lose games where his team was in the pole position.&nbsp;

"I didn't come here to lose these kinds of games or to allow these gaps to open up. I also have a responsibility as a senior player not to allow these things to happen to the team, we need to hang in there more".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-jude-bellinghams-brace-in-first-clasico-sinks-barcelona-as-real-madrid-go-top-of-the-table-652430">Also read |&nbsp;Football: Jude Bellingham's brace in first Clasico sinks Barcelona as Real Madrid go top of the table</a>

Barcelona led&nbsp;the Clasico for major stretches of the game with Real Madrid playing a very sketchy game. It wasn't until Luka Modric and Eduardo Camavinga were introduced in the midfield by Carlo Ancelotti that the Spanish giants exerted some control in the midfield. Despite the control, it took an outside-the-box ballistic kick from Bellingham to beat the Barcelona keeper.&nbsp;

In the second minute of the stoppage time, Bellingham rifled a deflected ball from Modric and guided the team to an improbable victory.&nbsp;

Bellingham's brace sent Madrid to the top of La Liga, ahead of Girona on goal difference, with both teams four points ahead of Barcelona in third.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has urged his teammates to express more of their feelings, especially after a stinging loss against arch-rivals Real Madrid in the Clasico.

Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has urged his teammates to express more of their feelings, especially after a stinging loss against arch-rivals Real Madrid in the Clasico. Gundogan was speaking after Real Madrid completed a comeback win against the Catalan side at their home ground, deep in the stoppage time. Gundogan had fired Barcelona to advantage after an early goal when David Alaba failed to clear the ball, leaving the former Manchester City player to tiptoe around the penalty box before guiding the ball past a diving Kepa Arrizabalaga. "I come from the dressing room and obviously people are disappointed after such a big game, such an important game and such an unthinkable result, I would like to see more anger, more disappointment," Gundogan was quoted as saying by Optus Sport. "This is part of the problem, they have to express more emotions when you lose and when you know you can play better, you have to do better in certain situations and we don't react Gundogan, who recently won the treble with City, minced no words and said he had not arrived in Barcelona to lose games where his team was in the pole position. "I didn't come here to lose these kinds of games or to allow these gaps to open up. I also have a responsibility as a senior player not to allow these things to happen to the team, we need to hang in there more". Also read | Football: Jude Bellingham's brace in first Clasico sinks Barcelona as Real Madrid go top of the table Barcelona led the Clasico for major stretches of the game with Real Madrid playing a very sketchy game. It wasn't until Luka Modric and Eduardo Camavinga were introduced in the midfield by Carlo Ancelotti that the Spanish giants exerted some control in the midfield. Despite the control, it took an outside-the-box ballistic kick from Bellingham to beat the Barcelona keeper. In the second minute of the stoppage time, Bellingham rifled a deflected ball from Modric and guided the team to an improbable victory. Bellingham's brace sent Madrid to the top of La Liga, ahead of Girona on goal difference, with both teams four points ahead of Barcelona in third. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘This is part of the problem,’ Ilkay Gundogan gives dressing down to Barcelona teammates after Clasico loss

Jude Bellingham's stunning double snatched Real Madrid a 2-1 comeback victory at Barcelona in his first La Liga Clasico on Saturday (Oct 28). The England international, who has started his Madrid career in remarkable goalscoring form, unleashed a rocket into the top corner from distance after Ilkay Gundogan had sent hosts Barcelona ahead at the Olympic Stadium.

Jude Bellingham's stunning double snatched Real Madrid a 2-1 comeback victory at Barcelona in his first La Liga Clasico on Saturday (Oct 28). The England international, who has started his Madrid career in remarkable goalscoring form, unleashed a rocket into the top corner from distance after Ilkay Gundogan had sent hosts Barcelona ahead at the Olympic Stadium. Bellingham then fired home a second in stoppage time to silence Barcelona fans and reach 10 goals in the top flight this season. The Catalan side hit the woodwork twice and had the better of the game but Bellingham, La Liga's top goalscorer, currently in unstoppable form, inevitably made his mark in his first Clasico. Bellingham's brace sent Madrid to the top of La Liga, ahead of Girona on goal difference, with both teams four points ahead of Barcelona in third. Barcelona were boosted by the returns of Robert Lewandowski, Jules Kounde and Raphinha from injury, with Xavi naming them on the bench, but Frenkie de Jong and Pedri did not recover in time. His counterpart Carlo Ancelotti selected Ferland Mendy at left back over Eduardo Camavinga and Fran Garcia, once again deploying Bellingham in the number 10 role as he got his first taste of arguably the world's biggest club football match. However, it was another midfielder playing for the first time in the Clasico who broke the deadlock -- Barcelona's summer arrival Gundogan. The former Manchester City man was sharpest when Aurelien Tchouameni intercepted Ferran Torres' pass, diverting it back into his own area. Centre-back David Alaba tried to clear but was thoroughly unconvincing and Gundogan read his intentions, hopped onto the ball and swept past Kepa Arrizabalaga in the sixth minute. Also read | 'Don’t kill him...': Wayne Rooney warns English fans regarding Jude Bellingham Post denies Barca Fermin Lopez, one of the emerging young Barcelona La Masia academy products who has broken into the first team, slapped a shot against the post after the intense Gavi pressed high to win the ball back. Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger hammered wide from nearly 40 yards out as Madrid were held off by the hosts, with winger Vinicius Junior getting into tangles with Gavi and Ronald Araujo, deployed at right-back to try and shackle him. After Araujo barged the Brazilian, he protested, with Xavi telling him it was just a shoulder charge, although the Barcelona coach could not defend Ferran Torres' rugby tackle on Vinicius just before half-time, which earned him a yellow card. Gavi, Gundogan and Lopez controlled the midfield, with Joao Cancelo's more advanced position allowing Barcelona additional defensive security. Barcelona struck the woodwork again when Inigo Martinez headed Lopez's inch-perfect cross against the post early in the second half, with Arrizabalaga thwarting Araujo on the follow-up. Madrid were reduced to long-range efforts but eventually one ripped into the net to level the score, with just over 20 minutes remaining. Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved a Tchouameni piledriver but he could not keep out Bellingham's blast, pulling Madrid level in a game they had struggled to find a foothold in. With the game heading towards an unsatisfying draw for both sides, Bellingham intervened decisively -- in the right place at the right time to shoot through Ter Stegen's legs after Luka Modric diverted Dani Carvajal's cross into his path. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Football: Jude Bellingham's brace in first Clasico sinks Barcelona as Real Madrid go top of the table

While Barcelona suffered a shocking 4-0 defeat at the hands of rivals Real Madrid in the return home leg of Copa Del Rey semis on Wednesday night, home fans chanted Lionel Messi’s name throughout the match. Not just during the game, the fans standing outside the stadium were also recorded chanting his name before the match even started as speculations of Messi returning to Camp Nou this summer grow.

Many fans, even several publications, shared videos of spectators chanting Messi’s name during the home against Madrid.

You can also watch the video here –

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🎶 ‘Messi, Messi’ chant at Camp Nou, minute 10 — another clear message to Leo from Barça fans. 🔵🔴✨ 
 
🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/juliclaramunt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juliclaramunt</a> <a href="https://t.co/eiWxjicdk7">pic.twitter.com/eiWxjicdk7</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1643700188979011585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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❗️”Messi” chants outside the stadium. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCB</a> 🇦🇷 
 
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— Reshad Rahman (@ReshadRahman_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReshadRahman_/status/1643674266838212614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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It was during the 10th minute when the Camp Nou was heard singing Messi’s name. The tribute to the Barcelona legend came hours after the club director Mateu Alemany hinted they are ready to up the bid for the World Cup winner, saying, "We do our thing, Messi does his thing. Messi is in Paris,but in the future you never know."

Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste also echoed the exact words while revealing the club has entered negotiation with Messi - “No one can question the love that he receives here in Barcelona. He’s the best in history”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-chelsea-boss-frank-lampard-set-to-return-for-second-spell-at-stamford-bridge-on-interim-basis-579608">Former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard set to return for second spell at Stamford Bridge on interim basis</a>

In 2021, after almost spending nearly two decades at Barcelona, Lionel Messi said a tearful goodbye as the board failed to put forward a new deal amid financial woes at the club. With that, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal that ends this summer.

As PSG is trying hard on extending Messi’s contract, who recently got booed by the home fans during the&nbsp;2-0 loss to Lyon, the seven-time Ballon D’Or winner is understood to remain in Europe should he leave the Paris-based club. On the contrary, Al Hilal, a rival club of Al-Nassr in Saudi Pro League, for whom Cristiano Ronaldo plays, is reported to have offered Messi a whopping £350million-a-year contract to sign him this summer.

Meanwhile, Barcelona fans looked desperate to see their favourite star back playing for the club as the manager Xavi is also believed to have contacted Messi for the same.&nbsp;

It’s about time before Messi makes a call on his future.

While Barcelona suffered a shocking 4-0 defeat at the hands of rivals Real Madrid in the return home leg of Copa Del Rey semis on Wednesday night, home fans chanted Lionel Messi’s name throughout the match.

While Barcelona suffered a shocking 4-0 defeat at the hands of rivals Real Madrid in the return home leg of Copa Del Rey semis on Wednesday night, home fans chanted Lionel Messi’s name throughout the match. Not just during the game, the fans standing outside the stadium were also recorded chanting his name before the match even started as speculations of Messi returning to Camp Nou this summer grow. Many fans, even several publications, shared videos of spectators chanting Messi’s name during the home against Madrid. You can also watch the video here – 🎶 ‘Messi, Messi’ chant at Camp Nou, minute 10 — another clear message to Leo from Barça fans. 🔵🔴✨ 🎥 @juliclaramunt pic.twitter.com/eiWxjicdk7 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 5, 2023 × ❗️”Messi” chants outside the stadium. #FCB 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/6QwJeDyvSZ — Reshad Rahman (@ReshadRahman_) April 5, 2023 × It was during the 10th minute when the Camp Nou was heard singing Messi’s name. The tribute to the Barcelona legend came hours after the club director Mateu Alemany hinted they are ready to up the bid for the World Cup winner, saying, "We do our thing, Messi does his thing. Messi is in Paris,but in the future you never know." Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste also echoed the exact words while revealing the club has entered negotiation with Messi - “No one can question the love that he receives here in Barcelona. He’s the best in history”. ALSO READ: Former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard set to return for second spell at Stamford Bridge on interim basis In 2021, after almost spending nearly two decades at Barcelona, Lionel Messi said a tearful goodbye as the board failed to put forward a new deal amid financial woes at the club. With that, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal that ends this summer. As PSG is trying hard on extending Messi’s contract, who recently got booed by the home fans during the 2-0 loss to Lyon, the seven-time Ballon D’Or winner is understood to remain in Europe should he leave the Paris-based club. On the contrary, Al Hilal, a rival club of Al-Nassr in Saudi Pro League, for whom Cristiano Ronaldo plays, is reported to have offered Messi a whopping £350million-a-year contract to sign him this summer. Meanwhile, Barcelona fans looked desperate to see their favourite star back playing for the club as the manager Xavi is also believed to have contacted Messi for the same. It’s about time before Messi makes a call on his future.

Barcelona fans chant 'Messi, Messi...' as Real Madrid hit 4 in return leg to reach Copa Del Rey final - WATCH

People's favourite football clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona, will clash in the return leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. Barcelona will host Real Madrid in the El Classico on April 6 at Camp Nou.

People's favourite football clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona, will clash in the return leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. Barcelona will host Real Madrid in the El Classico on April 6 at Camp Nou. Barcelona will start ahead of Real Madrid as Xavi's boys emerged victorious in the first leg of the encounter at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Despite several registered shots, Real Madrid failed to find the net due to Barcelona's top-notch defensive strategy. However, Barcelona has been a dominant power in the Spanish domestic tournaments despite a disappointing elimination from the UEFA Europa League. They have the top place in the La Liga points table, whereas Real Madrid is second and 12 points behind their arch-rivals. Here are all the live-streaming details about Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match 2022-23. Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match details When is the Copa del Rey semi-final match between Barcelona and Real Madrid? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match is on Thursday, April 6, 2023. Where is the Copa del Rey semi-final match between Barcelona and Real Madrid? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match will be played at Camp Nou in Barcelona. What time will the Copa del Rey semi-final match between Barcelona and Real Madrid start? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match will start at 12:30 AM IST. Barcelona vs Real Madrid Live Streaming in India Which TV channel will broadcast the Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match in 2022-23? No TV Channel will televise the Barcelona vs Real Madrid (Copa del Rey) in India. How to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match 2022-23 Live in India? However, football lovers can watch the semi-final of Copa del Rey between Barcelona and Real Madrid on April 6 live on the FanCode app and website in India. Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey: Probable Playing XI Barcelona: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, Marcos Alonso, Alejandro Balde, Sergi Roberto, Sergio Busquets, Gavi, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Ansu Fati Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Nacho Fernandez, Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni, Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior

El Clásico Barça vs Real Madrid Live Streaming: How to watch Copa del Rey 2023 semi-final match live in India

Barcelona will return home for this season's fifth and final El Clasico. They will lock horns with their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie.

Barcelona will return home for this season's fifth and final El Clasico. They will lock horns with their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie. Barcelona continues its march to the La Liga title after a dominant win over Elche. They will host Real Madrid at Camp Nou, the best stadium on earth. Last month, Barcelona had a hard-fought and ugly 1-0 win against Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. However, the Blaugrana will be able to make it to the Copa del Rey finals only when they defeat Real Madrid in the second leg. Meanwhile, Real Madrid has lost three El Clasicos in a row, and this is their only chance to win a domestic trophy for the season. They will attack and look for goals as Barcelona misses many crucial players, including Andreas Christensen. Here's everything you need to know about Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey 2022-23 semi-final. We have mentioned the head-to-head, predicted lineups, match details, and live-streaming information for India and other countries. Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final match details Match: Barcelona vs Real Madrid, semi-final, Copa del Rey 2022-23 First leg result: Real Madrid 0-1 Barcelona Date: Wednesday, April 5 (Barcelona), Thursday, April 6 (India) Time: 9 PM CET, 12:30 AM IST Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona Refree: Juan Martínez Munuera Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final live streaming No TV Channel will televise the Barcelona vs Real Madrid (Copa del Rey) in India. However, football lovers can watch the semi-final of Copa del Rey between Barcelona and Real Madrid on April 6 live on the FanCode app and website in India. BT Sport 1 in the UK, Startimes World Football in Nigeria, and TVE La 1 in Spain will televise the Barcelona vs Real Madrid semi-final. People in the USA can watch it on ESPN+. In the UK, people can live stream the match on BTSport.com, and in Spain, the game will be available for live stream from a mobile on Movistar+. Barcelona vs Real Madrid probable lineups Barcelona: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, Marcos Alonso, Alejandro Balde, Sergi Roberto, Sergio Busquets, Gavi, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Ansu Fati Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Nacho Fernandez, Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni, Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Head to Head: Check probable lineups, match & live details of Copa del Rey semi-final

A tenacious Barcelona frustrated&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;to secure a 1-0 win over their bitter rivals in an ill-tempered Copa del Rey semi-final first leg on Thursday. The visitors defended superbly after&nbsp;Real&nbsp;centre back Eder Militao scored an own goal in the first half, managing to overcome the loss of key players like Robert Lewandowski, Pedri and Ousmane Dembele who missed the game due to injuries.

Barca earned a much-needed win after arriving in the Spanish capital under pressure having been knocked out of the Europa League and losing at lowly Almeria to halt a seven-game winning streak in LaLiga. "We would have liked to have the ball more, to control de game a little more but we fought hard and competed in a high level. They had the ball but didn’t create many chances. We got the advantage for the second leg and that’s&nbsp;really important," Barcelona captain Sergio Busquets told TVE.

Real&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;started better and dominated the first 15 minutes, but Barcelona started to turn things around as they took control the midfield and their defensive game plan worked brilliantly. Barca centre back Ronald Araujo did a great job at right back to neutralise the threat of the dangerous Vinicius Jr. and Karim Benzema was left alone up front.

Real&nbsp;became frustrated and tempers flared before the hosts made the crucial mistake which gave Barca the winner. Madrid&nbsp;midfielder Eduardo Camavinga gifted a back pass to Ferran Torres who reacted quickly to slide the ball to Franck Kessie.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-can-liverpool-put-spanner-in-the-work-for-man-utd-as-season-reaches-deceive-stage-567695">PL: Can Liverpool put spanner in the work for Manchester United as season reaches deceive stage?</a>

His point-blank strike was saved but bounced off Militao and into the net. The assistant referee signalled offside but the VAR replay showed Kessie was fractionally onside and the goal stood.

Barcelona locked&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;into an even tighter situation during the second half and although the hosts dominated possession, they rarely threatened to equalise.

Real&nbsp;did not record a single shot on target despite having almost 70% of possession in the second half and Barca should have extended their lead in the 71st minute when a Kessie shot that beat the goalkeeper was blocked by Ansu Fati.

Substitute Rodrygo had&nbsp;Real’s best chance with a late long-range strike that flew narrowly wide of the post. The teams meet again in Barcelona on April 5 with the winners to face Athletic Bilbao or Osasuna in the final.

A tenacious Barcelona frustrated Real Madrid to secure a 1-0 win over their bitter rivals in an ill-tempered Copa del Rey semi-final first leg on Thursday. The visitors defended superbly after Real centre back Eder Militao scored an own goal in the first half, managing to overcome the loss of key players like Robert Lewandowski, Pedri and Ousmane Dembele who missed the game due to injuries.

A tenacious Barcelona frustrated Real Madrid to secure a 1-0 win over their bitter rivals in an ill-tempered Copa del Rey semi-final first leg on Thursday. The visitors defended superbly after Real centre back Eder Militao scored an own goal in the first half, managing to overcome the loss of key players like Robert Lewandowski, Pedri and Ousmane Dembele who missed the game due to injuries. Barca earned a much-needed win after arriving in the Spanish capital under pressure having been knocked out of the Europa League and losing at lowly Almeria to halt a seven-game winning streak in LaLiga. "We would have liked to have the ball more, to control de game a little more but we fought hard and competed in a high level. They had the ball but didn’t create many chances. We got the advantage for the second leg and that’s really important," Barcelona captain Sergio Busquets told TVE. Real Madrid started better and dominated the first 15 minutes, but Barcelona started to turn things around as they took control the midfield and their defensive game plan worked brilliantly. Barca centre back Ronald Araujo did a great job at right back to neutralise the threat of the dangerous Vinicius Jr. and Karim Benzema was left alone up front. Real became frustrated and tempers flared before the hosts made the crucial mistake which gave Barca the winner. Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga gifted a back pass to Ferran Torres who reacted quickly to slide the ball to Franck Kessie. Also read: PL: Can Liverpool put spanner in the work for Manchester United as season reaches deceive stage? His point-blank strike was saved but bounced off Militao and into the net. The assistant referee signalled offside but the VAR replay showed Kessie was fractionally onside and the goal stood. Barcelona locked Real Madrid into an even tighter situation during the second half and although the hosts dominated possession, they rarely threatened to equalise. Real did not record a single shot on target despite having almost 70% of possession in the second half and Barca should have extended their lead in the 71st minute when a Kessie shot that beat the goalkeeper was blocked by Ansu Fati. Substitute Rodrygo had Real’s best chance with a late long-range strike that flew narrowly wide of the post. The teams meet again in Barcelona on April 5 with the winners to face Athletic Bilbao or Osasuna in the final.

Copa del Rey: Barcelona earn gutsy 1-0 win vs Real Madrid in semi-final first leg

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez says he will walk away from his post if he feels he cannot help the team improve.

The Catalans are close to elimination from the Champions League after a draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, despite heavy summer expenditure, and have faced criticism this week, ahead of the Clasico on Sunday.

"I know there's a lot of pressure, a lot of criticism, this is Barca," Xavi told a press conference on Saturday.

"I will not stop working and trying. The day that I'm not sure (of myself), I will leave. I will not be a problem for Barcelona, the day I see I am not a solution."

Xavi's side, La Liga leaders, face champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, where they won 4-0 last season.

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The coach insisted that it is too early to judge his team after the new arrivals this summer, and believes they are heading in the right direction.

"It's a vital game for us, and for Madrid too, let's see who comes out of it as leaders," said Xavi. "I think (our) project is under construction. The debacle in Europe is sad, but we are on a good path. We are having a splendid season in La Liga.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-club-brentford-condemn-online-racist-abuse-of-striker-ivan-toney-525705">Premier League club Brentford condemn online racist abuse of striker Ivan Toney</a>

"We have made good signings, it's too soon to draw conclusions. We have to keep working, I don't know any other path towards success."

Barcelona will have defender Jules Kounde back from injury after Xavi confirmed the French international was training at 100 percent. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez says he will walk away from his post if he feels he cannot help the team improve. The Catalans are close to elimination from the Champions League after a draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, despite heavy summer expenditure, and have faced criticism this week, ahead of the Clasico on Sunday.

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez says he will walk away from his post if he feels he cannot help the team improve. The Catalans are close to elimination from the Champions League after a draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, despite heavy summer expenditure, and have faced criticism this week, ahead of the Clasico on Sunday. "I know there's a lot of pressure, a lot of criticism, this is Barca," Xavi told a press conference on Saturday. "I will not stop working and trying. The day that I'm not sure (of myself), I will leave. I will not be a problem for Barcelona, the day I see I am not a solution." Xavi's side, La Liga leaders, face champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, where they won 4-0 last season. Also Read: Manchester United star Mason Greenwood arrested after breaching bail conditions in alleged assault case The coach insisted that it is too early to judge his team after the new arrivals this summer, and believes they are heading in the right direction. "It's a vital game for us, and for Madrid too, let's see who comes out of it as leaders," said Xavi. "I think (our) project is under construction. The debacle in Europe is sad, but we are on a good path. We are having a splendid season in La Liga. Also Read: Premier League club Brentford condemn online racist abuse of striker Ivan Toney "We have made good signings, it's too soon to draw conclusions. We have to keep working, I don't know any other path towards success." Barcelona will have defender Jules Kounde back from injury after Xavi confirmed the French international was training at 100 percent.

I will leave Barcelona if I think I'm not the solution, says head coach Xavi ahead of El Clasico

Barcelona broke the women’s attendance record as 91,553 fans watched them come from behind to beat bitter rivals Real Madrid 5-2 at Camp Nou on Wednesday and reach the Champions League semi-finals with an 8-3 aggregate win.

The new record surpassed both the previous club mark of 60,739 fans set in 2019 at Atletico Madrid's Metropolitano stadium, where the hosts beat Barca 2-0 in a league match, and the official attendance record for a women's game.

That was set at the 1999 World Cup final between the United States and China, when 90,195 fans were in attendance at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. 
All 99,354 tickets for Wednesday's match had been sold out since January after a huge engagement campaign by the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-qatar-mounts-for-highly-anticipated-finals-draw-on-april-1-466980">FIFA World Cup 2022: Qatar mounts for highly-anticipated finals draw on April 1</a>

Yet expectations that the record would be broken were shaken after heavy rain fell all day in Barcelona and the match started with the stadium only half full.

But as the game progressed, fans slowly arrived and ended up almost filling the iconic Camp Nou, Europe's largest stadium, creating a fantastic atmosphere.

There was an enormous mosaic in the stands with the slogan 'More than empowerment'.

Barcelona, who won the quarter-final first leg 3-1 in Madrid, took the lead eight minutes into the first half with a brilliant curling shot from long range by Mapi Leon but Real fought back to lead 2-1 with goals from Olga Carmona and Claudia Zornoza.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-our-rightful-place-cristiano-ronaldo-rests-easy-after-qualifying-for-fifa-world-cup-2022-466973">In our rightful place: Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after Portugal qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

Yet Barca recovered early in the second half with Aitana Bonmati, Claudia Pina and Alexia Putellas putting the hosts back in front with three goals in 10 minutes. Caroline Hansen rounded off the scoring in what was an electrifying match.

"I’m speechless. It’s a dream come true. I can only answer with more work, getting better and winning games so we can give them a big spectacle," said Putellas.

"I saw a lot of girls, children with that spark in their eyes. It’s amazing to be part of history."

Barcelona broke the women’s attendance record as 91,553 fans watched them come from behind to beat bitter rivals Real Madrid 5-2 at Camp Nou on Wednesday and reach the Champions League semi-finals with an 8-3 aggregate win.

Barcelona broke the women’s attendance record as 91,553 fans watched them come from behind to beat bitter rivals Real Madrid 5-2 at Camp Nou on Wednesday and reach the Champions League semi-finals with an 8-3 aggregate win. The new record surpassed both the previous club mark of 60,739 fans set in 2019 at Atletico Madrid's Metropolitano stadium, where the hosts beat Barca 2-0 in a league match, and the official attendance record for a women's game. That was set at the 1999 World Cup final between the United States and China, when 90,195 fans were in attendance at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. All 99,354 tickets for Wednesday's match had been sold out since January after a huge engagement campaign by the club. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2022: Qatar mounts for highly-anticipated finals draw on April 1 Yet expectations that the record would be broken were shaken after heavy rain fell all day in Barcelona and the match started with the stadium only half full. But as the game progressed, fans slowly arrived and ended up almost filling the iconic Camp Nou, Europe's largest stadium, creating a fantastic atmosphere. There was an enormous mosaic in the stands with the slogan 'More than empowerment'. Barcelona, who won the quarter-final first leg 3-1 in Madrid, took the lead eight minutes into the first half with a brilliant curling shot from long range by Mapi Leon but Real fought back to lead 2-1 with goals from Olga Carmona and Claudia Zornoza. ALSO READ: In our rightful place: Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after Portugal qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2022 Yet Barca recovered early in the second half with Aitana Bonmati, Claudia Pina and Alexia Putellas putting the hosts back in front with three goals in 10 minutes. Caroline Hansen rounded off the scoring in what was an electrifying match. "I’m speechless. It’s a dream come true. I can only answer with more work, getting better and winning games so we can give them a big spectacle," said Putellas. "I saw a lot of girls, children with that spark in their eyes. It’s amazing to be part of history."

Champions League: Barcelona break women's attendance record in 5-2 victory over Real Madrid, enter semis

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice as a rejuvenated Barcelona gave a football masterclass to inflict a humiliating 4-0 defeat on rivals Real Madrid on Sunday, thrashing Carlo Ancelotti’s LaLiga leaders on their own ground.

A sold-out Santiago Bernabeu stadium watched silently as a much-improved Barca under the command of new coach Xavi Hernandez dominated `El Clasico` from the start.

With Ousmane Dembele and Ferran Torres exposing Real`s defensive frailty on the flanks, Barca opened the scoring in the 29th minute with an Aubameyang header from a Dembele cross.

Barca kept up the tempo against a disorganised and lifeless Real Madrid and extended their lead when defender Ronald Araujo headed in from a Dembele corner.

Ancelotti tried to change the dynamic, making two substitutions during the break but Barca scored in the first minute of the second half with an angled shot from Torres after a backheel by Aubameyang.

Five minutes later, former Manchester City forward Torres returned the favour, teeing up ex-Arsenal striker Aubameyang for his second goal.

Barca had several opportunities to extend their lead, but Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois avoided any further humiliation.

With Real Madrid sitting comfortably on top of the standings with 66 points, Sunday’s Clasico was never likely to determine the fate of LaLiga’s title race.

But pride was on the line and Xavi`s much improved Barca showed that their recent return to form was genuine. 
After their fifth consecutive league win, Barca are third in the standings on 54 points with a game in hand, three points behind second-placed Sevilla.

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Having fallen as low as ninth in the table when Ronald Koeman was sacked in October, Barca have been revitalised under Xavi.

They are unbeaten since an extra-time defeat by Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey on Jan. 20 and have scored 24 goals in their last seven league games.

"We didn`t expect this result, but our objetive was achieved. We came to win and show what we are worth," Barca`s Sergio Busquets told reporters.

"If we still have a small chance to make a run for the title, we will fight until the end. It`s very difficult but in football anything can happen. We are Barca."

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice as a rejuvenated Barcelona gave a football masterclass to inflict a humiliating 4-0 defeat on rivals Real Madrid on Sunday, thrashing Carlo Ancelotti’s LaLiga leaders on their own ground.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice as a rejuvenated Barcelona gave a football masterclass to inflict a humiliating 4-0 defeat on rivals Real Madrid on Sunday, thrashing Carlo Ancelotti’s LaLiga leaders on their own ground. A sold-out Santiago Bernabeu stadium watched silently as a much-improved Barca under the command of new coach Xavi Hernandez dominated `El Clasico` from the start. With Ousmane Dembele and Ferran Torres exposing Real`s defensive frailty on the flanks, Barca opened the scoring in the 29th minute with an Aubameyang header from a Dembele cross. Barca kept up the tempo against a disorganised and lifeless Real Madrid and extended their lead when defender Ronald Araujo headed in from a Dembele corner. Ancelotti tried to change the dynamic, making two substitutions during the break but Barca scored in the first minute of the second half with an angled shot from Torres after a backheel by Aubameyang. Five minutes later, former Manchester City forward Torres returned the favour, teeing up ex-Arsenal striker Aubameyang for his second goal. Barca had several opportunities to extend their lead, but Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois avoided any further humiliation. With Real Madrid sitting comfortably on top of the standings with 66 points, Sunday’s Clasico was never likely to determine the fate of LaLiga’s title race. But pride was on the line and Xavi`s much improved Barca showed that their recent return to form was genuine. After their fifth consecutive league win, Barca are third in the standings on 54 points with a game in hand, three points behind second-placed Sevilla. Also Read: Beckham hands over his Instagram account with 71.5 million followers to Ukrainian doctor, watch his plea Having fallen as low as ninth in the table when Ronald Koeman was sacked in October, Barca have been revitalised under Xavi. They are unbeaten since an extra-time defeat by Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey on Jan. 20 and have scored 24 goals in their last seven league games. "We didn`t expect this result, but our objetive was achieved. We came to win and show what we are worth," Barca`s Sergio Busquets told reporters. "If we still have a small chance to make a run for the title, we will fight until the end. It`s very difficult but in football anything can happen. We are Barca."

El Clasico: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Madrid 4-0 in La Liga

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has set La Liga on fire ever since his arrival at FC Barcelona on a free transfer from Arsenal. The Gabonese striker has been sensational in front of the goal and has been producing impressive performances for the Spanish giants on a regular basis.

Aubameyang continued his brilliant run in the first El Clasico of the year against Real Madrid on Sunday at the Santiago Bernabeu. He netted a stunning brace as FC Barcelona thrashed their arch-rivals 4-0 to register an emphatic win in the La Liga. Aubameyang scripted a unique El Clasico record with his brace against Real Madrid.

Aubameyang opened the scoring for Barcelona in the 29th minute after he scored a brilliant header from a cross from French winger Ousmane Dembele, who also seems to be returning to form for the Spanish giants. The Gabonese striker then went on to complete his brace in the 51st minute to extend Barcelona's lead to 4-0 and wrap up a dominant win for Xavi's side.

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Aubameyang x Dembele combo has picked off from where they stopped at Dortmund <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElClasico?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElClasico</a> <a href="https://t.co/XRND41rY0J">pic.twitter.com/XRND41rY0J</a>
— Dayveedchukz (@AFC_Dayveed) <a href="https://twitter.com/AFC_Dayveed/status/1505669108486004746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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With his brace, Aubameyang has become the first player in the 21st century to net five goals against Real Madrid in five back-to-back matches. He is also the first player in the 21st century to be involved in three goals directly on his El Clasico debut across all competitions. While he scored twice, Aubameyang also provided an assist to&nbsp;Ferran Torres for Barcelona's third goal in the game.

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𝙊𝙝 𝙡𝙚 𝙡𝙚 ! 𝙊𝙝 𝙡𝙖 𝙡𝙖 ! 
𝙎𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙡 𝘽𝙖𝙧𝙘̧𝙖 𝙚́𝙨, 𝙚𝙡 𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙧 𝙦𝙪𝙚 𝙝𝙞 𝙝𝙖 ! <a href="https://t.co/6yZQsaTdUW">pic.twitter.com/6yZQsaTdUW</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1505696839034679296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-pierre-emerick-aubameyang-scores-twice-as-barcelona-hammer-real-madrid-4-0-in-la-liga-464217">El Clasico -&nbsp;Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Madrid 4-0 in La Liga</a>

Aubameyang was replaced by Dutch forward Memphis Depay in the 71st minute after steering Xavi's men to an emphatic win in the Clasico. Barcelona are currently third on the La Liga points table after their cruising victory against Real Madrid while Carlo Ancelotti's men are on the top of the table with 66 points from 29 matches.

Real Madrid, who were missing their talismanic striker Karim Benzema and defender Ferland Mendy in the El Clasico, will be hoping to bounce back when they take on Celta Vigo in the La Liga on Saturday this week.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has set La Liga on fire ever since his arrival at FC Barcelona on a free transfer from Arsenal. The Gabonese striker has been sensational in front of the goal and has been producing impressive performances for the Spanish giants on a regular basis.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has set La Liga on fire ever since his arrival at FC Barcelona on a free transfer from Arsenal. The Gabonese striker has been sensational in front of the goal and has been producing impressive performances for the Spanish giants on a regular basis. Aubameyang continued his brilliant run in the first El Clasico of the year against Real Madrid on Sunday at the Santiago Bernabeu. He netted a stunning brace as FC Barcelona thrashed their arch-rivals 4-0 to register an emphatic win in the La Liga. Aubameyang scripted a unique El Clasico record with his brace against Real Madrid. Aubameyang opened the scoring for Barcelona in the 29th minute after he scored a brilliant header from a cross from French winger Ousmane Dembele, who also seems to be returning to form for the Spanish giants. The Gabonese striker then went on to complete his brace in the 51st minute to extend Barcelona's lead to 4-0 and wrap up a dominant win for Xavi's side. Aubameyang x Dembele combo has picked off from where they stopped at Dortmund #ElClasico pic.twitter.com/XRND41rY0J — Dayveedchukz (@AFC_Dayveed) March 20, 2022 × With his brace, Aubameyang has become the first player in the 21st century to net five goals against Real Madrid in five back-to-back matches. He is also the first player in the 21st century to be involved in three goals directly on his El Clasico debut across all competitions. While he scored twice, Aubameyang also provided an assist to Ferran Torres for Barcelona's third goal in the game. 𝙊𝙝 𝙡𝙚 𝙡𝙚 ! 𝙊𝙝 𝙡𝙖 𝙡𝙖 ! 𝙎𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙡 𝘽𝙖𝙧𝙘̧𝙖 𝙚́𝙨, 𝙚𝙡 𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙧 𝙦𝙪𝙚 𝙝𝙞 𝙝𝙖 ! pic.twitter.com/6yZQsaTdUW — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 21, 2022 × Also Read: El Clasico - Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Madrid 4-0 in La Liga Aubameyang was replaced by Dutch forward Memphis Depay in the 71st minute after steering Xavi's men to an emphatic win in the Clasico. Barcelona are currently third on the La Liga points table after their cruising victory against Real Madrid while Carlo Ancelotti's men are on the top of the table with 66 points from 29 matches. Real Madrid, who were missing their talismanic striker Karim Benzema and defender Ferland Mendy in the El Clasico, will be hoping to bounce back when they take on Celta Vigo in the La Liga on Saturday this week.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scripts unique El Clasico record with stunning brace as Barca thrash Real Madrid

There is plenty of action in store for the football fans as Barcelona will lock horns with arch-rivals Real Madrid in the&nbsp;semifinals of the Supercopa de Espana (i.e. the Spanish Super Cup) at a neutral venue in Riyadh on Thursday (January 13).&nbsp;

The last time both sides faced each other was in La Liga in October, 2021. During the clash, Real exposed the fragilities in Barca camp, who were coping up with Lionel Messi's sudden exit and one of its worst financial crisis, to lose the game 2-1. Ahead of the much-awaited El Clasico clash, Barcelona have been bolstered further with as many as five players recovering from injuries.

Being the semi-final, naturally a lot is at stake for both sides. The prize for the victors will be a place in Sunday's summit clash against either the defending Liga champions, Atletico Madrid, or Athletic Club, who will lock horns in the second semi-final on Thursday.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:

Where is the&nbsp;Supercopa El Clasico&nbsp;Barcelona vs Real Madrid match taking place?

The Barcelona vs Real Madrid&nbsp;Supercopa El Clasico match will take place at the King Fahd Stadium, Riyadh (Saudi Arabia).

What time does the Supercopa El Clasico&nbsp;Barcelona vs Real Madrid match begin?

The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa El Clasico begins at 12:30 AM IST on Thursday (January 13).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-barcelona-get-injury-boost-as-five-players-declared-fit-for-spanish-super-cup-clash-vs-real-madrid-444093">El Clasico: Barcelona get injury boost as five players declared fit for Spanish Super Cup clash vs Real Madrid</a>

How to watch live coverage of the Supercopa El Clasico&nbsp;Barcelona vs Real Madrid&nbsp;match on TV?

The Supercopa El Clasico match between Barcelona and Real Madrid will be not be broadcast live on any of the Indian channels.

How to watch live coverage of Supercopa El Clasico&nbsp;Barcelona vs Real Madrid&nbsp;match on the live streaming?

The Supercopa El Clasico&nbsp;Barcelona vs Real Madrid&nbsp;match&nbsp;will be live streamed on JioTV.

There is plenty of action in store for the football fans as Barcelona will lock horns with arch-rivals Real Madrid in the semifinals of the Supercopa de Espana (i.

There is plenty of action in store for the football fans as Barcelona will lock horns with arch-rivals Real Madrid in the semifinals of the Supercopa de Espana (i.e. the Spanish Super Cup) at a neutral venue in Riyadh on Thursday (January 13). The last time both sides faced each other was in La Liga in October, 2021. During the clash, Real exposed the fragilities in Barca camp, who were coping up with Lionel Messi's sudden exit and one of its worst financial crisis, to lose the game 2-1. Ahead of the much-awaited El Clasico clash, Barcelona have been bolstered further with as many as five players recovering from injuries. Being the semi-final, naturally a lot is at stake for both sides. The prize for the victors will be a place in Sunday's summit clash against either the defending Liga champions, Atletico Madrid, or Athletic Club, who will lock horns in the second semi-final on Thursday. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the Supercopa El Clasico Barcelona vs Real Madrid match taking place? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa El Clasico match will take place at the King Fahd Stadium, Riyadh (Saudi Arabia). What time does the Supercopa El Clasico Barcelona vs Real Madrid match begin? The Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa El Clasico begins at 12:30 AM IST on Thursday (January 13). ALSO READ | El Clasico: Barcelona get injury boost as five players declared fit for Spanish Super Cup clash vs Real Madrid How to watch live coverage of the Supercopa El Clasico Barcelona vs Real Madrid match on TV? The Supercopa El Clasico match between Barcelona and Real Madrid will be not be broadcast live on any of the Indian channels. How to watch live coverage of Supercopa El Clasico Barcelona vs Real Madrid match on the live streaming? The Supercopa El Clasico Barcelona vs Real Madrid match will be live streamed on JioTV.

El Clasico: When and where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final encounter?

Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in the first Clasico of the season in front of 86,422 fans at the Camp Nou on Sunday after a sensational strike from defender David Alaba and a late goal from Lucas Vazquez gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side three points.

Barcelona controlled possession in the first half but Real were lethal on the counter-attack, taking the lead when Alaba started a flowing move with a tackle and finished it at the other end with a left-footed drive from the edge of the box.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-has-quality-to-cause-liverpool-problems-says-jurgen-klopp-423031">Premier League: Manchester United has quality to cause Liverpool problems, says Jurgen Klopp</a>

Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman brought on Philippe Coutinho at halftime while strikers Sergio Aguero and Luuk de Jong were also thrown on in the second half as they searched for an equaliser.

With seven minutes of injury time added on, Real doubled their lead when Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved a shot from Marco Asensio from another counter-attack but Vazquez pounced on the rebound to score.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/marcus-rashford-youngsters-must-strive-to-have-career-like-cristiano-ronaldo-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-423511">Marcus Rashford, youngsters must strive to have career like Cristiano Ronaldo, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a>

Barca got a goal back in the 97th minute when Sergino Dest crossed to the Aguero in the six-yard box and the Argentine tapped in but it proved to be a consolation goal as Real moved provisionally top of LaLiga with 20 points.

Barcelona are five points behind in eighth place. 
&nbsp;

Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in the first Clasico of the season in front of 86,422 fans at the Camp Nou on Sunday after a sensational strike from defender David Alaba and a late goal from Lucas Vazquez gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side three points.

Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in the first Clasico of the season in front of 86,422 fans at the Camp Nou on Sunday after a sensational strike from defender David Alaba and a late goal from Lucas Vazquez gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side three points. Barcelona controlled possession in the first half but Real were lethal on the counter-attack, taking the lead when Alaba started a flowing move with a tackle and finished it at the other end with a left-footed drive from the edge of the box. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester United has quality to cause Liverpool problems, says Jurgen Klopp Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman brought on Philippe Coutinho at halftime while strikers Sergio Aguero and Luuk de Jong were also thrown on in the second half as they searched for an equaliser. With seven minutes of injury time added on, Real doubled their lead when Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved a shot from Marco Asensio from another counter-attack but Vazquez pounced on the rebound to score. ALSO READ: Marcus Rashford, youngsters must strive to have career like Cristiano Ronaldo, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Barca got a goal back in the 97th minute when Sergino Dest crossed to the Aguero in the six-yard box and the Argentine tapped in but it proved to be a consolation goal as Real moved provisionally top of LaLiga with 20 points. Barcelona are five points behind in eighth place.

El Clasico: David Alaba strikes as Real Madrid beat struggling rivals Barcelona in La Liga

The La Liga match&nbsp;will see&nbsp;Sergio Busquets-led Barcelona&nbsp;take on the&nbsp;Karim Benzema-led Real Madrid&nbsp;on Sunday (October 24). The game will be played at Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain.

This will be the season's first El Clasico match. Both the teams have struggled so far. While Barcelona is at&nbsp;8th position with four wins and three draws in eight&nbsp;games, Real Madrid is at 3rd position with five wins and two draws in the same number of games.

Lately, for Barcelona, 18year-old Ansu Fati has signed a 6-year contract before the El Clasico clash.&nbsp;After the departure of Messi from Barcelona, new talents like Vinicius Jr and Ansu Fati will be in spotlight.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-lionel-messis-departure-puts-spotlight-on-rising-stars-ansu-fati-and-vinicius-jr-422628">El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr</a>

Karim Benzema, who is in the form of life and is La Liga's top scorer with nine goals and seven assists, is also a contender for&nbsp;Ballon D`or. The last time when the two sides faced each other Real Madrid scored two goals to edge past Barcelona's one.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:

Where is the La Liga&nbsp;match between Barcelona&nbsp;vs Real Madrid&nbsp;taking place?

The La Liga&nbsp;match between Barcelona&nbsp;vs Real Madrid&nbsp;will take place at Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain.

What time does the La Liga&nbsp;match between Barcelona&nbsp;vs Real Madrid&nbsp;begin?

The La Liga&nbsp;match between Barcelona&nbsp;vs Real Madrid&nbsp;begins at 7:45&nbsp;PM IST on Sunday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-real-madrid-combine-present-and-future-in-clasico-of-fallen-giants-422929">Barcelona, Real Madrid combine present and future in Clasico of fallen giants</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the La Liga&nbsp;match between Barcelona&nbsp;vs Real Madrid?

The La Liga&nbsp;match between Barcelona&nbsp;vs Real Madrid&nbsp;will be aired live on MTV. The online streaming of the La Liga&nbsp;match between Barca and Real&nbsp;will be available on Voot Select.

The La Liga match will see Sergio Busquets-led Barcelona take on the Karim Benzema-led Real Madrid on Sunday (October 24). The game will be played at Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain.

The La Liga match will see Sergio Busquets-led Barcelona take on the Karim Benzema-led Real Madrid on Sunday (October 24). The game will be played at Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain. This will be the season's first El Clasico match. Both the teams have struggled so far. While Barcelona is at 8th position with four wins and three draws in eight games, Real Madrid is at 3rd position with five wins and two draws in the same number of games. Lately, for Barcelona, 18year-old Ansu Fati has signed a 6-year contract before the El Clasico clash. After the departure of Messi from Barcelona, new talents like Vinicius Jr and Ansu Fati will be in spotlight. ALSO READ: El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr Karim Benzema, who is in the form of life and is La Liga's top scorer with nine goals and seven assists, is also a contender for Ballon D`or. The last time when the two sides faced each other Real Madrid scored two goals to edge past Barcelona's one. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the La Liga match between Barcelona vs Real Madrid taking place? The La Liga match between Barcelona vs Real Madrid will take place at Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain. What time does the La Liga match between Barcelona vs Real Madrid begin? The La Liga match between Barcelona vs Real Madrid begins at 7:45 PM IST on Sunday. ALSO READ: Barcelona, Real Madrid combine present and future in Clasico of fallen giants Where and how to watch live coverage of the La Liga match between Barcelona vs Real Madrid? The La Liga match between Barcelona vs Real Madrid will be aired live on MTV. The online streaming of the La Liga match between Barca and Real will be available on Voot Select.

FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid, La Liga live streaming: When and where to watch El Clasico?

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said his side will need to be fearless to beat rivals Real Madrid on Sunday as he called on the club`s fans to get behind the team following a challenging start to the season.

Barca`s imposing Camp Nou stadium will be back to its old self on Sunday for `El Clasico` with 99,000 hardcore supporters packed into the ground, following the end to restrictions on capacity imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Koeman, whose side have endured a mixed start to the season winning four of their opening eight games in LaLiga, is well aware of the advantage a full stadium could offer his side against their fierce rivals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-has-quality-to-cause-liverpool-problems-says-jurgen-klopp-423031">Premier League: Manchester United has quality to cause Liverpool problems, says Jurgen Klopp</a>

"We won two games in a row and the environment is much better. So we need the support of our fans on Sunday against Real Madrid. We need a full house and we need to make our people proud," Koeman told a news conference on Saturday.

"We are very excited and looking forward to Sunday. I told the players that they need to enjoy the environment that we will have in Camp Nou. It`s not an additional pressure. We have to go out there and be fearless," said the Dutch coach, whose job has been under scrutiny this season.

Despite the criticism that has surrounded the team this campaign, following the departures of Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann due to the club`s deep financial crisis and some poor results in LaLiga and the Champions League, Koeman does not see a big difference between his side and Real Madrid.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/karim-benzemas-lawyers-criticise-sex-tape-trial-on-last-day-of-hearings-423128">Karim Benzema's lawyers criticise 'sex tape' trial on last day of hearings</a>

"There is no fear from our side. I think we both have a good mix of youth and experience. We are better in ball possession and they are very dangerous counter attacking," Koeman explained.

"We have to be aware of their speed when we lose possession and we need to be effective when we have the chance to score. In a game like this, we can`t afford to miss opportunities."

Koeman confirmed that Jordi Alba was a full participant in their last training session and will be available after suffering an ankle injury against Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League on Wednesday. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said his side will need to be fearless to beat rivals Real Madrid on Sunday as he called on the club`s fans to get behind the team following a challenging start to the season.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said his side will need to be fearless to beat rivals Real Madrid on Sunday as he called on the club`s fans to get behind the team following a challenging start to the season. Barca`s imposing Camp Nou stadium will be back to its old self on Sunday for `El Clasico` with 99,000 hardcore supporters packed into the ground, following the end to restrictions on capacity imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Koeman, whose side have endured a mixed start to the season winning four of their opening eight games in LaLiga, is well aware of the advantage a full stadium could offer his side against their fierce rivals. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester United has quality to cause Liverpool problems, says Jurgen Klopp "We won two games in a row and the environment is much better. So we need the support of our fans on Sunday against Real Madrid. We need a full house and we need to make our people proud," Koeman told a news conference on Saturday. "We are very excited and looking forward to Sunday. I told the players that they need to enjoy the environment that we will have in Camp Nou. It`s not an additional pressure. We have to go out there and be fearless," said the Dutch coach, whose job has been under scrutiny this season. Despite the criticism that has surrounded the team this campaign, following the departures of Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann due to the club`s deep financial crisis and some poor results in LaLiga and the Champions League, Koeman does not see a big difference between his side and Real Madrid. ALSO READ: Karim Benzema's lawyers criticise 'sex tape' trial on last day of hearings "There is no fear from our side. I think we both have a good mix of youth and experience. We are better in ball possession and they are very dangerous counter attacking," Koeman explained. "We have to be aware of their speed when we lose possession and we need to be effective when we have the chance to score. In a game like this, we can`t afford to miss opportunities." Koeman confirmed that Jordi Alba was a full participant in their last training session and will be available after suffering an ankle injury against Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League on Wednesday.

El Clasico: Ronald Koeman says Barcelona need to make fans proud against Real Madrid

Barcelona's players met for dinner in a Catalan restaurant late on Wednesday night to celebrate Ansu Fati's new contract and to bond ahead of Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid.

The 18-year-old Fati committing himself for another six years carried special significance for&nbsp;Barcelona.&nbsp;

Despite all the problems they face, one of the most exciting talents in the world had pledged his future, raising hopes he can be the leader of a new generation for many years to come.

More immediately, there was the desire for camaraderie ahead of the visit of Real Madrid at Camp Nou.&nbsp;

It will be a chance for Barca to regain lost ground in La Liga and to round off an encouraging week that has already seen them beat Valencia and scrape a much-needed Champions League win over Dynamo Kiev.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-lionel-messis-departure-puts-spotlight-on-rising-stars-ansu-fati-and-vinicius-jr-422628">El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr</a>

Those two intertwining threads – navigating the present while nurturing the future – feel like the defining feature of this Clasico, a meeting of two historic clubs, each of them trying to strategise, fix and rebuild while simultaneously flapping their arms just to keep heads above water.

Last summer, in the same restaurant,&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;president Joan Laporta met Ronald Koeman to discuss the season ahead.&nbsp;

Laporta told Koeman he needed two weeks to assess his position as coach, which was taken to mean he would try to find a successor.

But nobody could be found, or at least persuaded, and consequently an awkward, unhappy marriage has continued.

Across from Koeman on Sunday will be Carlo Ancelotti whose appointment by Real Madrid in the summer came as a surprise.

Ancelotti's predecessor, Zinedine Zidane, had been fiercely loyal to the club’s hugely successful, but older, generation of players and the expectation was Madrid would plump for a coach with a grander vision, one that was prepared to facilitate change.

Instead, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez turned to Ancelotti, who had already managed the club between 2013 and 2015.

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That is not to say Ancelotti and Koeman have not embraced youth. Koeman can take credit for promoting several of the players&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;are most excited about including Pedri, Gavi, Nico Gonzalez, Ronald Araujo and Sergino Dest.

Ancelotti has put faith in Miguel Gutierrez at left-back and Eduardo Camavinga in midfield. The 21-year-old Vinicius Junior made his Real Madrid debut in 2018 but under Ancelotti is in the form of his fledgling career.

Gavi might not have been given his chance had&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;been able to grant Koeman his wish to sign Georginio Wijnaldum, who chose Paris Saint-Germain. Miguel has seen his route to the Madrid starting line-up shortened by an injury to Ferland Mendy.

There also remains a loyalty to the old guard, a justifiable belief that Gerard Pique at 34 is still&nbsp;Barcelona's most important defender or that Luka Modric at 36 is still Madrid's finest midfield playmaker.&nbsp;

The result on Sunday will be two sides made up of separate generations.

The 17-year-old Gavi may play alongside the 33-year-old Sergio Busquets or the 20-year-old Rodrygo in support of the 33-year-old Karim Benzema.

With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo gone, La Liga is trying to harness the image of Spanish football as the world's new talent factory and the Clasico – its most marketable fixture - as a window into the future.&nbsp;

On Twitter, La Liga's official account asked on Thursday: "Which teenage star are you most excited to watch in #ElClasico?"

And yet there is a conflict there too, with Real Madrid and&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;still officially attached to the European Super League, a project-based not on encouraging local talent but pocketing financial rewards and attracting bigger television audiences.

Barcelona&nbsp;brand their squad the 'Dream Teen' online but Laporta believes the quickest route to financial stability is not Fati or Gavi but a closed-off league, with more games against Liverpool, Manchester United and PSG.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldo-saves-man-united-big-wins-for-chelsea-bayern-munich-422539">Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo saves Man United; big wins for Chelsea, Bayern Munich</a>

It means whoever wins the Clasico on Sunday will, for a few days, own the narrative, take confidence and momentum, and perhaps plunge their opponents into a period of crisis and doubt.&nbsp;

But beneath the scrap for points and position and power is a deeper duel, a fight for relevance again and reassurance that better days lie ahead.

Fixtures (GMT)

Friday

Osasuna v Granada (1900)

Saturday

Valencia v Mallorca (1200), Cadiz v Alaves (1415), Elche v Espanyol (1630), Athletic Club v Villarreal (1900)

Sunday

Sevilla v Levante (1200),&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;v Real Madrid (1415), Real Betis v Rayo Vallecano (1630), Atletico Madrid v Real Sociedad (1900)

Monday

Getafe v Celta Vigo (1900)

Barcelona's players met for dinner in a Catalan restaurant late on Wednesday night to celebrate Ansu Fati's new contract and to bond ahead of Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid.

Barcelona's players met for dinner in a Catalan restaurant late on Wednesday night to celebrate Ansu Fati's new contract and to bond ahead of Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid. The 18-year-old Fati committing himself for another six years carried special significance for Barcelona. Despite all the problems they face, one of the most exciting talents in the world had pledged his future, raising hopes he can be the leader of a new generation for many years to come. More immediately, there was the desire for camaraderie ahead of the visit of Real Madrid at Camp Nou. It will be a chance for Barca to regain lost ground in La Liga and to round off an encouraging week that has already seen them beat Valencia and scrape a much-needed Champions League win over Dynamo Kiev. ALSO READ: El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr Those two intertwining threads – navigating the present while nurturing the future – feel like the defining feature of this Clasico, a meeting of two historic clubs, each of them trying to strategise, fix and rebuild while simultaneously flapping their arms just to keep heads above water. Last summer, in the same restaurant, Barcelona president Joan Laporta met Ronald Koeman to discuss the season ahead. Laporta told Koeman he needed two weeks to assess his position as coach, which was taken to mean he would try to find a successor. But nobody could be found, or at least persuaded, and consequently an awkward, unhappy marriage has continued. Across from Koeman on Sunday will be Carlo Ancelotti whose appointment by Real Madrid in the summer came as a surprise. Ancelotti's predecessor, Zinedine Zidane, had been fiercely loyal to the club’s hugely successful, but older, generation of players and the expectation was Madrid would plump for a coach with a grander vision, one that was prepared to facilitate change. Instead, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez turned to Ancelotti, who had already managed the club between 2013 and 2015. ALSO READ: Manchester United club owners keen on buying an IPL team: Report That is not to say Ancelotti and Koeman have not embraced youth. Koeman can take credit for promoting several of the players Barcelona are most excited about including Pedri, Gavi, Nico Gonzalez, Ronald Araujo and Sergino Dest. Ancelotti has put faith in Miguel Gutierrez at left-back and Eduardo Camavinga in midfield. The 21-year-old Vinicius Junior made his Real Madrid debut in 2018 but under Ancelotti is in the form of his fledgling career. Gavi might not have been given his chance had Barcelona been able to grant Koeman his wish to sign Georginio Wijnaldum, who chose Paris Saint-Germain. Miguel has seen his route to the Madrid starting line-up shortened by an injury to Ferland Mendy. There also remains a loyalty to the old guard, a justifiable belief that Gerard Pique at 34 is still Barcelona's most important defender or that Luka Modric at 36 is still Madrid's finest midfield playmaker. The result on Sunday will be two sides made up of separate generations. The 17-year-old Gavi may play alongside the 33-year-old Sergio Busquets or the 20-year-old Rodrygo in support of the 33-year-old Karim Benzema. With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo gone, La Liga is trying to harness the image of Spanish football as the world's new talent factory and the Clasico – its most marketable fixture - as a window into the future. On Twitter, La Liga's official account asked on Thursday: "Which teenage star are you most excited to watch in #ElClasico?" And yet there is a conflict there too, with Real Madrid and Barcelona still officially attached to the European Super League, a project-based not on encouraging local talent but pocketing financial rewards and attracting bigger television audiences. Barcelona brand their squad the 'Dream Teen' online but Laporta believes the quickest route to financial stability is not Fati or Gavi but a closed-off league, with more games against Liverpool, Manchester United and PSG. ALSO READ | Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo saves Man United; big wins for Chelsea, Bayern Munich It means whoever wins the Clasico on Sunday will, for a few days, own the narrative, take confidence and momentum, and perhaps plunge their opponents into a period of crisis and doubt. But beneath the scrap for points and position and power is a deeper duel, a fight for relevance again and reassurance that better days lie ahead. Fixtures (GMT) Friday Osasuna v Granada (1900) Saturday Valencia v Mallorca (1200), Cadiz v Alaves (1415), Elche v Espanyol (1630), Athletic Club v Villarreal (1900) Sunday Sevilla v Levante (1200), Barcelona v Real Madrid (1415), Real Betis v Rayo Vallecano (1630), Atletico Madrid v Real Sociedad (1900) Monday Getafe v Celta Vigo (1900)

Barcelona, Real Madrid combine present and future in Clasico of fallen giants

The first Barcelona v Real Madrid meeting after the departure of Lionel Messi to Paris St Germain will be headlined on Sunday by two youngsters as a game typically billed as a clash of superstars instead looks to the upcoming talent of Vinicius Jr and Ansu Fati.

The two players still have a lot to prove, but their talent has elevated them to a point where they are becoming the new faces of their clubs.

On Barcelona's side, Fati has been one of the few positives in a season that started with the heartbreaking loss of Messi due to a financial crisis that also led to Antoine Griezmann rejoining Atletico Madrid.

After being out for almost a year following a devastating injury to his left knee that required four surgeries, the 18-year-old Spain international returned to the side five games ago and has been Barca's best player since.

He scored within 10 minutes of coming on as a substitute in his first game back against Levante and netted Barca`s first goal with a beauty from outside the box in a comeback victory over Valencia last Sunday.

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His efforts were rewarded on Wednesday when Barcelona announced that he had agreed a new contract that runs until 2027. The 18-year-old's new deal includes a buyout clause of 1 billion euros ($1.17 billion).

Fati, who inherited Barcelona’s number 10 jersey from Messi, burst onto the scene for the club at 16, when he became the second youngest player in LaLiga history.

He quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in the world, becoming the youngest player to score in the Champions League and the youngest player to net for Spain.

MAIN THREAT

He is likely to provide Barcelona`s main threat alongside Memphis Depay and Sergio Aguero, whose own comeback from a calf injury he suffered in pre-season continued with cameo appearances against Valencia and Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League on Wednesday.

For Real Madrid, Karim Benzema is having probably the best season of his career and is a contender to win the Ballon D`or.

He is LaLiga`s top scorer, with nine goals and seven assists, but despite the France international`s excellent form, the headlines in the Spanish capital this week were focused on his partner up front.

The 21-year-old Brazilian Vinicius Jr scored a brace in Real`s 5-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk and with seven goals in 11 games this season, he has already improved on last season`s output, when he scored six times in 49 appearances.

Often criticised in years past for his poor finishing, Vinicius has improved under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, with his seven goals coming from only 17 attempts.

On Sunday, Vinicius will have the chance at the Camp Nou to keep silencing his critics.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldo-saves-man-united-big-wins-for-chelsea-bayern-munich-422539">Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo saves Man United; big wins for Chelsea, Bayern Munich</a>

Having shone against Barcelona the last time the sides met at Santiago Bernabeu in March 2020, with a superb goal, he will arrive on a mission and be difficult to stop.

Current LaLiga leaders, Real Sociedad, face champions Atletico Madrid on Sunday. Diego Simeone’s Atletico side are level with Real, Sevilla and Osasuna on 17 points, three behind the Basque team.

The surprise package of the season, Rayo Vallecano, will travel to Seville to play against Real Betis. Rayo are sixth in the table with 16 points, one more than seventh-placed Barcelona and Betis. 
&nbsp;

The first Barcelona v Real Madrid meeting after the departure of Lionel Messi to Paris St Germain will be headlined on Sunday by two youngsters as a game typically billed as a clash of superstars instead looks to the upcoming talent of Vinicius Jr and Ansu Fati.

The first Barcelona v Real Madrid meeting after the departure of Lionel Messi to Paris St Germain will be headlined on Sunday by two youngsters as a game typically billed as a clash of superstars instead looks to the upcoming talent of Vinicius Jr and Ansu Fati. The two players still have a lot to prove, but their talent has elevated them to a point where they are becoming the new faces of their clubs. On Barcelona's side, Fati has been one of the few positives in a season that started with the heartbreaking loss of Messi due to a financial crisis that also led to Antoine Griezmann rejoining Atletico Madrid. After being out for almost a year following a devastating injury to his left knee that required four surgeries, the 18-year-old Spain international returned to the side five games ago and has been Barca's best player since. He scored within 10 minutes of coming on as a substitute in his first game back against Levante and netted Barca`s first goal with a beauty from outside the box in a comeback victory over Valencia last Sunday. ALSO READ: Manchester United club owners keen on buying an IPL team: Report His efforts were rewarded on Wednesday when Barcelona announced that he had agreed a new contract that runs until 2027. The 18-year-old's new deal includes a buyout clause of 1 billion euros ($1.17 billion). Fati, who inherited Barcelona’s number 10 jersey from Messi, burst onto the scene for the club at 16, when he became the second youngest player in LaLiga history. He quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in the world, becoming the youngest player to score in the Champions League and the youngest player to net for Spain. MAIN THREAT He is likely to provide Barcelona`s main threat alongside Memphis Depay and Sergio Aguero, whose own comeback from a calf injury he suffered in pre-season continued with cameo appearances against Valencia and Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League on Wednesday. For Real Madrid, Karim Benzema is having probably the best season of his career and is a contender to win the Ballon D`or. He is LaLiga`s top scorer, with nine goals and seven assists, but despite the France international`s excellent form, the headlines in the Spanish capital this week were focused on his partner up front. The 21-year-old Brazilian Vinicius Jr scored a brace in Real`s 5-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk and with seven goals in 11 games this season, he has already improved on last season`s output, when he scored six times in 49 appearances. Often criticised in years past for his poor finishing, Vinicius has improved under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, with his seven goals coming from only 17 attempts. On Sunday, Vinicius will have the chance at the Camp Nou to keep silencing his critics. ALSO READ | Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo saves Man United; big wins for Chelsea, Bayern Munich Having shone against Barcelona the last time the sides met at Santiago Bernabeu in March 2020, with a superb goal, he will arrive on a mission and be difficult to stop. Current LaLiga leaders, Real Sociedad, face champions Atletico Madrid on Sunday. Diego Simeone’s Atletico side are level with Real, Sevilla and Osasuna on 17 points, three behind the Basque team. The surprise package of the season, Rayo Vallecano, will travel to Seville to play against Real Betis. Rayo are sixth in the table with 16 points, one more than seventh-placed Barcelona and Betis.

El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr

From Men's T20 World Cup to Premier League, October 24 should go in history as a day with the most iconic clashes being staged between fierce sports rivals. It's super Sunday for sports lovers as they will surely be glued to their TV screens with back-to-back unmissable blockbusters.

From Men's T20 World Cup to Premier League, October 24 should go in history as a day with the most iconic clashes being staged between fierce sports rivals. It's super Sunday for sports lovers as they will surely be glued to their TV screens with back-to-back unmissable blockbusters. Could October 24, 2021, get any better? From cricket to football, here's a list of clashes that just can't be missed on Oct 24. Watch one, record some, but do check the list of all matches and mark your calendars. English Premier League: Manchester United vs Liverpool Premier League fans are thrilled for the Manchester United vs Liverpool clash as this high-profile rivalry will be a treat to watch after star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo re-joined Man Utd. The match will kick off at 9:00pm IST. ALSO READ | Watch: Team India's jersey for T20 World Cup displayed at Burj Khalifa with a breathtaking light show La Liga: Barcelona vs Real Madrid (El Clasico) The glorious history and epic rivalry between Spanish football clubs — Real Madrid and Barcelona — is set to take another turn in the absence of former Barcelona legend Lionel Messi and former star defender of Real, Sergio Ramos. Surprisingly, both will play together for French club Paris Saint-Germain. On October 24, Barca will take on Real Madrid and the match is scheduled for 7:45pm IST. Ligue 1: Paris Saint-Germain vs Olympique de Marseille 'El Clasico' is expected to be bland in the absence of some star players, but both Messi and Ramos have a chance to play (in case they are in the playing XI) on the same date as PSG is set to take on Olympique de Marseille moments after the Barca vs Madrid's La Liga clash will end. Marseille vs PSG is scheduled for 12:15am (Oct 25) IST. IN PICS | Iconic shades of blue: Evolution of Team India's jersey from 1985 to 2021 Serie A: Juventus vs Inter Milan It's a day for heavy-weight football clashes in European leagues as in Serie A, Juventus will face Inter Milan. Fans who loved to see Ronaldo play for Juventus might get disappointed, but nothing to worry about, they can watch the Portuguese star in action against Liverpool earlier in the day. Juventus vs Inter Milan is scheduled to start at 12:15am (Oct 25) IST. Men's T20 World Cup 2021: India vs Pakistan Virat Kohli-led team India will start their T20 World Cup campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. It is a known fact that cricket rivalry between the two nations goes above and beyond and when it comes to cricket in the World Cup, it is unparalleled among fans in the South Asian cricket-crazy countries. The bilateral series between the two has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups. The match will kick start at 7:30pm IST.

From India vs Pakistan to Manchester United vs Liverpool: Could October 24 get any better?

Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona made any signings in the January transfer market so we’re unlikely to see any new faces when they face each other in ElClasico on Saturday. Yet, there will be a new, and at the same time very familiar face in the stands: Joan Laporta, Barca’s recently elected president who previously held the post between 2003 and 2010.

Laporta is therefore no stranger to the spectacle of ElClasico. The Barcelona-born lawyer enjoyed many memorable ElClasico victories during his first spell, including a famous 6-2 win for the&nbsp;Blaugrana&nbsp;at the Santiago Bernabeu in Pep Guardiola’s first season in charge back in 2009. Barca’s ElClasico record during Laporta’s first tenure as president was positive: seven wins, two draws and just five defeats in 14 LaLiga encounters.

Other unforgettable ElClasico moments for Laporta’s Barcelona included a last-gasp winner from Xavi Hernandez at the Bernabeu in 2004; Ronaldinho dismantling&nbsp;Los Blancos&nbsp;almost single-handedly in 2005 (a match which also happened to be the ElClasico debut of a certain Lionel Messi); 19-year-old Messi’s hat-trick in the dramatic 3-3 draw at the Camp Nou in 2007, and the 2009/10 home and away double win thanks to goal from Messi, Pedro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/laliga-special-the-great-assist-providers-of-el-clasico-376290" hreflang="en">LaLiga Special: The great assist providers of El Clasico</a>

His return to the ElClasico stage also means that Laporta will cross paths with Florentino Pérez once again, the Real Madrid president since 2009 and who previously held the role between 2000 and 2006. Images of the two presidents sitting side by side during some of the most intense ElClasico matches of the 2000s are fresh in the memory for most fans of these two clubs, even if more than a decade has now passed since Laporta stepped aside in 2010. Laporta and Pérez have always maintained a respectful relationship and a serious rivalry, and went head-to-head in seven ElClasico fixtures: Laporta’s Barcelona won five, while Perez’s Real Madrid came out on top just twice.

Having only taken over the Barcelona presidency in March, Laporta is yet to mould the squad to his liking and he’ll surely look to compete with Pérez and Real Madrid for the biggest names in this summer’s transfer market. Yet he’ll already be as determined as ever to win another ElClasico and to enjoy the bragging rights in club football’s biggest rivalry.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/laliga-will-go-down-to-the-wire-real-madrids-karim-benzema-ahead-of-el-clasico-376303" hreflang="en">LaLiga will go down to the wire: Real Madrid's Karim Benzema ahead of El Clasico</a>

Laporta has always enjoyed injecting a bit of humour into the rivalry too. He went as far as launching his most recent presidential election campaign by installing a huge advertisement just yards from the Santiago Bernabeu in central Madrid.&nbsp;“Ganas de volver a verso,” it read in Spanish… ‘Keen to see you again.’

This Saturday night, Laporta will finally get his wish and come face to face with Real Madrid once again as Barcelona president, albeit in new surroundings at the Alfredo Di Stefano stadium. The first of what looks to be many reunions with Barca’s biggest rivals.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lionel-messi-is-unbelievable-barcelonas-pedri-ahead-of-el-clasico-376304" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi is unbelievable: Barcelona's Pedri ahead of El Clasico</a>

Watch ElClasico live this Sunday at 00.30 am on Facebook Watch

Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona made any signings in the January transfer market so we’re unlikely to see any new faces when they face each other in ElClasico on Saturday.

Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona made any signings in the January transfer market so we’re unlikely to see any new faces when they face each other in ElClasico on Saturday. Yet, there will be a new, and at the same time very familiar face in the stands: Joan Laporta, Barca’s recently elected president who previously held the post between 2003 and 2010. Laporta is therefore no stranger to the spectacle of ElClasico. The Barcelona-born lawyer enjoyed many memorable ElClasico victories during his first spell, including a famous 6-2 win for the Blaugrana at the Santiago Bernabeu in Pep Guardiola’s first season in charge back in 2009. Barca’s ElClasico record during Laporta’s first tenure as president was positive: seven wins, two draws and just five defeats in 14 LaLiga encounters. Other unforgettable ElClasico moments for Laporta’s Barcelona included a last-gasp winner from Xavi Hernandez at the Bernabeu in 2004; Ronaldinho dismantling Los Blancos almost single-handedly in 2005 (a match which also happened to be the ElClasico debut of a certain Lionel Messi); 19-year-old Messi’s hat-trick in the dramatic 3-3 draw at the Camp Nou in 2007, and the 2009/10 home and away double win thanks to goal from Messi, Pedro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. ALSO READ: LaLiga Special: The great assist providers of El Clasico His return to the ElClasico stage also means that Laporta will cross paths with Florentino Pérez once again, the Real Madrid president since 2009 and who previously held the role between 2000 and 2006. Images of the two presidents sitting side by side during some of the most intense ElClasico matches of the 2000s are fresh in the memory for most fans of these two clubs, even if more than a decade has now passed since Laporta stepped aside in 2010. Laporta and Pérez have always maintained a respectful relationship and a serious rivalry, and went head-to-head in seven ElClasico fixtures: Laporta’s Barcelona won five, while Perez’s Real Madrid came out on top just twice. Having only taken over the Barcelona presidency in March, Laporta is yet to mould the squad to his liking and he’ll surely look to compete with Pérez and Real Madrid for the biggest names in this summer’s transfer market. Yet he’ll already be as determined as ever to win another ElClasico and to enjoy the bragging rights in club football’s biggest rivalry. WATCH: LaLiga will go down to the wire: Real Madrid's Karim Benzema ahead of El Clasico Laporta has always enjoyed injecting a bit of humour into the rivalry too. He went as far as launching his most recent presidential election campaign by installing a huge advertisement just yards from the Santiago Bernabeu in central Madrid. “Ganas de volver a verso,” it read in Spanish… ‘Keen to see you again.’ This Saturday night, Laporta will finally get his wish and come face to face with Real Madrid once again as Barcelona president, albeit in new surroundings at the Alfredo Di Stefano stadium. The first of what looks to be many reunions with Barca’s biggest rivals. WATCH: Lionel Messi is unbelievable: Barcelona's Pedri ahead of El Clasico Watch ElClasico live this Sunday at 00.30 am on Facebook Watch

El Clasico - Back for more: Joan Laporta comes face to face with Real Madrid once again

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.&nbsp;

A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck.&nbsp;

Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound.&nbsp;

This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday.&nbsp;

Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play.

"Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort.&nbsp;

Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances.

With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites.&nbsp;

"We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do."&nbsp;

Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation.&nbsp;

The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Ask forgiveness' -</h2>

Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild.&nbsp;

"We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez.&nbsp;

"We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger."&nbsp;

Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack.&nbsp;

Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen.&nbsp;

Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post.&nbsp;

Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review.&nbsp;

But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10.&nbsp;

With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later.&nbsp;

A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in.&nbsp;

Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away.&nbsp;

Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points.

Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.&nbsp;

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga. A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck. Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound. This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday. Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play. "Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort. Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances. With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites. "We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do." Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation. The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016. - 'Ask forgiveness' - Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild. "We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez. "We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger." Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack. Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post. Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review. But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10. With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later. A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in. Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away. Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points. Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

Barcelona stay in touch with Real Madrid and send down rivals Espanyol

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