As the two clubs with the most La Liga titles, stellar attackers are an essential part of their success. This season, the names of the trio of men in both teams are some of the most amazing we’ve seen yet. Before Messi and Ronaldo, surpassing 25 or 30 goals per season was considered outstanding. However, since they became football’s biggest rivalry, scoring less than 50 isn’t an option. One thing’s for sure, we’ll see goals on Saturday.
Real Madrid
The attack isn’t only Cristiano Ronaldo, although he’s a big part of it. Things wouldn’t go as well for the Portuguese if he didn’t have ten other men helping the team. Nevertheless, Ronaldo is one of the world’s greatest footballers, and he’ll sure be the man to decide the fate of El Clásico. A good night from him could mean three valuable points, while a bad one would mean staying behind Barça by a decent margin.
Beyond Ronaldo, Ancelotti has a good source of football in other players. Benzema and Bale are part of the famous BBC. However, the Welsh will miss the game, unless a miracle helps Real. Karim will be important on Saturday, since his ability to gain the attention of defenders and opening spaces are fundamental. He’s scored six goals against the Blaugranas over the years, yet his job in assisting Ronaldo is also critical.
Without Bale, who most likely will miss the match, the attack loses speed. His spot will be filled by James Rodríguez, acting as a false winger and helping out in the defense and the midfield. Madrid’s last attacking component is Chicharito. The Mexican probably won’t start, since his moment will later in the game. Should things go wrong, “Little Pea” can come in and give the team an alternative as a natural-born finisher.
FC Barcelona
Like his counterpart from Los Blancos, Messi can’t be seen as the sole star of FC Barcelona. The Argentinian’s success has come from fantastic teammates who feed him the right passes. Xavi, Iniesta, Alves and others have been essential to his enormous goal tally. Nevertheless, Lio’s contribution is one that the team needs. The arch-rival is one of his favorite victims, being the historic top goalscorer of the match, with 21 goals.
Messi’s been sort of moved to a position that’s a bit behind his usual one. Consequently, he assists as much as he scores. Nonetheless, he’s the team’s second top goalscorer this season, behind Neymar. The Brazilian’s first season wasn’t the best, with injuries and extracurricular problems. He’s also been constantly substituted by Luis Enrique, yet he’s scored ten goals in ten matches. Ney also played well in the Clásicos last season.
The last spot in the feared trio is up in the air. Many hope to see Suárez make his debut and others would want youngster Munir. The one with the most chances to start is Pedro. The Spanish international has had an irregular season, with Munir beating him to the starting 11 often. Whoever lines up on Saturday, they’ll give their best and have the constant support of the midfielders and wing backs.
